6 MAY 2017 ISSUE 391
06 GCC TARGETS INDIAN AND CHINESE MARKETS
03 GENERAL
BAHRAIN TO WELCOME 15 NEW PROPERTIES BY 2020
09 EMAAR PRESENTED EXPANSION PLANS
02 Market Update 05 Agents
15 International
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
Tourists Spent More in 2016
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Ellen Petty Maria Sabova CONTRIBUTORS Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou Dominique Christou DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis
Egypt
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
According to the results on tourism expenditure from major outbound markets, reported in the latest World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) World Tourism Barometer, 2016 marked an increasing demand for international tourism across the world, with many source markets demonstrating a double-digit growth in spending.
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ince 2012, China has continued to lead the international outbound tourism in spending and is now followed by the US, Germany, the UK and France as top five spenders. Among the largest 50 source markets, Egypt earned its place with a 19 percent rise in travelling expenditures, followed by Qatar and Thailand, both reaching 11 percent growth in tourism spending.
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
Sri Lanka Targets the Middle East
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
4.5.2017
COUNTRY
CURRENCY USD1=
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.39
Qatar (QAR)
Rial
3.64
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
109.17
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
18.06
Iran (IRR)
Rial
32,438.99
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,173.91
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,510.82
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.39
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.93
Syria (SYP)
Pound
214.33
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.39
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.26
Sri Lanka
Ahead of its 14th consecutive year of attendance at Arabian Travel Market, Sri Lanka Tourism highlighted the importance of the Middle Eastern market, which accounts for around seven to eight percent of all arrivals.
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n 2016, the country welcomed 107,635 travellers from the Middle East, a substantial growth compared to the 2011 figure of around 56,000. In particular, Saudi Arabia demonstrated a significant increase, with nearly 38,836 holidaymakers in 2016, the largest Middle Eastern source market, followed by Oman with 14,216 tourists. Despite a slight decline in visitors from the UAE, it still represents the third largest Middle Eastern market. Meanwhile, Kuwait is considered an important emerging market for Sri Lanka.
6 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS
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Bahrain to Welcome 15 New Properties
Bahrain
by 2020
ACCORDING TO BAHRAIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD (EDB), BAHRAIN IS TO FOLLOW ITS HOSPITALITY SECTOR’S GROWTH WITH PLANS TO LAUNCH 15 NEW PROPERTIES WORTH USD10 MILLION BY 2020.
Abha Granted Tourism Funding
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bha has been announced as the next tourism funding project, on the occasion of the event Abha as the Capital of Arabic Tourism 2017. Supported by H.R.H. Faisal bin Khalid bin Abdul Aziz, governor, Asir province, the event highlighted the potential of the region through exhibitions across 20 pavilions, attended by public and private sector organisations. Following the event’s launching ceremony, H.R.H. Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage, confirmed that the summer 2018 will see more tourism projects across the Kingdom, with the Asir province to witness a shift in tourism, being the major beneficiary of the latest financing programmes of this year.
6 MAY 2017
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he Kingdom’s existing portfolio of 190 hotels and resorts is set to expand with world-renowned hospitality brands planning to boost current capacity of 16,500 rooms with additional 4,000 keys. Meanwhile, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority aims at reinvigorating the industry through a new campaign Ours. Yours. Bahrain. to encourage USD1 billion contribution of the sector to the country’s economy. H.E. Khalid Al Rumaihi, CEO, Bahrain EDB, commented, “These future investments in the hospitality sector [will] fill the gaps in the market, […] and will both help to meet rising demand and attract new visitors to the Kingdom.”
