7 JANUARY 2017 ISSUE 374
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09 ACCOMMODATION
NIKKI BEACH OPENS ON PEARL JUMEIRA
MUSLIM TRAVEL SECTOR WORTH OVER USD138 BILLION
08 MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN ABU DHABI OFFICIALLY OPENED
06 Technology
16 Rendezvous 23 Photo Album
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
Passenger Growth at QAIA Despite Slow October
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALIST Ellen Petty CONTRIBUTOR Dominique Christou Panayiotis Karanicholas Stella Alexandrou SALES & SALES SUPPORT Maria Demetriadou Magda Christou Raluca Apostolescu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou
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
QAIA
WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis
In the first 10 months of 2016, Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) served more than 6.38 million passengers, a year-on-year increase of 4.4 percent.
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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
urthermore, during the aforementioned period, aircraft movements grew 2.9 percent, totalling 62,553 while cargo volume surged 2.2 percent to 84,124 tons. Despite these optimistic figures, there was an eight percent decline in passenger numbers during October 2016, with just 532,542 travellers passing through the hub. ACM also dropped to 5,630 movements, down 8.1 percent compared to the same period in 2015. However, as Kjeld Binger, CEO, Airport International Group, explained, this lull is typical during this time of year, and the airfield was set to welcome a surge at the end of 2016
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
Airbus Group Announce New Stock Exchange Name
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
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2
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Airbus Group will change its stock market listing name to Airbus this month. This follows the decision announced in September 2016 to merge its group structure with the commercial aircraft division.
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nce the legal proceedings are concluded, Airbus will no longer be a group with three divisions but rather a commercial aircraft manufacturer with two divisions, which will include, defence and space and helicopters. The legal name change to Airbus SE is still subject to the approval of the annual general meeting due to be held in April this year. Airbus Group shares are listed in France, Germany and Spain.
7 JANUARY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS
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Mall of Qatar Welcomes its First Visitors
Rendering of Mall of Qatar
Following a soft opening whereby media personnel viewed its offerings, Mall of Qatar, a 500,000m2 shopping concept, is officially open to the public.
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peaking at the launch, Ahmed Al Mulla, CEO, Mall of Qatar, said, “Mall culture plays a large role in the Middle East, and especially GCC society. We are pushing the boundaries and elevating the mall experience with our brand new, and innovative offering.� Al Mulla further explained that the centre is 99 percent leased, while 92 percent of spaces are currently in the fit-out stage. In addition to food outlets, retail and a 19-screen cinema, the mall also boasts MOQ Live, a free entertainment programme that transports visitors to an adventure on a 360-degree revolving stage set within Oasis, a 5,000m2 lush, landscaped arena.
Beirut welcomes 4DX Theatre
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ajid Al Futtaim Cinemas, the cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim announced the launch of the first 4DX theatre in Lebanon at City Centre Beirut on December 10, 2016. All five screens of 4DX offer the latest in cinematic technology exclusively by VOX Cinemas featuring among others 4DX motion chairs as well as specially fitted mechanics around the seats mimicking exactly the on-screen environment.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Muslim Travel Sector Worth Over USD138 Billion
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ccording to Salam Standard’s first Global Economic Impact of Muslim Tourism Report 2015, the global GDP impact of Islamic travellers exceeded USD138 billion, accounting for more than 10 percent of total tourism spend. The US and the European Union benefit the most from this, accumulating around 44 percent of the total inbound expenditure. In terms of outbound spending, the Middle East accounts for 60 percent of this sectors expenditure, worth some USD60 billion. Whilst noting that the sector has a significant impact on the economic wealth of some of the world’s leading markets, Faeez Fadhlillha, CEO, Salam Standard, added, “The sector is expected to grow by 50 percent in volume and 35 percent in value over the next five years [...].”
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t the 2016 Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), highlighted the potential of developing the Halal cruising segment. During a panel discussion on the topic, Mubarak Al Shamisi, director, Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau, explained that Halal cruising would enable the emirate to meet its target of over 800,000 cruise passenger by 2025. Noting that the value of Islamic travel from the UAE and GCC is USD55 billion, Al Shamisi added, “We believe our culture, heritage and product base has great appeal with the Muslim traveller and the expansion of this product mix into the cruise segment is a natural progression to attract Muslim passengers from our key cruise markets, and stimulate regional and home-grown demand for Abu Dhabi cruises.”
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Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal
TCA Abu Dhabi to Promote Halal Cruising
7 JANUARY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS
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Jeddah Hosts OIC Meeting
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enior representatives from the United Nations (UN), World Bank and more than 40 nations descended in Jeddah for a meeting organised by Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), ahead of a conference regarding the situation in Yemen. The forum acted as a preparatory meeting, focussed on pooling the efforts of partnering organisations, namely the UN, the Yemeni government and the GCC as well as several international donors. Yousuf Al-Othaimeen, secretary general, OIC, said, “The conference that is being planned is an important step towards boosting response and a coordination system among active parties in Yemen to ensure non-multiplication or duplication of mechanisms.”
