8 APRIL 2017 ISSUE 387
08 FIRST MIDDLE EAST RESORT TO FLY MGM FLAG
05 GENERAL
Morocco to Become a Sustainable Tourism Leader
09 MÖVENPICK HOTELS TO DEBUT IN MUSCAT
07 Technology
16 Rendezvous 18 Who's Moved
MARKET UPDATE
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Green Light for RAK Properties’ Dividends
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Ellen Petty Maria Sabova CONTRIBUTORS Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou Dominique Christou SALES & SALES SUPPORT Magda Christou DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515, neil@globetm.com
RAK Properties annual general meeting 2016
RAK Properties has authorised the distribution of five percent cash dividends, following the approval of its business activities and financial position at its annual general meeting held on March 18 at Marjan Double Tree by Hilton in Ras Al Khaimah.
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ohammed Al Qadi, CEO, RAK Properties, commented, “Through the hard work of our partners and the unwavering support of our stakeholders, we emerged from 2016 reporting positive results. The company achieved revenues in excess of AED390 million (USD106 million) in 2016, a year-on-year increase of 5.98 percent […]. We also posted a consolidated net profit of AED175 million (USD47.6 million), providing us with balanced financial leverage to march forward with our ongoing developments […].”
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
Airports Remained Healthy in 2015
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
6.4.2017
COUNTRY
CURRENCY USD1=
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0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.39
Qatar (QAR)
Rial
3.64
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Riyal
3.75
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Dirham
3.67
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109.95
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Pound
18.00
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32,436.05
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1,167.04
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Dinar
0.31
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,512.38
Libya (LYD)
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1.40
Morocco (MAD)
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10.05
Syria (SYP)
Pound
214.35
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.27
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.28
Airports Council International has recently released Airport Key Performance Indicators for the 2015 financial year confirming six percent year-on-year growth of the industry’s global revenue, reaching the figure of USD151.8 billion, despite the persistent economic uncertainty across the world’s markets.
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ith data from a sample of more than 800 commercial airports, the report revealed that the greatest boost to aeronautical revenues came from passenger charges which increased 8.6 percent over 2014, while landing charges experienced a modest gain of 3.4 percent. In other words, 56 percent of every dollar was generated from passenger-related charges as compared to other aeronautical sources of income such as aircraft-related revenues.
8 APRIL 2017
WEEKLY NEWS
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Kuwaiti Real Estate in Dubai Reached Ultimate High
Dubai World Trade Centre
International Property Show 2017, which ran from April 02 – 04, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, coincided with when Kuwaiti investors are said to be more demanding regarding realty investments in Dubai in the form of villas, apartments and offices.
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n 2016, the number of Kuwaiti investors in Dubai’s real estate market had increased, reaching 770 investors with the volume of their investments reaching AED2 billion (USD 544.5 million) according to Dubai Land Department. At the same time, many reports issued by specialised institutions forecast that the real estate market in Dubai will maintain its growth this year. Infrastructure projects related to Expo 2020, alongside other projects in the emirate will enhance the real estate market boost in the upcoming years, as anticipated by Cluttons.
Prioritising the Preservation of Cultural Heritage
The Louvre
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conference was recently held at The Louvre in Paris, marking the establishment of the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALIPH). The workshop was attended by politicians as well as key representatives from the international cultural scene including Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority. In coordination with UNESCO, ALIPH aims to prevent heritage site destruction, fight the trafficking of stolen artefacts, and pay for restoration. In addition, it seeks to create a global network of storage and safeguarding sites. During the event, world donors pledged more than USD75 million. Speaking at the conference, François Hollande, president, France, passionately called on more countries to contribute to the newly-created heritage alliance to surpass its ambitious USD100 million goal.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Tourism and Travel Generated USD7.6 Trillion in 2016
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orld Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Economic Impact Report 2017 has revealed that travel and tourism generated one in 10 of the world’s jobs in 2016 as the sector grew 3.3 percent, outpacing the global economy for the sixth year in a row. WTTC’s research, carried out in conjunction with Oxford Economics, investigated the economic impact of travel and tourism across 25 regions and in 185 countries. According to the data, the industry generated USD7.6 trillion worldwide, which is 10.2 percent of global GDP when direct, indirect and induced impacts are taken into account, supporting a total of 292 million jobs in 2016. Additionally, global visitor exports accounted for 6.6 percent of total world exports, and almost 30 percent of total world services exports.
