26 MARCH 2016 ISSUE 333
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06 AJMAN PROMOTES NEW IMAGE
AIR
QATAR AIRWAYS TO ADD 14 GLOBAL DESTINATIONS
11 JAZ HOTELS ADDS TO EGYPTIAN PORTFOLIO
09 Entertainment 17 Rendezvous 23 Photo Album
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
QAIA WELCOMES OVER 550,000 PASSENGERS
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Pauline Shahabian
Queen Alia International Airport
CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Inna Armeanu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) handled 567,823 travellers in January, registering a 6.5 percent year-on-year rise.
HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
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n addition to achieving its highest-ever passenger traffic figure for the month, the airfield also witnessed an eight percent increase in aircraft movements. Cargo numbers climbed 10.8 percent, compared to the same month in 2015, to reach 7,561 tonnes. Kjeld Binger, CEO, Airport International Group, said, “As Jordan’s prime gateway to the world, we look forward to establishing new growth benchmarks and continuing to raise the bar with regards to customer service, contributing to the Kingdom’s economy.”
WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515 neil@globetm.com
TURKISH AIRLINES: RECORD NET PROFIT
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735 kuka@rmamedia.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
24.3.2016
COUNTRY
CURRENCY 1USD=
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0.37
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0.39
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2.02
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214.89
Turkish Airlines reported a net profit of USD1.69 billion in 2015, surpassing the USD1 billion mark for the first time in the company’s history.
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rofit from main operations stood at USD895 million with a year-on-year increase of 32 percent, while sales revenues touched USD10.522 billion. Despite challenges and a fierce competition in the global aviation industry, as well as political and economical instabilities in its operating environment, the carrier was among the most profitable airlines in the sector, highlighted İlker Aycı, chairman, Turkish Airlines.
26 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS
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Robust Passenger Traffic Continues
Middle East carriers had the strongest year-on-year demand growth at 10.9 percent in January, spurred by ongoing network and fleet expansion.
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ccording to data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), capacity rose 12.9 percent in the region, load factor, however, remained strong at 77.8 percent, down 1.4 percentage points. On a global scale, revenue passenger kilometres registered a 7.1 percent year-on-year rise, following 2015’s full-year growth rate of 6.5 percent. Capacity pitched 5.6 percent, yet, driven by strong demand, load factor still improved 1.1 percentage points to 78.8 percent. “Underlying conditions point to another strong year for passenger traffic, with the latest decline in oil prices likely providing additional stimulus for air travel growth,” said Tony Tyler, director general, IATA.
UNWTO Addresses Tourism Priorities
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nsuring safe and seamless travel, enhancing the opportunities brought by technology and accelerating the shift towards a more sustainable sector are all priorities for the industry, stressed Taleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), at the recently-concluded ITB Berlin exhibition. “Global challenges demand global solutions and tourism development greatly depends upon our collective capacity to promote safe, secure and seamless travel,” stated Rifai. On the subject of technology and innovation, Rifai highlighted the need to better understand the impact it has on the sector and maximise the new opportunities it creates in order to improve the competitiveness of destinations. In addition, Rifai called on the industry to boost efforts to advance business strategies that ensure a contribution towards the sustainable development goals.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Ajman Promotes New Image
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Ajman
jman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) used the recently-held ITB Berlin as a platform to launch the emirate’s new destination brand abroad. Characterised by the slogan Sincerely Emirati, the new identity embodies the true spirit of modern day hospitality and highlights Ajman as an attractive destination for tourists and investors alike. “The size of Ajman helps to create a town-living feeling which gives visitors a more charming feel as opposed to a big city,” explained Faisal Al Nuaimi, general manager, ATDD. “It is the genuine welcoming nature of our people that differentiate Ajman’s true sense of place.”
Haitham Mattar (left) with Chinese professionals
Ras Al Khaimah Heads to China
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n a bid to promote the emirate as a global premier tourism destination offering a wide range of experiences, Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, conducted a five-day visit in China. Already among Ras Al Khaimah’s top 20 source markets, the Asian country delivered a 82 percent rise in visitors numbers in 2015 compared to previous years, and as Mattar noted, the tourism organisation is keen on pursuing every opportunity to strengthen its alliances and strategic partnerships with Eastern peers.
