Travel Trade Weekly, 15 October 2016, Issue 362

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15 OCTOBER 2016 ISSUE 362

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07 AIR

ETIHAD AVIATION GROUP AND TUI COLLABORATE

GCC TOURISM LEADERS JOIN FORCES

06 AL KHOORY ATRIUM HOTEL UNVEILED

10 International 12 Travel Talk

14 Rendezvous


MARKET UPDATE

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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel

RECORD NUMBERS AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Ellen Petty CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Dominique Christou

Dubai International

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 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

Dubai International welcomed over 7.7 million passengers in August, eclipsing its previous record achieved in July.

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ased on data released by Dubai Airports, the figure marks a 6.1 percent year-on-year increase, mostly due to additional capacity and new services launched by a number of carriers, including Emirates and flydubai. The fastest-growing region in terms of percentage boost proved to be Eastern Europe, followed by Asia, South America and the Indian subcontinent. During the month under review, the average number of passengers per flight stood at 237, one of the highest figure in the hub’s history. “As we continue to grow, our focus will continue [to be] to operate not only the world’s busiest airports but also the world’s best in terms of customer service,” pledged Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports.

Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735 kuka@rmamedia.com

ETIHAD AIRWAYS: INNOVATION AND ADVANCEMENT

Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456 david@simpson-media.com

MENA EXCHANGE RATES

as of

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14.10.2016

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

110.41

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

8.88

Iran (IRR)

Rial

31,611.58

Iraq (IQD)

Dinar

1,160.05

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.30

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,506.62

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.40

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

9.82

Syria (SYP)

Pound

213.30

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

2.23

Yemen (YER)

Rial

250.10

Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways, addressed the Association of British Travel Agents’ annual Travel Convention summit in Abu Dhabi to underline the airline’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement.

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s Baumgartner highlighted, the carrier continues to invest in a next-generation fleet and is expected to take delivery of its first Airbus 350 in 2017. “Technology is an area that offers the next opportunity for a great leap forward,” stated Baumgartner, further revealing details of how Etihad Airways partner airlines are working with leading global technology companies to create a unified strategy to transform the way each company interacts with guests at every touch-point of the journey.

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WEEKLY NEWS

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roup 32 and Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote volunteer and community work. The private institution specialises in the planning and implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives with the aim to develop and promote community and humanitarian activities. The agreement allows both parties to engage in endeavours that can foster national identity. “It will strengthen relationships, collaboration and coordination between ATDD and institutions specialised in the field of community work for achieving a mutual goal […],” said H.E. Faisal Al Nuaimi, general manager, ATDD.

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Meeting in Riyadh

Ajman Steps Up CSR Efforts

GCC Tourism Leaders Join Forces Tourism undersecretaries from across the GCC gathered in Riyadh to discuss present conditions and the future path of the regional travel sector.

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trong emphasis has been given to the further promotion of joint tourism work among Gulf countries and the continuation of efforts to achieve common strategic goals and objectives in support of enhancing and improving attractions of the member states. Leading the UAE delegation, H.E. Mohammed Khamis Al Muhairi, economy undersecretary, UAE, underlined the industry’s significant contribution to the respective national economies and highlighted the UAE’s proposal to create a memorandum covering the regulation of tourism cooperation among Gulf countries. The gathering was followed by the 3rd GCC Tourism Ministers Meeting.

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WEEKLY NEWS

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Ajman Aims to Boost UK Arrivals

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ATDD promotional film

jman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) has revealed details of its new marketing strategy for the upcoming World Travel Market (WTM), with the main aim to attract 20 percent more visitors from the UK. During the three-day event in London, the delegation will showcase the emirate’s finest hotels, resorts and cultural attractions. The destination website will be also highly publicised to generate traffic, and to highlight Ajman’s heritage a museum will be set up with an artist offering henna paintings to attendees. According to H.E. Faisal Al Nuaimi, general manager, ATDD, the organisation is determined to further strengthen relationships with major tour operators and establish a wider network in order to achieve the emirate’s ambitious target in line with Ajman Vision 2021.