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illions of shoppers are scheduled to attend the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). The events 22nd edition which was launched December 26, 2016 is hailed to be the longest running festival of its kind in the world, running for 34 days and offering shopping, winning and entertainment. The Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing and the organisers of DSF 2017, revealed plans on expanding the event even more by adding fashion shows, exclusive product launches, big names in entertainment, as well as opportunities to win cars, cash and gold.
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Khalifa Port Set to Expand
Khalifa Port
Dubai Shopping Festival 2016
DSF Organisers Reveal Expansion Plans
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bu Dhabi Ports, the master developer, operator and manager of the Emirate’s ports and Khalifa Industrial Zone, has today announced a major expansion plan in Khalifa Port. This expanion, will add 1000 m of quay wall to the port and deepen its main channel and basin to 18 m from the current 16 m. The new quay wall will add an additional 600,000 m2 for cargo handling. Following the expansion, increase in competitiveness of the Emirate as a logistics and maritime hub is anticipated, meanwhile serving key industries across the UAE. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO, Abu Dhabi Ports, commented, “This ambitious expansion is crucial to ensuring Abu Dhabi remains a global trade and investment hub as well as supporting our local industries.”
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WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY
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Vipservice and Travelport Extend Agreement Hailed as Russia’s third largest online travel agency, Vipservice has signed an extended contract with Travelport, ensuring it will continue to access the global distribution system’s Travel Commerce Platform.
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ommenting on the renewal, Dmitry Gorin, general manger, Vipservice, noted, “We are delighted to be strengthening our relationship with Travelport. Through its Travel Commerce Platform and unique merchandising capabilities, Travelport provides a great opportunity for our business to grow sales, provide better-quality customer service and give us a heightened online presence.” Travelport provides content from more than 400 airlines, 200 of which now sell their full range of branded fares and ancillaries via the service. Furthermore, over 650,000 hotels and 36,000 car rental locations are also available.
Mobile Bookings to Immensely Rise
Android Welcomes Etihad App
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ith a rising number of Asia Pacific travellers having access to the Internet and digital banking via their smartphones, the mobile will be the fastest-growing online platform in the region, according to Phocuswright's Asia Pacific Online Travel Overview Ninth Edition. It is predicted that combined mobile gross bookings of China, India and Japan will reach USD105.9 billion by 2020, up 325 percent over 2015. Chetan Kapoor, research analyst, Asia Pacific, Phocuswright, said, "Mobile share of the Chinese online travel market will almost double between 2015 and 2020 to 77 percent, significantly dwarfing even the Western mobile markets."
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obile Travel Technologies (MTT) has launched the new Android app for Etihad Airways, bringing sophisticated mobile services to a wider set of customers. Similar to the current iOS app, the new Android app has a focus on an immersive user experience, seamless booking and check-in flows and on making the travel experience as simple and stress free as possible. The app includes innovative features such as airport guidance using indoor maps powered by MTT’s day of travel solution, Concierge Live. Etihad Airways’ guests can stay in complete control of their journeys directly via the app with credit card scanning for payments, passport scanning to check-in, mobile boarding passes, flight status updates, interactive seat map views and the ability to monitor their Etihad Guest miles’ balance.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Fairmont Fujairah Opening
Metropolitan Hotel Dubai Makes its Comeback
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7 JANUARY 2017
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a member of the AccorHotels, is set to open the Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort this month.
Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort
he four-star Metropolitan Hotel Dubai has re-opened its doors after a three and a half year interval. Situated in a new location, in the heart of the city, on Sheikh Zayed Road, the property features 320 contemporary rooms including 18 suites, leisure facilities including a rooftop swimming pool, and a appointed spa. Additionally, guests can enjoy a range of new food and beverage options, as well as business and event space. Khalaf Al Habtoor, chairman, Al Habtoor Group, “We have come a long way since 1979. We are proud to bring back the Metropolitan Hotel Dubai. The success of the hotel has helped shape our growth in the hospitality sector.”
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ith views of the marina and the Gulf of Oman, the 180-room property is the fifth Fairmont branded project in the UAE, joining the flagship Fairmont Dubai, Fairmont The Palm, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, and Fairmont Ajman. The project features among others a swimming pool, children’s club, the brand’s Willow Stream Spa and a fully-equipped fitness centre and dive centre. In addition to expansive outdoor space, the hotel offers three meeting rooms, including a pre-function area. "We are pleased to add to our rapidly growing portfolio of hotels in the UAE with the introduction of the uniquely designed Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort," said, Omar Souab, general manager, Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort, adding that this property will be a high-profile addition to the East Coast’s developing hospitality and tourism industry.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi Officially Opened
UAE to Welcome Wyndham Garden Property
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M Marriot Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi
Hotels and Wyndham Hotel Group have announced an agreement to open the first Wyndham Garden in UAE. Wyndham Garden is a hotel brand designed to make stays more carefree by focussing on what matters most to deliver stress-free, easy travel. The Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche is expected to open during this year. The 17-storey, four-star hotel will feature 179 guest rooms, two restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool, gym and spa, separate health clubs for men and women, and a kids’ play area. Sumair Tariq, managing director, R Hotels, commented, “The franchise deal cements our long-standing partnership with Wyndham Hotel Group and R Hotels is honoured to pioneer and set the standards for the Wyndham Garden brand in the UAE.”
