3 SEPTEMBER 2016 ISSUE 356
10 ACCOMMODATION
06 CHINESE DEMAND DRIVES SHARJAH TOURISM
12 ROTANA TO ENTER MOROCCO
PASSENGER TRAFFIC AT DWC SURGES 79.8 PERCENT
REZIDOR: THREE NEW UAE ADDRESSES
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
AIR TRAFFIC ON THE UPWARD SWING
ASSISTANT EDITOR Rita Kasziba JOURNALISTS Memnon Arestis Ellen Petty CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Dominique Christou SALES & SALES SUPPORT Maria Demetriadou Magda Christou Raluca Apostolescu 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
Global passenger traffic rose 4.5 percent in June, driven by a four percent yearon-year surge in international figures and a 5.1 improvement in domestic seats.
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WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515 neil@globetm.com
ccording to Airports Council International, while passenger volumes escalated 5.6 percent in the first half of the year, due to subdued growth in emerging markets, air freight demand was only 0.5 percent stronger than in 2015. Middle Eastern airports experienced an upturn of 3.4 percent in travellers in June, with the UAE and Qatar posting increases of 6.8 percent and 20.2 percent, respectively. With a 4.5 percent rise in air freight in the six-month period, the Middle East proved to be the fastestgrowing region globally.
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GLOBAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM REMAINS RESILIENT
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES
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2
2.9.2016
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250.10
Regardless of the ongoing challenges and the recent Brexit referendum in the UK, the international travel and tourism industry continues to deliver a stellar performance, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
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ased on WTTC’s forecast, the sector is set to grow 3.1 percent this year, outpacing the global economic development anticipations at 2.3 percent. Although Europe is expected to witness lower visitor spend, the continent is likely to still achieve a 2.2 percent improvement. Recent incidents and macroeconomic dynamics are predicted to lower the industry’s direct contribution to the national GDP in both France as well as Turkey, nevertheless, despite the UK’s decision to leave the European Union, the destination is projected to witness a 3.6 percent growth.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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amad Al Semail, vice president, Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH), has declared the rising cost of tourist accommodation as the organisation’s prime concern, following 567 complaints so far this year about rates. Speaking of the issue, H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin AbdulAziz, president, SCTH, commented, “Seasonality and weak financing of tourism projects, especially in the accommodation sector, has led to lack of expansion in facilities, which in turn has led to exploitation of holiday seasons by the facility owners to recover investment costs.”
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Saudi Regions Linked by Tourist Routes Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH) is putting the final touches to a number of new tourist routes.
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Jeddah
High Accommodation Prices Concern SCTH
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he initiative is set to encourage travellers to discover the most beautiful and diverse locations of the Kingdom by linking 49 regions of the country with each other through these paths. The itineraries include desert, Red Sea, Arabian Gulf routes as well as mountain trails, amongst others. According to Abdullah Metain, general superintendent, tourism strategic routes development project, SCTH, the endeavour will help to highlight attractive programmes for visitors and tourists through activating the role of tour operators, in addition to developing the accommodation sector, improving transport services and fostering investment.
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS
Nearly Half of UAE Residents Travel during Eid
Khareef Season Boosts Salalah Arrivals
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recent YouGov survey of over 1,500 people in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, unveiled that 43 percent of those residing in the UAE consider taking a break during the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holidays. Four- and five-star hotels seem to be the first choice for Emiratis, while top destinations include India, Georgia – which has welcomed more than 17,000 guests from the UAE in 2015, up 687 percent year-onyear – as well as Egypt and the Maldives. “We are seeing a surge of interest for stays at our member properties,” stated Saurabh Rai, executive vice president, Preferred Hotels & Resorts, highlighting UAE-based travellers’ appetite for holidays even in the face of the economic slowdown.
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man’s Salalah International Airport welcomed more than 284,000 travellers during the Sultanate’s famous monsoon season between June 15 – August 15. According to data released by the National Center for Statistical information (NCSI), out of the 529,000 visitors who headed to the region during the same period, 93,000 reached Oman’s second-largest hub through 2,263 domestic and international flights. Ali Bakhet Fadhel, operations manager, Salalah International Airport, commented, “In a high pressure environment, professional and responsive airport staff are key to ensuring procedures and protocols are followed smoothly [...].” Future expansion projects are set to increase the airfield’s capacity from the current two million to six million annual passengers.
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Maldives
High-tech Database to Manage Saudi Heritage
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
Madain Saleh
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project has been introduced by the Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (STCH) with the support of the National Urban Heritage Center, in an effort to register the Kingdom’s national and urban heritage reserves. The initial stage will focus on the design of a system intended to manage the sites, utilising the latest geographical information system technologies, while the second phase will include the development of a database facilitating more efficient marketing actions.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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MAB Wins Louvre Abu Dhabi Deal
Chinese Demand Drives Sharjah Tourism
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AB Facilities Management has been awarded a five-year facility management services contract for Louvre Abu Dhabi, by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority. Hailed as one of the most prestigious projects in the UAE, the museum will showcase priceless and highly regarded artworks in a bid to educate the local population and the country’s large ex-pat community about the value of art as part of the society’s development. “MAB is deeply honoured to be a part of this unique and first of its kind project in the UAE,” commented Maen Saddeq, CEO, MAB Facilities Management.
