20 MAY 2017 ISSUE 393
05 05 GENERAL
NEW DISCOVERY UNVEILED IN EGYPT
SHARJAH TO WELCOME CITY CENTRE MALL
09 SHARJAH’S FIRST LUXURY DESERT RESORT ANNOUNCED
04 Airports 08 Agents
18 Who's Moved
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
Middle East Hoteliers See Drop in Q1
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel SENIOR JOURNALIST Ellen Petty JOURNALIST Maria Sabova CONTRIBUTORS Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou Dominique 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
Lebanon
Hotels in the Middle East reported declines in a number of measures during the first quarter (Q1) of this year compared to the same period in 2016, including an 8.2 percent drop in RevPAR to USD122.07, as revealed by STR.
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urthermore, occupancy fell 1.4 percent to 70.5 percent, while average daily rate (ADR) decreased 6.8 percent year-on-year to USD173.06. Bolstered by an exceptionally strong March, Lebanon achieved a 10.1 percent growth to reach 49.3 percent in Q1, an 11 percent jump in RevPAR, along with a 0.8 percent boost in ADR. On the other hand, performance was down in Saudi Arabia compared to Q1 2016, with a 10.4 percent decline in occupancy to 58.3 percent, a 12 percent fall in ADR and a 21.2 percent plummet in RevPAR.
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
American Express Reports Revenue Drop
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
19.5.2017
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
108.65
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
18.06
Iran (IRR)
Rial
32,446.09
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,170.85
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,511.59
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.38
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.80
Syria (SYP)
Pound
214.35
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.43
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.14
In the first quarter (Q1) of the year, American Express Company revealed net income of USD1.2 billion, a year-on-year decline of 13 percent, while diluted earnings per share stood at USD1.34, down eight percent.
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1 consolidated total revenues net of interest expense reached USD7.9 billion, down two percent from USD8.1 billion in the same period in 2016. Excluding 2016’s Costco-related business and the impact of foreign exchange rates, adjusted revenues net of interest expense grew seven percent. Kenneth Chenault, CEO, American Express Company, said, “The results reflect many of the investments we have been making to grow the business, plus continued progress in reducing operating expenses.
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS
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Seychelles Tourism Showcased at Luxury Expo
The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
Seychelles Tourism Board office in Dubai took further steps to reinforce its reputation in the region by participating in the 5th American Express World Luxury Expo 2017 for the first time.
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eld at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, the event enabled the organisation to strengthen relationships with industry stakeholders and to reach to a wider audience, adding to Saudi Arabia’s status as a significant feeder market to the Seychelles. Ahmed Fathallah, regional manager, Middle East, Dubai, Seychelles Tourism Board, summarised, “[…] The affirmative response the tourism board received from the consumers [during the event] is an indication to the fact that the Seychelles has an unwavering acceptance in the whole market.”
Egypt Boasts Booming Real Estate Sector
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head of Egypt Property Show 2017, a press conference put the spotlight on Egypt’s rapidly growing real estate market, showcasing considerable investment opportunities. According to Egypt Ministry for Housing, the country’s booming population has resulted in growing demand for residential housing, with an estimated 500,000 new homes needing to be built annually over the next five years. In line with the governmental objective to sustain the sector’s upward trajectory, two major development projects were presented during the event, New El Alamein City, set to become the next tourism and residential hotspot, and yet-unnamed The New Capital of Egypt, expected to play a role of a financial and administrative hub.
20 MAY 2017
Yas Island to Welcome Mercedes-Benz Showroom
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ldar Properties has recently signed a partnership agreement with Al Fahim Group to launch the first Mercedes-Benz and AMG showroom and express service centre on Yas Island. Expected to be completed in 2019, the new development will cover an area of 5,900m2 and is part of a new planned retail park, a branch of Aldar Properties’ AED3 billion (USD816 million) investment programme. Commenting on the new opening, Ahmed Abdul Jalil Al Fahim, chairman, Al Fahim Group, stated, “To grant visitors the best customer experience in the region, the complex will have all the elements of future showroom concepts for Mercedes-Benz and AMG, such as, complete digitalisation and new job roles.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIRPORTS
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Dubai International Queue Time Drops Dubai International achieved 10 percent decrease in waiting times during the first quarter of this year, attributed to advanced technology solutions implemented onsite.
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rom January to March, the hub processed 84 percent of transfer passengers within five minutes, 87 percent of departing travellers within 10 minutes and 68 percent of arriving visitors were handled within 15 minutes. The technology solutions that significantly assist with timely processing of passengers are Smart Gates, enabling UAE residents to exit through automated immigration gates quickly and conveniently with the use of Emirates ID cards. The second solution behind shorter waiting times is a motion sensor system allowing the airport to track queues in real time and to take immediate actions with deployment of resources.