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ore than 400 invitees attended the official launch of Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown Abu Dhabi, in a celebratory event in the Grand Ballroom. The 315-key property features three restaurants, a spa and health club as well as extensive meeting space. Meanwhile, the serviced apartments provide the privacy of residential living with five-star service and facilities, with 64 one-, two- and three- bedroom offerings. Alex Kyriakidis, president, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, said, “[...] We are extremely proud to be opening our first Marriott Hotel in the UAE’s capital, along with our first Marriott Executive Apartments. We are excited to be opening at a time when the UAE continues to exceed expectations with its economic growth.”
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arking its third African country, after Egypt and Cape Verde, Deutsche Hospitality has announced two Tunisian properties, both expected to open in the second quarter of the year. The five-star Steigenberger Hotel Kantaoui Bay will boast 365 rooms and suites, six food and beverage outlets and a three-storey Thalassotherapy Centre, offering a range of spa and wellness services. Guests will also be able to enjoy swimming pools, tennis courts and an events area. The second address will be Jaz Hotel Tour Khalef, a 570-key offering with eight restaurants. Other facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa and gym as well as a conference room.
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Steigenberger Hotel Kantaoui Bay
Deutsche Hospitality Expands into Tunisia
7 JANUARY 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
NIKKI BEACH OPENS ON
Pearl Jumeira ON DECEMBER 20, 2016, THE NIKKI BEACH BRAND REVEALED THEIR NEW ADDITION WITH THE OPENING ON PEARL JUMEIRA ISLAND IN DUBAI.
Nikki Beach Pearl Jumeira Dubai
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ikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai is a unique project launched in partnership with Dubai – based holding company Meraas, and introduces the world to a unique beachfront lifestyle and hospitality concept. Alexander Schneider, general manager, Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts EMEA, said, “We are the first Nikki Beach resort with a beach club on its premises launched in the region, offering guests the option of choosing between a vibrant beach club atmosphere with amazing parties, music and dining options as well as relaxing in the tranquillity of a beachfront or a more private garden villa with special features to suit preferences of our GCC guests and families.”
Archea Appointed to Develop RAK New Beachfront Resort
Portonovi Unveiled in Montenegro
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Selim Kseib, country chief executive, Bureau Veritas Qatar; Vishal Bhat, certification manager; Vinoth K P, Makram Fakherdinne, business team leader,Senior Lead Auditor, Sutton, Robbert Manussen, resident manager, Aswad Sharif, HACCP Manager.
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Montenegro
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ollowing the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point System (HACCP) accreditation, Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park, has recently been presented the ISO 22000: 2005 certification, an international food safety management system, by Bureau Veritas. A team from various departments from the property worked together, under the leadership of Aswad Sharif, hygiene manager, Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park, over the past year to put in place processes, communication channels, controls and plans for HACCP operation. “At Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park, we strive to maintain and improve the highest quality of our food and hygiene standards,” said, Marcus Sutton, general manager, Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park.
n partnership with Azmonth Investments, Henry Wiltshire International has launched Portonovi project, a 26ha ultra-premium residential community on Boka Bay, located between Montenegro’s mountains and the Adriatic coastline. The USD3 billion development will be home to a range of high-end hospitality brands including, but not limited to, Ramada, Hilton Worldwide and Regent Hotels & Resorts. In an event at St. Regis Hotel Abu Dhabi, Darko Uskokovic, ambassador to the UAE, Montenegro, said, “These are just some of the brands whose presence is an indication that we are a serious player in the tourism market.” Montenegro is one of the fastest growing travel economies in the world and investments in the industry is expected to grow seven percent annually over the next decade.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Jeddah Set to Welcome The Langham
Jeddah
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ollowing the signing of an agreement with Advanced Hotels Company, Langham Hospitality Group has revealed The Langham, Jeddah, due to open summer 2018. The high-end property, with panoramic views of the city and corniche will boast 238 rooms, 39 suites and an opulent two-bedroom Royal Suite. Furthermore the hotel will offer multiple dining outsets, extensive banqueting and meeting space with an area of more than 3,500m2. Commenting on the announcement Robert Warman, CEO, Langham Hospitality Group, noted, “The creative design of the hotel’s façade and interiors along with the luxury facilities of The Langham, Jeddah, underlined by our legendary award-winning service, will provide an exceptional destination for our guests.”
Afaaq Leadership Camp III
Developing Emirati Female Leadership
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n December 16 - 22, 2016 the Afaaq Leadership Camp III organised by Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah at the Royal Tulip Hotel in Sharjah, took place, with the participation of 40 young ladies from the members of the sixth edition of Sharjah Youth Consultative Council and Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah. The camp aimed at developing leadership skills and preparing a new generation of highly qualified and skilled Emirati female leaders. The seven-day camp included a variety of workshops and activities, such as intelligence games and problem solving workshops; a trip to Al Hajar Mountains in Kalba where participants engaged in time management, self-dependence and problem solving challenges, a debate and discussion workshop, a volunteering day which aimed at developing social responsibility, a teamwork workshop and many more activities.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Occupancy Rates Hit 90 Percent for Rixos The Palm
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Rixos The Palm Hotel
ixos The Palm, Dubai experienced a 12 percent increase in occupancy rates for 2016, as compared to 2015, reaching the target of 90 percent. Classed as a sought after luxury residency, the hotel welcomes UAE citizens and residence, GCC nationals and many other travellers from around the globe. While the market saw a decline of around 10-12 percent, a 20 percent increase was experienced by the brand comparatively. Loyalty staged as a priority for the property, which saw returning guests at 25 percent, with this years target at 35 percent respectively. Earkan Yildirim, senior vice president, operations, Rixos The Palm, said, “This year, we are targeting a 91 percent yearround occupancy as the first quarter displays great potential, a consistency we would like to maintain.”