Bright Future for Saudi Domestic Tourism
The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia
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repared exclusively for The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia, which took place in Jeddah on April 04 – 06, Euromonitor International’s Tourism Forecast report predicted a 40 percent rise in the number of Saudi domestic trips in the period 2015 – 2020. Following the announcement of Saudi Vision 2030, the sector is said to have experienced an instant boost. According to Nikola Kosutic, research manager, Euromonitor International, Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage is investing generously to boost domestic tourism by launching numerous new initiatives, such as Live Saudi Arabia to encourage residents to visit historic locations; Leave No Trace to raise environmental awareness; photography events and competitions The Colours of Saudi Arabia Forum or a Tourism Call Centre to provide visitors with information.
8 APRIL 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS
Morocco to Become a Sustainable Tourism
Leader
ON MOROCCAN DAY OF SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE TOURISM, MOROCCO WAS INVITED BY WORLD TOURISM ORGANIZATION (UNWTO) TO BECOME AN OFFICIAL PARTNER OF THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM.
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orocco is dedicated to the advancement and promotion of the first African Charter on Sustainable and Responsible Tourism, which was adopted in 2016, and is set to pave the way for the implementation of sustainability and responsibility principles in the continent.
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Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, commented, “The commitment of Morocco with the tourism sector is remarkable, not only by joining the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, but also by other gestures done in the past such as partnering with the UNWTO in promoting more responsible practices and leading the process of adoption of the African Charter.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Al Ain Celebrated UAE’s Intangible Heritage
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Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum
n March 30 — 31, Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum hosted the annual My Heritage, My Responsibility series, aimed at upholding the UAE’s intangible heritage by safeguarding it and passing it on to the next generations. The programme, organised by Abu Dhabi & Culture Authority, incorporated many aspects of local daily life including activities and demonstrations that highlighted traditional medicine, cuisine, and other Emirati lifestyle elements. Among other customs, visitors had the opportunity to learn about Emirati fashion including details on how the traditional attire is worn, as well as patterns, colours and how they are tailored for men and women. In addition, live cooking events highlighted the preparation of authentic dishes.
Kuwait to Unveil Ambitious Tourism Plan
Dubai Sees Shift in Feeder Markets
ATM 2014
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ccording to a survey conducted by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, the number of tourists visiting Dubai increased 12 percent year-on-year during January and February, bolstered by the growing number of travellers from China and Russia. Arrivals from China increased 60 percent year-on-year to 157,000, while the number of Russian visitors rose 84 percent to 65,000 in the aforementioned months. From November, Chinese visitors have been able to obtain visa on arrival, while Russian tourists received the same privilege in February. Both countries moved up in their rankings as key feeder markets for inbound tourism to Dubai with China entering the top four for the first time and Russia moving to just outside the top 10.
Dubai Marina
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ith the approaching Arabian Travel Market (ATM) on April 24 – 27 in Dubai, Kuwait is preparing to showcase its multi-billion dollar tourism plan in line with its vision to welcome 440,000 annual visitors by 2024. Compared to 270,000 arrivals in 2014, Kuwait expects to achieve the target numbers through multiple governmental investment plans into tourism projects, including the foundation of a Supreme Commission for Tourism, and further USD1 billion promotional budget. Simon Press, senior exhibition director, ATM, praised the government’s investment into infrastructure, leisure and lifestyle developments, aimed at elevating the country’s potential as a multifaceted destination which is open for business in the long-term.
8 APRIL 2017
WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY
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Ticket Price Lock Possible with FareKeep
Authentic Experiences by Marriott International
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In order to satisfy travellers seeking out memorable personalised experiences, Marriott International has recently invested in PlacePass, a provider of travel technology solutions.
Camel riding in Dubai
he travel financial technology developer FLYR, backed by Amadeus investment, has launched FareKeep, a solution which allows travellers to hold a specific fare and protect it from increase until booking. Except for the advantage for travellers, the feature presents the opportunity for travel sellers to increase revenues as FLYR has identified that up to 30 percent of fare locks are converted into a booking. As an early adopter of the solution, Tomeu Bennasar, CEO, Logitravel, commented, “Our goal is to bring value to our customers [...]. With FareKeep, we are able to offer more flexibility to travellers and engage with them in new and different ways.”