Sharm El Sheikh
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harm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) has welcomed the first aircraft from Warsaw with 183 passengers onboard, after the travel ban on the country, which had been in effect since October 2015, has been lifted. As Emad El Belasi, head, SSH, pinpointed, resuming services from the European market marks a crucial step towards the revival of Egypt’s tourism industry, a major contributor to the national GDP. According to Hisham Zazou, tourism minister, Egypt, Polish holidaymakers account for a notable share of arrivals to the country.
Sharjah
Nakheel to Enhance Jumeirah Village Offering Artist’s Depiction of Al Khail Avenue
Poland Greenlights Egypt Flights
Louvre Abu Dhabi
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otels operating in Sharjah recorded a seven percent growth in revenue in the first half of the year with the figure standing at AED378 million (USD102.9 million). Based on data released by the Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), bookings from China jumped 73.2 percent, and SCTDA is determined to further boost arrivals from the country. All in all, the number of Asian visitors surged 12 percent, making the continent the emirate’s second-largest source market, just behind the GCC which sent nearly 220,000 tourists during the six-month period. According to H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman, SCTDA, the positive results, which are in line with Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021, underscore the destination’s growing popularity as a year-round hotspot for families.
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eal estate developer, Nakheel has striked a AED1.5 billion (USD408.4 million) deal after signing a contract for the construction of Al Khail Avenue, a retail, dining and entertainment hub in Dubai’s Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT). The 18.58ha project, which is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2019, will provide more than 11.14ha of leasable space, 70 percent of which has been already booked. Other highlights of the destination will include an 18-storey hotel and leisure club with 252 rooms directly connected to the avenue, as well as some 350 retail shops and a variety of food and beverage outlets.
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS ATTRACTIONS
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Egypt to Welcome North Africa’s Largest Crystal Lagoons Project
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ocated within phase two of Remco Group’s Stella Di Mare in Ain Sukhna, the body of water will encircle the entire development which includes private islands connected by bridges. Speaking of the project, Carlos Salas, regional director, Middle East, Crystal Lagoons, said, “[It is] a truly unique residential and leisure environment and further [underscores] our ability to bring waterfront living to anywhere in the world, even the desert.” Additionally, in partnership with Misr Italia, two lagoons with a combined area of 2.7ha will be delivered to Mousa Coast, a Red Sea community boasting 2,500 properties with plans for 16,000 chalets and five-luxury hotels.
Al Hoota Cave Receives Makeover
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man’s Al Hoota Cave is set to reopen to the public on September 05, after undergoing significant improvements. Said to be the first tourist cave in the GCC, the enhanced Al Hoota Cave experience enables travellers to plan their trip online and book various services in advance. From the visitor centre, an electric train transports guests right into the cave. For families, a play area, gift shop and a restaurant are also available.
Al Hoota Cave
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Rendering of Stella Di Mare
Crystal Lagoons is developing a 38ha destination in Egypt, hailed the largest venture of this kind in North Africa.
Nakheel Reveals Reel Cinemas at The Pointe
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n collaboration with Reel Cinemas, Nakheel has announced Reel Cinemas at The Pointe, a new five-screen luxury experience boasting a dine-in movie theatre, hailed as the region’s first cinema within a restaurant. Located at The Pointe at Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, the boutique entertainment centre further strengthens the developer’s partnership with the cineplex company, which is managed by Emaar Entertainment. The venture follows the 2015 confirmation of a 14-screen complex at Al Khail Avenue. The AED800 million (USD218 million) The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah is set to create an attractive dining and leisure destination with fountain shows, a promenade and 150 restaurants and retail outlets.
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Rendering of City Centre Ajman redevelopment
City Centre Ajman to be Redeveloped
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ajid Al Futtaim has unveiled a AED600 million (USD163.38 million) project to expand City Centre Ajman, almost doubling the mall’s size and creating 500 new jobs. Expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2017, the complex will boast 150 retail and dining outlets in addition to enlarged VOX Cinemas. The existing premises will be renovated in line with the developer’s sustainability strategy. Kim McInnes, CEO, shopping malls, Majid Al Futtaim, commented, “As Ajman’s population increases and a growing number of tourists visit this part of the country, the redevelopment of City Centre Ajman will deliver the highest standard of design and diversity of choice while contributing significantly to the emirate’s economic and employment landscapes.”
Ajman Defines Camp and Tourism Village Standards
Saadiyat Lagoons District on Schedule
Castle Masfoot, Ajman
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Rendering of Saadiyat Lagoons District
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or the first time in the UAE, two classification programmes for desert camps and tourism villages have been launched by Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD). Although desert camps are normally divided into two types, namely day and overnight use, in this case they will be considered as one group, while tourism villages will range from three- to five-star categories, based on the services and facilities they offer. Prior to the launch of the classification system, ATTD’s team visited numerous camps and tourism villages in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. As Sara Asuwaidi, head of classification section, ATDD, explained, the new criteria aims to promote the emirate’s leisure sector, while also contributing towards sustainable tourism development.