Sharjah to Lure Canadian Businesses
SCTH: Four Months to Comply with New Rules
The round table session
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op business leaders from Sharjah and Canada held a round table session, organised by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) in collaboration with the Canadian Business Councils in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. As Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq, noted, the event came at a time when the Canada – UAE bilateral relations continue to grow from strength to strength. “Sharjah is currently enjoying one of the best economic performances regionally, thanks to its expanding tourism and hospitality sector, as well as the non-oil export trade. The transportation trade is booming and an expanding population has meant rapid growth in construction, real estate and health sectors in the emirate,” commented Al Sarkal.
audi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH) issued a fourmonth deadline for the Kingdom’s tourism facilities to comply with the new classification standards that it stipulated in June 2015. The commission also confirmed that once the new regulations take effect, it will not accept the existence of any unlicensed establishments that do not meet the minimum safety and security operation standards. In the coming period, SCTH‘s monitoring practices will intensify, and the penalty amount for failure to comply with the new rules will increase tenfold.
26 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS NICHE TOURISM
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New Marina in Dubai
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ccording to Mohammed Al Mannaei, director general, Mina Rashid – Marina, the project is being developed to meet the high global demand for marinas and other services for luxury yachts. Set to open in 2018, the first phase of the new venture will offer 400 moorings for 15 – 35m long vessels while the second stage will cater to 100m yachts. With the corporation having already started works, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman, PCFC, explained that the development seeks to support Dubai Plan 2021 and will add value to the emirate’s profile as a global cruise tourism destination.
Troon Pushes UAE Golf Product
Union Museum Ready by September
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ork is progressing on Dubai’s 25,000m2 Union Museum, adjacent to the Union House, where the signing of the treaty establishing the UAE federation took place in 1971. Expected to be completed by September and unveiled to the public during the National Day celebrations in December, the AED600 million (USD547 million) museum will showcase the holistic story of the country’s development from pre-union throughout the entire time span of unity. Recently H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai, viewed and approved the design of the corporate identity of the establishment which was inspired by the colours of the national flag, the federal identity and the seven emirates.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club
roon unveiled a series of packages to promote the UAE to Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) members at its clubs. As Mark Chapleski, area managing director, senior vice president, Middle East and Asia Pacific, Troon, noted, the golf expert is working closely with both sides of the booking process, ensuring clarity and a seamless experience for guests looking to enjoy the country’s courses. “In many cases, we have been able to provide privileged access to our venues, develop better contact for organisers to create their desired packages and offer the opportunity to create profitable golfing breaks for our partners,” added Chapleski.
Union Museum rendering
Mina Rashid – Marina design
The construction design of Mina Rashid – Marina was recently unveiled by Dubai’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC).
26 MARCH 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS ENTERTAINMENT
Al Montazah Illuminated Sharjah
Al Qasba Transforms for the Street Fiesta
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26 MARCH 2016
As part of its spring campaign, Sharjah’s Al Montazah amusement and water park brought a luminarium inflatable sculpture to its resort for a 10-day period.
Inside Miracoco
l Qasba, Sharjah’s premier tourist, leisure and family destination, hosted the second edition of Al Qasba Street Fiesta (QABAM) in mid-March, featuring international artists and live bands who transformed the walkways with art and music activities and performances. Visitors could explore kiosks and stands selling various goods and souvenirs, as well as box installations, an interactive drawing activity called Doodle Walk, gnome painting for kids and more. “[QABAM] is a part of Al Qasba’s series of events to attract families, individual and holidaymakers and introduce them to Sharjah’s charms,” explained Sultan Mohammed Shattaf, manager, Al Qasba.
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he attraction, named Miracoco, was a mix of architectures that pieced together to create an experience of light and colour, enjoyable for both children and adults. The monumental inflatable enabled visitors to enter and move around the maze of winding paths and soaring domes where shapes melded into an inspiring combination of design and engineering.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Wyndham Focusses on EMEA Collection Wyndham Hotel Group’s Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) portfolio witnessed a strong growth in 2015 with the opening of 38 properties which drove the region’s total to 440 addresses.
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he momentum is set to continue this year with a pipeline of 50 accommodation establishments and an additional 10,600 rooms expected to be added to the EMEA network. Responding to increased demand for mid and upscale hotels in the Middle East, the group opened Wyndham Dubai Marina in February, and it also announced four new managed Ramada properties; Ramada Resort Dead Sea in Jordan, Ramada Jeddah Corniche in Saudi Arabia, along with Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Island and Ramada Manama City Centre, in Bahrain.