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ith this initiative, the company enables its customers to choose more than 100,000 authentic experiences in 800 destinations through an online meta-search platform. Some of the most exciting opportunities include camel riding in Dubai, challenging retired sumo wrestlers in Tokyo, and biking tours through Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia. Stephanie Linnartz, chief commercial officer, Marriott International, commented, “The addition of PlacePass activities and tours beginning later this year reflects Marriott’s commitment to giving our guests a complete travel experience [...].”
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Dubai Marina Welcomes Miami-Style Residences
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verlooking the Arabian Gulf, VIDA Residences Dubai Marina features one- to four-bedroom apartments with elegant interiors and spacious balconies. Inside and outside spaces merge to create a harmonious environment while lush vegetation comprises an important aspect of the interior, referencing Miami’s tropical climate. Ahmad Al Matrooshi, managing director, Emaar Properties, commented, “With its focus on the nautical heritage of Dubai Marina, the homes are ideally suited as first homes for long-stays or as a holiday home, thus appealing to both UAE-based and international investors.”
Dubai Marina Yacht Club
Emaar Properties has recently presented its collection of Miami-style residences at Dubai Marina.
Hospitality Expansion at Ibn Battuta Mall
First Middle East Resort to Fly MGM Flag
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asl Hospitality and Leisure and MGM Hospitality have signed a definitive management agreement for the development and operation of a premier destination resort in Dubai, marking the debut of MGM and Bellagio brands in the Middle East. The 10.5ha Jumeirah Beach development will feature a MGM hotel, MGM residences and a Bellagio address, creating an integrated resort boasting 1,000 rooms and 10 villas, occupying what is said to be the longest stretch of waterfront ever developed in the emirate. Expected to become a tourism and leisure destination, the resort will be complemented by more than 4.65ha of entertainment, dining and shopping outlets.
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Rendering of AVANI Ibn Battuta Mall
Rendering of the resort
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akheel has announced that the AED184.5 million (USD50.2 million) construction contract for AVANI Ibn Battuta Mall Hotel has been appointed to Parkway International Contracting for the building project. The 375-key property is a part of the developer’s AED3 billion (USD816.8 million) expansion plan aiming to deliver 5,300 rooms through 16 new hotels and serviced apartment complexes to Dubai. The 15-storey address, conveniently located next to the recently-opened link connecting the mall with Dubai metro, will feature an all-day restaurant, a pool, a gym and car park for 135 vehicles, contributing to the target of enlarging the retail hub into sprawling mixed-use community.
8 APRIL 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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milestone in Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts’ Middle Eastern expansion was marked by signing the agreement with the Civil Service Employees Pension Fund to operate its first property in Oman’s capital, Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Al Azaiba Muscat. The Ghala District address will boast 274 guestrooms and suites along with 50 serviced apartments. Guests can enjoy six dining outlets, a rooftop restaurant, a swimming pool, meeting and event space, a ballroom, a rooftop gym with spa, executive lounge and a residents’ lounge. Andreas Mattmüller, chief operating officer, Middle East and Africa, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, enthused, “With Muscat undergoing rapid development […], the time is right to put the Mövenpick brand on the map in this important regional city.”
8 APRIL 2017
Hilton Hotels & Resorts Arrives in Jordan
Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa, Jordan
Rendering of Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Al Azaiba Muscat
Mövenpick Hotels to Debut in Muscat
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ilton Hotels & Resorts announced the official opening of Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa on March 20, the first Hilton-branded address in Jordan. The 285-key property offers direct beach access through two elevators that lead to a floating pool surrounded by a sun deck. Guestrooms boast views over the Dead Sea, as well as terraces and contemporary amenities, while the hotel boasts a 24-hour fitness centre, seven dining outlets and an executive lounge are available for guests. The resort is also adjacent to King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre managed by Hilton, providing convenience for business travellers with 27 meeting rooms.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Shurooq to Launch Spectacular Eco-Lodge
Elaf Group Ready to Boost Tourism
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DAMAC Properties: 121 Contracts in Two Months
Elaf Kinda Hotel
t Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market 2017, which took place on March 26 – 30 in Riyadh, Elaf Group unveiled its hospitality offerings, in contribution to Saudi’s Vision 2030. The company looks to strengthen its position across the region, following the country’s bold plans to boost tourism, particularly in the religious segment. Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, CEO, Elaf Group, revealed that its latest properties in Mecca and Medina are highly popular amongst the growing number of visitors to the pilgrimage sites, thus generating positive year-on-year growth. While showcasing its addresses at the event the group also demostrated its ability to also cater to corporate customers and families looking to visit Jeddah.