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bu Dhabi-based Tourism Development & Investment Company has reported further progress on enabling works for phase one of Saadiyat Lagoons District. Due to be delivered by the end of the year, the contract covers ground improvements as well as site clearance. The first part of the project includes 820 two- to four-bedroom properties, swimming pools and playgrounds, all set within a gated community. The area has been designed to encourage an active lifestyle through the provision of walking and cycling paths as well as horse-riding trails. Additionally, two lifestyle and retail destinations, a town centre and a waterfront village will be developed.
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
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GTA and TCA Abu Dhabi Add to Agent Benefits In a new partnership between GTA and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), members of g shop loyalty scheme have been receiving triple points this summer on all hotel and attraction bookings.
TripAdvisor Teams Up with Citymaps
Abu Dhabi
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alid until the end of October, the offer is part of the tourism organisation’s Abu Dhabi Summer Season campaign, which aims to promote the emirate as an attractive destination for the hottest months for domestic, GCC and international visitors alike, through a variety of events, tours and packages. Rami Mashini, vice president of sales and marketing, Middle East, Africa, Turkey and India, GTA commented, “This is an excellent opportunity for us to provide even greater benefits to our travel trade partners across the GCC region, and to help Abu Dhabi drive higher tourism arrivals and revenues this summer.”
Sabre and EAN Offer More to Agents
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ripAdvisor has acquired New York-based Citymaps. a social mapping platform that enables tourists to discover countless hidden gems and hotspots, all around the world. The website and app make it easy for consumers to find points of interest and share their favourite locations with friends. “The Citymaps team understands how people experience their day through a maps lens,” said Adam Medros, senior vice president, global product, TripAdvisor. As Elliot Cohen, CEO, Citymaps, noted, the application delivers socially-powered inspiration and exploration for travellers.
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hanks to a participation agreement between Sabre and Expedia Affiliate Network (EAN), the technology provider is adding more than 63,000 new hotels to its travel marketplace. Travel agencies will now benefit from access to EAN rates and availability through the Sabre global distribution system. Agents can now shop and book properties through the Sabre Red Workspace with the newly-introduced properties representing a wide range of accommodation types, including full-service hotels and resorts, bed and breakfast establishments, small inns, airport hotels, boutique and budget addresses as well as serviced apartments.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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REZIDOR: THREE NEW UAE
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THE REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP HAS SIGNED THREE NEW PROPERTIES IN THE UAE, ADDING OVER 1,000 ROOMS TO THE COMPANY’S COUNTRY-WIDE PORTFOLIO.
Dubai Water Canal rendering
ocated in Dubai’s Business Bay, the 432-unit Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront is set to welcome its first guests in the second quarter of 2017, and the same opening date has been given to Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Canal View, which will feature 188 rooms and 16 suites, meeting and conference venues of 131m2, a business centre and a 341m2 banquet hall. Due to be unveiled in the first quarter of 2018, the third project, Park Inn by Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah, Marjan Island will comprise of two buildings, offering a total of 408 units. Extensive meeting and event spaces are also planned, along with a swimming pool and a spa. “We want to contribute to the ongoing journey and support this fast-growing sector together with our experienced regional partners”, said Wolfgang Neumann, president, The Rezidor Hotel Group.
Rotana Introduces Centro Shaheen Jeddah
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Rendering of Centro Shaheen Jeddah
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otana is gearing up for the launch of Centro Shaheen Jeddah, the company’s first project in the Saudi city, set to be unveiled this month. Situated 20 minutes from King Abdulaziz International Airport, the new 252-key establishment provides easy access to Jeddah’s business hub and booming north side. “We are bringing to Jeddah and Saudi Arabia a new concept; one that provides business and leisure travellers with style and comfort but at very affordable rates,” stated Mohammad Haj Hassan, area vice president, Rotana. Centro Shaheen Jeddah is one of the six properties planned by the hotelier in the Kingdom, and one of 18 projects that are set to be delivered across the region before the end of 2017.
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION AVANI Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Dubai
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AVANI Deira Dubai Hotel
s part of the further development of its AVANI Hotels & Resorts brand, Minor Hotels has inaugurated AVANI Deira Dubai Hotel, formerly known as Mövenpick Hotel Deira. The brand’s first address in the Middle East follows the signing of a management agreement with Bin Sulayem Investments, the hotel’s parent company. The property features 216 keys, two restaurants as well as meeting rooms, outdoor pool and a fully-equipped gym. Robert Kunkler, chief operating officer, Minor Hotels, noted, “This key acquisition to our portfolio allows Minor Hotels to take a strategic foothold in the Middle East for our fast-expanding AVANI Hotels & Resorts brand in what is a vitally important market.”
