5 NOVEMBER 2016 ISSUE 365
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13 AIR
SAUDIGULF AIRLINES TAKES OFF
DUBAI CRUISE SEASON KICKS OFF
13 RAS AL KHAIMAH TO WELCOME THE RITZ-CARLTON
05 Cruising
10 Technology 19 Rendezvous
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
BOEING FORECASTS CARGO GROWTH
ASSISTANT EDITOR Rita Kasziba JOURNALISTS Ellen Petty Natalie James 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 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
Air cargo traffic is expected to increase at an annual rate of 4.2 percent over the next 20 years, driven by markets linked to Asia.
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ccording to Boeing, in order to meet demand, some 930 new and 1,440 converted freighters will be needed by 2035, meaning a 70 percent surge. Boeing projects the e-commerce market to be one of the primary factors driving this growth, reaching a value of USD3.6 trillion by 2020. According to the report, dedicated freighters still carry more than half of air cargo traffic and remain the leading capacity providers.
WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515 neil@globetm.com
BRIGHT PROSPECTS FOR RIYADH
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735 kuka@rmamedia.com
Riyadh
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456 david@simpson-media.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
5.11.2016
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
109.81
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
15.26
Iran (IRR)
Rial
31,808.32
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,163.75
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,509.39
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.40
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.79
Syria (SYP)
Pound
213.30
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.23
Yemen (YER)
Rial
249.85
Reinforcing its reputation as a rising business and tourism hub, Riyadh has been named the sixth fastest developing travel destination in the world in the Mastercard Global Destinations Cities Index.
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ith a compound annual growth rate of 16.45 percent, the Saudi capital is one of four cities from Middle East and Africa to find a place in top 20 with at least one million overnight visitors during this year, along with Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Riyadh was also listed as the second most popular location in the region, with the destination projected to register 4.59 million visitors by year-end. “Riyadh has consistently clocked high growth rates in international visitor arrivals over the past many years,” pinpointed Raghav Prasad, general manager, Gulf countries, Mastercard.
5 NOVEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS HOTEL PERFORMANCE HotStats has published its MENA Chain Hotel Market Review for August highlighting a challenging environment for properties in Abu Dhabi, Beirut and Doha, with hoteliers cutting costs in an effort to maintain revenue.
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Profit Declines in Beirut
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roperties in the Lebanese destination suffered a 15.2 percent decline in profit per room, as RevPAR fell 13.6 percent, continuing the recent downward trajectory of both revenue and profit. RevPAR at the city’s hotels plummeted 42 percent year-on-year, contributing to a 96.4 percent drop in profit per room Whilst accommodation establishments in the capital have managed to maintain volume this year, it has been at the expense of rate, which in August reduced 12.7 percent year-on-year. Despite costs savings, as a result of the drop in revenue, year-to-date profit per room was down 17.9 percent to USD31.64.
ARR Continues to Fall in Doha
Doha
Abu Dhabi Compensates for Revenue Drop
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otels in the UAE capital recorded a two percent yearon-year increase in profit per room in August as managements slashed payroll by 11.3 percent and saved 8.5 percent in overheads on a per available room basis, in a bid to offset the 9.2 percent decline in total revenue. The fall in total RevPAR in the month under review was primarily due to a 7.8 percent drop in RevPAR, as hoteliers registered negative changes in both room occupancy, down 1.6 percentage points, and achieved average room rate (ARR) which descended 5.6 percent. Despite the two percent year-on-year growth this month, profit per room was recorded at just USD16.72 in August.
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eclining for the 24th consecutive month, hoteliers in Doha recorded an 11.9 percent year-on-year decrease in achieved ARR. The 17.1 percent drop in rates in the 12 months to August was a result of declines in the majority of market segments, including a 35 percent fall in group tours, a 17.6 percent weakening in corporate and a 10.9 percent reduction in leisure business. Cost saving measures proved to be insufficient to offset a 17.8 percent dive in operating profit per room in August, with profit per room falling 20.4 percent in the 12 months to August.
5 NOVEMBER 2016
Ultra-Modern Ship Crosses Suez Canal
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enting Dream, a state-of-theart passenger ship, transited the Suez Canal en route to the southeastern Asia region. The southbound vessel, whose passage came as part of its maiden voyage which started in mid-August, was greeted by a high-level delegation of the Suez Canal Authority. Representatives boarded the highly advanced ship and bestowed the captain with the honorary shield of the New Suez Canal who, in turn, expressed appreciation for the project which serves global trade movements.