Saudi Arabia to Invest in MICE

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he advisory group of Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau (SECB) discussed the proposed sites for the establishment of convention and exhibition centers in the Kingdom. During the meeting, the experts also reviewed a number of issues and programmes at the forefront of which was the development of the Saudi meetings industry which is expected to support the national economy and promote balanced development in different regions across the country. To that end, the group also analysed the most prominent obstacles faced by the sector and ways to overcome these.

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Sabre Partners with Routehappy

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n terms of a new deal, Sabre Corporation will integrate rich airline content from Routehappy’s hub into its booking platforms. The partnership is set to significantly benefit travel consultants who need more relevant information to advise travellers on the growing range of amenities and products available in the air. The collaboration will allow agents to see Routehappy Hub’s merchandising content by aircraft, class of service, airport, route and fare. “It is a new era for airlines and distributors, collaborating to integrate relevant merchandising content to create more value in-flight shopping. Sabre, Routehappy and airlines are turning differentiation content into incremental revenue and more satisfied customers for airlines,” said Robert Albert, CEO, Routehappy.

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WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY

Travelport and South African Airways Team Up Travelport announced the launch of new ancillary products from South African Airways.

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gents utilising the technology expert’s platforms can now select and purchase the African carrier’s paid seats and excess bag options in advance using Travelport Smartpoint or its Universal API. The enhanced option is powered by Travelport’s Rich Content and Branding merchandising solution. As Will Owen-Hughes, senior director, air commerce, Middle East and Africa, Travelport, noted, now some 68,000 travel agency customers across 180 countries can take advantage of the offering.

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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION

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Al Khoory Atrium Hotel Unveiled Al Khoory Hotels has inaugurated Al Khoory Atrium Hotel, a four-star property located in New Dubai.

Al Khoory Atrium Hotel

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he third address under the brand’s umbrella boasts 227 units, including junior suites with separate living areas and an executive suite with walk-in wardrobe. Additionally, the property also features two dining outlets, meeting rooms and conference facilities as well as a fitness centre, swimming pool and separate male and female spa zones. Pierre Sokhon, general manager, Al Khoory Hospitality Division, added, “The new hotel will not only complement the growth of Dubai’s hotel and tourism industry, but will also offer a wider variety of accommodation and widen the choice available to our guests.”

New Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Officially Opens

Carlson Rezidor Expands in Africa

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Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island

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n accelerated African growth strategy for Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is on track to achieve its target of more than 23,000 rooms open or under development across the continent by the end of 2020. Exciting new projects include the signing of the first Radisson REDbranded property in Africa, which is expected to open in Cape Town in 2017, as well as the debut of the first Quorvus Collection venutre in Lagos, Nigeria, slated to be unveiled in 2019. The company aims to open 15 or more hotels in South Africa and Nigeria alone by the end of 2020, incorporating its full brand portfolio, ranging from the Quorvus Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED and Park Inn by Radisson.

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n celebration of its grand inauguration, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island hosted an opening ceremony, welcoming representatives from Mubadala Development Company and Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. The 34-storey mixed-use property features 200 rooms, including 38 suites, in addition to six dining options, a spa and a number of function venues. Located on the UAE capital’s Al Maryah Island, the hotel offers convenient access to both corporate destinations as well as leisure attractions. Commenting on the launch, Ali Eid AlMheiri, executive director, Mubadala Real Estate & Infrastructure, said, “This is yet another step in our vision to create a world-class destination for UAE residents and visitors from the region and beyond to enjoy.”

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR

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ETIHAD AVIATION GROUP AND TUI

Collaborate ETIHAD AVIATION GROUP AND GERMAN TOURISTIC GIANT TUI ARE IN DISCUSSIONS TO CREATE A STRONG EUROPEAN LEISURE AIRLINE GROUP FOCUSSED ON POINT-TO-POINT TRAVEL SERVICES BETWEEN KEY MARKETS.