Kalba
harjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has progressed with its eco-tourism hospitality project Kalba Kingfisher Lodge, slated for completion by the end of June. In line with its environmentally friendly tourism strategy, Shurooq partnered with Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority to develop the five-star eco-lodge. The resort will feature 20 luxury tents with private swimming pools, an outdoor yoga and wellness centre along with restaurants and outdoor recreational areas. H.E. Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq, said, “[…] We understand that there are growing numbers of eco-tourists, and a shift in trends towards visitors who want to enjoy incredible natural surroundings in a luxury environment.”
Wyndham Garden Ajman to Debut at ATM
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ATM 2016
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AMAC Properties has revealed that in the first two months of the year, it awarded 121 construction, supplier and consultancy contracts worth AED1.4 billion (USD381 million). The main contracts were for the provision of services at five Dubai-based projects, namely AKOYA Oxygen, DAMAC Hills, AYKON City as well as Avanti Tower and Merano Tower. Mohammed Tahaineh, senior vice president, commercial, DAMAC Properties, said, “Working with established companies comes as part of our commitment to delivering the best value to our customers, while strengthening the real estate offerings of Dubai through world-class designs, service and construction quality.”
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he UAE’s first Wyndham Garden-branded address, Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche, will be introduced at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) on 24 – 27 April, ahead of its opening scheduled in the last quarter of this year. Exhibiting alongside Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman, all owned by R Hotels, the anticipated fourstar 179-key property will present its facilities and amenities such as executive lounge on the top floor with panoramic sea views, two restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool, gym and spa, separate health clubs for men and women, and a kids’ play area.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Etihad to Deploy A380 to Paris
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s a part of the carrier’s seasonal adjustments, the double-decker aircraft will enable the passengers travelling from the UAE to experience what is said to be the world’s first three-room suite on a commercial airliner, The Residence, featuring a living room, bedroom and shower. Extra capacity will also offer more premium seats in the first apartments and business studios. Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways, said, “Flying our flagship product to France with additional seat capacity helps fulfill growing demand and meet our guests’ expectations for even greater travel experience with unmatched luxury, comfort and service.”
8 APRIL 2017
The Residence
Etihad Airways is to introduce an Airbus A380 on one of its twice-daily services to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, between July 01 – October 28.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Saudia Improves its Customer Services
A King Khalid International Airport
s part of its efforts to provide the best possible services to its customers, Saudia Airlines has installed several self-service kiosks at King Khalid International Airport. With this initiative, Saudi Arabia’s national carrier will help its customers save time, allowing them to purchase their tickets directly from the kiosks seven days a week. In addition, through self-service machines passengers will be able to make reservations, get tickets for excess baggage, obtain boarding passes and select their preferred seat and meal. The service has been applauded by customers since its first appearance at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The airline intends to establish similar self-service machines in more airports across the country in the near future.
Emirates Enhances Links to Nice and Beyond
EGYPTAIR Introduced SITA’s Airfare Insight
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mirates announced the launch of a daily Airbus A380 service to Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, alongside its partnership with Monacair, set to offer helicopter transfers between Nice and Monaco. The itinerary will start on July 01, marking a capacity increase of 44 percent on the route which is currently served with a Boeing 777-300ER. After Paris, Nice will become the carrier’s second destination in France to welcome the doubledecker aircraft, further stimulating demand for travel to the region. Emirates collaboration with Monacair will see the provision of helicopter transfers between the Nice hub and Monaco which will also include a limousine transfer from Monaco’s heliport to the travellers' final destination. The service will be complimentary to the airline’s first class passengers.
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n order to rapidly adjust its fares in response to market conditions, EGYPTAIR has implemented SITA’s Airfare Insight, a system that simplifies how airlines manage airfares. The system, already used by 19 global airlines including British Airways and Emirates, has the capability to monitor, calculate and automate fares-setting and distribution. With the All in Fare functionality, Egypt’s national carrier can gain a true view of the market pricing including base price, taxes, fees and charges for each market. Safwat Mosallam, CEO, EGYPTAIR HOLDING, commented, “In today’s competitive marketplace, pricing can change dramatically in a matter of hours. For EGYPTAIR it is vital that we understand what is happening in the market so that we can respond with accurate and competitive fares.”
