2 JULY 2016 ISSUE 347
09 SOFITEL TAMUDA BAY BEACH & SPA OPENS
11 EMIRATES ENHANCES MELBOURNE SERVICES
PASSENGER TRAFFIC AT DWC SURGES 79.8 PERCENT
08 ACCOMMODATION
CONRAD MAKKAH OPENS ITS DOORS
MARKET UPDATE
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MIDDLE EAST HUBS REMAIN BUSY
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITORS Rita Kasziba Maria Kazeli JOURNALIST Pauline Shahabian CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670
According to Airports Council International, global airport passenger traffic increased 3.4 percent in April, with movements in the UAE’s and Qatar’s main hubs following the trend.
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raveller traffic in Doha continued to maintain the momentum, making Hamad International Airport the fastest-growing airfield in the region as it registered a 20.2 percent year-on-year surge followed by Dubai with a 7.2 percent rise. Total global passenger movements grew 6.2 percent for the first four months of the year as compared to 2015.
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
1.7.2016
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
110.24
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
8.93
Iran (IRR)
Rial
30,699.45
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,172.38
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,513.28
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.39
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.79
Syria (SYP)
Pound
216.57
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.19
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.05
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) revised this year’s financial outlook for global air transport industry profits upwards to USD39.4 billion – up from the USD36.3 billion forecast in December 2015.
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he figure is expected to be generated on revenues of USD709 billion for an aggregate net profit margin of 5.6 percent, with this year set to be the fifth consecutive year of improved aggregate industry profits. Middle East carriers are projected to post a USD1.6 billion profit, with capacity growing at a rate of 12.2 percent, outpacing the expected 11.2 percent expansion of demand. Tony Tyler, director general, IATA, said, “Joint ventures and other forms of cooperation are improving efficiency and increasing consumer choice while fostering robust competition. The result [is that] consumers are getting a great deal and investors are finally beginning to see the rewards they deserve.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Yas Acres Generates USD272 Million
GCC in Position to Maximise Muslim Arrivals
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E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, CEO, Aldar Properties, said, “Yas Acres will be the next successful chapter in the Yas Island story which to date includes residential launches for West Yas, Ansam and Mayan. A major focus for us is to deliver products that suit the current and future needs of the emirate, and the feedback so far indicates that Yas Acres is a good fit for the market.�
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Yas Acres
Aldar Properties sold out the first phase of 267 units at Yas Acres, making AED1 billion (USD272 million) in sales. As a result of the strong demand for villas on Yas Island, the second stage within the project was also released in June.
he GCC states are set to benefit from the growth in Muslim visitors during the Holy Month of Ramadan, according to new research released by MasterCard and CrescentRating. The growing trend of Muslims travelling during the fasting period will see destinations in the GCC becoming the most attractive by 2023, based on data and analysis from the inaugural Ramadan Travel Report 2016. With the Holy Month set to take place during the cooler months from 2023 onwards, destinations in the Middle East, such as the UAE, Qatar and Oman will become an attractive proposition for these travellers. The study also showed that Jordan, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia could also benefit from this pattern.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Sharjah Targets Australia
Sharjah Launches Study to Boost MICE Sector
Participants in the roundtable
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harjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) is focussing on new initiatives to boost the emirate’s MICE tourism industry with a specialised study aimed at strengthening the sector’s role in attracting more visitors. To discuss the outcomes of the research, the authority organised a workshop under the theme Exploring the Routes to Business Tourism in Sharjah. According to H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman, SCTDA, achieving the goal of Sharjah Tourism Vision to attract 10 million tourists by 2021, requires the development of all related sectors, including MICE, as it plays an important role in the tourism eco-system and accounts for nearly five percent of the total arrivals in any country and about 11 percent of the total income.
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pportunities for investment between Sharjah and Australia was the main topic on the agenda at a Sharjah – Australia Roundtable, organised by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority in association with the Australian Business Council in Dubai, the Australian Trade Commission and Australia Unlimited. The event included representatives discussing the emirate’s array of fertile sectors for investment, with these including tourism, environment, health and transport. As Gerard Seeber, consul general to Dubai, Australia, pinpointed, the ties between the countries are not limited to purely commercial concerns. “Around 35,000 UAE tourists visit Australia each year, with 300,000 Australian tourists going the other way,” he said.