Genting Dream
5 NOVEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS CRUISING
Dubai Cruise Season Kicks Off
The 2016/2017 Dubai cruise season has officially begun, as tourists from around the globe seek some winter sun.
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ollowing on from great success in the 2015/2016 run, whereby the number of passengers grew 19 percent and the volume of ship calls soared 24 percent year-on-year, two new operators are debuting in the region. Both Norwegian Cruise Line and Thomson Cruises will make their maiden calls to Dubai during the term. As the first-ever UK-based line to home port in the emirate, Thomson Cruises is expected to bring 25,000 tourists to the city through 12 calls at the port.
Dubai
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5
WEEKLY NEWS
Paraguay
South America to Foster UAE Relations Paraguay and the Dominican Republic see tremendous opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties with Dubai and the UAE, especially in key sectors, including tourism.
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s Angel Barchini, ambassador to Qatar, Paraguay, pinpointed, the South American country exports USD40 million worth of products to the UAE on an annual basis. The comments came in the lead-up to the Global Business Forum on Latin America, which will be held between November 09 – 10, in Dubai. The forum seeks to explore new investment and
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business opportunities between Latin America and the Middle East. “In these volatile economic times, investors look for countries and regions that provide stability, proven growth and investment-friendly policies. Latin America checks all the above boxes […],” said H.E. Hamad Buamim, president, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
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Greek Deputy Minister Meets Dubai Delegates
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lena Kountoura, deputy economy and tourism minister, Greece, met with key political and institutional figures of economy and tourism in Dubai. The dialogues focussed on the positive results of efforts aimed at further developing tourism relations and direct air links, thus, contributing to an anticipated increase in traffic between the destinations. In a meeting with H.E. Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, minister of economy, UAE, Kountoura reaffirmed the Mediterranean country’s commitment to foster bilateral relations in the area of tourism and confirmed Greece’s participation in Expo 2020 in Dubai.
5 NOVEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY SCTH Holds Tourism Seminars
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I Saudi Arabia
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Digital rendition of Gate Avenue at DIFC
Gate Avenue at DIFC Underway
he new urban premium lifestyle, cultural and entertainment development at the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Gate Avenue at DIFC, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2017. The AED1 billion (USD272.3 million) project, DIFC’s largest to date, will include over 200 dining, boutique, retail and entertainment options, as well as an iconic new mosque. “Gate Avenue at DIFC will connect our vibrant and dynamic community of over 21,000 professionals, as well as residents and visitors, in one central location,” explained Nabil Alkindi, executive vice president, property development, DIFC.
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n line with its efforts to promote the sector’s staff capabilities and quality services, the Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH), represented by the National Center for Tourism Human Resources Development (Takamul), held a training and educational programme under the title Quality in tourism services for citizens. The event falls under Takamul’s development, rehabilitation and educational initiatives dedicated to operators and employees in the industry. A series of similar endeavours will be implemented during the current year in a number of cities and municipalities and in various segments of tourism and national heritage.
5 NOVEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY
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Amadeus Partners with DerbySoft In a bid to connect hotels of all sizes to metasearch engines and online travel agents (OTA) in order to help them compete in a busy hotel marketplace, Amadeus is partnering with DerbySoft.
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eith Cotton, senior vice president of Global Business, DerbySoft, commented, “Amadeus’ hotel customers will have access to a much wider audience through the DerbySoft connection and interface, and with no additional implementation costs.” The partnership will enable hotels to fine-tune their content in each channel, and travellers will benefit from more personalised offers tailored to their preferences.
Visa Partners with GLC
Marriott Teams Up with Sabre
From left: Yasser Al Yousuf, managing director, Etihad Guest, Darren Peisley, CEO, Hala Group, Kamran Siddiqi, group executive, Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Visa, and Ihab Ayoub, general manager, Middle East and North Africa, Visa
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isa had signed a multi-year partnership with Global Loyalty Company (GLC), to develop a range of co-branded credit, debit and charge cards in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Germany, Italy and Serbia. GLC manages the four frequent flyer programmes of Etihad Airways Partners. The agreement will provide a unique and collaborative platform to deliver leading travel payment products to Etihad Airways Partners’ frequent flyers. Card propositions will incorporate travel related benefits from Visa’s global platform backed by all the security the brand stands for.