DAMAC’s MOD Townhouses Launched
Akoya Oxygen Golf Course
Rendering of La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK Dubai
La Ville Hotel & Suites Joins Autograph Collection
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utograph Collection Hotels has added La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK Dubai to its exclusive portfolio of independent properties. The newly opened address features 77 rooms, 11 suites and 68 apartments, all of which are spacious and celebrate urban luxury. The property also boasts three restaurants, a café as well as a rooftop bar. Markus Roeder, general manager, La Ville Hotel & Suites, commented, “As part of Autograph Collection Hotels, we are honoured to be part of a unique array of properties that is nothing less than completely unique, nothing short of collectively exceptional.”
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AMAC Properties announced the launch of MOD townhouses, a collection of accommodation in the heart of the international golf community Akoya Oxygen. The development, sized at 55 million m2, boasts eco-living in Dubai and easy access to the major highways. On sale from December 2016, each residence houses one- bedroom, a living room and study, with the added-value feature of a private garden space. Niall McLoughlin, senior vice president, DAMAC Properties, said, “We are excited to bring to the market yet another innovative residential offering within a green community. MOD townhouses uniquely provide first-time home buyers and investors alike with the opportunity to climb onto Dubai’s lucrative property ladder and enjoy the benefits.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Zanzibar
Turkish Airlines has launched its direct flights between Istanbul and Zanzibar, with three weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
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ommenting on the launch, Ahmet Olmuştur, chief marketing officer, Turkish Airlines, said, “Turkish Airlines is proud to transport people around the globe to experience new cultures, share ideas and create memories that will stay with them for a lifetime. We are delighted to open the new route to Zanzibar, a truly remarkable destination. We continually seek out opportunities to expand our network and look forward to welcoming our passengers on their way to Zanzibar in the near future.”
Linking Doha with Ireland
Dublin
Connecting Istanbul and Zanzibar
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s of June 12, 2017, Qatar Airways will offer daily non-stop flights between Doha and Dublin, further enhancing connectivity for its passengers. Commenting on the upcoming route, Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “The launch of flights to Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is an exciting addition to our network and I am confident that business and leisure passengers will benefit from our Boeing 787 Dreamliner service and smooth onward connections through our home and hub, Hamad International Airport.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR Boeing and Iran Air Reach Agreement
Etihad and Lufthansa Announce Codeshare
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ubject to government approval, Etihad Airways and Lufthansa will begin their codeshare agreement this month. As part of the arrangement, the German carrier will add its LH code on Etihad Airways’ services from Abu Dhabi to Frankfurt and Munich, while the UAE national airline will put its EY code on Lufthansa’s flights from Frankfurt to Rio de Janeiro and Bogota. Furthermore, following the signing of a sixyear wet lease agreement, Lufthansa’s point-topoint carriers, Eurowings and Austrian Airlines are to lease some 38 aircraft from airberlin, a company in which Etihad Airways indirectly holds a 29 percent stake, effective from February.
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ran Air has placed an order with Boeing for 80 aircraft, in a deal valued at around USD16.6 billion. The announcement follows a memorandum of agreement that was unveiled in June, 2016, and has now been secured within the terms of the US government license which was issued to the aircraft manufacturer in September, 2016. The agreement is expected to support 100,000 US jobs over the full course of delivery. The aeroplanes are scheduled to be delivered in 2018. The contract includes 50 B737s, 15 B777-300ERs and 15 B777-9s.
Omantel and Oman Air Team up
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mantel, Oman’s telecom provider and Oman Air have signed a partnership agreement that will result in the enhancement of the value of services provided by both companies. It will also enable them to jointly maximise their promotional services and products, resulting in a significant improvement in the overall experience of their respective customers. As part of the agreement, the functionality and features of each of their respective customer loyalty programmes, will mutually benefit from the other going forward. Haitham Abdullah Al Kharusi, vice president, consumer unit, Omantel, stated that through this agreement both companies have found the perfect alternative avenue through which they can expand the reach of their services to the benefit of both, Omantel and Oman Air customers.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Tunis
Air Algerie to Serve Tunis
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arch 26, 2017 is to welcome the launch of flights from Ouarglia in Southeast Algeria to Tunis with Air Algerie. The initial plan is for the airline to serve this route once a week from Ain Beida Airport to Tunis–Carthage International Airport, catering to leisure and business travellers alike wanting to explore the Tunisian capital.
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Morocco to Join Emirates A380 network
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mirates announced that it will operate the first ever commercial Airbus A380 flight to Morocco and North Africa, replacing the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft currently used, with an A380 double decker aircraft by March 26. The switch to the A380 offers a total of 1834 additional seats per week, meeting a growing demand from travellers on the route, with 14 private suites in First Class, 76 lie flat seats in Business Class and 401 seats in spacious Economy Class cabin.