Cairo Metro’s El Marg station
Cairo Metro Works Progress
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he joint venture between Orascom Construction and Arab Contractors has signed a contract with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels to execute the fourth phase of Cairo Metro’s third line. Having started in July and expected to be completed over a 34-month period, the project, which will stretch 6.1km across a viaduct and five elevated stations, is estimated at about EGP6 billion (USD675 million). Set to be completed in 2020, the service will run from Cairo airport to Cairo University, passing through Downtown.
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WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY
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Dubai Maintains Occupancy but Drops Rates
tajawal Introduces Hotel Booking Service Following the launch of Dubai-based online travel platform tajawal in January, Al Tayyar Travel Group has now released a hotel booking engine along with flight reservation services, resulting in the formation of a full-scale online travel agency.
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ajawal’s customers can travel to almost 15,000 destinations around the world while choosing from an extensive mix of more than 160,000 hotels, ranging from budget and value addresses, to five-star and luxury properties. “Customers love the dual language functionality of our design, our user-friendly navigation as well as our committed customer happiness team. Adding hotel bookings to our service portfolio was a natural step forward,” said Muhammad Chbib, founder, tajawal.
Amadeus: Intelligence’s Role in Travel
dnata Joins Forces with G Travel
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nata entered into a joint venture with Norway-based G Travel, which will see the inception of a new entity called G Travel International providing global travel management services for offshore, marine and corporate clients. “Combining the expertise and resources of the two companies will bring added value to our clients on a global level. Continuing to invest in human capital is key to our success. G Travel has a stellar track record and valuable expertise in a growing sector; and partnering with dnata in this joint venture will enrich our solutions to customers and the travel trade across the world,” commented Finn Vetle Hansen, CEO, G Travel.
Representatives of the two companies
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new paper by Amadeus Travel Intelligence, titled Defining the future of travel through intelligence, outlines how data analytics can be used to develop innovative products, services and processes that better meet travellers’ needs. Moreover, it explains that companies must be open to experimentation, new ideas and fresh approaches. The paper includes case studies on how Qantas Airways and Avianca are using data analytics, supported by Amadeus Travel Intelligence, to optimise operations and become more customer-centric. “The companies that are more likely to succeed in the future travel industry will be those that embrace big data and experimentation,” said Pascal Clement, head of travel intelligence, Amadeus.
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WEEKLY NEWS AGENT NEWS
Oman Air Holidays Available for Booking
dnata Acquires Stake in Asian DMC
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nata reached an agreement to purchase a stake in destination management company Destination Asia, marking the UAE entity’s foray into the continent’s inbound travel market. Destination Asia, which was formed in October 1996 in Thailand and Vietnam and has since progressively expanded to cover 11 major markets in the region, will now become part of dnata’s family of businesses. James Reed, CEO, Destination Asia, said, ”Our 11-country network with 33 operating offices perfectly complements dnata’s expansion plans. Our 700 plus award-winning staff are highly regarded in the industry and deliver the same high standards of service as dnata, every day of the year.”
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Following 2015’s agreement between Oman Air and Rezgateway to develop a complete reservation system, Oman Air Holidays has launched a fully online-based booking engine.
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he holidays division of the national carrier unveiled a new website and booking system which offers an array of products, such as flights and hotels, short holiday packages as well as car rental. “Customers can choose from a wide range of exciting destinations, all of which lie within Oman Air’s expanding network. And because we work closely with our partners in the international hotels and resorts industry, omanairholidays.com also offers a wonderful choice of accommodation,” explained Joe Cusmano, senior manager, Oman Air Holidays.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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CONRAD MAKKAH OPENS ITS
Doors
Conrad Makkah
CONRAD HOTELS & RESORTS CELEBRATED THE LAUNCH OF ITS FIRST ADDRESS IN SAUDI ARABIA, THE 438-ROOM CONRAD MAKKAH.
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he arrival of Conrad Hotels & Resorts to Mecca marks the addition of our second brand into the city and our 11th hotel into the Kingdom. With another 28 Hilton Worldwide properties in development, we are extremely proud to offer incredible variety and choice for travellers to the region,” commented Rudi Jagersbacher, area president, Middle East and Africa, Hilton Worldwide. Set in the heart of the Holy City, the hotel was designed for today’s smart luxury guests, combining high-level of service with locally inspired surroundings. The property boasts 62 suites, ranging between 56m2 – 247m2, in two towers, with each featuring a separate living area, a dining space with a kitchen and access to private butler services.