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arriott International and technology expert, Sabre, have unveiled a new distribution and booking solution, providing thousands of authorised wholesalers, destination marketing companies and tour operators with access to real-time rates and inventory of more than 4,200 properties around the world. The move is in line with the company’s strategy to transform the wholesale and leisure segment by offering dynamic rates and automated reservations, replacing antiquated processes for contracting, accessing inventory and booking hotels. Approved wholesalers can now search real-time net rates and rooms globally to create tailor‐made packages for their customers.
5 NOVEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Ras Al Khaimah to Welcome The Ritz-Carlton The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has signed a management agreement with RAK National Hotels (RAKNH), owner of various hotels and resorts in Ras Al Khaimah, marking the brand’s entry into the emirate.
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Ras Al Khaimah
he company will manage The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach and The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, growing its footprint in the UAE to five addresses by 2017. The management agreement, which goes into effect on December 15, will see the existing beach property close for comprehensive renovations, whilst the desert establishment will remain open and operate as a partner hotel. The makeover includes the total refurbishment of the Al Hamra beach address, a 32 all-villa luxury resort, as well as the upgrading of the 101 all-villa desert escape.
New Residence in Jebel Sifah
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uriya announced the launch of Golf Lake Residences, a premium residential neighbourhood in Oman’s Jebel Sifah comprised of 14 buildings and 118 freehold studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments. Homeowners will enjoy exclusive leisure amenities, such as an oasis style water feature including an integrated infinity pool, with views of the golf course, sea and mountains. Coming in a variety of sizes, features of the apartments include grand terraces, openplan kitchen and en-suite bathrooms. Issam Al Barwani, vice president, government affairs, Muriya, said, “The introduction of this new development is yet another milestone in our development.”
5 NOVEMBER 2016
Novotel to Expand Dubai Presence
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ccorHotels has entered into a management agreement with Acropole Holdings for Novotel Downtown Dubai. Scheduled to open prior to Expo 2020, the 266-room hotel, which includes five food and beverage outlets and a number of meeting rooms, will serve as an upper-midscale option and will cater to both business and leisure travellers. Olivier Granet, managing director, AccorHotels Middle East, explained, “AccorHotels remains committed towards strengthening the presence of our worldclass brands within all market segments across the emirate [and] the development of Novotel Downtown Dubai is a step forward in providing greater diversity for guests in an area that predominantly caters to the upscale and luxury market.”
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Dubai Welcomes Fortune Park Hotel
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Preferred Hotels & Resorts Expands in the Middle East
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ortune Group of Hotels has announced the opening of Fortune Park Hotel, Dubai. The boutique property boasts 114 rooms and suites and is designed to invoke a perfect balance of rejuvenation and serenity. Guests can enjoy a gym, roof-top swimming pool and spa, and also have the option to dine at one of the hotel’s food and beverage outlets. Additionally, the sports lounge is complete with a pool table and various videos games, providing fun for all ages.
P Vivienda Residences
referred Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its Middle East portfolio with the addition of two new five-star hotels in Saudi Arabia and another one in Bahrain. The three additions consist of a duo of ultra-boutique properties in Riyadh, namely Vivienda Residences and Vivienda Granada, along with The Domain Hotel & Spa, in Manama. Vivienda Residence comprises 12 villas, a pool, gym and an all-day Italian restaurant. Sister property, the 48-room Vivienda Granada, is also an all-villa address with a collection of three-bedroom residences. Furthermore, in Bahrain, The Domain Hotel & Spa offers 131 rooms and suites. The establishment is also a popular choice for corporate and social events with a suite of conference facilities.
Fortune Park Hotel
IHG Grows Regional Presence
New Zealand
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has outlined plans to strengthen its position in Asia, Middle East and Africa. The company aims to introduce its EVEN Hotels brand to Australia and New Zealand, while expanding its existing Hotel Indigo portfolio, and debuting the Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants concept in the market as well. Jan Smits, CEO, Asia, Middle East and Africa, IHG, said, “We identified a key opportunity to accelerate our growth in the lifestyle segment with the introduction of these brands to the region. I believe there is fantastic potential for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in the region, EVEN Hotels in Australia and New Zealand as well as building on the already successful introduction of the Hotel Indigo brand in early 2015 in the region.”
5 NOVEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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SAUDIGULF AIRLINES
Takes Off
SAUDIGULF AIRLINES HAS COMMENCED OPERATIONS AT THE END OF OCTOBER WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF TWO FLIGHTS A DAY BETWEEN DAMMAM AND RIYADH.