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he partnership is proposed to contribute to the touristic operations of airberlin group and TUIfly, including the aircraft currently operated by TUIfly for airberlin under a wet-lease agreement, into a new airline group established by TUI AG and Etihad Aviation Group. The new airline group is envisioned to serve a broad network of destinations from Germany, Austria as well as Switzerland. Etihad Aviation Group comprises four business divisions, including Etihad Airways, Etihad Airways Engineering, Hala Group and Airline Equity Partners.

Gulf Air Updates Bahrain – Athens Schedule

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Bahrain

rom November 02, Gulf Air will revise the timings of its Bahrain – Athens route with the introduction of a morning flight from the Kingdom. The new itinerary will offer passengers increased flexibility, convenience and better connectivity. Ahmed Janahi, chief commercial officer, Gulf Air, noted, “Since we resumed services to Athens in the summer of 2014, the route has shown strong and steady growth to date. Athens is a key European destination in our network and we saw more customers from the region choosing to spend their holidays in Greece.” The enhanced schedule will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR

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Connecting Germany with Dhofar

Tunisair Passenger Numbers Grow

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uriya Tourism Development Company welcomed the arrival of the first wide-body aircraft directly connecting travellers from Germany to the governorate of Dhofar. Some 320 European visitors arrived aboard Lufthansa subsidiary Eurowings’ Airbus A330-200 jetliner at the beginning of the month. Operating twice a week to Salalah with a capacity almost double of previous airliners, the new service is another indication of the continuous growth in tourists arrivals to the Omani destination, suggested Issam Al Barwani, Muriya, vice president, government affairs, Muriya Tourism Development Company, reaffirming the organisation’s firm support of the government’s diversification strategy.

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unisair recorded a notable increase in demand in the first nine months of the year. During the period under review, more than 2.32 million travellers opted for the North African carrier, marking a 8.4 percent surge over the same period in 2015 when 2.14 million customers were carried across the airline’s global network that includes key business and tourist destinations.

RJ Adds Extra Flights

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atar Airways has introduced special weekend getaway flights, making travel between Doha and Dubai even more convenient. The services are timed to make the most of the weekend, with a Thursday afternoon departure from Doha and a Saturday return. Ehab Amin, vice president, commercial, Middle East, Africa and Pakistan, Qatar Airways, said, “Qatar Airways has designed a flight schedule with the passengers’ needs in mind, offering flight times to and from Dubai that suit their needs. In addition, we know how important weekend getaways are for people living in Doha and Dubai, so added a special flight just for their convenience.”

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Dubai

Bodrum

Qatar Airways Ups Doha – Dubai Operations

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o meet demand, Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) operated 149 additional services during September. The extra and charter itineraries came in response to stronger interest due to the Hajj season and the Eid Al Adha holidays. Consequently, aircraft utilisation increased to 13 hours per day, compared to the annual average of 11.7 daily hours. In light of the notable traffic during Eid Al Adha, RJ offered 63 charter services to popular regional locations, such as Antalya, Bodrum, Rhodes and Hurghada. In addition, 52 more flights were introduced to European and Saudi Arabian destinations for Jordanian expatriates returning to the countries they live in.

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR

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MEA Partners with SITA

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iddle East Airlines (MEA) has signed a new five-year master agreement with global communications provider SITA to introduce new, faster connectivity across the airline’s network. The partnership includes SITA Connect which will allow the carrier to maintain fast, effective links with its 26 outstations across the globe, providing a headquarters-like experience across the extensive network. MEA has also extended its use of the technology expert’s community messaging service, which allows the airline to share operational messages across its offices and outstations worldwide. Both solutions leverage SITA’s common-use infrastructure, providing cost-effective communication solutions across the entire network.