Qatar Airways’ Superjumbo to Melbourne
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Melbourne
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atar Airways has marked its seventh anniversary in Melbourne by announcing plans to introduce its superjumbo A380 aircraft from June 30, in order to meet rising passenger demand. The 517-seater aircraft will increase the airline’s current daily capacity by 44 percent on the Melbourne – Doha route to meet the growing demand. Commenting on the initiative, H.E. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “As we continue to grow apace in Australia, we have seen a clear need to inject additional capacity on the Melbourne service. We are delighted to introduce our A380 aircraft to Melbourne after seven years of operation to the world’s most liveable city.”
7 JANUARY 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS
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oinciding with the arrival of MSC Fantasia, Abu Dhabi Ports officially inaugurated Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach, the latest asset to the emirate’s cruise sector. Commenting on the launch, H.E. Mohamed Khalida Al Mubarak, chairman, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority and Tourism Development & Investment Company, noted, “Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach gives Abu Dhabi a competitive advantage by enabling double-emirate calls and demonstrates the effectiveness of the emirate’s coordinated stakeholder approach to the development of Abu Dhabi's cruise sector.” In its first season, the destination is expected to attract around 60,000 tourists from 39 cruise line calls. Hailed as the first of its kind in the region, the island boasts a range of facilities and wild-life based excursions.
Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach
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Fitness and Fun in Al Ain
Wadi Adventure race
Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach Officially Opened
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he 12th edition of Wadi Adventure race series, WAR12 is set to take place on January 14 at Wadi Adventure in Al Ain. Participants have been gearing up with a four-week free fitness training camp which commenced on December 17, working through obstacles which will be used at the actual event. Commenting on the upcoming race, Nilesh Mistry, general manager, Wadi Adventure, said, “Wadi Adventure Race is a great opportunity for the fitness community to come together for a day of excitement, fun and a test of true athletic ability, and the free training sessions are the best way to train your body for the great event ahead.”
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Q & A with
RENDEZVOUS
DIANA ALMALAKH DIRECTOR E-BUSINESS, E-PAYMENT AND FRAUD PREVENTION, ROYAL JORDANIAN AIRLINES
WITH MOBILE TECHNOLOGY BECOMING INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT, DIANA ALMALAKH, DIRECTOR E-BUSINESS, E-PAYMENT AND FRAUD PREVENTION, ROYAL JORDANIAN AIRLINES (RJ) DISCUSSES THE ROLE THAT GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION SERVICES (GDS) PLAY IN THE MODERN WORLD OF TRAVEL.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important are GDS to the travel industry, including airlines such as Royal Jordanian Airlines? DIANA ALMALAKH: GDS are considered one of the top key players in any airline distribution, and are used mainly by airlines, travel agents and online travel agents. GDS are used by airlines to distribute their direct sales and services, and at the same time are used by travel agencie to sell airline services and products. Because
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they are widely spread, airlines publish their flights, fares and services through various GDS, to be reachable in different distribution channels and thus seize all available sales opportunities on a worldwide scale, to maximise their passenger market share and profits. GDS currently play the biggest role in legacy airline ticket sales, and are believed to continue to do so for the coming years. Even low cost carriers [have] started to extend their direct distribution to the GDS channel due to the potential and the strength of the distribution network to capture a great deal of sales opportunities. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which service provider do you use and why? DIANA ALMALAKH: RJ [uses] Amadeus IT Solution, one of the strongest airline IT providers worldwide. Amadeus SAS capabilities have high potential to connect the airline system with the GDS, serve travellers with different types of services and improve the management of airline capabilities in designing, optimising and enforcing their own rules, and processes for the distribution of its products. The top-notch Amadeus products and tools give a competitive edge to the airline, and help the airline in its innovation and distribution process.
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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What more can GDS do in line with technology advancements? DIANA ALMALAKH: As the world of technology is rapidly changing and behaviour of the customer is changing even faster, GDS need to provide airlines with more flexible, less costly, and personalised technologies, to enable airlines to meet the changing demands and trends of customers. [...] GDS need to continue the revolution they started, and adopt to the new distribution capabilities programme which was initiated by International Air Transport Association in the past few years. This programme allows airlines to provide customers with personalised and customised journeys, by using Extensible Markup Language based technologies. GDS can utilise the technology to provide digital solutions to enhance the traveller journey and benefit from more streamlined operations. They provide end-to-end solutions that cover all stages of the journey, from booking and servicing, to check-in and boarding pass issuance. As well, shared business rules and integrated triggers within the underlying airline IT platform ensuring real-time data accuracy and consistency across digital channels.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important are mobile services in the current travel industry?
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the current barriers that still need to be overcome and what does the future hold?
DIANA ALMALAKH: Today, enterprise mobility has become a must. Gradually, organisations are putting their trust in innovative mobility solutions to accelerate their business growth, increase customer satisfaction, enhance employee productivity and satisfaction, shorten sales cycles and grow revenue, as well as improve customer response time. GDS are offering mobile solutions for every travel programme across all customers journeys. They empower our business and keep us ahead of the game. With innovative solutions and dynamic mobile platforms, it is easy for our customer to plan, book and manage trips simply, conveniently, and on the go. Airlines must keep up to date with new industry innovation in order to maximise revenue opportunities, improve the traveller experience, provide consistent business logic across all digital touch points and reduce operational costs and operate an efficient IT model.