8 APRIL 2017
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
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Meliá Hotels International Sets High Expectations
Marriott’s First Aloft Address in Mauritius
Palma de Mallorca
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eliá Hotels International has unveiled the new Palau de Congressos de Palma and its adjoining hotel, the Meliá Palma Bay. Ahead of opening its doors on April 01, Gabriel Escarrer, CEO, Meliá Hotels International, noted that he expects to be one of the best convention centres in the Mediterranean, with the potential for the region to earn a place among the top 50 destinations for international congresses and conventions. The group was chosen to manage the facilities in October 2016 and has since been preparing this key infrastructure for Palma de Mallorca which is forecast to generate business and congress activity for the city.
W Hotels Celebrated its Indian Debut
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Vagator Beach
Port Louis
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arriott International has announced the debut of Aloft brand in Mauritius with the signing of its first adaptive re-use project in Africa, Aloft Mauritius Port Louis, slated to open in 2019. A nine-storey office building will transform into a 150-key property promising to impress with urban-influenced design and energetic guest experience. Amidst features, such as a fitness centre, a rooftop bar, a pool and two meeting spaces, the brand will offer what is said to be the hospitality industry’s first truly keyless entry system. “The signing of Aloft Mauritius Port Louis underscores the unstoppable momentum the brand has been garnering and our strategic commitment to grow in key destinations around the world,” said Alex Kyriakidis, president, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International.
iming to redefine Indian hospitality, W Hotels Worldwide has recently announced the opening of W Goa, its 50th global property. Featuring 160 vibrant guestrooms, chalets and villas with sea views, the new resort is situated on Vagator Beach in northern Goa and draws inspiration from the city’s rich history. Other amenities include a spacious spa inspired by the great baths of Pompeii as well as a fine-dining restaurant serving popular local classics. Anthony Ingham, global brand leader, W Hotels Worldwide, enthused, “As our first location in India, this highly anticipated debut from the W brand promises to be unlike any other hotel in India, combining the bold design and dynamic lifestyle programming that W is known for with a uniquely Goan-twist.”
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
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Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru
Radisson Blu Strengthened Indian Portfolio
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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group recently opened the doors of Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru. Designed with the modern traveller in mind, the property features 167 guestrooms and suites with modern amenities. Guests can indulge in four food and beverage outlets offering International and Indian authentic cuisine, along with invigorating drinks. The hotel also offers 1,250m² of flexible event space with six meeting rooms and two boardrooms, business class lounge, business centre, swimming pool, spa and fully-equipped fitness room. “The opening of Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru is a testament of our footprint in the region and a reflection of the unique brand identity that we bring to the city […],” said, Raj Rana, CEO, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
Kimpton to Launch in San Jose
BW Premier Collection to Reach Thailand
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BW Premier Collection BluPhere Pattaya
A Rendering of Museum Place
impton Hotels & Restaurants has unveiled its first property in San Jose, at Museum Place, a mixedused project by Insight Realty Company, due to open in 2021. The development, which will also expand The Tech Museum of Innovation, is set to boast 300 residential units, restaurants and retail outlets alongside the 173key, four-star hotel. Mike DeFrino, CEO, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, said, “With professional sports, a state-of-the-art entertainment and a burgeoning downtown, the Museum Place project is the perfect venue for us to introduce our brand of heartfelt hospitality to the Silicon Valley.”
fter signing an agreement with the Thai real estate company Habitat Group, Best Western International has announced its plans to bring its new luxury concept, BW Premier Collection to Thailand. Featuring 195 apartment-style units, BluPhere Pattaya, a newbuild eight-storey project in Na Jomtien area, is expected to benefit from the hotelier’s global support network and loyalty programme. Olivier Berrivin, managing director, international operations, Asia, Best Western International, commented, “BW Premier Collection is a great fit for Thailand. Designed for guests who crave individuality, character and local charm, this upscale concept is expanding into some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. We are delighted to bring BW Premier Collection to Asia with BluPhere Pattaya, and to continue our close relationship with the Habitat Group.”
8 APRIL 2017
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Sharjah’s eGovernment Slash Paper Waste
TRAVEL CHANNELS
Emirates Aviation University Promoted Educational Opportunities Emirates Stewardess
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mirates Aviation University organised a gathering of students and agents at the China International Education Exhibition Tour which recently took place in Beijing. Some 300 universities from over 20 countries were said to have visited the exhibition to market their programmes to Chinese students seeking to continue their studies at international institutions. This event aimed at fostering cooperation between higher education institutions and a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the area of education as well as provide information about studying abroad, support the development of channels for introducing quality international education resources, and enable direct communications among the study abroad agents, foreign authorities and overseas higher education institutions.