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Emirates and Novus Seal Deal

Barbara Dalibard, CEO, SITA, (right) with Mohamad El-Hout, chairman, MEA

ovus Aviation Capital has successfully closed the purchase and leaseback for an additional brandnew Boeing B777-300ER with Emirates. In terms of the deal, the aircraft, which was already delivered to the Dubai-based airline at the end of September, will be on a long-term lease. Nirmal Govindadas, senior vice president, corporate treasury, Emirates, said, “Our financial strength and solid track record continue to enable us to secure funding in the global market to invest in new aircraft and expand our wide-body portfolio.”

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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL USD247 Million Beachfront Development in Cyprus

Hard Rock Acquires Western US Rights

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ard Rock International has completed the acquisition of casino and hotel-casino rights in western US, as well as in several key international markets, from affiliates of BREF HR, which own the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Separated from Hard Rock International’s portfolio more than three decades ago, the rights assumed in the deal reunite the company’s global territory for casinos and hotel-casinos, which the entity believes will offer unprecedented growth opportunities. Hard Rock International is now exclusively entitled to develop, own, license, franchise and manage such destinations in western US, as well as in Australia, Brazil, Israel, Venezuela and Vancouver, British Columbia.

Rendering of Ayia Napa Marina

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The Park Lane Hong Kong Raises the Stakes

Hyatt Hotels Expands in Malaysia

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SKYE roof bar

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he Park Lane Hong Kong, a Pullman Hotel has opened its 743m2 SKYE roof bar and restaurant, offering views of Victoria Park and Victoria Harbour. Seating 165 people, guests of the venue can enjoy culinary delights, drinks, music and a relaxed atmosphere. “We look forward to impressing the crowd affirming that the passion and hard work we have put into making a truly unique experience for the millennials and tastemakers, and fuels us with immense excitement for the opening,” said Luc Bollen, general manager, The Park Lane Hong Kong, a Pullman Hotel.

Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with Eosh Properties for a Hyatt Place-branded hotel in Malaysia. Expected to open in late 2019, the 25-storey Hyatt Place Melaka Gateway will be part of the Melaka Gateway mixed-use project which is currently being developed by KAJ Development on the western coast of Malacca City. Comprising three reclaimed islands, the destination, which is scheduled to be completed by 2025, will offer hotels, a convention centre, shopping venues, a Ferris wheel and what is hailed as Asia’s largest cruise terminal.

Melaka Gateway

onstruction works have officially begun at Ayia Napa Marina in Cyprus. The EUR220 million (USD247 million) mixed-use residential and commercial project on the southern shores of the Mediterranean island is scheduled to be completed in 2021 and will boast 190 deluxe apartments in two twisting towers, 29 luxury villas, a 300-berth full-service marina and boatyard as well as a selection of retail, waterfront dining and premium lifestyle amenities for residents and visitors alike. The project is the result of a partnership between Cypriot entrepreneur Gerasimos Caramondanis and Egyptian investor Naguib Sawiris, with the latter one stating that the destination will herald a new era in modern beachfront living. “We will exceed the expectations of our residents and our guests and not only transform the Cyprus skyline but change the way you think about Cyprus,” added Sawiris.

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

ETIHAD AIRWAYS ADOPTS NEW ANIMAL PROTECTION POLICY

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n line with the airline’s commitment to wildlife stewardship, Etihad Airways launched a new animal welfare and conservation policy which is being supported by the #Etihad4wildlife social media campaign. The new scheme establishes best practice for excursions offered by Etihad Holidays involving animals, and also outlines new criteria for the carriage of endangered and threatened species, hunting trophies containing any animal parts, shark fins and live animals intended for use in scientific research, which will not be permitted on aircraft.

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WASO INAUGURATES ABU DHABI CLASSICS

Emirates Palace

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est Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO) kicked off the new season of Abu Dhabi Classics in a night dedicated to German composer Richard Wagner. Held at Emirates Palace, WASO was conducted by Richard Armstrong and accompanied by tenor Simon O’Neill. Orchestrated by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, the concert marked the start of the emirate’s musical programme which aims to explore artistic relations between the Arab and Western world under the theme of 1,001 Nights. “The classics programme is a wonderful initiative that adds significantly to the cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi,” commented Arthur Spyrou, ambassador to the UAE, Australia.