AccorHotels: 36,000 Rooms Opened in 2015
Anantara to Debut in Oman
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ccorHotels launched 229 new properties with a total of 36,172 rooms in 2015, meaning an average of two hotels every three days. Gaurav Bhushan, global chief development officer, AccorHotels, commented, “We crossed the symbolic milestone of half a million rooms with a 20 percent increase in the number of openings [in 2015]. We have a record pipeline of 160,000 rooms, and our objective is to maintain profitable expansion, strengthen our presence in the countries where we are leaders and rapidly acquire market share in emerging markets.” The enhancement drive focussed on Asia Pacific and Europe with 39 percent and 37 percent of the newlyopened rooms being located in these regions.
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nantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas is opening two luxury resorts in Oman in the coming months, marking the company’s entry into the Sultanate. Perched 2,000m2 above sea level, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort in the northeastern part of the country will offer 82 premier and deluxe rooms and 33 one-, two- or three-bedroom villas complete with private swimming pools, separate living spaces and personal butler services. Al Baleed Resort - Salalah by Anantara in Dhofar, which will boast a design inspired by the southern province’s heritage and coastal fortresses, will feature 40 rooms and 88 villas.
Al Baleed Resort - Salalah by Anantara
26 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Jaz Hotels Adds to Egyptian Portfolio
West Bank Guest Numbers Drop
West Bank
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ccommodation establishments in Palestine’s West Bank welcomed 118,322 guests in the fourth quarter of 2015, indicating a 22 percent decrease over the same period in 2014, data compiled by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics shows. From the total stays, 30 percent derived from guests from European Union countries, while domestic visitors accounted for eight percent of the total. Guest nights totalled 373,621, 57 percent of which was recorded in establishments in southern West Bank and 26 percent from hotels in Jerusalem. Room occupancy for the timeframe under study stood at 22 percent, signalling a nine percent year-on-year decline.
Jaz Aquaviva
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26 MARCH 2016
he five-star Jaz Aquaviva has made its debut in Egypt’s Red Sea resort complex Madinat Makadi, as the newest addition to Jaz Hotels, Resorts & Cruises’ collection. The 487-room property offers a variety of food and beverage outlets, swimming pools, water sports facilities and a diving centre, among more. In addition to spreading across 110,000m2 of prime resort territory, Jaz Aquaviva also features Makadi Water World, hailed as Egypt’s largest aqua park with 50 water slides for the whole family.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
City Centre Rotana Doha Adds Lounge
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Sheraton Sharjah to Add Spa
Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa
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resenting an ideal place to meet business partners or friends, City Centre Rotana Doha has launched Caramel. The lobby lounge, which is open daily from morning until midnight, offers a variety of coffees, teas and other beverages along with a selection of desserts. “The restaurant features quiet sessions, calm ambiance, relaxing atmosphere and upscale design, making it the perfect choice to experience the list of handmade sweets, cakes and cookies made from fresh and high-quality ingredients,” commented Lana Jwainat, cluster director, marketing and communications, City Centre Rotana Doha and Oryx Rotana.
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heraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa is to unveil its 1,100m2 Shine Spa this April. As Ines Drauschke, director of marketing, Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa, explained, with the launch of the facility, the five-star hotel, which opened its doors in November 2015, will become fully operational. “With its 349 spacious rooms and suites the hotel is the biggest in the area, including Ajman,” pointed out Drauschke. “Featuring the largest event facilities in Sharjah, the resort offers nine meeting rooms and two large ballrooms.” Guests can taste the menus of four restaurant and enjoy the atmosphere of two lounges.
Caramel
Radisson Blu Sharjah Focusses on MICE
DID YOU KNOW... Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa offers 2,100m2 of conference space with nine meeting rooms?
Rotana: Rising Demand from Germany
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n 2015, German guests accounted for 11 percent of Rotana’s entire business in all cities, and 16 percent in the UAE alone. “With the UAE increasingly being chosen by German tourists as a value-for-money destination, these figures are expected to grow this year,” explained Omer Kaddouri, president, Rotana, attributing the destination’s growing appeal to the enriched cultural experiences offered in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and the rising profile of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah in the European country. This year, Rotana is to open many new hotels across the Middle East, including Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Erbil Arjaan by Rotana, Iraq
he MICE segment continues to play an important role in Radisson Blu Resort Sharjah’s business. As Kamal Rijhwani, executive assistant manager, sales and marketing, Radisson Blu Resort Sharjah, revealed, despite the geopolitical and macroeconomic challenges in 2015, the hotel managed to maintain performance levels partially by utilising its 10 meetings and events spaces that also include two ballrooms. “Our outlook for [the current year] continues to be positive,” said Rijhwani, adding that the main priorities include driving MICE business from the GCC and India, and increasing the property’s presence in the Middle East, Eastern and Northern Europe, India and China.