Dubai Hosted 17th Airport Show
HIA Celebrated Record March
CAI to Run Jeddah Hub
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roviding an ideal opportunity for global exhibitors to showcase and launch airport and aviationrelated products and services, the 17th edition of Airport Show was held on May 15 – 17 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. More than 300 leading companies from over 40 countries showcased their products and services, with Germany having the largest participation, with 34 exhibitors. Daniyal Qureshi, group exhibitions director, Reed Exhibitions Middle East, said, “The growth of the Middle East region’s aviation sector is opening a wealth of opportunities for international players, as is reflected in the massive interest from global exhibitors this year.”
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amad International Airport (HIA) registered record results in March, with 21,842 aircraft movements and 177,325 tonnes of cargo handled, both contributing in successful conclusion of the first quarter (Q1) of this year. Overall, the Qatari gateway served 9.78 million passengers in Q1, a 10 percent year-on-year increase. The period under review also saw a 20 percent jump in the freight segment over the same period in 2016, with 469,725 tonnes of transported goods. Meanwhile, from January to March, the carrier recorded 62,913 aircraft movements representing an eight percent year-on-year growth. While highlighting the phenomenal results of the cargo division, Badr Mohammed Al Meer, chief operating officer, HIA, attributed the hub’s positive performance to increased frequencies along with new airlines that have joined the airport’s network.
audi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has recently awarded a consortium led by Changi Airports International (CAI), a subsidiary of the Changi Airport Group, a contract to operate the Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport for 20 years. Commenting on the occasion, Lim Liang Song, CEO, CAI, stated, “We would like to thank the GACA board of directors for their confidence and trust in CAI. This is testament to the strong partnership we have with GACA, from when we first started managing [King Fahd International Airport] eight years ago.” Committed to being a valued partner in the global aviation market by creating airports of the future, CAI has an extensive global experience that spans over 20 countries in four continents.
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS
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Sharjah To Welcome City Centre Mall
New Discovery Unveiled in Egypt
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ajid Al Futtaim Properties has recently unveiled plans to launch what is said to become the company’s largest mall in Sharjah, City Centre Al Zahia. Expected to be completed in 2020, the 13.62ha venue will offer a diverse mix of over 360 retail brands spread across two storeys complemented by leisure options such as VOX Cinemas as well as various dining outlets. Ghaith Shocair, CEO, shopping malls, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, stated, “The scale and long-term vision of the Al Zahia community warrant retail and entertainment destination of this size and scope, in line with Majid Al Futtaim’s strategy to create malls that meet the current and future needs of the residents and tourists we serve [...].”
20 MAY 2017
gypt’s Ministry of State for Antiquities has announced the findings of an archeological mission in the Draa Abul Nagaa necropolis near Luxor, which revealed 3,500 year old tombs, among other ancient artifacts. After removing 450m³ of debris, the researchers uncovered a burial chamber of a judge named Userhat, which also housed 10 unique sarcophagi along with eight linenwrapped mummies belonging to ancient Egypt’s 21st dynasty. The site was also hiding a collection of over 200 funerary figurines and wooden masks. The discovery helps experts gain new knowledge about the hidden fragments in ancient Egypt’s timeline and the archeologists hope to get deeper understanding of the history as the excavations on the site continue.
Dubai Chamber Shared Expertise
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he Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) recently welcomed delegations from authorities in Bahrain and Al Qassim, with the aim of sharing knowledge and enhancing cooperation. During the meeting, the representatives of the three chambers discussed the best practices in the areas of membership and customer services along with the procedures of awarding the certificates of origin. Atiq Juma Nasib, senior vice president, commercial services, DCCI, revealed that the number of issued certificates reached the figure of 923,000 in 2016, in line with the international standards. Highlighting the importance of reinforcing collaboration, he further added that the Dubai chamber has developed strong expertise for both partners to benefit from.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Egypt Property Show Scored Success
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Egypt
he first GCC edition of the road show exhibition Egypt Property Show 2017 was successfully concluded in Dubai, generating sales deals valued at EGP1 billion (USD55.2 million) during its three-day run. The robust participation of Egyptian real estate and development companies attracted investors who were presented with promising prospects of the country’s property market and received investment advice along with some exclusive offers. Commenting on the event, Hisham Lotfi, chairman, Al-Ahram Establishments, confirmed that exhibitors expressed high satisfaction, which has inspired the organisers to increase the size of the upcoming road shows in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and London.