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he inauguration of the first route will soon be followed by the launch of two daily services between Dammam and Jeddah on November 27. The airline also plans to fly between Riyadh and Jeddah with up to seven connections per day in the first quarter (Q1) of 2017. The carrier’s first international flight from Dammam to Dubai is also expected in Q1 2017. Tariq Bin Abdelhadi Al Qahtani, chairman, SaudiGulf Airlines, said, “The main driver behind the birth of the SaudiGulf Airlines project was to contribute towards boosting air transport capacity both domestically and internationally, at exceptional service levels for the entire travel cycle. The airline will offer a new level of service in the Kingdom, […]. SaudiGulf Airlines will be the new national carrier, raising the Saudi Arabian flag high up on the global aviation stage.”
Oman Air Enters Iraq
Air Arabia to Add Baku to Network
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man Air is now flying between Muscat and the Iraqi city of Najaf four times a week. The new route is expected to further strengthen political, economic and cultural ties between the countries. Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO, Oman Air, said, “Following a temporary delay of our service to Najaf as the operational teams were assessing and scheduling all fleet types for safe deployment on the route, Oman Air is delighted to start this service as our first destination in Iraq. The holy city of Najaf offers excellent potential for business travellers, those visiting friends and family, and for pilgrims. We anticipate a high demand.”
5 NOVEMBER 2016
Baku
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tarting March 23, 2017, Air Arabia will operate four weekly flights from its primary Sharjah International Airport hub to Baku. The launch of the new itinerary follows a joint cooperation between the low-cost carrier, Azerbajian Airlines and local authorities, aimed at promoting the new route connecting Baku and Sharjah. Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, said, “By adding this emerging destination to our growing network, Air Arabia will facilitate greater trade and tourism between the two countries.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Salalah Airport: One Million Passengers
IATA Calls for Security Solutions
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alalah Airport, Oman’s second-busiest hub, has exceeded the one million milestone in annual passenger traffic in less than 10 months. The figure marks a 19 percent improvement over 2015 when year-end results stood at just under 1.03 million travellers. Hailed as the gateway to the Sultanate’s Dhofar region, the airfield has the capacity to cater to three million passengers per annum. Salim bin Awad Al Yafei, general manager, Salalah Airport, asserted, “We are focussing all of our energy towards promoting Salalah Airport as a gateway for tourism and are working with several airlines and companies in the field.”
Alexandre de Juniac
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he International Air Transport Association (IATA) called on the industry and governments to work together in an even stronger partnership to provide durable solutions to aviation’s security challenges. Issues highlighted by IATA include overflying conflict zones, landside security at airports, insider threats, cyber security, harmonisation of passenger name record and traveller information requirements and airport checkpoints. In his opening speech at the 25th AVSEC World Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Alexandre de Juniac, CEO, IATA, stressed, “Partnerships are essential to address our major security challenges [and] governments and industry are working together to strengthen our defenses with integrated solutions in the face of evolving security threats.”
Salalah Airport
Doha
Emirates A380 to Fly to Doha
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mirates will upgrade one of its nine daily flights between Dubai and Doha to an Airbus A380, as of December 01. The announcement follows the recent frequency increase between the destinations. With the addition of two extra services, the airline now offers nine daily alternatives from its base to the Qatari capital, making Doha the most served location in its network. The double-decker has already proved popular with customers, and the upcoming service in December will give travellers from Qatar the chance to experience Emirates’ onboard Airbus A380 product and service.
Etihad Expands India – UAE Services
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o further strengthen their cooperation in one of the world’s fastest growing aviation markets, Etihad Airways and strategic partner, Jet Airways, will introduce new flights and additional frequencies between Abu Dhabi and India in early 2017, when 28 weekly frequencies and three more destinations will be launched. The Middle Eastern carrier will add a fourth daily service between the UAE capital and Kozhikode and will also double frequency to Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, the Indian carrier revealed plans to fly between Abu Dhabi and the cities of Tiruchirappalli, Kannur and Chandigarh and it will also boost operations between the UAE hub and New Delhi.
5 NOVEMBER 2016
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Seychelles to Lure Gulf Travellers
IHG Expands Presence in Malaysia
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Nepal to Attract Chinese Tourists
I Rendering of Holiday Inn & Suites Penang Prai
Seychelles
eychelles Tourism Board’s Dubai office held its GCC roadshow, which kicked off in Abu Dhabi and concluded in Bahrain. The initiative targeted different trade partners to network and be familiarised with hoteliers, destination management companies and airlines in the Seychelles. Ahmed Fathallah, regional manager, Dubai office, Seychelles Tourism Board, enthused, “We believe that this roadshow is a good way for us to fortify our relationship with the trade sector which is a big factor for us to attain our year-on-year goal, [and] roadshows will be included in our activity pipeline in the coming years.” So far this year, arrivals from the GCC to the Indian Ocean destination are up 33.17 percent.