Dubai’s Tourism Strong Q1 Results
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ubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing confirmed that the destination has sustained the momentum of this year’s strong start and recorded 11 percent overall increase in overnight visitors in the first quarter (Q1), more than a double growth compared to the same period in 2016. During the reviewed period, the emirate welcomed 4.57 million visitors, among which Chinese and Russian tourists marked the highest growth, 64 and 106 percent jumps over 2016, which is attributed to positive changes in visa policy. Meanwhile, India, Saudi Arabia and the UK remained as top three source markets, accounting collectively for 30 percent of total Q1 arrivals, with India reaching a record of nearly 580,000 visitors, the first ever market to achieve such figure for the reviewed period.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Experiential Travel to Boost GCC Tourism
Camel Festival Underlined Regional Heritage
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he panel discussion The Real Deal: Why selling local experiences matters held at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) revealed that fusing cultural offerings with the latest modern attractions is a way ahead to maximise Dubai’s and GCC countries’ tourism potential. During the seminar, Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, confirmed that while contemporary attractions position Dubai globally, cultural authentic sites represent unique experiences that deepen the destination’s offerings and enhancing travellers’ holidays. Elaborating, Saif Saeed Ghobash, director general, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, stressed the importance of well educated citizens who through the knowledge of their city and multi-lingual skills can promote a destination to visitors, therefore an investment in such training is required.
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King Abdul Aziz Camel Festival
he annual King Abdul Aziz Camel Festival, organised by Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH) in cooperation with the King Abdul Aziz Dara, was successfully concluded in Al Sayaheed. As noted by H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, SCTH, the festival, a tribute to the important role of camels in the history of Saudi Arabia, was a part of SCTH’s efforts to boost the events and activities which elevate the public awareness about the country’s heritage and support tourism. He further pinpointed, “Paying great attention to the events associated with the heritage of the regions and linking the generations to their heritage is an original approach established by SCTH since its inception.”
ATM, The Real Deal: Why selling local experiences matters
UNWTO and ATM Facilitated Leadership Talks
Yas Island Targeted ATM Visitors
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Yas Island
orld Tourism Organization (UNWTO) & Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Ministerial Forum, held on April 24, brought together tourism ministers and industry leaders from across the MENA region to discuss ways and means of capitalising on tourism growth while also maximising the sustainable development of the sector. The main themes discussed included the advance of domestic tourism, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship as well as the need to improve the quality and perception of tourism employment. Along with how best to ensure resilience, ministers debated issues regarding visa facilitation, intra-regional connectivity and the measurement of tourism’s impact through the recently launched UNWTO Initiative on Measuring Sustainable Tourism.
ailed as one of the UAE’s premier entertainment and business destinations, Yas Island participated at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) on April 24 —27, in order to showcase its full range of leisure and MICE offerings to both domestic and international visitors. With the ongoing development of worldclass projects including Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, CLYMB, and SeaWorld, the island is expected to attract more visitors and boost tourism to Abu Dhabi in 2018 and beyond. Delegates visited Yas Island’s immersive stand exhibiting 3D depictions of some of the destination’s iconic structures and future attractions and learnt more about its diversified portfolio of current and upcoming offerings.
6 MAY 2017
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dnata Travel Launched Ninth Doha Outlet
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s part of its expansion ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, dnata Travel has opened an outlet on The PearlQatar, offering outbound getaways and inbound services. Rashid Alawadi, vice president, regions, dnata Travel, stated, “The opening of our ninth travel hub is a testament to the service standards, quality travel products and overall success of dnata Travel in Qatar. We have seen our business grow exponentially over the past few years and I believe it is due to the speed to market, service innovation, technology, and staff training we offer.” In the past three years, the company has achieved 100 percent growth in non-air transactions and has experienced a yearly growth of around 15 – 20 percent in overall business.
6 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
GTA and Hotelbeds Join Forces Hotelbeds Group has announced that business-to-business (B2B) travel distributor GTA has joined its bedbank family, in a bid to further drive the distribution in the sector.
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eferring to the recent announcement of Tourico Holidays joining the group thus proving the company’s commitment to accelerate its expansion, Joan Vilà, executive chairman, Hotelbeds Group, explained that GTA’s significant presence in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East closely aligns with Hotelbeds Groups’ growth strategy. Ivan Walter, CEO, GTA, added, “[…] By coming together with Hotelbeds Group we can bring together a wealth of experience, commitment and a clear strategic focus on the B2B sector. We believe that today's news is a milestone for the industry and great news for our respective suppliers and customers.”