Starwood to Add Two Saudi Hotels
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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide aims to open two new properties in Riyadh, in 2022. Marking the return of the Westin flag to Saudi Arabia and the debut of the first Element in the country, The Westin Riyadh and Element Riyadh, which will feature a combined 632 rooms, will form part of a mixed-use development in the vicinity of King Abdullah Financial District. “This development gives us the opportunity to showcase the Westin and Element brands in the country, and also illustrates the strong demand for high-calibre global brands in this market. We are on track to more than double our presence in Saudi Arabia in the next five years [...],” analysed Neil George, senior vice president, acquisitions and development, Africa and Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Sofitel Tamuda Bay Beach & Spa Opens
S Sofitel Tamuda Bay Beach & Spa
ofitel Tamuda Bay Beach & Spa is the latest five-star beachfront hotel in Morocco. With elaborate architecture, contemporary design and chic atmosphere, the 82-room property boasts one royal suite, five junior suites, three So Spa suites, five signature villas and eight
beach suites with private terrace and Jacuzzi. The hotelier enlisted the help of well-known French-Lebanese architect Galal Mahmoud to create the hotel’s design, which is strongly inspired by French Riviera glamour of the 1950s and Fauviste artists.
AVANI Launches First Middle East Address
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inor Hotels took over the operation of the 216-room Mövenpick Hotel Deira in Dubai which now welcomes guests as AVANI Deira Dubai Hotel, marking the brand’s foray into the Middle East. The property is situated 4km from Dubai International, close to several shopping malls and the Dubai Metro, and boasts two dining concepts, meeting rooms, an outdoor pool and a gym. Abdulla bin Sulayem, general manager, Bin Sulayem Investments, owners of the hotel, commented, “This property being rebranded to AVANI is an important step in the evolution of our owned assets. We are excited to strengthen the current relationship with Minor Hotels.”
AVANI Deira Dubai Hotel
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WEEKLY NEWS ATTRACTIONS
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Louvre Abu Dhabi Transforms
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he milestone achievement is hailed as a key stride towards realising the vision of the architect Jean Nouvel, for the world-class cultural institution as a museum city on the sea. H.E. Ali Majed Al Mansoori, chairman, TDIC, said, “This delicate process is the result of months of planning and preparation to ensure that the inflow of sea water takes place in a controlled manner around and within strategic places in the museum.”
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) took a further step in the evolution of Louvre Abu Dhabi as it began the process of removing the temporary sea protection walls, which was used during the main construction phase, marking the integration of the museum project with the sea.
Enhanced Mobility Services for ADNEC Visitors
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Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
bu Dhabi National Exhibition Company (ADNEC) entered into a partnership with Europcar to offer better mobility to attendees and delegates at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Under the agreement, the vehicle rental services provider will set up a new office at the facility, ensuring high levels of convenience to visitors though a wide range of car rental options, including pick up and drop off alternatives. “As a venue of choice for leading associations and events, ADNEC is committed to developing its robust infrastructure and offering enabling technologies, state-of-the-art facilities and convenient services to ensure the continued success of events hosted at our venues,” commented Abdulla Al Hammadi, director, ancillary services, ADNEC.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Oman Air Boosts Salalah Flights
Emirates Enhances Melbourne Services
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assengers travelling from Dubai to Melbourne will have another direct air connection with Emirates as one of the carrier’s existing services will begin operating as a nonstop itinerary. From October 30, the current flight, which is being operated via Kuala Lumpur, will become nonstop, saving customers approximately two and half hours in travel time in each direction. The UAE airline offers a total of four daily flights between the destinations with codeshare partner Qantas Airways. With this change, the services will include two daily nonstop flights on Emirates, one on Qantas Airways aircraft, as well as one daily Emirates link that operates via Singapore.
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In response to the rising demand, Oman Air will operate more services than ever to the southern city of Salalah during this summer’s Khareef season.
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requencies between the destination and Muscat rose to 11 daily flights, meaning a year-on-year capacity increase of 15,000 seats onboard Boeing 737, Boeing 787 and Airbus 330 aircraft. Moreover, in July and August, the airline’s Dubai – Salalah route will witness the operation of one daily flight, whereas from September 01, Boeing 737s will replace the Embraer 175 regional jets used on the itinerary.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Nile Air Enters UAE
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ile Air has debuted in the UAE with a new four-weekly route linking Cairo to Al Ain. The itinerary is being operated by Airbus A320 aircarft. Ahmed Aly, CEO, Nile Air, stated, “The new service to Al Ain will provide an easy and convenient travel option between both cities for business travellers, Emirati tourists visiting Egypt and the estimated 100,000 Egyptian nationals residing in the city of Al- in and its surrounding region who wish to travel home.”