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It is quite an honour to be recognised internationally “The World Travel Awards celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry and bring international acclaim to their winners. We are pleased to have walked away with so many highly coveted awards […]. It is quite an honour to be recognised internationally as the benchmark to which all other hotels aspire, and it is a testament to my team’s hard work and commitment to offering our Emirates Palace guests the best luxury hotel experience in the region, if not the world.”

GENERAL MANAGER, KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES

CEO, OMAN AIR

MICHAEL PAYNE

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PAUL GREGOROWITSCH

GENERAL MANAGER, EMIRATES PALACE, ABU DHABI

HOLGER SCHROTH

TRAVEL TALK

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates remains one of the Middle East’s favourite destinations “Together with our partners at Majid Al Futtaim, we have recently completed a four-year renovation which has focussed on enhancing our destination appeal to the leisure traveller, including the refurbishment and repositioning of our luxury hotel-within-a-hotel, The Aspen Chalets. [The World Travel Awards] are in recognition of these efforts, which have ensured Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates remains one of the Middle East’s favourite destinations for world-class shopping, dining and entertainment.”

Oman Air’s commitment […] remains absolute “Oman Air [was] delighted to accept these prestigious awards [at the World Travel Awards] in recognition of the high quality of our business class and economy class services. This is the fourth consecutive year that Oman Air has been named the Middle East’s leading airline – business class and the Middle East’s leading airline – economy class [...]. Such consistent acclaim demonstrates that Oman Air’s commitment to offering customers the very best in 21st century air travel remains absolute.”

TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

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AGENT CORNER

AGENT’S INSIGHT When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? I started in retail travel in Christchurch in 1979, as a receptionist. The role included booking [travel] tickets by phone which often encountered lengthy delays. [...] It was very simple technically, but it did mean that clients always came to a travel agent, as it was too difficult otherwise. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? In-depth personal knowledge of tourist regions, accommodation, transfer and sightseeing providers. [...] An uncompromising attention to detail. Strong business and long-term relationships with key tourism providers.

NAME:

Robyn Galloway

POSITION: Managing director COMPANY: Innovative Travel Company LOCATION: Christchurch, New Zealand WEBSITE: www.innovativetravel.co.nz

What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? What destinations, sightseeing and experiences should I include in my New Zealand itinerary? [...] However, smaller groups and incentive requests are becoming more common. So then the questions relate very much to the detailed experiences that clients can enjoy. [...] What are the must-visits and mustdos in New Zealand that nobody should miss? There is always an opportunity to experience an adventure or just immerse yourself in nature’s quiet idyllic spots. [...] Rotorua is known for its Maori culture and renowned for its geothermal parks [...]. Queenstown is the adventure capital and is surrounded by magnificent scenery in every direction. [...] Which destination is on your bucketlist? Like many who live in such a breathtakingly beautiful country, it can be easy to take it for granted. [...] I like trying out luxury lodges such as Farm at Cape Kidnappers [...]. 15 OCTOBER 2016

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Q & A with

RENDEZVOUS

FAKHRI HINDIYEH

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systems and wireless microphones. A customised speaker’s podium in each room allows for plug-n-play laptop presentations from both PC and Mac platforms. One of the banquet facilities has a capacity of 300 persons. In addition [there are] 213 rooms and suits, all overlooking the Arabian Sea. […] Event organisers will feel a warm welcome by Crowne Plaza Duqm team members exerting their maximum efforts in flexibility and in arranging the logistics that organisers might need from express check-in, transportation and technical support […] to souq restaurant recommendations, or to serving up culinary delicacies or an international buffet along with the lavish Indian, Asian, Oriental, seafood and barbeque theme nights. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What types of events do you usually host at the hotel? FAKHRI HINDIYEH: Owing to the banquet facilities and the unique services that differentiate Crowne Plaza Duqm, seminars and training workshop events are the most prominent inquiries at the hotel. [We offer] organisers […] high standards of hospitality and delegates also feel comfortable, creating a harmonious atmosphere that