The Mist Hotel & Spa by Warwick
Lebanon Welcomes Fourth Warwick Hotel
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arwick Hotels and Resorts has unveiled The Mist Hotel & Spa by Warwick, a high-scale mountain resort overlooking Lebanon’s Ehden Valley. The hotel boasts 71 rooms, suites and chalets, five restaurants and nightlife venues, including a fine dining location as well as a traditional Lebanese eatery. The group’s fourth property in the country also features a spa and fitness centre, offering a wide range of wellness treatments. For business travellers, four conference rooms and a multipurpose events terrace offering views of the surrounding mountains are also available. Guests staying at the establishment will be offered one of three individual experience packages – leisure, friends and family or adventure – comprised of unique components and activities.
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Rendering of Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana
Rotana to Enter Morocco
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otana has announced the signing of its first Moroccan project, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana. Due to open at the end of 2018, the 140-key property will cater to both business and leisure guests. Located at M Avenue, Marrakech’s new shopping, entertainment and residential destination, the hotelier’s debut venture will feature three dining outlets, a swimming pool, conference and banquet halls as well as a fully-equipped Bodylines Fitness & Wellness club. As Omer Kaddouri, CEO, Rotana, noted, the property is set to particularly appeal to long-stay guests. “Our new Arjaan in Marrakech will offer everything guests need to be comfortable and productive, and will exude sophisticated elegance across all facets of the property,” added Kaddouri.
Action Hotels Outperforms IPO Prospects
Jannah to Open in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah
Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb
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annah Hotels and Resorts has revealed plans to launch two new projects in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah before the end of the year. Located next to Abu Dhabi Mall, Jannah Residences City Centre, which is due to open November 01, will feature 36 two-bedroom apartments overlooking Al Reem Island. The group’s first beach location in the UAE, Jannah Beach Resort in Ras Al Khaimah will boast 100 apartments with sea-view terraces, 22 three-bedroom villas as well as a 29-berth marina, entertainment facilities and three dining venues.
Ras Al Khaimah
ithout raising any further equity, Action Hotels has outperformed the management’s expectations set out at IPO with regards to the number of rooms in operating and pipeline hotels by 29 percent, with the number of units totalling 3,257 as opposed to 2,516. With recent property acquisitions, the company currently holds 11 addresses, that are completed and operating, boasting 2,032 rooms, and is expected to complete hundreds of additional keys before year-end. The group, which manages hotels in the Middle East and Australia, continues to witness strong average occupancies, with Kuwait-based properties, namely ibis Sharq and ibis Salmiya maintaining their place as top performers.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIRPORTS
Traffic in Abu Dhabi Continues to Grow
Abu Dhabi International Airport
Passenger volumes at Abu Dhabi International Airport surged 7.9 percent year-on-year in July, with 2,267,572 travellers on record.
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otal arrivals at the hub rose 10.4 percent to 1,074,022, while departure numbers jumped 6.1 percent to 1,180,504. As for the local arrivals specifically – visits to the capital excluding transfer and transit – July delivered a 15.9 percent increase whilst departures in this category grew 1.8 percent. The top city destinations from Abu Dhabi included London, Bangkok, Doha, Mumbai and Manila respectively, representing 16 percent of the total traffic registered at the airport in July.
Passenger Volumes Boom at DWC
More Efficient Screening in the UAE Capital
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ubai World Central (DWC) recorded a growth of more than 95 percent in traffic in the first half (H1) of the year. During the six-month period, 410,278 travellers passed through the hub, with flydubai playing a major role in the development with 35 weekly flights to five destinations from DWC. Aircraft movements during H1 stood at 18,126, registering a 4.8 percent rise over the same period in 2015. The airport is currently served by 17 passenger carriers, with approximately 174 flights per week to 39 international destinations. In addition, 34 scheduled cargo operators fly to and from the airfield to 141 locations worldwide.
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Dubai World Central
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bu Dhabi Airports has installed a new automated tray return system to speed up the process of hand luggage screening at Terminal 3 in Abu Dhabi International Airport. The new system allows for the processing of more than four times the number of baggage that conventional screening lanes do, reducing waiting times and congestion, and providing a smoother travel experience for passengers. Mohammed Al Katheeri, acting chief operations officer, Abu Dhabi Airports, said, “We can now process more passengers per hour in a secure and controlled environment, improving overall operational efficiency and enhancing public safety and security.”
Abu Dhabi International Airport
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Emirates Upgrades Khartoum Route
In response to strong demand, Emirates now deploys a larger Boeing 777-300ER between Dubai and Khartoum.
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he aircraft replaces the previously used Airbus A340-300 on the route, offering passengers an enhanced on-board experience with additional entertainment options and more economy class seats. The Boeing 777-300ER also boasts eight private first class suits with automated sliding doors, 42 lie flat business class seats, offering a total capacity of 310 travellers, 100 more than the A340-300.