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed a management agreement with Exopuri Property Development for a Holiday Inn & Suites branded project, to be inaugurated in four years. The 288-room property will be located within Juru Sentral, a mixed-used complex, and is anticipated to be the tallest building in the area with 35 storeys. Targeting mostly business travellers, Holiday Inn & Suites Penang Prai will boast four restaurants, 12 meeting rooms as well as an outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa. Leanne Harwood, vice president, operations, southeast Asia and Korea, IHG, noted that the Malaysian state, known as Silicon Valley of the East, continues to experience growth in visitor arrivals and gain traction as a regional business hub for international companies.
Minneapolis Welcomes Ascend Hotel
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Nepal
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n a bid to attract Chinese travellers to the country, Nepal will participate in the upcoming Chengdu International Tourism Expo (CITE). Making its debut in the three-day exhibition, which will be held between December 02 – 04, at Century New City International Convention & Exhibition Center, the destination aims to engage with visitors from Chengdu and Sichuan. Nepal offers Chinese travellers a full fee-waiver on their visa application for stays of 15, 30 or 90 days. Nepal Tourism Board will be joined by other Nepalese tour operators and travel agencies to meet potential visitors at the show.
he Ascend Hotel Collection from Choice Hotels International, welcomed enVision Hotel St. Paul South, in Minneapolis, US. The newest addition to the portfolio combines vintage aesthetics with local neighbourhood charm. Guests to the 85room hotel can enjoy a restaurant, meeting spaces catering to up to 380 people, an indoor heated pool, a gym and business centre. “Our successful partnership with Ascend has given us the opportunity to continue to expand the enVision experience and we feel so fortunate to broaden our offering to travelers seeking a vintage taste of the local surroundings,” said Gautam Sharma, president, Global Vision Hotels.
5 NOVEMBER 2016
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AGENT CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT
What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? It is a combination of different factors, like the team and its professionalism, individual approach to every client, nonstop quality control, creative strategy combined with practical attitude, good knowledge of the product and, of course, passion for the job. What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? Every day we get a lot of questions about Russia, its traditions and rules, but the most frequent questions are related to visa support formalities, transportation, money exchange, accommodation, sightseeing programmes, entertainment options, venues, restaurants and security. What are the must-visits and mustdos in Russia that nobody should miss? […] We try to offer a unique travel experience, including Moscow and St Petersburg, Golden Ring and Karelia. Exotic and beautiful landscapes; an unforgettable mix of sea and mountains in Sochi, the mysterious Altai with waterfalls and mountain lakes, the unique Kamchatka for wild life and nature lovers, a Trans-Siberian tour with a stop at the picturesque Baikal lake and the dramatic rituals of stunning Siberian shamans. Which destination is on your bucketlist? In Russia, I dream to go to Altai and Kamchatka, [while] abroad [it would be] Iceland. 5 NOVEMBER 2016
NAME:
Svetlana Gaevich
POSITION: Director, sales and business development
COMPANY: UTS Group LOCATION: Moscow and St Petersburg, Russia WEBSITE: www.utsrussia.com
Cox & Kings Unveils Educational School Trips
From left: Sukumar Venkatachalam, business head, education, Cox & Kings, Anand and Himanshu Sampat, head, outbound tours, UAE, Cox & Kings
When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? [I have been in the industry] since I graduated from the Linguistic University. I used to be a French speaking guide from the beginning. For me, tourism is not a job but a passion.
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ox & Kings Dubai has presented Curious Cat Chronicles, an educational travel tour programme for local schools. Some of the fun and learning encounters available during the tailor-made trips include dining with astronauts and experiencing zero-gravity in the US as well as visiting science centres in Singapore and art schools in London. A range of itineraries presenting the world as a global classroom are on offer, which can be customised to meet the needs of the curriculum. Karan Anand, head, relationships, Cox & Kings, noted, “As a leading education travel group, we have always emphasised travel as a means to learn. Learning through travel exposes curious minds to new experiences that involve them.“
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CARLO JAVAKHIA continues as general manager at Dubaibased M Management Company, a role in which he will lead the entire operation of the organisation, from creating policies and procedures, monitoring health and safety regulations to guiding the team. He began his career in the hospitality industry over 10 years ago in Greece before joining Majestic Hotel Tower Dubai as food and beverage director. Since the launch of M Management Company, Javakhia held the position of director of operations where he oversaw and launched a number of dining outlets.