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WEEKLY NEWS GCC Targets Indian and Chinese Markets
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Saudi Events Industry in Boom
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uring the seminar Capitalising on Experiential Travel: China & India Mega Source Markets at Arabian Travel Market, Colliers International revealed that Chinese and Indian outbound tourism market are currently increasing 6.7 percent and seven percent, respectively, year-on-year. According to the report, GCC hotels should aim for a volume-driven strategy when tapping the combined Indian and Chinese markets, while also creating culturally tailored experiences. All in all, 12 recommendations were suggested, including GCC-wide multi-entry visas, welcome kits and signage in native languages, along with targeted loyalty programmes. “The growing middle class and cheaper flight options are transforming the outbound travel landscape for these two countries, with a combined 146 million passport holders,” commented Filippo Sona, director, head, hotels MENA region, Colliers International.
Chinese Firm to Develop Al Marjan Island
Saudi Color Forum
Oman
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he Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau (SECB) reported a fruitful first quarter (Q1) of this year, during which it licensed some 2,484 various events, from which MICE events marked a nine percent year-on-year increase. During the reviewed period, the organisation supported business events in the healthcare, education, technology and communication sectors, held in the forms of workshops, meetings, training courses, exhibitions and conferences, among others. Through developing a favourable regulatory and legislative environment, including granting visiting visas, which reached 2873 approvals in Q1, SECB aims to strengthen the position of Saudi Arabia as an international destination for the MICE industry in the Middle East.
Dubai Tourism Gathered Industry Experts
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ubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) brought together over 200 hospitality professionals in an event at Bollywood Parks Dubai, to share information on the newest offerings and experiences. Concierges and members of Dubai’s extensive hotel community convened to receive updates on various projects in the pipeline within the emirate and toured the parks and Riverland to ensure comprehensive knowledge of the attractions. Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, commented on the initiative, “Our partners in the emirate are of utmost importance to our efforts to promote Dubai as a destination as we head towards 2020, and their support is truly invaluable. […] We will continue to invest in our relationship with them.”
Bollywood Parks
ovel International Group, a Shanghai-based investment company, has recently unveiled plans to partner with Al Marjan Island to acquire 6.7ha of land for a luxury project on the man-made island. “Ras Al Khaimah represents a lot of potential for us as investors, and the nature and infrastructure assets especially in Al Marjan Island and around are a winning card to bring the attention of China to the region,” pinpointed Alan Feng, director, Novel International Group. The new development is in line with the emirate’s vision to attract one million visitors by the end of 2018 as well as encourage growth and diversification across the accommodation portfolio while enhancing tourism offerings for both business and leisure travellers.
6 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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DXB Entertainments Reveals Future of Lapita As part of its strategy to become a leading leisure and entertainment provider, DXB Entertainments has announced plans to grow its Lapita brand to eventually become a global chain.
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nhancing its presence in the Middle East, Cristal Group has announced the soft opening of two new properties in June, Bayat Hotel by Cristal in Saudi Arabia’s Abha region and Masaya Hotel & Residences by Emerald in Erbil. The new additions follow the group’s recent strategic partnership with StayWell Hospitality Group, through which the hotelier aims to strengthen its global appeal. The company currently has some 1,600 rooms in the region, including 200 keys in the UAE, as confirmed by Kamal Fakhoury, CEO, Cristal Group. He further revealed, “It is a record year of growth for us. We have two outstanding hotels lined up for soft launch next month […] which is a testament to the strength of our brands […].”
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Millennium Plaza Dubai Presents Revamp
Barr Al Jissah Unveils Al Mina Residences
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Millennium Plaza Dubai
Cristal Group Lines Up Two Hotels
Lapita Hotel Dubai
ollowing on the January opening of Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection Hotels, the first of its kind, and in direct response to the demand for onsite hotels within the entertainment parks, the company intends to collaborate with trusted partners to establish the upscale themed brand in other locations. Raed Kajoor Al Nuaimi, CEO, DXB Entertainments, said, “We are aiming for Lapita to become the leading family hotel chain in key entertainment destinations around the world. Strategically we want to establish ourselves locally before expanding regionally and then globally. […].”