26 MARCH 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
QATAR AIRWAYS TO ADD 14 GLOBAL
Destinations
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he carrier’s new services in Africa encompass Marrakech, Windhoek in Namibia and the Seychelles with operations starting in July, September and December, respectively. Moreover, in 2017, passengers will be able to experience the continent with new itineraries planned to Douala, Cameroon; Libreville, Gabon and Lusaka, Zambia. Qatar Airways is also refreshing its European offering with routes to Pisa, Sarajevo, Helsinki, Skopje and Nice. Lastly, aside from the New Zealand itinerary, the Middle Eastern airline will take off to two Asian locations, Krabi and Chiang Mai. “These new destinations are where our customers want to go, and where we see the most opportunity to provide a best-in-class experience,” said Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways.
26 MARCH 2016
QATAR AIRWAYS IS TO LAUNCH 14 NEW ROUTES FROM ITS DOHA BASE, INCLUDING WHAT IS HAILED AS THE WORLD’S LONGEST FLIGHT BETWEEN THE GULF STATE AND AUCKLAND, COMMENCING IN DECEMBER.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
HIA Recognised for Environmental Initiatives
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Emirates Upgrades Business Class Seat
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mirates unveiled its new and improved business class seat which will be installed in all of the airline’s new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft delivered from November onwards. The enhanced unit, which debuted at ITB Berlin, has been designed with ultimate customer comfort in mind with an ergonomically designed headrest, a pitch of 183cm and the latest touchscreen controller allowing the seat to be converted into a fully-flat sleeping position. The modern layout also comprises a personal TV screen and a conveniently located mini bar.
New business class seat
amad International Airport (HIA) achieved the Mapping Level of Airports Council International (ACI)’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The certification acknowledges the Qatari hub’s commitment to tackle climate change and reduce carbon emissions. As part of the application process, HIA’s carbon footprint was defined in line with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and independently verified. Level one recognises airfields that map their carbon emission sources within their direct control. In Doha, this includes the terminal, car parks, waste water facility, airport perimeter road lighting as well as offices. As Badr Mohammed Al Meer, chief operating officer, HIA, noted, mapping carbon footprint helps optimise energy demand management through new technology, improving operational practices and further investments in innovative solutions.
Oman’s First Budget Carrier Named
Turkish Airlines Boosts Middle East Offering
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fter a nationwide public poll, Muscat National Development and Investment Company (ASAAS) decided that the country’s first low-cost airline will fly under the name Salam Air. “While we understand that this is an unconventional way of naming an airline, we believe that integrating new modes of communication and outreach is the way of the future,” explained Khalid bin Hilal Al Yahmadi, CEO, ASAAS. Besides being part of the widely-known Arabic greeting, the word Salam also refers to safety and peace, and as Al Yahmadi added, “It is simple, memorable and meaningful and that is exactly what we were looking for in a name.”
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Mubadala Joins Forces with Boeing
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urkey’s national carrier announced a number of new flights to Saudi Arabia along with enhancements on its Bahrain route. On March 27, Turkish Airlines is launching seven-weekly itineraries from Istanbul to both Riyadh and Jeddah, while the following day will see the commencement of four-weekly operations from the Turkish city to Medina. Lastly, the frequency between Istanbul and Bahrain will increase from seven to nine weekly flights, as of May 19.
n a bid to further expand aerospace manufacturing capabilities in the UAE, Mubadala Development Company and Boeing entered into a new strategic agreement for collaboration on research and development initiatives. The five-year deal will see the aircraft specialist join the Abu Dhabi-based company’s existing ecosystem in the UAE capital. Initial projects will include research in the areas of robotics and aircraft assembly, and in the future, developments will align with ongoing work in the UAE to provide value for both entities as well as for the Emirati company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Strata Manufacturing.