Emirates to Send A380-800 to Moscow
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ommencing December 01, Emirates will upgrade one of the two daily flights serving the Dubai – Moscow route to an Airbus A380-800. The step comes in response to the increasing demand, as over the past 12 months, some 400,000 passengers have travelled between the two cities. Notably, since Emirates started flying to the Russian capital in 2003, it has carried almost 3.5 million customers on the route. The three-class aircraft will offer 14 private suites in first class and 76 fully-flat bed mini-pods in business class on the upper deck. An additional 426 seats in economy will result in a total of 516 seats on the aircraft, increasing capacity by 23 percent.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Kuwait Airways Makes Its Presence Felt in Dubai
Arabs Favour London
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uwait Airways was recognised by the aviation business development teams of Dubai Airports and dnata as the airline presenting the most notable improvements in 2015. The Middle Eastern carrier proved to be the winner among 140 other airlines that regularly fly to and from Dubai’s airports. The award ceremony at Palazzo Versace Dubai was attended by a number of airline managers, representatives of Dubai International as well as other airport authorities.
Kuwait Airways team in Dubai
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rivate Jet Charter (PJC) revealed that London was the most popular destination for Gulf private jet users in the first four months of the year, with a total of 222 trips, followed by Paris with 185 trips. The data was unveiled during the company’s celebrations marking 15 years of serving the Middle East. “Our wide range of services makes private jet a very luxurious option for families from the GCC. It is even an affordable luxury for those who wish to enjoy several stops in various locations. We also offer added value for Gulf businessmen who have a variable schedule by offering plenty of options, thanks to our strong contacts with aircraft suppliers all over the world,” explained Hugh Courtenay, founder, PJC.
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ienna International Airport welcomed Emirates’ milestone 80th Airbus A380 aircraft after flying in direct from the manufacturer’s production facility in Hamburg. In order to accommodate the iconic airliner, the Austrian hub has embarked on a long-term project that includes changes to the apron infrastructure, investments in aircraft handling equipment, gate and boarding facilities as well airside terminal areas. Since launching services between Dubai and the European capital in 2004, the Gulf airline has carried almost three million passengers on its double-daily flights. By deploying the A380, which has a capacity to seat 519 travellers, Emirates will now be able to serve over 1,700 passengers every day.
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Emirates Airbus A380’s arrival in Vienna
Emirates A380 Touches Down in Vienna
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Qatar Airways Cargo’s stand at Air Cargo China
Qatar Airways Cargo Announces Expansion Plans
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Etihad Cargo Adds to Brussels Offering
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purred by the constant growth of its fleet as well as the opening of a new European hub in Luxembourg, Qatar Airways Cargo is preparing for a major enhancement of its network which will allow the company to become a significant player in Transpacific, Australia as well as South America over the next nine months. Making the statements, Ulrich Ogiermann, chief officer, cargo, Qatar Airways, explained that the airline’s freighter fleet will grow to 22 aircraft by 2017, thus, the carrier is adding Halifax and New York to its cargo network this month. In a further announcement, Ogiermann officially launched QR Live, a new addition to the carrier’s portfolio of air freight solutions.
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tihad Cargo commenced a new twice weekly Airbus A330 freighter service to Brussels Airport to further strengthen connectivity options and economic ties between Abu Dhabi and the Belgian capital. David Kerr, vice president, Etihad Cargo, said, “Brussels is an important route into Europe with the freight operation returning to full strength, so as part of our plans to expand further this year, we are pleased to begin operating in and out of the city. Brussels provides vital connections across Europe and is also a key connector into Africa so we know that it will be another important route on our global freighter network.”
Rakjet: In-house Aircraft Management Is Damaging
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ccording to newly-launched aviation expert Rakjet, the losses of private aircraft owners in the GCC countries who opted for in-house aircraft management exceeded USD45 million in 2015. Private jet ownership comes with huge financial, administrative and regulatory compliance issues, and choosing the wrong management company or opting for in-house handling may cost the proprietors three to four times more than they need to pay, stated Zaher Deir, managing director, Rakjet. Hugh Courtenay, founder, Rakjet, added, “[We have] an operational reach that extends around the globe which will allow us to take care of all our clients’ private jet requirements, no matter their operations or destination.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Hamad International Airport in street view
HIA Available on Street View
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s part of its digital strategy, Hamad International Airport (HIA) launched Google’s 360-degree street view imagery of the airfield. Ulf Spitzer, global lead, Google Street View, stated, “From Urs Fischer’s teddy lamp bear sculpture to the Dreamliners that line the runway, millions around the world will now be able to inspect [HIA], which they may be travelling to or through soon.” The hub joined other global landmarks such as Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower in the Street View Special Collects feature that lets users explore places around the world, including landmarks, natural wonders, and culturally and historically significant sites.