Javakhia will spearhead the team
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FADI MUSHARAFIEH
SAMI SAVANUR has been promoted to cluster assistance director of marketing and communications at Centro Capital Centre and Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana in Abu Dhabi. Savanur, who completed his master’s degree specialising in marketing at James Cook University in Singapore, has been working with Rotana since 2014. Moving to the UAE capital from Centro Sharjah where he worked as a marketing executive, he will now lead the properties’ marketing strategy encompassing digital marketing, guest engagement, corporate social responsibility activities and brand alliances. Together with the management, he will work towards strengthening the positioning and increasing awareness of both hotels in compliance with company standards.
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FADI MUSHARAFIEH has been appointed hotel manager of Four Seasons Hotel Beirut. Musharafieh brings with him over 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with prior positions as general manager of Lancaster Hotels and Suites and senior management roles in Mövenpick Hotel and Resort Beirut, InterContinental Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut along with an academic role teaching for seven years hospitality at Sagesse University Lebanon, affiliated with Lausanne Hotel School. In his capacity as hotel manager of Four Seasons Hotel Beirut, Musharafieh will continue to build on the property’s reputation and service standards.
Musharafieh will oversee day-to-day operations
JASON MONTAGUE
CARLO JAVAKHIA
SAMI SAVANUR
WHO’S MOVED
JASON MONTAGUE has begun his duties as CEO of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, an expansion of his previous role of president. His new responsibilities will include sales, marketing, passenger services and revenue management. Montague will continue to focus on the development of the cruise line’s route map as well as the onboard product to ensure it delivers its brand promise and offers outstanding holidays for passengers. He will also strengthen relationships with travel partners and optimise results to further grow the company.
Montague aims to furher grow the business
5 NOVEMBER 2016
RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
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PIERRE SOKHON GENERAL MANAGER, HOSPITALITY DIVISION, AL KHOORY HOTELS
WITH THREE OPERATIONAL HOTELS AND FOUR OTHER PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE, AL KHOORY HOTELS CONTINUES TO CLAIM A LARGER MARKET SHARE AS PIERRE SOKHON, GENERAL MANAGER, HOSPITALITY DIVISION, AL KHOORY HOTELS, REVEALS.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How would you summarise the past months? PIERRE SOKHON: For Al Khoory Group of Hotels, this year has maintained occupancy levels with a slight drop in average room rate compared to 2015, however, the last quarter looks more promising and positive for us. Our hotels’ location and accessibility give us a unique advantage against others where we cater for various segments, mainly for families, vacationers and exhibitors. Having a good portion of repeat guest to our hotels – due to guest recognition and the quality of service – makes us proud, and we do our best to always call our guests by their names and make them feel at home. 5 NOVEMBER 2016
Al Khoory Atrium Hotel, Al Barsha
As for Dubai, with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, and the support of Dubai Department of Tourism Commerce & Marketing (DTCM), the plans outlined for Dubai to become the number one city in terms of visitations by 2020 [are] possible with the new theme parks, opera house, adventure tourism [opportunities], as well as an array of conventions and shopping festivals throughout the year. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the latest developments at the company? PIERRE SOKHON: Al Khoory Group presently operates three hotels and is already developing another four properties which will be ready by 2020. The operational hotels are Al Khoory Hotel Apartments Al Barsha, Al Khoory Executive Hotel Al Wasl and the newlyopened Al Khoory Atrium Hotel Al Barsha. New hotels in the pipeline include the 69-room Al Khoory Inn Bur Dubai, due to be launched by 2017, the 370room Al Khoory Plaza Hotel Deira as well as the 99-key Al Khoory Central Hotel and 159-room Al Khoory Courtyard Hotel – both set to open in Al Quoz in 2019. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: With supply in Dubai growing apace, what are the main issues that need to be addressed in order to avoid sacrificing quality for quantity? PIERRE SOKHON I believe that with the
high standards set for Dubai, quantity will not [affect] quality. To be able to exist and survive in Dubai, quality has always been the priority whether if it is a one-star or a five-star hotel. However, I believe more hotel management institutions should open to have more qualified staff, offering better services in this industry in various fields. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Dubai’s Tourism Vision has set ambitions goals for the next few years. Could Dubai reach its full potential by 2020? PIERRE SOKHON: I have been in the UAE since 1985 and have witnessed the growth step by step. [Given] the positive energy and attitude of its promoters encompassed with the vision of its rulers, I believe Dubai will always have room for growth and will surprise us with what it will offer in the near future. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are your immediate plans? PIERRE SOKHON: We have recently opened our new four-star Al Khoory Atrium Hotel in Al Barsha. The hotel has been delighting guests from day one and has been getting a lot of positive reviews. We at the Al Khoory Hospitality corporate office are here to make sure the hotel operates smoothly. At the same time, we are in the process of developing four more hotels […] and the group is also soon launching a loyalty programme for its guests to ensure that our loyal guests can avail the best value proposition every time.