26 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL New York to Boost Repeat Visits
ONYX Eyes Grand Expansion
Best Western’s Vib Brand Lands in Bangkok
Chengdu Welcomes Its First Grand Hyatt
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G Signing of the deal
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est Western Hotels & Resorts penned a deal with Matasiri Company for the first ever Vīb Hotel in Bangkok. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2018, the new-built hotel will be within walking distance from Sanam Pao BTS skytrain station and will offer 89 rooms and a slew of cutting-edge amenities. Designed with the requirements and preferences of today’s connected traveller, the Vib brand focusses on convenience and technology integration. Due to the unique concept, Vib properties have a minimal footprint and are highly cost-effective.
rand Hyatt Chengdu opened in the capital of Sichuan province, Southwest China, marking the brand’s debut in the region. Located within the Chicony Square building on the historic Chunxi Road, the hotel, which occupies floors 10 to 39, boasts 390 rooms, several dining outlets, almost 3,000m2 of events space, including an expansive ballroom and a 13,500m2 Versailles-style outdoor terrace. Event organisers can also choose from nine residentialstyle meeting spaces, seven of which feature separate living rooms and two with direct access to open kitchens. Guests can also make use of the fitness centre, swimming pool, whirlpool and Huan Spa.
Grand Hyatt Chengdu
around. As Fred Dixon, CEO, NYC & Company, put it, the metropolis is not a one-trick pony. “It is home to the best institutions and talent in every sector, and that is not confined to the borders of Manhattan,” added Dixon. Based on the most well-known landmarks, the city’s destination marketing organisation compiled a diverse list of itineraries and sights highlighting various attractions in the boroughs beyond the main areas.
NYX Hospitality Group is celebrating a period of growth across its brands as the company continues to penetrate new key markets. The hotelier recently welcomed five new addresses, headlined by Amari Havodda Maldives which opened in January. Several other projects are coming up in Asia Pacific, including the soon-to-reopen Amari Koh Samui, Amari Residences Pattaya on May 01, Amari Galle Sri Lanka and Amari Johor Bahru, Malaysia in the last quarter of the year, and finally OZO Hoi An Vietnam in the first quarter of 2017. The group is also working on the accelerated expansion of its OZO and Shama portfolio across Asia Pacific and Middle Eastern locations, with the aim to launch 46 properties by 2024.
Amari Havodda Maldives
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YC & Company encourages travellers to plan their next trip based on the iconic attractions that made them fall in love with New York City the first time
New York City
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26 MARCH 2016
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RENDEZVOUS
Dubai and Sharjah international airports, only 20 minutes from the cities of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah; and a few minutes away from vibrant downtown attractions.
Q & A with
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How have guests and partners responded to the resort’s refreshed offering?
IAN PHILLIPS GENERAL MANAGER, OCEANIC KHORFAKKAN RESORT & SPA, SHARJAH
LOCATED ON THE UAE’S EAST COAST, OCEANIC KHORFAKKAN RESORT & SPA OFFERS AN IDYLLIC ESCAPE FOR HOLIDAY-MAKERS AND FAMILIES, AS IAN PHILLIPS, GENERAL MANAGER, OCEANIC KHORFAKKAN RESORT & SPA, SHARJAH, EXPLAINS.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What makes the resort an ideal base for relaxation or for discovering the UAE? IAN PHILLIPS: Embraced by white warm sand and gleaming waters from the secluded beach with breathtaking views of the stunning Indian Ocean and lush greenery in a setting of the spectacular rolling hills of the Hajjar Mountains, Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa is an iconic property steeped in Emirati tradition, offering an idyllic escape that makes the holiday experience for tourists a pleasant and memorable one. Reopened in April 2013 following extensive renovation, this newly refurbished hotel, situated on the UAE’s picturesque East Coast, tucked away in the coastal town of Khorfakkan is a mere 90 minutes’ drive from
IAN PHILLIPS: [Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa was] the UAE’s number one family-friendly beach resort for 2015 at World Halal Travel Awards. In addition, we received [positive] reviews from various booking channels, including TripAdvisor which awarded the Certificate of Excellence to us for two consecutive years in 2014 and 2015. On Booking.com we achieved an 8.2 rate and received an award of excellence for 2014. This Arabian resort has become one of the leading hotel destinations in the UAE. We offer a family-friendly accommodation with 177 spacious rooms, including 18 lavish suites and family rooms with first class service, amenities and stunning views, exceptional dining establishments, including our main restaurant Al Murjan, Bab Al Bahr Seafood Restaurant and The Ocean Wok Asian Restaurant, in addition to our cafés, lounges and snack bar which offers an impressive array of menus prepared by our award-winning chefs. In addition to this, the resort also boasts incredible private villas, The Ocean Collection, Villas & Villettes by Oceanic Resort & Spa. This exquisite secluded paradise offers privacy and luxurious comfort with a unique service, ideal for small and large families alike. These three private sea-facing villas, with sizes varying from 63m2 to 290m2, feature six spacious bedrooms with elegant living rooms and lovely dining areas, a private check in and entrance
with parking, private Jacuzzi and balconies with direct access to the ocean and beach and a private barbeque corner with in-house chefs. Further to this are the resort’s facilities that include an outstanding recreation and leisure area, spa and gym, temperature-controlled outdoor private pool, a secluded beach and other family oriented activities such as recreational sports, water activities, one-of-akind dive sites, sightseeing and tours, entertainment and movie nights, ideal for the whole family, and much more.
Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa, Sharjah
This resort is perfect for a quiet retreat or a family break and exemplifies a true escape. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are your plans for the coming months? What can guests and travel agents/ tour operators expect from the resort’s team? IAN PHILLIPS: Our plan is to continue to work on quality to further enhance the guest experience and our facilities. We are also looking into new markets within Central, mainland and Eastern Europe to further diversify our guests mix and to ensure that in the future we are able to withstand any changes in the currency and political adjustments without negatively impacting our business. As a team, we worked very hard to understand our guests and to keep improving our service and facilities in the resort. As we know the markets have been very difficult, however, a very clear focus on our people, our guests and our product is enabling us to produce slightly better results than the current industry norm.
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26 MARCH 2016 Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa, Sharjah
ANNA-MARIE DOWLING has been named complex general manager for The Westin Bahrain City Centre and Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre. Dowling’s expertise and experience in the hospitality industry spans 24 years and includes various positions at a number of UK properties. She initially made her debut with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in 2003, as general manager at Le Méridien Piccadilly Hotel & Café Royal. New to the Middle East, Dowling joins the Bahraini team from Sofitel London Heathrow, where she had served as general manager since 2013.
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VALERIE BARRIE
ANNA-MARIE DOWLING
WHO’S MOVED
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KAMAL NAAMANI has been promoted to managing director of UAE-based hospitality and leisure projects at Al Habtoor Group. Naamani joined the company in June 2015 as director of operations overseeing the group’s growing portfolio of new developments, including Al Habtoor City. In his expanded new leadership role, Naamani will supervise all owned and managed Habtoor Hotels in the UAE, as well as Habtoor Catering and Habtoor Laundry Operations. Prior to becoming a member of Al Habtoor Group, he served as managing director for Asia Pacific at Pragma Group. All in all, he has over 21 years of senior level luxury hotel experience with Fairmont Raffles Hotels and Resorts in various destinations.
DULCE ORTEGA
KAMAL NAAMANI
Dowling boasts extensive UK hospitality know-how
VALERIE BARRIE has taken over as director of sales and marketing at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai. Barrie joins the team from Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Wild Wadi Waterpark where she served for three years in the same position. In her new capacity, she will work closely with the hotel’s senior management team to further strengthen the property’s strategy across key market segment and achieve sales targets. She will also lead the sales and marketing team in attracting convention and group business to the hotel. Furthermore, under the JW Marriott luxury tier group, Barrie will head strategic campaigns across the property’s rooms, restaurants and lounges, spa and MICE facilities.
DULCE ORTEGA has been assigned as the new director of sales and marketing at Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel, Abu Dhabi. Building on her well-established experience, Ortega will now lead all sales and marketing activities at the property after achieving results as sales manager in only one year. She moved to the UAE from Kempinski Seychelles Resort. Prior to that, she worked at Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea where she held different operational positions which gave her a wide background and better understanding of demand patterns and client needs.
Ortega’s promotion comes after outstanding results
26 MARCH 2016
ALEXANDRA VASILOPOULOU 26 MARCH 2016
WHO’S MOVED
SHAMIA MOURATSING has been named head of marketing and communications at DUKES Dubai on Palm Jumeirah. Mouratsing joins Seven Tides International’s five-star hospitality venture with more than 13 years of solid marketing experience, having most recently served as an associate director at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. In her capacity, she will be responsible for communicating all marketing initiatives to target markets across business, trade and consumer sectors. In addition to supporting the senior management team and working in parallel with the business strategy, Mouratsing will also be in charge of creating awareness of the hotel’s brand values and promoting its unique selling propositions.