QAIA Achieves Third Level of Airport Carbon Accreditation
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n line with its continuous efforts to improve overall environmental efficiency, Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) completed the third level of Airport Carbon Accreditation, becoming the first airfield in the Middle East to achieve the distinction. The airport was officially recognised with the top level accreditation at the 11th Airports Council International Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition, in Australia. The award is a further testament to QAIA’s role as a regional pioneer in the field of carbon reduction, according to Kjeld Binger, CEO, Airport International Group, who added, “We are determined to press on, advancing to complete higher certification levels and to secure our ultimate goal of becoming carbon neutral.”
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Q & A with
RENDEZVOUS
RAED RABIE GENERAL MANAGER, THE BOULEVARD ARJAAN BY ROTANA
CONVENIENCE AND COMFORT ARE TWO OF THE KEY SELLING POINTS OF HOTEL APARTMENTS WHICH, AS RAED RABIE, GENERAL MANAGER, THE BOULEVARD ARJAAN BY ROTANA, AMMAN, EXPLAINS, ATTRACT BOTH FAMILIES AS WELL AS CORPORATE TRAVELLERS.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the main characteristics of those looking for hotel apartments for shorter or longer periods? RAED RABIE: The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana provides spacious areas that make our guests feel at home. Our hotel apartments offer luxurious furnishings with a fully-equipped kitchenette, dining area, living room and bathroom, as well as exclusive, direct underground access to the new Abdali Mall. This means that children have an area in which to play and adults may access a wide variety of dining, leisure and banking services. Due to the fantastic selection of offerings, our clientele has changed in re-
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The Boulevard, Amman
cent years because we have become attractive to a wider spectrum of guests, such as families travelling during their Eid or summer holidays, professionals conducting business and couples taking a romantic getaway. Those seeking hotel apartments for both short and long periods want the versatility that we offer. This is proven by the increase we have seen in the demand for hotel apartments at The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana and in the Middle East in general. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: With an increased emphasis on midmarket projects, the region is expected to welcome thousands of midmarket hotel rooms in the coming years. How do you expect this to affect demand for hotel apartments? RAED RABIE: We do not foresee a substantial change in the demand for hotel apartments versus midmarket hotels. This is because we know that the strong demand for hotel apartments and the loyalty of our guests to The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana is maintained by the exceptional services and offerings that we provide. Our hotel is located in one of the newest, trendiest hubs of Amman, The Boulevard, a district that offers a familyfriendly environment and an impressive new shopping destination, Abdali Mall. Our apartments embody the standards of the Rotana brand, which consistently strives to provide a five-star experience. As part of this experience, our hotel offers not one but two first-class dining options with Italian cuisine at Café Italia, and French cuisine at Café Margaux, a sump-
tuous buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner in à la carte menu that serves signature dishes designed by talented chefs. Our menus are constantly rotated to reflect the latest inspirations, newest seasons and freshest tastes in food trends and gourmet cuisine across the globe. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How do you see the hotel apartment segment’s future in the region? RAED RABIE: The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana has already evolved and continues to advance in consistently meeting the changing needs of our guests. For example, we offer various packages year-round to appeal to our different leisure, business, honeymoon and summer vacation travellers, we offer great discounted rates, and provide luxurious amenities, facilities and services. As Jordan is one of the region´s stronger performers economically, we predict that in the coming years businesses, projects and investments in the country will increase and the resulting business travellers will prefer hotel apartments for their long-term stays because we offer better comfort and value. Regionally, the Middle East is all about families, so the future of the hotel apartment segment will continue to appeal to them as they seek the right kind of space to spend quality family time, which is something that the Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana excels in providing. The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana is proud of its outstanding level of service and offerings, so stay tuned for our exceptional summer and end-of-year promotions. 2 JULY 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
First Protea in Botswana
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urther expanding its African portfolio, Protea Hotels will develop its first property in Botswana, the ninth country on the continent in which the brand will have a presence. First established in South Africa, Protea Hotels has since expanded into Zambia, Nigeria, Namibia, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania and Ghana. Scheduled to launch in early 2018, the new hotel will be located in the
capital Gaborone, offering 160 rooms of various sizes and types, and substantial conference, meeting and event facilities. Marriott International, the parent company of Protea Hotels, plans to open over 93 addresses in the Middle East and Africa between by 2025. This year alone, 17 new hotels will be launched in the region, adding close to 3,000 new rooms to the network.