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iming to showcase its ongoing renovation projects, Millennium Plaza Dubai is participated in this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) at Dubai International Convention Centre. As revealed during the event, the address is currently upgrading its facilities to cater to the changing demands of the market providing guests with a new level of experience, including a refurbished lobby, designed to welcome and impress guests. The property is also widening its dining options with the development of two new restaurants. Furthermore, the addition of a presidential suite to the hotel’s inventory is set to attract an increasing number of families and affluent travellers.
iming to bring a new level of luxury to Oman, Barr Al Jissah has recently announced its plans to launch Al Mina Residences and Yacht Club. Expected to be completed by 2020, the new development will feature 69 residential units ranging from sleek duplex and penthouse style apartments, to stylish villas with spectacular views. Firas Matraji, CEO, Barr Al Jissah, commented, “[…] This new phase of expansion delivers stunning freehold residential properties complete with full integrated tourism complex status, as well as all the premium lifestyle benefits afforded to our Barr Al Jissah residents. […] With each of our residences we offer more than just a home, we offer a great quality lifestyle that resonates with our homeowners across the globe.”
6 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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longside celebrations of its 10th anniversary of operations, Emaar Hospitality Group has unveiled six new hotel projects at the Arabian Travel Market, while also showcasing its portfolio of 10 hotels and three serviced residences. Boosting its regional and international network, the hotelier confirmed 26 upcoming projects in the pipeline, including new addresses under its three brands in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Egypt. Announcing the new project, Olivier Harnisch, CEO, Emaar Hospitality Group, noted, “[…] In such a short span of time, we have established our reputation as a home-grown Dubai hospitality group with a fast-growing regional and international footprint. The upcoming properties highlight our competencies as a hotel and serviced residences operator, committed to delivering guest-centric lifestyle experiences.”
Al Dar Darak Expands Dubai Portfolio
Vida Dubai Marina project
Emaar Presented Expansion Plans
Rotana Enhances Oman Inventory
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iming to accommodate the higher number of long-stay leasers and holidaymakers in Dubai, Al Dar Darak has recently unveiled plans to launch 10 new apartments in one of the emirate’s most vibrant areas. Featuring one- to three- bedrooms units furnished with contemporary pieces designed by BoConcept, the new apartments will be located in City Walk, an outdoor retail complex with wellness and dining outlets offering experiences and venues for both business and pleasure. The launch is set to take place in the second quarter of this year with further details to be announced soon.
6 MAY 2017
Al Dar Darak apartment
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uring Arabian Travel Market, Rotana signed a management agreement with Golden Group Holding (GGH), for the opening of a new property in Muscat, Al Mouj Rayhaan by Rotana. Located within the landmark Al Mouj development, an integrated tourist complex comprising a mix of hotels, luxury residences, dining facilities along with a private yachting hub and a golf course, the new address is designed to meet diverse guests’ needs. Scheduled to open before 2020, the hotel will feature 250 rooms, suites and apartments. Nasser Al Nowais, chairman, Rotana, commented, “[…] These projects will bring significant economic benefits for Oman and create hundreds of new jobs for Omani nationals, while providing a new level of guest experience to visitors to the Sultanate.”
Rendering of Al Mouj Rayhann by Rotana
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Emirates to Debut New A380 Onboard Lounge
Emirates A380 Onboard Lounge
During Arabian Travel Market (ATM), Emirates showcased its enhanced Airbus A380 onboard lounge, along with other signature products.
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cheduled for its operational debut in July, the new version of the lounge was displayed at ATM, enabling visitors to experience its airier look, innovative lighting concepts, new seating area with tables and window views, as well as its horse-shoe shaped bar. Speaking ahead of the event, Thierry Antinori, executive vice president, Emirates, enthused, “[ATM] is also a perfect platform for us to showcase our new product innovations, including our hugely popular A380 onboard lounge, and we look forward to highlighting its newly enhanced features to the travel trade and wider industry […].”