DIANA ALMALAKH: Cost, cost and cost is the still the main barrier between airlines and GDS. In the new era of technology, adopting the technological aspects bilaterally and in sync is also considered as a barrier. Some GDS started already with developing a merchandising platform offering the adoption of recent passenger needs. Though customer behaviour is now being directed to digital channels, GDS and their customers need to offer the same technology through both digital and traditional channels. They will make more scalable efforts in improving the capability of the airline to create, optimise and distribute the best offer of products across all channels and touch points. GDS need to invest in technology that enables full airline creation and control over its offer with maximum return on investment and the lowest cost of ownership. 7 JANUARY 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL New Mexico to Welcome Cultural Hotel
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Hotel Chaco rendering
otel Chaco is on schedule to open in Old Town Albuquerque in New Mexico, in April. The property, the first from-the-ground-up design and build project from Heritage Hotels & Resorts, is located adjacent to sister property Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town, where guests can share the pool, ballrooms, and wedding chapel. Creating culinary delights, chef Mark Miller will consult on the concept for Hotel Chaco’s rooftop restaurant, Level 5. “We are creating a hotel where guests will experience the true culture of New Mexico in a way that has never been done before. We are blending ancient building techniques from New Mexico Native Americans with modern amenities and designs from the best designers in the world to create a new hotel that will redefine and advance the architectural building style in our state,” commented Jim Long, CEO, Heritage Hotels & Resorts.
Singapore Welcomes First Marriott Hotel
JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach
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arriott Hotels & Resorts debuted the new JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach. Being the brand’s first hotel in Singapore, located in close proximity of the Marina Bay entertainment and business districts, this lifestyle destination boasts arts and culture at its finest. The premises features 634 rooms embraced in modern day technological nodes aiding to our effervescent lifestyles, a variety of wellness offerings including Spa by JW, sky garden, fitness centre, nine dining options, 1,711 m2 of outdoor events and meeting spaces including the 520 m2 Grand Ballroom. Derek Flint, general manager, JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach, said, “We look forward to enriching guests with a truly luxurious experience and showcasing the warm, intuitive service that is synonymous with the JW Marriott brand globally.”
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Courtyard Brussels EU Opens for Business
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Courtyard Brussels EU
ourtyard by Marriott continues to expand across Europe with the opening of Courtyard Brussels EU. Located in the heart of the European Quarter near the city centre, the hotel offers convenient access to the Grand Place, Magritte Museum, European Commission and Brussels International Airport. The 180 key hotel features the latest Courtyard by Marriott design, as well as the Bistro GåRD – Nordic Kitchen, a 24-hour market providing refreshments and travel accessories, a fully-equipped fitness centre, and a business centre with three meeting rooms, including a flexible 72m2 venue. This new opening marks the arrival of Courtyard by Marriott’s second hotel in the city, and increases Marriott International’s presence in Belgium to six properties
Mexico to Home Rosewood Property
Hawaii to Welcome Atlantis Resort
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Ko Olina
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osewood Hotels & Resorts has been appointed by RLH Properties to manage Rosewood Mandarina, scheduled to open in 2019, as Rosewood’s fifth property in Mexico. The resort will be situated in Nayarit, and will boast 130 rooms, suites and villas with panoramic views across the mountains, beach and ocean. Guests will also be able to enjoy a variety of food and beverage outlets, three swimming pools, a fitness centre and spa, and event space. “With all the natural beauty and adventure that Riviera Nayarit has to offer, Rosewood Mandarina will effortlessly embody the brand’s A Sense of Place philosophy,” enthused Sonia Cheng, CEO, Rosewood Hotel Group.
hina Oceanwide has entered into a management agreement with subsidiaries of Kerzner International for a new Atlantis resort in Ko
Olina. Atlantis Ko Olina will boast approximately 800 luxurious guest rooms and suites, as well as 524 residences, introducing a new luxury lifestyle experience to the region. Guests and residents will be able to enjoy a variety of amenities, from private gardens and private pools, luxury retail boutiques, a spa, and fitness centre, as well as meeting and event space. The property will also boast the Aquaventure Waterpark, The Ambassador Lagoon and The Lost Chambers Aquarium and incredible dining experiences.
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CHAIRMAN, ITALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, UAE
“We are very honoured for these [nine] recognitions [at the 2nd Middle East Hozpitality Excellence Awards] and we would like to thank Hozpitality Group and everyone who voted for us! This was truly a night of success for Ramada Ajman and I am very fortunate to work with such a talented and award-winning team.”
CEO, OMAN AIR
[I am] delighted to extend the services of Italian Chamber of Commerce
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to the [Italian Industry & Commerce Office in the UAE] (IICUAE) second congress in Dubai that holds great significance for all of us present here. I wish you a successful forum and delighted to extend the services of the Italian Chamber of Commerce to facilitate any requirements you may have.”