Radisson Blu Durban Coming Soon
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he Rezidor Hotel Group announced its first property in Durban, South Africa with the 207-key Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga set to welcome its first guests in 2019. The upper-upscale hotel will enjoy a prime location as part of the Oceans Umhlanga iconic mixed-use development, a 90,000m2 high-end complex which will also include luxury apartments and a shopping mall with some of the world’s leading brands. “The signing in Durban solidifies the brand’s pole position and supports our long-term strategy to establish Radisson Blu as the leading upper-upscale offer on the continent,” said Elie Younes, executive vice president, The Rezidor Hotel Group.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Carlson Rezidor Expands Chinese Footprint
Sheraton Returns to Okinawa
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TRYP by Wyndham Arrives in Fort Lauderdale
Miami Airport to Welcome Radisson RED
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Radisson RED Miami Airport
TRYP by Wyndham Maritime Hotel
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RYP by Wyndham is bringing its urban twist to Fort Lauderdale with TRYP by Wyndham Maritime Hotel, the brand’s first address in Florida and third in the US, expected to open in March 2017. The 150-room new construction property will embrace the essence of the surrounding marina, sporting a nautical design with elements inspired by local marine life and the cruise ships that grace its shores every day. “[TRYP by Wyndham] offers travellers a lifestyle experience completely unique to Fort Lauderdale, backed by the power of the world’s largest hotel company and one of the area’s most successful developers,” said Chip Ohlsson, chief development officer, Wyndham Hotel Group.
Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort
Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort has been unveiled, following the extensive renovations of rooms as well as the property’s public spaces. The 200-key property is on track to launch a new wing with additional units, as well as a variety of features, including a much-anticipated wellness centre, new dining options and extra meeting spaces, by December. “This is an exciting chapter in the Sheraton brand’s history as we bring Starwood’s most global and iconic brand back to Okinawa with the opening of Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort,” said Lothar Pehl, senior vice president, operations and global initiatives, Asia Pacific, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
Radisson Suzhou
arlson Rezidor Hotel Group signed a management agreement for Radisson Suzhou in China with Suzhou Zheng He Investment. Part of a mixed-use development, which also encompasses an office tower, the property is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2017 and brings the group’s Asia Pacific pipeline to 87 addresses. The 155-key hotel will feature an all-day-dining restaurant, a specialty Chinese outlet and a lounge, whereas it will also cater to the MICE segment, with its meetings facilities including four versatile function rooms indigenously designed to accommodate both private and corporate events.
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group announced that Radisson RED Miami Airport is expected to break ground this autumn and open in 2018. The 155-unit property will feature a bold design highlighted by modern, yet functional furniture and will also host the brand’s signature food and beverage outlet, OUIbar + KTCHN. Other facilities will include a pool and fitness centre as well as multipurpose event studios. Radisson RED Miami Airport is the third US location for the brand, following Radisson RED Minneapolis Downtown which will open later this year and Radisson RED Portland, set for a 2018 launch.
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DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, ARMED FORCES OFFICERS’ CLUB & HOTEL
MOHAMMED KHOORI DULCE ORTEGA
GENERAL MANAGER, GOLDEN SANDS HOTEL APARTMENTS, DUBAI
The hotel apartments segment will continue to grow
“Hotel apartments will continue to be an ideal accommodation solution not only for holiday-makers but for business travellers too. Continuous development in the region brings both tourists and new residents to Dubai who will continue to stay in hotel apartments in certain areas of [the emirate] and as such, this segment will continue to grow at a steady pace.”
GENERAL MANAGER, ROYAL ROSE HOTEL
GEORGE DEMITRY
TRAVEL TALK
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We have been striving to [achieve] customers’ satisfaction “We are so glad to receive such a prestigious accolade, [as the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence]. We have been striving to [achieve] customers’ satisfaction by adding the Arabian hospitality touch to all our activities; it has definitely paid back with Royal Rose guests who visit from as far as China, and the Americas. It is such an honour to be on TripAdvisor awardees list, especially when the hotel is only two years in business and we will keep working towards achieving similar results in months to come.”