Saudia Boosts Inventory
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audia Airlines has announced the expansion of its fleet with the addition of a new Boeing 787-9, the first of 15 jets awaiting delivery, bringing the current number of Boeing aircraft to seven. Purchasing the state-of-the-art aircraft from major global producers is the carrier’s strategy to constantly modernise its fleet, according to the requirements for different types and sizes of the aircraft, reflecting its operational strategies for domestic, regional and international flights. Presently, the Saudi national airline boasts 129 jets, including the market’s latest Boeing and Airbus wide-body aircraft.
Oman Air Presented New B787-9
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n April 22, Oman Air welcomed a new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, to be utilised on its European and far Eastern destina-
tions. Featuring 30 award-winning flat-bed business class suites and 258 economy class seats, the new aircraft, designed by B/E Aerospace, offers passengers the opportunity to choose from a wide selec-
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tion of entertainment through Thales Integrated In-Flight Entertainment System. Commenting on the addition to the airline’s fleet, which now stands at 52 aircraft, Abdulaziz Alraisi, executive vice president, products and brand development, Oman Air, assured that Oman’s national carrier will continue to invest in providing guests with the best possible onboard experience.
A New Partnership for Nile Air
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ile Air has recently unveiled plans to collaborate with Hahn Air Group, the German-based provider of distribution services for air, rail and shuttle partners and the ticketing expert for travel agents. The new partnership will enable the airline’s passengers to use over 100,000 travel agencies in over 190 markets in order to book their flights and connect to almost any point of the globe using HR-169 ticketing. Commenting on the new agreement, Ahmed Aly, CEO, Nile Air, stated, “Our goal is to reach a global audience with our services. With Hahn Air’s HR-169 product, we found a flexible solution that can be easily expanded and aligned with our strategic outlook.”
6 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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o further enhance passenger’s experience to and from major key hubs, Emirates has recently announced that all of its flights to Spain will be operated with Airbus A380 aircrafts. In addition to the existing double daily A380 service to Barcelona, the airline will upgauge its Dubai – Madrid schedule from September 01. Currently operated with a Boeing 777, the itinerary to the Spanish capital will soon offer 14 private suites in first class, 76 business class seats and 399 in economy class. The carrier, which has also been a sponsor of Real Madrid since 2011, operates dedicated cargo flights from Barcelona and Zaragoza. In 2016, the carrier transported more than 70,000 tonnes of goods from the European country.
Emirates Extended MoU with the Seychelles and Mauritius From left: Ramkaloan, Orhan Abbas, senior vice president, commercial operations for Africa, Emirates
Emirates to Serve Spain with A380
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mirates renewed its global marketing agreements with the Seychelles and Mauritius by extending the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the countries’ tourism boards. Emirates started operations to Mauritius in 2002 and in 2016 more than 1,2 million Emirates’ passengers visited the country. In addition, the carrier increased its capacity to the Seychelles in 2015, switching from the Airbus 330-200 to a larger Boeing 777-300ER. Commenting on the extension of the agreement, Kevin Ramkaloan, director, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority commented,” [...] The facilities extended by Emirates to the Mauritian trade through discounted tickets to MTPA-supported trade fairs and roadshows will certainly benefit the local industry.”
Gulf Air Presents Corporate Plans
Airports in Asia Pacific Accredited
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uring a ceremony held alongside the 12th Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition which took place in Qatar, 37 Asia Pacific airports received their Airport Carbon Accreditation certificate for their initiatives and achievements in carbon reduction. Patti Chau, regional director, ACI Asia-Pacific, commented, “Airports in our region have made remarkable progress in their journey towards carbon neutrality. […] These airports account for more than 29.5 percent of air passenger traffic in Asia Pacific. Going forward, we will continue to encourage airports to establish targets on carbon emissions reduction and work with our members to achieve sustainable growth [...].” Originally developed and launched by ACI Europe in 2009, Airport Carbon Accreditation was extended to airports in Asia Pacific in 2011 in partnership with ACI Asia Pacific.