Royal Caribbean Cruises Return to US Gulf Coast
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s a part of its new deployment plans, Royal Caribbean has announced cruises from the US Gulf coast with the anticipated addition of two vessels in the region in 2018. After a three-year break, the liner will return to New Orleans with repositioning of its Vision of the Seas, set to operate seven-night itineraries to destinations across Bahamas and Yucatan Peninsula. Meanwhile, Enchantment of the Seas will sail to its new base in Galveston for Caribbean voyages. Furthermore, Mariner of the Seas will embark on new journeys and before returning to its Miami home port, including the Global Odyssey itinerary from Singapore to Dubai, Dubai to Barcelona and Barcelona to Miami.
Mariner of the Seas
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MOHAP Hosted Travel Exhibition
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rganised by Dubai Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and dnata, the eighth edition of Travel Road Show was recently held at MOHAP’s office in Dubai. A number of international travel and tourism companies participated in the event, where they presented the best travel and hotel offers and were honoured with certificates thanking them for their contribution towards the success of the exhibition. H.E. Awad Bin Saghir Al Ketbi, undersecretary, supportive services sector, MOHAP, noted that the event has attracted the largest international companies in the fields of tourism and travel, aiming to provide the best offers and contribute to the happiness of employees.
Eighth Travel Road Show
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
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EAN Unveils Agent Booking Module Expedia Affiliate Network (EAN) has launched an agent booking module for its Affiliate Voyager product, providing agents with complete visibility to make bookings directly on the customer’s behalf, as well as manage customer enquiries and adjust any information related to the bookings made across more than 290,000 properties.
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riane Gorin, senior vice president, EAN, said, “We estimate that Affiliate Voyager will result in more efficient sales and customer service experiences for agencies, with a 15 percent increase in customer requests that the agent can handle without escalation and a five percent reduction in total handle time for affiliate agents.” Fully maintained by the company, the program comes with face-to-face and online training to drive agent adoption, alongside full support from EAN.
UAE and Saudi Arabia Named Top Destinations
TripAdvisor Crosses Reviews Milestone
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ripAdvisor has recently announced that it has reached 500 million reviews, and continues to receive 290 pieces of content every minute. By using cutting-edge technology and investigation methods, the company ensures that consumers are able to find reviews to be accurate and helpful in determining the quality of their total trip experience. Stephen Kaufer, CEO, TripAdvisor, commented, “Since launching 17 years ago, TripAdvisor has revolutionised the travel industry by creating an environment where consumers can share honest opinions of their experiences and where businesses can see the rewards of achieving consistently high standards of service and value from the community.”
Dubai
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otelsCombined revealed that in 2016, the UAE and Saudi Arabia were among the top destinations in the GCC visited by business and leisure travellers from the UK, accounting for 10 percent of all visitors, with Australia and the US following. The study also revealed that 43 percent of those who booked accommodation in the GCC were between the ages of 25 to 34 years old, while 30 percent were aged 35 to 44. Along with the region’s proximity to the UK, Amer AlHalabi, general manager, HotelsCombined, commented, “We can see a robust growth in the Middle East’s tourism industry because the region offers high-end luxury developments and international standard attractions.”
Amadeus to Boost Al Tayyar’s Online Presence
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ollowing a meeting between Amadeus IT Group and Al Tayyar Travel Group (ATTG), in April, the parties have signed a new partnership agreement. The extended deal significantly boosts the strategic cooperation between the two companies, while reaffirming ATTG’s commitment to expand its online business though Amadeus’ high-end technology and cost effective solutions, including Premium Online Support, 24/7 contact with Amadeus experts, Amadeus Ticket Changer Shopper Online, booking and offline quality control check, among others. The contract will now run until 2020, aiming to expand the collaboration from a local to MENA level.
20 MAY 2017
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Sharjah’s First Luxury Desert Resort Announced
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ollowing a memorandum of understanding signed with Al Wanis, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has confirmed the AED60 million (USD16.33 million) Mleiha Desert Resort, scheduled for completion in the end of 2019. Spread across 6ha at the heart of the Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-Tourism Project, the premium destination will feature 45 exclusively designed villas, boasting private decking and swimming pools, along with world-class dining outlets, health club, among other facilities. H.E. Marwan Bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq, enthused that the new resort represents a milestone in the progress of the project and is in line with the organisation’s aim to boost the emirate’s tourism profile through key partnerships.
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION DAMAC to Launch a Luxury Gateway
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AMAC Properties announced the opening of DAMAC Maison Bay’s Edge in May, a 250-key property located in Dubai’s Business Bay. Spread across 22 floors, the address will offer a refined living experience, offering guests a personal chef, gym, separate male and female wellness areas, a swimming pool, a kids club and complimentary shuttle bus service to the city’s hotspots. Whilst mentioning that the competitive environment has pushed hoteliers to become more creative in their offerings, Niall McLoughlin, senior vice president, DAMAC Properties, also noted that the new hotel’s capacity and facilities represent an ideal opportunity for investors to respond to the booming tourism sector.