To know that our customers are satisfied […] keeps us motivated
“We are delighted to be recognised for our services, especially by the acclaimed TripAdvisor [with the Certificate of Excellence]. To know that our customers are satisfied by the Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel experience keeps us motivated to improve our quality and continue providing the best.”
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CHRISTIAN BAUDAT has been selected as Rotana’s area general manager for Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Salalah. He joins Rthe company with an extensive background in hotel operations, development and management, having spent nearly two decades with Hilton Worldwide. In his new role, Baudat will drive the hotelier’s strategic agenda for the Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Salalah markets. He will be responsible for creating an operating environment that assures consistent guest satisfaction across all hotels, developing accurate financial objectives consistent with the hotelier’s mission statement, as well as implementing and maintaining an effective communication system that crosses departmental lines to reach all colleagues.
DAVID PRINCE
GERRIT GRAEF has been appointed general manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh. Bringing with him 30 years of hospitality experience, Graef began his career in 1997 with Marriott International as director of food and beverage at Renaissance Cologne Hotel, Germany. He then moved to the UAE to take over the same position at JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, where he was later promoted to director of operations. After five years in the emirate, Graef took on an opportunity and relocated to Doha where he further enhanced his expertise as hotel manager at the Renaissance Hotel, Courtyard and Marriott Executive Apartments complex. His most recent position was hotel manager at The RitzCarlton Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.
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DAVID PRINCE has been promoted to area vice president for Dubai and the UAE’s Northern Emirates at Rotana. Prince joined the company in April 2015 after having spent more than 20 years at Hilton Worldwide where he held a variety of senior positions in diverse geographic markets. In his current post, Prince will oversee the operations of 17 Rotana hotels in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and will be responsible for setting and implementing strategic plans to boost business growth and provide brand support for all properties, while also ensuring compliance with laws, regulations and standards.
Prince will oversee the operations of 17 Rotana hotels
MANSOUR HAMAD
CHRISTIAN BAUDAT
GERRIT GRAEF
WHO’S MOVED
MANSOUR HAMAD will be Etihad Airways’ new airport manager for Seychelles International Airport in Mahé. Bringing the number of the carrier’s Emirati airport managers across the world to eight, Hamad will be in charge of the airline’s operations at the Indian Ocean hub, including safety, security, and station performance management. He is a 13 year veteran of the UAE Air Force, where he worked in roles as diverse as air defence, search and rescue, and air traffic control. He joined Etihad Airways in 2011, and has since served in Doha, Manchester and Riyadh. His last position was duty manager in the Saudi capital.
Hamad is a 13 year veteran of the UAE Air Force
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AGENT CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? When I was young, my dream was to own a travel agency, [therefore] I decided to start my career path within the tourism industry. Back in 1989, I had the opportunity to work at the best five-star hotel in Tunisia. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? Being dependable, reliable, creative
Moufida Ameur
NAME:
POSITION: CEO COMPANY: BARCLAY’S GROUP TRAVEL LOCATION: Tunisia WEBSITE:
www.barclaystravel.com
dnata Invites Medical Travellers to Lausanne
and honest are qualities that travel agents or tour operators must consider vital for earning and maintaining clients’ confidence. What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? Since the Arab Spring, homeland security is the main concern.
Which destination is on your bucketlist? Fiji. 2 JULY 2016
d Lausanne
What are the must-visits and mustdos in Tunisia that noone should miss? The archeological site of Cartahge, Sidi Bou Said village and especially café Sid Chaabane, Bardo Museum, Sahara, oasis and Djerba island.
nata, in cooperation with industry stakeholders of Lausanne, Switzerland, designed exclusive hotel packages catering to GCC vacationers and those travelling for medical reasons. Apart from quality hotels, visitors can also explore the offerings of city’s many clinics, including the acclaimed Hirslanden Clinique Bois-Cerf for sports orthopaedics, medicine, oncology-radiation oncology, ophthalmology and otorhinolaryngology, or Hirslanden Clinique Cecil for cardiac and thoracic vascular surgery, general-visceral surgery, gynaecology and obstetrics and urology.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
KATARA INTRODUCES FOOD SAFETY TRAINING
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HOTELS RELUCTANT IN MOBILE APP ADOPTING
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espite the rising expectations of mobile devices, less than 40 percent of US leisure travellers have a hotel application installed on their smartphones. As Phocuswright’s report pinpoints, in stark contrast, close to 60 percent have already downloaded airline apps. Yet, unlike airlines, who simply transfer existing technology to the mobile platform, building cutting-edge mobile functionality for hotel stayers requires physical and costly alterations to each property. Based on the study, almost half of US holiday-makers support having the ability to check in and out without ever visiting the front desk and demand is also high for local activity suggestions. Booking functionality, the possibility to order room service and other amenities, and keyless room entry are also popular features.