GENERAL MANAGER, JUMEIRAH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA
HAKAN PETEK
IFTIKHAR HAMDANI H.E. MOHAMMED BIN FAISAL AL QASSIMI
CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER, RAMADA HOTELS & SUITES AJMAN AND RAMADA BEACH HOTEL AJMAN
This was truly a night of success
PAUL GREGOROWITSCH
TRAVEL TALK
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This is an incredible result for Oman Air
“This is an incredible result for Oman Air to finish [2016] with three World Travel Awards. These awards set the standards for the travel industry and we have consistently been voted the best. Oman Air is a successful, sustainable company of the highest quality and it is immensely gratifying to be rewarded for our unique product and on board experience, in all classes.”
This award represents the collective efforts of our hotel team “We are extremely proud and honoured to have been recently awarded by the World Luxury Hotel Awards as the winner of Kuwait’s Luxury Beach Resort for the second consecutive year. This award represents the collective efforts of our team and I would like to extend special gratitude to our guests and industry peers for making us the best in the category. The outstanding results will only further our commitment to carry on providing guests with memorable and exceptional experiences.”
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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WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
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Dnata: 10 Years of Collaboration
dnata’s airport operations marked 10 years collaboration with the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing in establishing Dubai as a global cruise hub. Port Rashid Terminal Dubai
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he market has grown from handling 55 cruise ship calls with 106,000 cruise tourists in the 2006 - 2007 season, to 133 cruise ship calls attracting over 541,000 cruise tourists to Dubai in the 2015- 2016 season. dnata has created an integral product for cruises, providing seamless experiences for passengers, including airport handling, transfer of passengers and baggage, shore excursions, retail sales and cruise crew rotations. “The phenomenal growth we have seen in such a short span of time is really a testament to how invested Dubai and its partners are in creating an exciting proposition for cruise companies and customers alike,” exclaimed, Emma Deane, vice president, commercial and business development, dnata airport operations.
Egypt Air Partners with Omeir Travel Agency
New Heights for Air Travel Revealed
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meir Travel Agency, has been declared as the preferred sales and services agent for Egypt Air in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The partnership agreement was signed by Abdulla Bin Omeir, CEO, Omeir Travel Agency, and Ossama Haroun, manager, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, Egypt Air. “We are delighted to establish a new partnership with Egypt Air which is a strong key player in the commercial airline industry, providing a variety of choices and a number of new benefits to our clients. The partnership will only further strengthen our vision as we continue to provide clients with a seamless booking experience,” stated Bin Omeir. The agency will provide exclusive services to Egypt Air including different payment options through their offices in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
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xpedia in partnership with Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) and other industry sources released a comprehensive study of worldwide air travel trends named New Heights for Air Travel. Both parties conducted an original analysis of billions of data points spotting trends aiding modern travellers when booking within 2016. Collectively, New Heights for Air Travel revealed that the two factors, being falling ticket prices and surging capacity, suggest that the year could be a highlight year for travellers with more options to fly to more destinations at lower prices. The report is an analysis of worldwide air travel data from the beginning of January through to end of October 2016.
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WEEKLY NEWS TRAVEL CHANNELS
Egyptian Marriott Hotels Celebrate GCAW
Armed Forces Officers Club Received Certification Sial 2016
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arriott International and Starwood Hotels and Resorts’ Egyptian properties celebrated Global Customer Appreciation Week (GCAW), an annual event aimed at establishing and reinforcing relationships with customers, both old and new. Sales and marketing representatives from all of the group’s Egyptian addresses launched the event by welcoming arrivals at the new terminal of Cairo International Airport. Loyal customers from around the country were invited to an exclusive event at The Nile Ritz-Carlton, where they enjoyed a number of surprises, including discount vouchers for the group’s hotels across Egypt. In addition, Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino invited child burn victims and their families from Ahl Masr Foundation for lunch and entertainment including a magician and a puppet show.
he Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel were awarded the certification of appreciation at the Sial 2016 exhibition, in recognition of the hotels participation in adding the Weqaya Logo to Healthy Foods program. The team led by Karsten Gottschalk, executive chef, The Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel, had been working on incorporating healthy options into the menus at AFOC&H. “The process is quite challenging but rewarding at the same time, it is an honor to be selected as one of the hotels that has received the Weqaya logo. I will be bringing this concept to our hotel room service and our A la carte menu. We have already started with this and taking it a step forward every day,” stated, Gottschalk.
Air Seychelles Engineers Graduate from Etihad Course
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even Air Seychelles engineers have completed a comprehensive training programme with Etihad Airways, achieving an aircraft maintenance engineering licence in accordance with European Aviation Safety Agency and General Civil Aviation Authority requirements. The course covered topics such as aviation regulations, digital techniques and aerodynamics. Upon completion of their theoretical training, the students undertook practical exercises at hangars in both Abu Dhabi and the Seychelles. Commenting on the graduation, Roy Kinnear, CEO, Air Seychelles, said, “The four-year programme enabled our engineers to gain a wealth of experience with modern Airbus aircraft that form the backbone of our international fleet, made possible by our partnership with Etihad Airways.”