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ulf Air has kicked-off its informative road show aimed at promoting its corporate loyalty programmes to companies in the six GCC states. Airline representatives will share information about tailored offerings and benefits of the Gulf Air Falcon Corporate Plus and Falcon Corporate Loyalty schemes, which target small and medium enterprises. With customisable privileges and other rewards for both employers and staff, the programmes ensure that business trips are more profitable for all parties. Yahya Ali Buali, director, sales and marketing, Gulf Air, enthused, “[…] We look forward to engaging with organisations across the GCC to share information about how our corporate offering facilitates travel for both employers and employees across the Gulf Air network, providing a host of tailored advantages.”
6 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Etihad Impressed with Innovations
Qatar Airways Surprised ATM Attendees
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Etihad Airways at ATM
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n April 24, the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), Qatar Airways made a series of announcements regarding upgraded products and new onboard services as well as a redesigned website, set to go live in May. This included the unveiling of the airline’s new high-speed broadband on flights starting this summer, along with a brand new graphic user interface for improved usability and a complimentary new entertainment application. In addition, the carrier revealed 12 new destinations set to be launched in 2018, including Mykonos, Málaga and Lisbon. On the same day, the Doha-based airline unveiled Qsuite, what said to be the industry’s first-ever double bed available in business class, to Middle East consumers for the first time.
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tihad Airways debuted what is said to be the world’s first airline mobile exhibition unit at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) following its 18 month European tour. The innovative stand provided visitors with a first-hand experience of the carrier’s cabin products and in-flight service within the 16m long unit, presenting a full-size three-room cabin and an apartment, both available on board the airline’s Airbus A380 fleet, as well as an example of the suite offered on Boeing 787 aircraft. Speaking ahead of the event, Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways, said, “We are delighted to once again showcase our world-class product, services, global network and award-winning marketing partnerships on our stand at ATM […].”
6 MAY 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Hurlingham - Lobby
Kenya Home to First Four Points Hotel
6 MAY 2017
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ollowing an announcement made in April by Marriott International, the company’s first property in Kenya is set to take shape with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Hurlingham. Owned by Kamcan Properties, the hotel is strategically located close to the city centre and within easy access from the surrounding business areas of Westlands, Kilimani and Nairobi Central, as well as from the Kenyatta International Airport and the Wilson Airport. “The 96-key property, first of four concurrent hotels set to open this year, hails as a significant addition to the brands growing portfolio in the region offering blends of stylish comforts and modest service at an honest value,” commented Alex Kyriakidis, president, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International.
Vietjet Defines the Way Ahead
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uring the annual shareholders’ meeting, Vietjet has announced its five-year strategic plan focussed on sustainable growth. The carrier’s top priorities are safety and reliability, continuing innovation and service quality improvement, along with operational efficiency and management in line with the international and regional standards. The plan follows the positive performance seen in 2016, when the carrier led the Vietnam domestic market with 14.05 million transported passengers, a 50.9 percent jump over 2015, and expanded its fleet to 41 jets after receiving 12 new aircrafts. Nguyen Thanh Ha, chairwoman, Vietjet, enthused, “Vietjet is ready to conquer new heights. I am confident that there is a bright future in the air and Vietjet is making every effort to bring it closer."
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RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with
ruary, the property has created numerous offerings for the local community that live in close proximity to the hotel to enjoy and we have plenty more exciting initiatives in the pipeline. The hotel will be partnering with the Al Forsan International Sports Resort to offer different packages for guests which will all be available by calling the hotel to personalise the guest’s experience.