Etihad Airways Teams Up with Bloomingdale’s
Barcelona
Qatar Airways and Vueling Commence Codeshare Deal
Emirates Boeing 777-300ER
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Bloomingdale’s – Dubai
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atar Airways has entered into a codeshare partnership with Vueling Airlines, offering passengers connections to 67 of the Spanish carrier’s most popular routes across Europe. Following an interline contract signed in 2014, the latest agreement came into effect in August. The joint venture provides seamless transitions through the airlines’ common gateways in Barcelona and Rome, linking travellers to the Gulf carrier’s global network of over 150 destinations. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, commented, “Codeshare partnerships and airline alliances continue to play an important role for Qatar Airways. The further addition of these codeshare routes will offer an enhanced and unrivalled global network and improves our competitive offering.”
tihad Airways partnered with luxury department store Bloomingdale’s – Dubai as the retailer launched its autumn seasonal campaign. The airline is showcasing its iconic penthouse in the sky, The Residence by Etihad inside the store at The Dubai Mall. Etihad Airways has offered customers who spent a certain amount at Bloomingdale’s – Dubai the opportunity to enter an exclusive draw during the two-week showcase, which ends on September 03. Two winners will receive business class return tickets for two from Abu Dhabi to New York and a three-night stay at The Plaza Hotel New York. The collaboration formed part of Etihad Airways’ strategy to explore innovative collaborations with premium brands.
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
the more modern, contemporary Langham Place style. A proliferation of both styles of our luxury brand globally is the ultimate goal in this market. […] We constantly look for partners who appreciate what our brand represents to work together and when it comes to the choice of location for our hotels, The Langham Hotels and Resorts [projects] will be in prime locations in key cities.
ROBERT WARMAN CEO, LANGHAM HOSPITALITY GROUP
HAVING ALREADY ESTABLISHED A STRONG GLOBAL PRESENCE WITH 20 HOTELS ON FOUR CONTINENTS, LANGHAM HOSPITALITY GROUP IS NOW LOOKING TO EXPAND ITS PRESENCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST AS ROBERT WARMAN, CEO, LANGHAM HOSPITALITY GROUP, REVEALS.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the main criteria when it comes to choosing locations for new developments? ROBERT WARMAN: Langham Hospitality Group encompasses a family of distinctive hotels under the Langham Hotels and Resorts, Cordis and Eaton brands with 20 operating hotels located in key global cities and more than 30 projects currently either confirmed or in a developed stage of negotiation from Asia, Europe and North America to the Middle East. The Langham Hotels and Resorts has a unique brand proposition where it features two distinct styles – the classically-oriented hotels of The Langham, and 3 SEPTEMBER 2016
and upcoming projects in the GCC. When are these properties expected to open? ROBERT WARMAN: In the next two to three years, we will have our first hotel in
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What aspects make the Middle East a strategically important market for Langham Hospitality Group? ROBERT WARMAN: The Middle East is an important market for our group and we are excited that we are making inroads into Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar, working with like-minded owners to increase our footprint in these regions – within the next five years. In line with the tourism vision in the Middle East, the increasing number of visitors travelling to the region and the world-class international events being held there, we see a demand for luxury hotels in these markets. The launch of Langham Place, Downtown Dubai for example, complements Dubai’s strategic tourism vision to annually attract 20 million visitors by 2020. Langham Place, Downtown is located in the Burj Khalifa district. With spectacular views facing Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, and Dubai Water Canal, the 167room hotel will provide easy access to Downtown Dubai, Mohammed bin Rashid City, Business Bay and the upcoming Dubai Design District. The location is perfect for the business traveller and also for delegates visiting to attend events and conferences held in Dubai. In Doha, the opening of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre will further boost Qatar’s tourism potential and significantly contribute to the country’s status as a globally competitive destination for business events. This will develop the business events sector for Doha which is estimated to attract 70 percent of Qatar’s visitors and is set to increase visitors to Qatar by 20 percent over the next five years with a focus on business events. The development of the award-winning airlines in these regions, like Qatar Airways, Emirates and Etihad Airways [also] present many opportunities. […] TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Please tell us about the company’s ongoing
Langham Place, Downtown Dubai
Qatar – Langham Place, Doha, Lusail City – along with two forthcoming hotels in Dubai – Langham Place, Downtown Dubai slated to open in 2018; and The Langham, Dubai located on Palm Jumeirah, which will open in late 2017. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What attributes will set these Langham projects apart from other brands? ROBERT WARMAN: The group takes its name from the legendary Langham in London which was widely recognised as Europe’s first grand hotel. For 150 years, this flagship hotel has represented sophisticated and gracious hospitality, a philosophy that reflects elegance in design, innovation in hospitality, genuine service and captivation of the senses across all properties. These qualities, and in particular our genuine service, is what sets us apart from the rest. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Please tell us about the company’s long-term plans in the Middle East and North Africa region. ROBERT WARMAN: We are actively looking to increase our footprint in the Middle East and also look at opportunities to debut in the North Africa region. The group is also in negotiations for properties in Lebanon, the UAE, Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia and we are looking forward to have some of these come to fruition shortly.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Duty-free on Royal Jordanian Flights
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Nile Air Cairo Steps Up Domestic Operations
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n collaboration with DFASS Group, Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) has launched an in-flight duty-free service on most of its routes, offering travellers the opportunity to purchase products such as tobacco, jewellery, fragrances and cosmetics as well as the airline’s branded items. Utilising its large network of resources, the in-flight specialist retailer will devise an exclusive programme tailored to the needs of RJ customers. As well as contributing to the airline’s ancillary revenues, Suleiman Obeidat, CEO, Royal Jordanian, noted that the time-saving initiative enables travellers to shop during their journey, providing added value customer service.