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s part of its commitment to environmental sustainability and mission to become one of the leading activists in reducing paper waste, Sharjah Department of eGovernment (DeG) has dramatically decreased its reliance on paper processes thanks to its implementation of Zajel, a correspondence electronic communication software. Since adopting the technology in the fourth quarter of 2016, several of the emirate’s government departments have descriped the software as a significant way of cutting down on paperwork. Following a series of workshops organised by DeG, which introduced the software to several government departments in Sharjah, the system has received exceptional feedback.
Al Habtoor Supports Youth
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halaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, founding chairman, Al Habtoor Group, has donated AED10 million (USD2.72 million) to a national fund for youth development, Sandooq Al Watan. The initiative is in line with the UAE leadership’s vision of a sustainable future of its private sector, emphasising the professional preparation of the youth. While inviting stakeholders to donate to the fund, Al Habtoor pointed out that the businesses must work alongside the government to support projects that will sustain the development of the region, including the encouragement of the entrepreneurship of youth as a part of the Emiratisation strategy. Sandooq Al Watan is a community initiative aimed at providing Emiratis with career advice through trainings, internships and general assistance.
Ramada Ajman Innovates Guest Service
Second from the left, Franco Moline and Iftikhar Hamdani, general manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman
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amada Hotel & Suites Ajman has teamed up with ProntoResolved to facilitate the efficient handling of special requests and complaints through the service optimisation software. The system allows the hotel to streamline guest service issues and requirements electronically, providing reports and tracking the proficiency of relevant staff response. Its paperless operation also adds to the property’s green conduct. Franco Moline, president, ProntoResolved, commented on the partnership, “We are confident that this will be a fruitful partnership, and boost the property’s satisfaction ratings in various booking engines and review websites.”
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Q & A with
RENDEZVOUS
HOSSAM KAMAL GENERAL MANAGER, SALALAH ROTANA RESORT
IN THE LEAD UP TO THE PROPERTY’S THIRD YEAR OF OPERATIONS, HOSSAM KAMAL, GENERAL MANAGER, SALALAH ROTANA RESORT, DESCRIBES THE IMPACT IT HAS HAD ON THE LOCAL TOURISM INDUSTRY.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How was business in 2016? How does this compare to 2015? HOSSAM KAMAL: The year 2016 was a very significant year for Salalah Rotana Resort as we reached new heights in terms of business. Generally, we witnessed a 20 percent increase in the number of guest arrivals compared to 2015 and recorded the highest occupancy year-to-date since commencing operations in 2014. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What have been the main achievements of Salalah Rotana Resort since opening nearly three years ago?
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HOSSAM KAMAL: We have grown from strength to strength the last three years albeit with challenges along the way. Maintaining the highest standard of service quality has always been on the top of our list and ensuring guests’ satisfaction. This is evident from the tremendous feedback we keep receiving. In the same vein, this could not be accomplished without the efforts of our talented team. Operating such a big resort in an emerging destination is no easy feat and our colleagues showed commitment to our main objective of offering guests a truly treasured time. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What do you do to stand out from the competition? HOSSAM KAMAL: The hospitality industry is fast paced and dynamic. To keep up, it is important to evolve and enhance facilities. Over the past year, we introduced a new category of rooms called The Family Room ranging of family classic, family premium and family deluxe. The idea stemmed from the identification of clientele who visit our resort which is mostly families and in order to offer them value for money, we converted our already spacious rooms to fit a family of two adults and two kids comfortably. Similarly, we introduced the premium concept which is an upscale holiday package which grants guests a premium stay at our five-star waterfront resort with exclusive benefits. We carefully designed this targeting clientele seeking exclusivity, comfort and willing to pay more. Our package can be likened to the services of business class on a flight. Over the years, we have amassed accolades including being named Oman’s Leading Beach Resort at the World Travel Awards for two consecutive years. With more hotel chains coming into the city of Salalah, standing out is a priority to retain market share. We have achieved this by maintaining the high standard of service in our daily operations. We offer the best of both worlds; a unique understanding of the culture combined with the collective expertise of our team. This means that our resort offers world-class service infused with traditional Omani hosptality that is unique to the country.