RICHARD BLEAKLEY GENERAL MANAGER, MARRIOTT HOTEL AL FORSAN, ABU DHABI
WITH SPORTS TOURISM BEING ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWNING SEGMENTS ACROSS THE WORLD, RICHARD BLEAKLEY, GENERAL MANAGER, MARRIOTT HOTEL AL FORSAN, ABU DHABI, EXPLAINS WHAT MAKES THE PROPERTY A LEADING CHOICE FOR ATHLETES AND SPORTS FANS ALIKE.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Along with the hotel’s strategic location, what makes Marriott Al Forsan Hotel, Abu Dhabi ideal for guests looking to take part in sports activities? RICHARD BLEAKLEY: Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi delivers a completely new experience for guests. We are extremely fortunate to be surrounded by endless sporting facilities such as football and rugby pitches, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, two indoor paintball arenas, a professional karting circuit, an off-road buggy race track, shooting facilities, equestrian centre, polo field and a stunning lake with water-ski and wakeboarding cableway system. The hotel also offers an outdoor 50m Olympic swimming pool in addition to the Kids Zone with an outdoor splash and adventure playground. Marriott Hotel Al Forsan has six world class hospitality venues that cater for every taste and mood through enticing food and entertainment. The fully-equipped Saray Spa & Health Club provides a variety of wellness options to refresh travellers, including a world-class luxury spa. The
Saray Spa also houses a traditional marble Hammam bath offering total privacy, comfort and relaxation. Taking inspiration from timeless rituals and invigorating treatments the spa offers sanctuary from the hectic sporting activities in the resort. The hotel offers fluid meeting space and is designed to accommodate meetings, conferences and social occasions of all sizes. All the room and event hire spaces can be formatted and segmented to accommodate a small meeting to a large scale event with dedicated staff and event planners to bring Marriott Hotels’ signature meetings concept, Meetings Imagined to life. The lobby also features a separate space for event organiser liaison and deal closing, offering comfort and ensuring privacy at all times. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What do you believe is driving the popularity of sports tourism in the MENA region? RICHARD BLEAKLEY: A number of major sporting events are playing a significant role in positioning the MENA region as a leading international sports tourism destination with global events including the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix, DP World Champion Golf Tour, Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships and the pending FIFA World Cup in 2022 in Qatar. The Qatar government has proposed a significant budget to develop sporting facilities with a focus on the development of 12 new sports stadiums and the renovation of older ones to promote sport in the region and bring together the global sporting community.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important do you foresee the sports segment to be at your property? RICHARD BLEAKLEY: Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi is a destination resort that offers facilities unlike any other and provides new experiences to all travellers to Abu Dhabi. The property has something for everyone, which can be tailored to individual needs whether you are a family looking for a short staycation, a couple on a mini getaway, colleagues looking for team building activities or a business traveller or sports fan looking to use the endless facilities. Since the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi opened its doors in mid-Feb-
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Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi
6 MAY 2017
GEORGE DEMITRY GENERAL MANAGER, ROYAL ROSE ABU DHABI
6 MAY 2017
Royal Rose Abu Dhabi has gone the extra mile “We are really proud to be awarded [Best Family Hotel 2017 by The Arab Center for Tourism Media]. Our guests are mainly families from GCC countries who regularly travel with young children and for whom the hotel is the most important part of the whole trip. [...] Royal Rose Abu Dhabi has gone the extra mile with providing children activities and recreational areas to suit all ages. Moreover every single effort has been made to provide the right culinary choices as well as the right amenities for the pleasure and comfort of all the family members.”
VICE PRESIDENT, MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA, AMADEUS
ANTOINE MEDAWAR
TRAVEL TALK
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The combination of education and technology is critical “At Amadeus, we believe that the combination of education and technology is critical, in order to build up a sustainable and competitive travel and tourism sector in the future. In terms of the education requirements for the labour force of today and tomorrow, [World Tourism Organization and Arabian Travel Market Ministerial Forum] is a unique platform to discuss the policies and initiatives that will equip future sector employees with the skills and knowledge to contribute to continued, sustainable growth.”
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Cairo Marriott Embodies Spirit to Serve
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Bokova Visited Al Ain
From left: Al Mubarak, Bokova
Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino
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iming to assist passengers with reduced mobility and promote the destination to tourists, Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino has recently donated 60 wheelchairs to EgyptAir’s Cairo-Egypt terminals. The initiative illustrates Marriott International’s Spirit to Serve and Travel Brilliantly philosophy through continuous community partnerships. In order to celebrate the donation, a partnership agreements was signed between Omar Tantawy, general manager, Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino and Sherif El Maghloub, vise president, EgyptAir at Eugenie Salon, located on the hotel’s ground floor, with the presence of EgyptAir members and delegates from Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino. With this newly launched initiative, the hotel wanted to promote the message that nothing should stop anyone from travelling and exploring the world.