RUSHDI ASHKAR
SHAMIA MOURATSING
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RUSHDI ASHKAR has been selected as general manager at Mövenpick Hotel Kuwait. Bringing 25 years of international hospitality experience to the team, Ashkar aims to further strengthen the property’s reputation for achieving high levels of guest satisfaction. Before accepting the position, he had held several key positions with different hotel chains around the GCC. He has a long history in serving as general manager at Madinah Mövenpick Hotel as well as in Coral Hotel Dhahran’s preopening team. Over the years, Ashkar also worked with Marriott International, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and InterContinental Hotels Group.
ALEXANDRA VASILOPOULOU has joined Warwick Hotel Dubai as director of sales and marketing. With over 18 years’ experience in hotel sales management and the conferences and events industry, Vasilopoulou has worked with a number of leading hotels and premium hospitality brands across Greece, Switzerland, Qatar and the UAE. Having first moved to the Middle East region in 2011 to work as deputy director of sales at The St. Regis Doha, she then relocated to the UAE in 2012 to serve as deputy director of sales and marketing at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi. In recognition of her work ethic and results, Vasilopoulou was named one of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide’s 20 best sales producers in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region in 2014.
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TRAVEL TALK
VICE CHAIRMAN, WORLD TRAVEL & TOURISM COUNCIL
GENERAL MANAGER, AL RAHA BEACH HOTEL, ABU DHABI
KAMAL ZAYATI
Growth is one word that comes to my mind “Growth is one word that comes to my mind while continuing to create loyalty by serving guests as per their expectations. This includes exploring new markets, new clients and destinations while making sure that people get to know about Al Raha Beach Hotel as a unique option to serve them while they are in Abu Dhabi. Usage of all platforms to share what is being offered by Al Raha Beach will help us drive more customers and these customers when served well will help us get many more of them by sharing their positive experiences.”
CEO, RAS AL KHAIMAH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
GERALD LAWLESS
“The [first nonstop service between Dubai and Auckland] is an important development for our customers, for Emirates and for New Zealand. We anticipate high demand for the route, providing a further boost to inbound tourist traffic into New Zealand that now exceeds three million a year. We also expect the service to be popular with New Zealanders seeking faster connections to Europe and the Middle East.”
HAITHAM MATTAR
PRESIDENT, GROUP SERVICES AND DNATA, EMIRATES GROUP
GARY CHAPMAN
We anticipate high demand for the route
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We commend the [Egyptian] government on its moves to improve security
“Egypt is a magnificent tourist destination, which has recovered from setbacks in the past. Not only does travel and tourism contribute 12.8 percent to the country’s GDP, it also supports nearly three million jobs. We commend the government on its moves to improve security for tourists, and we are confident that this investment in infrastructure will hasten the recovery of Egypt’s travel and tourism sector.”
I look forward to [...] pursuing every opportunity
“The UK is our second largest source market, with continued potential for growth. We have witnessed a 24 percent increase in visitor numbers in 2015 compared to previous years. This is a testament to our unique offerings that are appealing to UK travellers. [After my trip to the UK], I look forward to future visits and pursuing every opportunity to strengthen our alliances and strategic partnerships with some of the UK’s biggest names in the travel trade industry.”
TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
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26 MARCH 2016
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AGENT CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? I graduated with a bachelor degree in tourism in the Philippines in 2003, and after that, I worked as a ground stewardess for two years. I was a dedicated reservations and ticketing representative for United Airlines. I moved to Dubai in 2008 and worked at the guest services department at a five-star hotel. I have been a travel consultant for more than five years now and currently I am an assistant team leader in Flight Centre. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? Listening attentively to our customers, understanding what they truly need and what is important for them, and of course, being able to deliver an amazing travel experience.