atara Hospitality held an ISO 22002-2 food safety training session in Doha, in conjunction with Bureau Veritas, a global leader in testing, inspection and certification. Head chefs, chief stewards and hygiene managers from the company’s Qatar-based hotels took part in the initiative, with representatives in attendance, including experts from The Ritz-Carlton Doha; Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel; Mövenpick Hotel Doha; Simaisma, a Murwab Resort; The Avenue, a Murwab Hotel; Sealine, a Murwab Resort and Saraya Corniche Hotel. The specific training analysed the requirements for design, implementation and maintenance programmes that assist in controlling potential food safety hazards in outlets offering catering and foodrelated services.
AL BUSTAN ROTANA HOLDS SPECIAL IFTAR
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l Bustan Rotana, Dubai intensified its corporate social responsibility initiatives by hosting an Iftar for students of the SNF Development Center for Special Needs, their parents and teachers. Guests were welcomed by the hotel’s management and were treated to a buffet of traditional Ramadan and customised international dishes. The property’s team also took the opportunity to mingle and spend time with the students. Hussein Hachem, cluster general manager, Al Bustan Rotana, Dubai and Al Murooj Rotana, Dubai, commented, “It is always a heart-warming experience to see the smiles on the faces of the students and we certainly look forward to further working with SNF.”
Petra
PETRA BOASTS NEW ATTRACTION
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ordan’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities confirmed the archaeological discovery of a 2,100 year old large monument in Petra that has no known parallels to any other structure in the city. The finding was reported by archaeologists Sarah Parcak and Chris Tuttle in a study published in The Journal of American Schools of Oriental Research. Stating that the unearthing has brought tremendous enthusiasm – something that will hopefully bode well for the Kingdom’s tourism industry – H.E. Lina Annab, tourism and antiquities minister, Jordan, stated, “This discovery brings us closer to our heritage and to understanding the prosperous civilisation of the Nabateans. With that said, we are proud to further look into drone technology, satellite imaging and excavation ventures in hopes of bringing more of Jordan’s hidden treasures to light.”
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PHOTO ALBUM
City Centre Bahrain hosted a traditional media Ghabga gathering to mark the Make a Difference campaign
Dubai International from the space
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.
Oryx Rotana distributed Iftar packages to motorists who were stuck in traffic and could not make it home on time for Iftar
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel celebrated the Holy Month with media representatives from the UAE and the GCC
InterContinental Hotels Group Egypt was named Egypt's leading hotel group at the World Travel Awards
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NEWS & EVENTS Dubai to Stage World Real Estate Congress
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ubai has won the right to stage yet another high-profile event with the 69th edition of the World Real Estate Congress set to take place in the emirate in 2018. Organised by the International Real Estate Federation, the annual event will make its debut in the Middle East and is expected to attract more than 1,000 professionals from over 60 nations to discuss developments and explore the future of cities. The successful bid was secured by Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s official convention bureau and a division of Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, in partnership with Dubai Real Estate.
The Hotel Show to Present Newcomers
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etermined to capture a fair share of the pie, a number of new brands are set to join this year’s The Hotel Show
Dubai. The next frontier: a look at the new hotel brands entering the market, featuring the upcoming Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai and other much-anticipated openings in the Middle East, will form part of a panel discussion at the event’s fourth annual Vision Conference for the first time. All in all, more than 25,000 hospitality industry professionals are forecast to attend the 17th edition of The Hotel Show Dubai and co-located event, The Leisure Show, both of which will run between September 17 – 19, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
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EVENTS FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW Farnborough, UK July 11 – 15 www.farnborough.com One of the world’s largest aviation events for the global aerospace community.
IBTM LATIN AMERICA Mexico City, Mexico September 07 – 08 www.ibtmlatinamerica.com Leaders, organisers and specialised suppliers for events will convene for business adventures.
SEATRADE CRUISE MED Tenerife, Spain September 21 – 23 www.seatradecruiseevents.com A major biennial event focussed on the world’s second largest cruise destination, the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas.
IMEX AMERICA Las Vegas, US October 18 - 20 www.imexamerica.com Among more, the Hosted Buyer Programme qualifies and brings key buyers to the show, with IMEX America covering travel and accommodations.
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