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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has the resort contributed to tourism development in Salalah? HOSSAM KAMAL: Salalah Rotana Resort has contributed to luxury hospitality offerings. As the largest standalone hotel, our aim is to serve the region by meeting the growing demand for high-quality accommodation as tourism continues to grow in Salalah. With key strategic partnership deals with tour operators in Europe, we opened new source markets from Slovakia, Poland and maintained arrivals from Germany and Italy over the years. Our presence here has also helped to drive Salalah’s growth as a destination and have positioned ourselves as a landmark in setting the tone and standards of hospitality in Oman. Our objectives are in line to enhance the tourism industry by reinforcing the local supply chain and providing additional employment and training opportunities. On a corporate level, Rotana Hotel Management is not contributing to tourism development in only Salalah but the Sultanate of Oman at large, with the signing of five new hotels in Muscat, Sohar and Salalah. As a matter of fact our first hotel in Muscat is scheduled to open this year. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What does the future hold for Salalah Rotana Resort and the local tourism industry? HOSSAM KAMAL: We see a very bright future for Salalah Rotana Resort operating in Salalah as the destination has grown exponentially over the years. The arrival of more players into the market shows operators want to be a part of this success story. Local tourism has always been driven by the natural scenery, unspoilt beaches and the climate peculiar to Salalah within the region. The occurrence of the rains during the monsoon season locally Khareef, serves as an attractive feature for travellers from the GCC. With regards to our target markets, we welcomed a steady stream of visitors from European countries including Germany, Italy, Poland and Slovakia. The GCC also remains a key source market especially during the monsoon season. 8 APRIL 2017
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Emirates Delivered Smiles
Novotel Fujairah to Launch Energy Saving Project
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mirates marked International Day of Happiness with small surprises for its customers and employees, reiterating its commitment to supporting the UAE leadership’s efforts to acknowledge and celebrate happiness and entrench it as a lifestyle for its citizens and residents of the country. Across its boarding gates at Terminal 3, the carrier served unsuspecting passengers travelling from and transiting in Dubai with business class upgrades to their journeys. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, CEO, Emirates and Emirates Group, said, “Happiness means different things to different people. Many find happiness in constantly challenging themselves to achieve new goals, learning new skills, or nurturing strong relationships in their personal and professional lives.”
Novotel Fujairah Hotel
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ellow Door Energy has recently announced its new investment plan in the energy services industry by financing the retrofit of Novotel Fujairah Hotel. Based on the recommendations of EcovisEngineering, the retrofit is expected to Improve the hotel’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system along with the implementation of a waste water recovery system. Novotel Fujairah is expected to save approximately 12 percent on its electricity bill and the project is forecast to be completed within the following months. Jeremy Crane, CEO, Yellow Door Energy, commented, “Through projects like this, we are proving that industrial growth and development can go hand-in-hand with environmental care.”
Alamo Family Vacation Survey
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ccording to a survey conducted by Alamo Rent a Car, US workers are feeling more guilt than ever before about planning and taking their annual leave. Around 50 percent of workers reported feeling vacation shamed or being made to feel shame or guilt by co-workers for taking a holiday, a trend especially apparent amongst millenials. Also, the annual research indicated that fewer than half of all workers are using all of their paid vacation days, compared with 60 percent in 2015 and 57 percent in 2016. Commenting on the survey, Rob Connors, vice president, Alamo Rent a Car, noted, “This year’s survey suggests that American workers are putting a lot of pressure on themselves in workplaces when it comes to planning and taking vacations, especially in vacation shaming environments.”
A Etihad Airways Supports Equality in Education Walk for a Cause 2016
8 APRIL 2017
iming to promote education and access to learning and the wellbeing of children, Etihad Aviation Group (AEG) organised the fifth annual Walk for a Cause event. Taking place in Umm Al Emarat Park, the fun walk was open to all female residents and children in the UAE. In addition to the walk participants had the opportunity to enjoy a live entertainment show and a bazaar. Commenting on the event, Khaled Al Mehairbi, senior vice president, Abu Dhabi airport operations, Etihad Airways, noted, “As the UAE flag carrier, we are at the heart of the community, and we feel strongly about giving back to those in need.[…]. EAG has always been generous in supporting global education and so far more than 18,000 students have benefitted directly from the Walk for a Cause since its launch in 2013.”