Sharjah Hosts World Championship Week
World Championship Week
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halid Lagoon welcomed the Sharjah World Championship Week on December 15, 2016, with the U.I.M. F1H2O World Championship 2016 – Grand Prix of Sharjah. The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority organises the event on a yearly basis under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, crown prince, Sharjah. The Sharjah World Championship Week 2016 included the 17th U.I.M. F1H2O World Championship 2016 – Grand Prix of Sharjah on December 15 and 16, as well as the second UIM-ABP Aquabike Class Pro Circuit World Championship – Grand Prix of Sharjah 2016 on December 19 and 21.
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Sharjah to Host Music Festival
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Third UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism
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he fourth edition of the Sharjah World Music Festival 2017 is set to take place from January 06 – 14 at Al Majaz Amphitheatre. Organised by Furat Qaddouri Music Centre and sponsored by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the event promises to be a grand showcase of local, regional and international acts. Flag Island will host two musical evenings on January 07 and 08, dedicated to the memory of one of the greatest Arab singers of the 20th century, Umm Kulthum. Artist Furat Qaddouri, manager, Sharjah World Music Festival, said, “We promise that our audience will experience a rich musical and cultural evening at the Flag Island Theatre. Traditional oriental music will remain the overarching theme of these two days’ performances, along with European bands that brought together artists from all across the world.”
eadquartered in Madrid, Spain. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) hosted the presentation of the third UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism. The event will be held in Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain in May this year, showcased bi-annually. Organised by UNWTO in collaboration with UNWTO Affiliate Member, the Basque Culinary Center, as part of the activities of the UNWTO Gastronomy Network, the third edition will be dedicated to the links between gastronomy tourism and sustainability in light of the 2017 International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. Commenting on the event, Taleb Rifai, secretary-general, UNWTO, said, “The relation between food and culture has become a major motivation for travellers, but also a great catalyst of sustainable tourism as gastronomy tourism brings out the most authentic features of each destination.”
Empowering Saudi Women
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ccorHotels held its first ever Women Empowerment and Integration Forum at the Sofitel Jeddah Corniche. The event focussed on inspiring a new generation of young Saudi women to reach the highest levels of professional development. The forum, which was open to the public, attracted over 300 attendees, and covered a number of relevant topics including achieving a work-life balance and creating greater employment awareness within public and private sectors in Saudi Arabia. Salah Oumoudden, vice president, operations, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, AccorHotels, said, “Initiatives such as the Women Empowerment and Integration Forum reflect AccorHotels’ core philosophy and our commitment to develop the local human resources of communities which we operate in thereby encouraging women to join the workplace and the hospitality industry.”
The UAE Among World’s Top 20 Exporters
Dubai
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t the 31st edition of the International Autumn Trade Fair (IATF) 2016, it was revealed that the UAE ranked 20th in the world’s top 20 exporters. “According to World Trade Organisation report, UAE had a 31.5 percent share of the Middle East’s total exports in 2015, compared to 28 percent in 2014, as well as 30.8 percent of the region’s total imports,” explained Satish Khanna, general manager, Al Fajer Information & Services, the organisers of the show. IATF 2016, held at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, provides a platform for attendees to purchase or sell operations in the consumer products sector.
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PHOTO ALBUM
First Motors Sponsors 'Yeh Shaam Mastaani' concert in honour of late legend, Kishore Kumar at Indian Club, Bahrain
Crowne Plaza Beirut served food to local homeless people
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Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai has launched its new Asian inspired afternoon tea
Al Majaz Waterfront welcomed the new year with their largest ever fireworks display
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Al Qasba makes a dazzling entry into 2017
Two of the largest cruise ships docked at the Doha port simultaneously, for the first time in the country's recent past
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NEWS & EVENTS
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EVENTS
Showcasing the Best of Madrid FITUR
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ue to take place on January 13 – 22, FESTITUR will showcase the best of Madrid with a programme full of cultural, recreational and gastronomic activities, during the staging of the International Tourism Trade Fair, FITUR. FESTITUR’s goal is to become a festival of tourist experiences offered by Madrid to its visitors during the international fair. It seeks to mobilise the participation of Madrid’s culture, leisure, gastronomy and spectacle businesses as well as the city as a whole and its citizens in promoting the tourist activities of the Spanish capital.
Madrid, Spain January 18 – 22 www.ifema.es The 37th edition of the travel trade fair for both inbound and outbound Ibero American markets.
EMITT Istanbul, Turkey January 26 – 29 www.emittinstanbul.com Industry professionals from more than 70 countries are expected to attend the exhibition focussed on the East Mediterranean. Madrid
IBTM ARABIA
Hotelier Summit Held in Dubai
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Abu Dhabi, UAE February 07 – 09 www.ibtmarabia.com One of the leading international events for the Arabian meetings, incentives, conferences and events industry.
he ninth edition of Hotelier Summit – UAE & KSA, organised by IDE, was held at Al Bustan Rotana in Dubai, where key decision makers and experts from the UAE and Saudi Arabia properties had the opportunity to network with suppliers from around the globe. Commenting on the two-day event, Ganesh Babu, director, India and Middle East, IDE, said, “The initiative featured various seminars, presentations and panel discussions focusing on the new hotel designs and sustainable, hightech and locally authentic hotel properties, beside the challenges that are faced in the hospitality sector in UAE and KSA.”
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