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CEO, JANNAH HOTELS AND RESORTS
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The teams are highly motivated
“It is such an honour for us to be recognised by the team of World Travel Awards and by our peers [with four accolades]. The teams are highly motivated by this acknowledgement of their efforts, and will continue to push for better service and products to maintain the high expectations our guests have of us.”
RESORT GENERAL MANAGER, MADINAT J UMEIRAH
MARGARET PAUL
NEHME IMAD DARWICHE
TRAVEL TALK
DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, HILTON ABU DHABI
ADAM HARVEY
SHAHZAD BUTT
GENERAL MANAGER, RAMADA DOWNTOWN DUBAI
“The team we have assembled for the opening of Jumeirah Al Naseem comprises hospitality experts with years of experience operating and managing hotels both in the Jumeirah portfolio and for other luxury operators. The mix of existing and new Jumeirah Al Naseem management colleagues will deliver the reassuringly familiar but refreshingly different guest experience for those who already know and love Madinat Jumeirah and for those looking for a new experience in luxury hospitality at the Arabian Resort of Dubai.”
We are excited to cater to the culture vultures
Hard work prompted fruitful results
“We are beaming with pride in receiving [Wyndham Hotel Group’s Wyndham Rewards 2016 Top Enroller in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region] award and I would like to commend everyone, especially the front office, and quality assurance departments for this outstanding achievement. Targets, incentives, and strategies were all put in place, thus all their hard work prompted fruitful results.”
The team [...] comprises hospitality experts with years of experience
“In line with raising the standard of living of Abu Dhabi’s residents, another primary focus of Vision 2030, Saadiyat Island is soon to become the cultural hub of the capital. As home to top-tier institutions like New York University Abu Dhabi and Cranleigh British School and with the opening of the Louvre and Guggenheim, Saadiyat Island will reel in new kinds of tourists to the capital. We are excited to cater to the culture vultures, who will bring a new sector of tourism business to the region.”
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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ABU DHABI WOMEN JOIN YAS MALL WALKATHON
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ETIHAD AIRWAYS SUPPORTS INDIAN STUDENTS
Etihad Airways and Jet Airways crew during the visit to Noshera Mewat Public Middle School
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tihad Airways donated school supplies to underprivileged children at the official reopening of Noshera Mewat Public Middle School, which was recently renovated with the support of the airline. The youngsters received over 1,000 school bags, stationery, meals, uniforms, shoes and other garments, which were financed through the airline staff’s fundraising initiatives such as a football tournament, garage sales and Walk for a Cause. Moreover, in collaboration with UAE Board on Books for Young People, the Abu Dhabibased airline announced a new school library project, due to be completed in December.
Participants after the event
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n association with Medeor Medical Centre, Yas Mall organised a walkathon for locals in the framework of the breast cancer awareness month. The programme started with a personal trainer handing out pink ribbons and t-shirts to all participants. After completing the walkathon, the ladies received an educational and inspirational talk discussing key information relating to breast cancer from obstetrics and gynecology specialist, Dr Iram Mobusher. At the end of the event, the walkers gathered for a group photograph in front of a decorated Pink Wall to commemorate the day.
PROMOTING NATIONAL HANDICRAFTS
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urathna for Social Responsibility supported a number of cultural and heritage projects in a number of parts of Saudi Arabia. The non-profit organisation also carried out a number of training courses for artisans, and conducted several events and programms aimed at developing handicrafts and using them in different areas. The company also launched an information campaign through the media in an effort to promote its objectives and enhance community awareness of the value of national heritage. All in all, Turathna has supported 20 projects across the Kingdom’s provinces.