Vanessa Arevalo
NAME:
POSITION: Assistant team leader COMPANY: Flight Centre Arabian Ranches LOCATION: Dubai WEBSITE:
www.flightcentre.ae
Travelport: 150 Airlines on Pioneering Platform
What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? We always get questions like “Why do we have to book with a travel agent when we could just book the tickets online?” Travellers nowadays are more concerned about how fast they can book their ticket and how cheap they can get it for, not realising that any single problem that may arise during the trip could ruin their entire holiday. What are the must-visits in the Philippines that no one should miss? The must-visits are Palawan, Boracay and Bohol. Palawan is very famous for its underground river, and also Coron, one of the hottest diving spots in the country. Boracay has one of the world’s finest beaches and is also famous for its vibrant nightlife. And last but definitely not the least, Bohol, where you can find the popular chocolate hills, and take a selfie with a Tarsier, the world’s smallest monkey? Which destination is on your bucket list? Next on my list is Switzerland. 26 MARCH 2016
T
ravelport’s airline merchandising technology continues to gain momentum in the industry with 150 carriers now live on Travelport Rich Content and Branding. The merchandising suite comprises of three components; aggregated shopping, ancillary services and Travelport Rich Content and Branding, including Fares Families, all of which have been developed to help transform the way airlines deliver and display their products to travel agents. In 2015 alone, over 100 airlines signed up for the software to drive additional revenues per seat and to detail their differentiated products and services. Travelport has recently also added the capability for carriers to make tailored or personalised offers to both individual travel agencies and the corporations that a travel management company services.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
KEMPINSKI AJMAN HONOURS INDIAN TRADITIONS
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Al Bustan Centre and Residence team
AL BUSTAN JOINS FAMILY CHARITY EVENT
K
empinski Hotel Ajman held the biggest hotel-organised Holi festival in the UAE with guest numbers having exceeded 4,000. Indian restaurant Bukhara offered traditional treats, and various food and beverage counters were also available, while guests received a festival kick-off kit with organic colours upon entrance and were kept entertained by DJs. “As this is a family-orientated, fun-filled event, we have [had] calls from families as far away as Abu Dhabi to join us as well during this year’s celebrations,” commented Anish Kuttan, director of food and beverage, Kempinski Hotel Ajman.
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A
l Bustan Centre & Residence, Dubai extended its support to Al Noor Training Centre by participating in the organisation’s Hope for Children Family Fun Fair. Staff members assisted in creating various activities, including games, face painting, quizzes and raffle draws. The annual festival, which once again welcomed thousands of attendees from different nationalities, helped raise funds for Al Noor Training Centre which provides a safe and inspiring environment for people with special needs.
26 MARCH 2016
PHOTO ALBUM
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Ismail Ibrahim, cluster director, sales and marketing, Ramada Abu Dhabi Corniche and TRYP by Wyndham Abu Dhabi (second right), was on a promotional tour across the GCC
Novotel and ibis Fujairah received TripAdvisor's Travelers’ Choice Awards
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.
Virtual reality pods at Emirates' stand at ITB Berlin
The first group of graduates from Royal Jordanian Airlines’ leadership programme
26 MARCH 2016
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah’s team once again joined the annual can collection campaign of Emirates Environmental Group
Semiramis InterContinental Cairo volunteers visited Health and Hope Oasis, a cancer-care centre for children
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NEWS & EVENTS
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EVENTS
Routes Asia Moves to Japan
IBTM AFRICA
F
ollowing the successful conclusion of this year’s Routes Asia in Manila, the Philippine capital has handed over the event to Okinawa, the host city for 2017. The latest edition of the forum attracted some 900 delegates from 110 airlines and 220 airports and destinations to discuss air services to and from the continent. The 16th installment is set to take place in Japan where over 110 million air passengers are registered every year. “As the first Routes Asia to be held in Japan, Okinawa will bring Routes to a new and growing market,” commented Katie Bland, director, Routes.
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.
RIYADH TRAVEL FAIR
Routes Asia ceremony
OCEC to Host First Bride Show
A
s Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) advances towards its August opening, it has added the first edition of the Oman Bride Show to its busy calendar. Running between January 25 – 28, 2017, the exhibition, the biggest of its kind event in the Sultanate will showcase an array of wedding products and services from fashion to make-up and jewellery to flowers, transport, entertainment and venues. Exhibitors will benefit from 22,000 column-free square metres of flexible space and advanced facilities at OCEC.
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Riyadh, Saudi Arabia April 12 – 15 www.riyadhtravel.net Attracting leading travel and tourism companies from Saudi Arabia and the GCC, the event is a platform for introducing new tourist products and services, and making investments.
IMEX Frankfurt, Germany April 19 – 21 www.imex-frankfurt.com A landmark exhibition for professionals working in the MICE industry where global decision-makers meet with 3,500 suppliers for three days of business.
ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai, UAE April 25 – 28 www.arabiantravelmarket.com A major event where global tourism destinations showcase a diverse range of accommodation options, tourism attractions, travel technology and key airline routes.
26 MARCH 2016