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n a bid to meet the growing demand for air links between the destinations, Nile Air has announced an additional weekly service between Cairo and Hurghada. The new flight, which is being operated on Monday mornings, brings the number of weekly frequencies offered by the carrier between the cities to four. “Hurghada tops the list of holiday destinations for domestic and international tourists. The additional flight is a response to increased demand on this popular route, and offers our guests more convenience with the ability to choose flights that are best suited to their unique requirements,” commented Ahmed Aly, CEO, Nile Air.
Nepal Airlines Inaugurates Flights to Dubai
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epal Airlines has commenced three-weekly services between Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport and Dubai International. The new itinerary offers travellers greater connectivity between the cities, providing enhanced choice for Nepalese expatriates in the UAE as well as more opportunities for tourists to visit the landlocked South Asian country, including adventurers planning to climb Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. The route, which began on August 19, is served by an Airbus A320 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. The carrier currently operates services to eight international and 25 domestic destinations.
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
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adisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat, located in the sub-district of the Indian city Raigad, is now open. The property boast 102 rooms, a multitude of dining options, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a children’s pool and an outdoor heated Jacuzzi, in addition to the Escenza Spa and meeting and event space. Speaking of the launch, Raj Rana, CEO, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, said, “This […] opening reinforces our commitment to enhance the brand's portfolio and further expand our presence in resort destinations throughout India. With its unparalleled resort experience and commitment to excellence, we are confident Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat will be a shining success.”
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
Carlson Rezidor Adds to US Portfolio
Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, San Antonio Medical Center
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat Unveiled
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ountry Inn & Suites By Carlson, San Antonio Medical Center, Texas has been officially launched. After undergoing a complete renovation, the 97-key property now flies the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson flag. “This hotel’s location provides an ideal stop for those stopping at local medical offices and visiting top attractions like the San Antonio River Walk,” commented Jeffrey Freund, senior vice president, midscale brands, Americas, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. The hotel features the brand’s latest design elements, which include new exterior architecture, modern interiors, comfortable yet stylish furnishings, and suites that feature spa-like bathrooms.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Meliá Grows Indonesian Footprint
Lower Expectations for Hotel Growth
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed a deal for Holiday Inn Express Asuncion Aviadores, the brand’s first project in Paraguay. Expected to open towards the end of 2018, the newbuild 120-room property will be centrally located in the country’s capital city of Asuncion. Guests will be able to enjoy a range of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, 24-hour fitness centre, complimentary high-speed Internet access and meeting rooms. As Jorge Apaez, chief operating officer, Mexico, Latin America and Caribbean, IHG, pinpointed, Paraguay is one of the fastest-growing economies in Latin America.
Asuncion Ramada Hotel & Suites Kusadasi
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IHG Brings Holiday Inn Express to Paraguay
The Stanley Hotel & Suites in Port Moresby
Papua New Guinea Welcomes New Address
eralding a new era for Papua New Guinea’s hospitality segment, The Stanley Hotel & Suites in Port Moresby has been launched. Located in the heart of the capital, the 18-storey property offers 433 units, including 99 serviced apartments and a 340m2 presidential suite. Other facilities include a grill-style restaurant, executive club lounge, more than 2,000m2 of function space, what is hailed as the largest ballroom in Papua New Guinea at 1,600m2, spa and 3,000m2 of outdoor area.
he Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index increased 6.1 percent in July to close the month at 3,320, with the year-to-date index up 7.3 percent. “As US hotel lodging performance continues its period of slow growth, the stock index reflects those new realities,” said Amanda Hite, president, STR. David Loeb, managing director, Baird, added, “Second quarter earnings reports were generally in line with recently lowered expectations, and most management teams took a much more cautious approach to forward-looking commentary and guidance […].”
Meliá Makassar
eliá Hotels International has introduced Meliá Makassar, the company’s sixth establishment in Indonesia. Located in Makassar, the 1.5 million inhabited capital of South Sulawesi province, the four-star hotel is 25 minutes away from Sultan Hassanuddin International Airport, and within a five-minute walking distance from the main shopping and business areas. The 135-key resort houses restaurants, a pool, spa and several meeting venues, and offers modern technology features in its rooms. Meliá Hotels & Resorts is planning to launch an additional 10 hotels in Indonesia, confirming its strong commitment to the destination.
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3 SEPTEMBER 2016
KHALAF AHMAD AL HABTOOR
“The Residence Collection at Al Habtoor City is the epitome of luxury living in Dubai and the most desirable lifestyle destination in the UAE. I anticipate the prices to increase as we are not a project selling off-plan. We are not selling sand. We have started the sale when construction was already underway and all of our buyers are invited to preview the apartments. We anticipate all three towers to be fully completed by end of the second quarter of 2017.”