I BURJUMAN ARJAAN HOLDS PINK WEEK BurJuman Arjaan by Rotana employees
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n support of breast cancer awareness month, BurJuman Arjaan by Rotana turned pink by decorating certain areas of the property with balloons, ribbons, sweets and flowers. Moreover, the hotel’s restaurant, The Gallery, served a selection of pink offerings. To further boost the campaign, the property launched a competition for guests and colleagues to guess the number of marshmallows in a jar which was also promoted on social media pages. To show their commitment to Pink Week, staff members each wore pink ribbons and some even dressed all in pink.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
RAISING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS SITA BAGGAGE ROBOT TOURS ASIA
Leo, the SITA baggage robot
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eo, the fully-autonomous, self-propelling baggage robot designed by SITA Lab in an innovating bid to transform the passenger experience using robotics and artificial intelligence, has toured Asia with visits to Singapore and Hong Kong. As Ilya Gutlin, president, Asia Pacific, SITA, explained, “Our focus is on collaboratively developing technology solutions and services for the air transport industry, working with our airline and airport partners to stimulate technological innovation.” The initiative marks the first step in automating the baggage process, showing how bags can be collected, checked in, transported and loaded onto the correct flight without any handling besides from the passengers themselves. Leo was also caught in action at the Future Travel Experience Asia EXPO 2016 in Singapore.
Lecture for employees
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azeera Airways and the Cancer Awareness National Campaign (CAN) hosted a breast cancer awareness lecture for the airline’s employees as part of its monthlong activities aimed at highlighting the risks of breast cancer. Dr Amani Hussein, oncologist, Ministry of Health, Kuwait, shared her insights on the disease, emphasising the importance of prevention as well as early detection. The aim of the campaign was to organise regular lectures and public events to improve the understanding of cancer and provide preventive techniques and measures to the public.
SUPPORTING WORLD DIABETES DAY
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n the run-up to World Diabetes Day on November 14, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is raising awareness about the importance of healthier eating habits, better lifestyle choices and early screening. Today, an estimated 415 million people live with diabetes and according to the International Diabetes Federation, one in 10 adults could be affected by 2040. Across the Middle East and Asia, 21 properties of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts will host a cooking class between November 06 – 15, where participants will learn to make two Power Bites school lunchbox recipes. Power Bites is a selection of the hotelier’s exclusive dishes for children, and focusses on nutritional ingredients and healthy cooking methods presented in a surprising, fun way.
I AL AIN HOSTS HANDICRAFTS FESTIVAL
n celebration of the UAE’s cultural heritage, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) has announced the third annual Traditional Handicrafts Festival. H.E. Saif Saeed Ghobash, director general, TCA Abu Dhabi, said, “The 10-day festival will include activities and programmes that reflect different aspects of the UAE’s intangible heritage that we have to preserve and promote to the community, our youth, and tourists.” The programme, which runs until November 12 at Al Ain’s historic Souq Al Qattara, aims to promote national identity and reinforce the endeavours of artisan families.
Traditional Handicrafts Festival
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Guests travelling from New York to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways were treated to a surprise celebration of the Hindu festival of Diwali
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Air Arabia won the corporate social responsibility initiative of the year title for its Charity Cloud programme at Aviation Business Awards
Al Bustan Centre and Residence, Dubai recognised top-performing employees
5 NOVEMBER 2016
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Nakheel served up a truckload of treats at The Boardwalk at Dubai's Palm Jumeirah
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai, visited the brand-new Dubai Parks and Resorts
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NEWS & EVENTS AHIC to Address Challenges
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he planning for the much-anticipated 2017 Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) is officially underway. The event’s advisory board held its annual meeting at the newly-inaugurated Modul University Dubai to discuss the top obstacles the industry faces and to shape the theme for the next installment. In a poll, members described business this year as challenging and difficult with the outlook for 2017 being questionable. Nevertheless, the Middle East remains the fastest-growing region for new hotel rooms.
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EVENTS 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.
CULTURAL TOURISM MIDDLE EAST
AHIC
FITUR in UNWTO Plenary Session Spotlight
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na Larrañaga, director, International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR), took part in the 38th meeting of the plenary session of affiliated members of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Held in Yerevan, the event was organised alongside the 43rd meeting of the Governing Board of UNWTO Affiliated Members where the key principles of the 2017 action plan were considered, including the future of tourism, the cultural and city segments as well as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017, which will be launched at FITUR in January 2017, in Madrid.
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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 the UAE.
HOTELIER SUMMIT December 07 – 09 Dubai, UAE www.ide-global.com Hoteliers from across the UAE and Saudi Arabia will share knowledge and ideas.
ITB BERLIN March 08 – 12 Berlin, Germany www.itb-berlin.de One of the most important annual events where leading industry stakeholders meet, network and conduct business.
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