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PHILIPPE FRUGERE
SHERIF MALAK has been appointed as the director of business development at Khalidiya Palace Rayhann by Rotana in Abu Dhabi. With 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Malak will lead the property’s team and assist in expanding the hotel’s vision. He will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of a strategic sales plan. Prior to this, Malak rose amongst the ranks at Rotana, where most recently he served as assistant director of sales at the Abu Dhabi sales office.
PHILIPPE FRUGERE has been appointed as the general manager of Bayat Hotel by Cristal in Abha, ahead of its opening in June. Frugere began his career in Cannes back in 1977 and over the years has worked with top hotels in France, Switzerland, Algeria and the Philippines, with his inaugual general manager position at Hotel Campo Dell'oro. His first step into the Middle East region occurred in 2010 as the group general manager at Al Nahda Hotel in Oman. With more than four decades of professional experience in the hospitality industry Frugere has earned many awards and recognitions such as Best General Manager by Worldwide Hospitality Awards while posted at Sun Hotels & Resorts Maldives.
SHERYL AQUIATAN has been named as the new assistant marketing manager at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai where she will be responsible for upcoming marketing initiatives. After first beginning her career in the Philippines before relocating to the UAE in 2007, Aquiatan had gained more than 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry. She initially began at Ramada Hotel Bur Dubai before joining Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai in 2011 as sales and marketing executive. Most recently, Aquiatan held the position of cluster assistant marketing communications manager at Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach and Ramada Sharjah.
CAMILLE SAADE
Malak will develop a strategic sales plan
CAMILLE SAADE has been appointed as general manager of Villa Rotana Dubai, bringing some 30 years of industry experience with him. No stranger to Rotana, Saade joins the property from Rihab Rotana, where he served as hotel manager. Furthermore, Saade has worked for international hotel chains across the Middle East, including Sheraton Hotels & Resorts and Le Meridien. Saade will be commited to implemeting Rotana’s standards, and endeavours to ensure each guest has a treasured experience at the property.
Saade is committed to implementing Rotana's standards
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SHERYL AQUIATAN
SHERIF MALAK
WHO’S MOVED
Aquiatan has more than 10 years of experience
8 APRIL 2017
PHOTO ALBUM
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Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre taught perfect table manners to 22 participants in Sharjah
City Centre Rotana Doha turned off the lights for Earth Hour
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Emirates entertained guests as the sponsor of Dubai World Cup
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Emirates SkyCargo flew some of the world’s top racehorses into the emirate for Dubai World Cup 2017
8 APRIL 2017
Emaar Properties lit up the Burj Khalifa in celebration of Pakistan Resolution Day
Sabre launched its 2017 Technology Day series in Saudi Arabia, providing an insight into top technology trends and innovations impacting the travel industry
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NEWS & EVENTS Sharjah Senior Golf Masters Secured Winner
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he inaugural Sharjah Senior Golf Masters, presented by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, concluded with South African golfer Chris Williams, claiming his first title in six years at the first hole of a suddendeath play-off against British golfer, Gary Marks. The event was held at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club, marking not just the first time a senior tour competition had been played on a nine-hole layout but also the inaugural event in the emirate. Williams noted, “This region is a great Mecca for golf – people come from all over the world to play here. There are a lot of courses [...] and some great players have taken up residence in the area so there is no reason the Senior Tour can not go forward from here.”
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EVENTS WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA Cape Town April 19 – 21 www.africa.wtm.com Nearly 5,000 travel industry professionals are expected to attend one of the leading business-to-business exhibitions for the inbound and outbound Africa tourism market.
ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai, UAE April 24 – 27 arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com One of the leading international tourism events within the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals.
Bahrain Promoted Tourism at Seatrade Cruise Global
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n an attempt to further promote touristic attractions in the Gulf region, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA) participated in this year’s Seatrade Cruise Global. Held on March 13 — 16 in Florida, the event brought together every facet of the business including cruise lines, suppliers, travel agents and partners. During the show, BTEA unveiled its future plans to expand the country’s sea ports and attract more yachts and cruise ships. Yousif Al Khan, director, tourism marketing and promotions, BTEA, commented on the event, “We aim to participate in international conferences and exhibitions to meet industry experts and increase the number of visitors coming to the country and further develop the industry and overall national economy.”
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IMEX Frankfurt, Germany May 16 – 18 www.imex-frankfurt.com A one-stop shop for meetings, events and incentive travel programmes where more than 3,500 exhibitors are expected to showcase their offerings
8 APRIL 2017