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS, JUMEIRAH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA, KUWAIT
We are well-positioned […] to provide employment opportunities “With the government encouraging private investment in the Kingdom’s hospitality industry we feel that we are well-positioned not just to take excellent care of our guests but to provide employment opportunities for Saudis today, tomorrow and into the future. We have already introduced a programme that provides local hires with the skills and understanding to offer world-class service. You can expect to see the fruit of this training front and centre at Centro Shaheen Jeddah.”
CEO, JANNAH HOTELS AND RESORTS
NEHME IMAD DARWICHE
AREA VICE PRESIDENT, ROTANA
MOHAMMAD HAJ HASSAN
CHAIRMAN, AL HABTOOR GROUP
We are not selling sand
CAROL RONCOLETTA
TRAVEL TALK
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The key to our success is our guests and colleagues “Since opening in 2013, we have organised several initiatives with the objective to make a positive contribution to the local community and the environment. We have covered social and charitable activities; we have invested in environmental initiatives and actively promoted the rich heritage of Kuwait and its traditions. The key to our success is our guests and colleagues. We remain committed to raise awareness through our initiatives in the coming years and deliver our promise, Stay Different.”
We will continue […] to best serve our guests
“It is a great honour to be recognised by such an established committee [like the Socrates Nomination Committee] for [the best enterprise and manager of the year awards]. The nomination for best enterprise truly reflects the hard work of each individual involved with Jannah Hotels & Resorts. We have instilled a fantastic work environment at each of our properties, and we will continue to do so to best serve our guests.”
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
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
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BINU VARGHESE has joined Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai as director of sales. Varghese has extensive experience working with international hotel brands in the UAE, Africa as well as India. Throughout his 19-year career, he has gained invaluable industry knowledge which will enable him to take the hotel’s performance to the next level. In his new role, Varghese also aims to further develop the property’s growing portfolio of international, regional and national accounts. He will play a key role in helping the hotel achieve its business goals.
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JEAN-GABRIEL PÉRÈS
BINU VARGHESE
WHO’S MOVED
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SHAFI SYED has become group chief development officer at Jumeirah Group. In his capacity, Syed will head the development team and lead the company’s expansion strategy. With a solid track record of success with luxury brands, Syed has over 25 years of diverse experience in the hospitality sector. Over the past two and a half decades, he has worked with several reputed hotels and branded real estate projects in the Middle East, Europe and Asia. Syed has been employed in senior development and operations positions at Wyndham Hotel Group and Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, while his most recent role was regional vice president of development and acquisitions at Trump Hotels.
ELIAS EL BAHRI
SHAFI SYED
Varghese has worked in the UAE, Africa and India
JEAN-GABRIEL PÉRÈS has been appointed president and CEO at Kerzner International Holdings (KIH). With his international occupational experience spanning over 30 years in the luxury and upscale retail and hospitality industry, Pérès is highly knowledgeable of the Middle East as well as Asia. His resume includes roles with EADS (formerly known as Matra/Lagardere Group), Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts and Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, where he has served as CEO for the past 17 years. In his capacity, he played an instrumental role in driving the international expansion of the company. Pérès will join KIH at a crucial stage with an accelerated global growth and expansion on the horizon.
ELIAS EL BAHRI has been named director of sales and marketing at the 203-room Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi. Having previously handled the sales and events departments at Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island and and Staybridge Suites Abu Dhabi Yas Island for over five years, El Bahri brings over 12 years of hospitality industry experience to his new role. His career launched at InterContinental Hotel Phoenicia Beirut in Lebanon, with successive posts at Sheraton Beirut and Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi.
El Bahri has extensive experience in Abu Dhabi
3 SEPTEMBER 2016
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AGENT CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? I studied tourism management in Hong Kong and started my career in 1981. After having lived in the Middle East, UK and Malaysia, I decided that Hong Kong is my home and I started my own boutique travel agency, Charlotte Travel, in 2001. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? For the business of today, I would say that good listening skills and the ability to maintain good relationships are essential. […] In the face of online purchasing, paradoxically, the travel industry has become a relationship business; based, I believe, on trust and confidence.
Jackie Harris
NAME: POSITION:
CEO
COMPANY: Charlotte Travel LOCATION: Hong Kong WEBSITE:
www.charlottetravel.com.hk
Travelport and Rehlat.com Team Up
What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? […] Questions usually target our ability to deliver what is difficult to get online; first-hand knowledge of destinations, high-level contacts, new ideas, inside information and the best value for money available. What are the must-visits and mustdos in Hong Kong that nobody should miss? Hong Kong is one of the few places that lives up to its own clichés. […] I still get a buzz from the view from the peak […]. Visit Kowloon to get a sense of what the real Hong Kong is like […]. Learn about the city’s history, visit the street markets in Mong Kok and the countryside for a different perspective […]. Finally, everyone should experience the fantastic Chinese food […]. Which destination is on your bucket-list? Greenland and the Arctic Circle have been very high on my bucket-list and I am incredibly excited to be [taking] my friends […] on an Arctic cruise in 2017. 3 SEPTEMBER 2016
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ravelport and Kuwait-based Rehlat.com have announced a new long-term agreement with the technology expert’s distribution partner in Kuwait that allows the online travel agency to grow its online presence across the Gulf through the technology expert’s innovative products. Rehlat.com will use Travelport’s services to power Internet booking engines and to aggregate Travelport’s content, including branded fares and ancillaries from leading national and lowcost carriers across the world, as well as hotels, car and rail. Bader Al Bader, founder, Rehlat.com commented, “[…] Travelport’s Travel Commerce Platform is bringing our online presence to an unprecedented level as we integrate ourselves deeper in the Middle Eastern market.”