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n April, Irina Bokova, director general, UNESCO, toured Al Ain Oasis, one of the UAE’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Led by H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), the tour included visits to the key historic and cultural sites of Al Ain such as Qasr Al Muwaiji and Al Jahili Fort. The visit coincided with the conclusion of the CultureSummit 2017 Abu Dhabi, a five-day event that brought together leaders from the worlds of government, arts and media, technology and policy to address the role culture can play in relation to some of the challenges of our time.
National Museum Riyadh Digs Roots
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he Art from Museum exhibition, organised by the National Museum in collaboration with Fine Art Club, concluded in April at the National Museum in Riyadh. The event highlighted the role of fine arts, handicraft and folklore in reviving the national heritage of the Kingdom, as well as presented the museum’s message to the members of society, to encourage cultural awareness through visual arts. In light of this objective, the exhibition offered a number of informative smart screens to enable visitors to identify the history and heritage of the Kingdom through the ages.
Etihad Stimulated Interest in Science
Think Science
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o promote aviation careers as part of national efforts to engage youth in science and technology, Etihad Aviation Group has deployed its pilots and engineers to Think Science 2017, held at Dubai World Trade Centre on April 18 – 20. The carrier offered visitors the opportunity to get behind controls of a flight simulator and experience flying an aircraft, with the crew available to answer questions. Meanwhile the company’s engineers displayed a jet engine model to shed light on how they support the fleet. Salah Al Farajalla, senior vice president, security and national pilot development, Etihad Airways, said, “It is vital for the UAE’s economic development that we attract young Emiratis into the professions that help fuel future growth. […].”
6 MAY 2017
PHOTO ALBUM
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H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai was officially welcomed by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chief executive, Emirates Group, who gave a personal tour of the new Onboard Lounge at the Emirates Infinite Possibilities stand at Arabian Travel Market
Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm received Green Key Certificate
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Oman Air received the Best Arab Air Carrier supporting Arab Tourism award granted by 2017 Arab Tourism Media Awards during a ceremony at Casablanca Grand Hotel Jeddah
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Asia Pacific airports received their Airport Carbon Accreditation Certificate at a ceremony held in Doha alongside the 12th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly
6 MAY 2017
More than 500 workers were celebrated by Ajman Tourism Development Department in ceremony on International Workers’ Day
Etihad Airways facilitated the Umrah pilgrimage travel for 15 individuals to Saudi Arabia as part of its support of the national Year of Giving
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NEWS & EVENTS
Oman Hosted Get Connected Forum
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iming to facilitate direct communication between various stakeholders in the Omani tourism sector, the second edition of Get Connected forum took place in April. This year’s forum focussed on the progress made by the Ministry of Tourism in cooperation with concerned authorities, while highlighting the latest developments in the sector’s projects, and initiatives taken by various stakeholders involved in tourism services. During the event, topics related to Oman’s Tourism Strategy 2040 were reviewed and discussed. The meeting saw the participation of officials and representatives from several government entities, private sector institutions and other establishments operating in the tourism sector.
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EVENTS INTERCARE INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL TOURISM EXHIBITION Milan, Italy May 25 – 27 www.inter-care.it An opportunity for international medical and tourism operators to forge working relationships.
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.
Crafts for All in Sharjah
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rthi Contemporary Crafts Council introduced traditional Emirati crafts during the 15th edition of Sharjah Heritage Days. To maintain and build on the region’s deep-rooted heritage, Bidwa Social Development Programme showcased the craft making skills through variety of workshops and activities. Reem Bin Karam, director, NAMA Women Advancement Establishment, said, “Whenever the Bidwa craftswomen or the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council participate at an event, people express their admiration of their work and skills. While many Emiratis are aware of their heritage, it is different when they witness it first-hand, and grasp its complexity, and the fact that it has a renewed relevance in today’s society.”
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INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON TOURISM TECHNOLOGY Kochi, India June 08 – 10 www.icttindia.org Speakers from across the industry will share ideas on how to maximise online business.
6 MAY 2017