leads to fruitful sessions. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important are international markets to your business? FAKHRI HINDIYEH: [In line] with the development of Duqm and its openness to global markets, [which eventually leads to] investments in the city, multinational companies from different nationalities are present in Duqm; especially due to the diversity of projects and the volume of opportunities for investors to expand their activities in an evolving city like Duqm. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What value-adding experiences and nearby attractions would you recommend to event and incentive trip organisers looking to wow and inspire their participants? FAKHRI HINDIYEH: […] The Al Wusta region in general and Duqm state specifically [are] characterised by the Al Maha Natural Reserve, Rocks Garden, Ras Madrakah and Ras Markaz, and several touristic areas are also famous for hunting trips with different kinds of birds, in addition to the breath-taking sea view and amazing weather which inspire both leisure [activities] as well as relaxation.

GENERAL MANAGER, CROWNE PLAZA DUQM

AS OMAN LOOKS TO ATTRACT A NEW WAVE OF TRAVELLERS AND BUSINESSMEN TO THE SULTANATE, FAKHRI HINDIYEH, GENERAL MANAGER, CROWNE PLAZA DUQM, TALKS ABOUT THE DESTINATION’S RISING APPEAL TO MICE AND EVENT ORGANISERS.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What services and facilities do you offer at Crowne Plaza Duqm to international event organisers? FAKHRI HINDIYEH: Crowne Plaza Duqm is considered the hospitality and relaxation hub for businessmen and investors and the best destination for international event organisers arranging events and seminars in one of [the hotel’s] five banquet [venues] of different sizes, fitted with premium audiovisual systems, including ceiling-mounted projectors, mechanised screens, new speaker

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Crowne Plaza Duqm

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PHOTO ALBUM

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Lybia’s national football team chose Cairo’s TOLIP El Narges Hotel & Spa to stay during its preparation for the game against Congo

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort won the Middle East’s and Dubai’s Leading Villa Resort titles at the World Travel Awards

Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. FA Cup ambassador and former English star, David James, accompanied the Emirates FA Cup for a visit to Ghana

Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...

During their annual staff party, the associates of Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman gathered on stage to call for peace and unity

15 OCTOBER 2016

Nirvana Travel and Tourism took home five throphys from the World Travel Awards

H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai, lays the foundation stone of The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour project

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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS

Abu Dhabi to Become Medical Meetings Hub

IMEX AMERICA

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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.

memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau, a division of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, Emirates Medical Association and Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company to further consolidate Abu Dhabi’s position as a global medical hub. The MoU aims to increase the number of international medical conferences hosted in the UAE capital. “This agreement is conducive to Abu Dhabi’s role as a primary destination for MICE throughout the region,” said H.E. Saif Saeed Ghobash, director general, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.

Showcasing Million Dollar Toys

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ITB ASIA Singapore October 19 – 21 www.itb-asia.com Hundreds of companies and organisations will come together for the annual trade show.

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET November 07 – 09 London, UK www.wtmlondon.com A global meeting place for the travel trade, providing attendees with quality contacts, content and communities.

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his year’s Big Boys Toys Exhibition will display luxury products worth more than USD450 million. As Biju Jayaraaj, CEO, Artaaj Events, revealed, over 250 companies from 42 countries are set to bring their offerings to the region. “Big Boys Toys prides [itself ] on contributing to the UAE’s vision for 2021, where the directive is to transform its economy into a model where growth is driven by knowledge and innovation. These products are the epitome of innovation and scientific advancement and we hope to pique the interests of the people of the UAE and the GCC,” added Jayaraaj. The seventh edition of the show will take place at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre between November 23 – 26.

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CULTURAL TOURISM MIDDLE EAST November 14 – 15 Dubai, UAE www.culturaltourismme.com High-level officials from the tourism, cultural development and antiquities, heritage and arts, cultural activities and architectural heritage community will convene in Dubai.

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