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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LEARNING THROUGH COOKING AT CENTRO CAPITAL DOHA
MORE FUN AT EMIRATES PARK ZOO
Emirates Park Zoo and Resort
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mirates Park Zoo and Resort unveiled its new identity that better reflects the essence of the destination. The concept is to provide families with the opportunity to interact with a large variety of wildlife from all over the world in a safe environment, while enjoying an abundance of fun. The resort has been undertaking a number of expansion projects and renovations to attract more guests and tourists from the UAE, GCC and the West. It has incorporated elements from entertainment, adventure, sports and culture to create a memorable and unique experience for guests of all ages.
Cooking with c.taste chefs
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entro Capital Doha welcomed children for a fun day of cooking at c.taste. The objective of the event was to give kids an insight into the kitchen and emphasise the importance of healthy food. Together with the hotel’s chefs, the young visitors collected their ingredients to then prepare delicious dishes. They were also taught how to use basic kitchen tools safely and be creative when preparing meals. “Cooking is a great way for children to learn all sorts of crucial academic skills like reading, following directions, basic math, and using kitchen tools safely,” said Shaikh Toufik Imam, executive chef, Centro Capital Doha.
AMWAJ ROTANA CATERS TO ALL GUESTS
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mwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai has enrolled 27 members of its team in a new programme equipping them with skills on how to better serve guests with special needs. Training topics cover various types of requirements, general etiquette to follow for interaction, features of the rooms designed for these visitors as well as the correct procedure in case of emergency evacuations. “As Dubai is rapidly developing and welcoming more and more visitors of diverse backgrounds and needs, we felt that it was essential to take our talents to another level, especially after recently upgrading several of our rooms to cater to guests with special needs,” commented Mark Deere, general manager, Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai.
RAMADA HOTEL AND SUITES AJMAN BACKS CSR PROJECTS
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s part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability efforts, Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman reaffirmed its commitment to Soap for Hope and Your Can for Tree campaigns. Pioneered by Sealed Air, the hotel has been part of the Soap for Hope project for more than two years. While giving out boxes of used soap for recycling, the property pledged to continue its participation not only to save the environment, but also to help less privileged communities supported by the project. The hotel also took part in Emirates Environmental Group’s Your Can for Tree initiative, which aims to raise funds by collecting and selling used aluminium cans.
Supporting Your Can for Tree
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Etihad Airways presented the celebrated Indian designer Manish Malhotra and his new collection at Mumbai’s Lakmé Fashion Week
Al Bustan Centre and Residence, Dubai organised an eye screening initiative for employees
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. A typical New Zealand evening was enjoyed by a full crowd at Millennium Corniche Hotel, Abu Dhabi in the presence of Jeremy Clarke-Watson, ambassador to the UAE, New Zealand (right)
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
On the occasion of the Emirati Women’s Day Etihad Airways announced that more than half the UAE nationals employed by the airline are women
XDubai athlete Kie Willis took sighseeing to new heights during the ultimate playcation in Dubai
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NEWS & EVENTS
Successful Xi’an Silk Road International Tourism Expo
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ore than 600 exhibitors and 400 hosted buyers from 42 countries and 26 local provinces took part in the recently-held Xi’an Silk Road International Tourism Expo at Qujiang International Convention and Exhibition Centre in China. “In five years, the countries along the One belt, one road can look forward to hosting 150 million Chinese tourists with a total spending of USD200 billion. We are also confident that China will receive 850 billion tourists from countries along the Silk Road Economic Belt and the Maritime Silk Road, spending USD110 billion in China,” highlighted Du Jiang, deputy director, China National Tourism Administration.
IFFMENA to Focus on Empowering Women
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EVENTS 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 secondlargest cruise destination, the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas.
IMEX AMERICA
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he second Investing in the Future (IFFMENA) conference will be held at Sharjah’s Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre between October 19 – 20, under the theme Building the resilience of women and girls in the Arab region. The event is being organised in a partnership between humanitarian body, The Big Heart Foundation and United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. The two-day symposium will serve as a platform for government officials and representatives of non-governmental and international organisations to establish new partnerships, share best practices and discuss the implementation of sustainable development programmes to maintain and create opportunities for women.
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Las Vegas, US October 18 - 20 www.imexamerica.com The hosted buyer programme qualifies and brings key buyers to the show, with IMEX America covering travel and accommodations.
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