Carlton Hotel Brand to Grow in UAE
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he First Investor Group has announced plans to increase its hospitality inventory 51 percent, with the addition of 683 new keys in the next three years under its brand Carlton Hotel Management. Funding is set to reach AED2.7 billion (USD735.1 million) by 2020, in comparison to the AED2.2billion (USD598.9 million) invested in the hospitality sector so far. Referring to the recent purchase of Dubai’s Carlton Downtown hotel as a demonstration of the company’s strategy to growth within the UAE first before expanding beyond, Hosni Abdel Hadi, CEO, Carlton Hotel Management, further noted, “[…] The UAE continues to be one of world’s most competitive economy for travel and tourism and this is significant and vital to Carlton brand.”
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Iraq Welcomes Erbil Arjaan by Rotana
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iming to further boost tourism in Erbil, along with employment opportunities, Rotana Hotel Management has recently opened Erbil Arjaan by Rotana. The first Arjaan-branded address in Iraq is located in the heart of the city’s thriving business district and in close proximity to Erbil International Airport. The new address features 168 modern and fully-furnished apartments, food and beverage venues along with meeting and wellness facilities. The property will be managed by the group on behalf of Malia Group, building upon the six year partnership that began with Erbil Rotana. “Malia Group recognises the vast potential for tourism in Kurdistan and we remain dedicated to investing in the region’s fastgrowing hospitality sector,” commented, Jacques Jean Sarraf, chairman, Malia Group.
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Deutsche Hospitality Adds Two Tunisian Properties
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ollowing extensive renovation works which concluded in April, Deutsche Hospitality now offers two hotels in the Tunisian destination of Sousse. Operated by Tunisia Hospitality Group, The Steigenberger Hotel Kantaoui Bay boasts 365 rooms and suites as well as a sauna, a Haman and a whirlpool. Further facilities include an array of sporting activities and a conference area. The four-star Jaz Hotel Tour Khalef features 570-keys and suites as well as a fresh water outdoor pool. The hotel provides idyllic surroundings for holidaymakers and infrastructure for conferences and meetings. Guests can also enjoy a range of culinary and beverage options, salt water pools among wellness, spa and fitness options alongside a Thalassotherapy Centre.
Hilton to Arrive in Bahrain
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ith the goal of further boosting tourism in the GCC region and enrich Bahrain’s hospitality scene, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has recently joined forces with King Faisal Corniche Development and Mabanee Bahrain to open its first Hilton-branded property in the country. The construction of the 210-key Hilton Bahrain Bay Hotel & Residences is already underway and once completed in 2020, it will feature 150 apartments and 60 studio suites. Guests will be able to enjoy four distinct stand-alone dining outlets, a swimming pool, a spa and fitness facilities. Located at The Avenues, a major retail and leisure destination in Manama scheduled to open by the end of this year, the new address will join the group's pipeline of 120 properties in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey.
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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SAUDIA and China Southern Team Up Saudia Airlines (SAUDIA) has announced a codeshare agreement with China Southern Airlines, enabling travellers to conveniently access additional domestic and international routes across both carriers’ portfolios.
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Guangzhou
assengers flying to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport with the Saudi carrier will be able to connect to further Chinese itineraries, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Wuhan. Meanwhile, the guests of the Chinese airline will benefit from the access to SAUDIA’s network from the Chinese hub with the option of transiting through Dubai International. The new partnership follows SAUDIA’s network expansion with two new destinations this year, Multan and Port Sudan, demonstrating its commitment to offer improved travel options and flexibility.
Qatar Airways Increases Pharma Express Service
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atar Airways Cargo has recently launched its fourth Pharma Express freighter service operating from Basel. Aiming to bridge the world’s major pharmaceutical trade lanes, Qatar’s national carrier launched Pharma Express flights in 2015, which currently operates from Brussels, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. Ulrich Ogiermann, chief officer, cargo, Qatar Airways, commented, “By increasing capacity from Basel, [...] we are able to provide increased uplift to our customers as well as a seamless cool-chain for pharmaceutical exports out of Basel through our good distribution practicecompliant hub in Doha.”
Etihad to Deploy Extra A380 to Sydney
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elebrating the 10th anniversary of its first Australian itinerary to Sydney, Etihad Airways has announced that all 14 weekly routes will enjoy its flagship Airbus A380 aircraft as of October 29. The current daily A380 flight to the destination will be joined by a second daily superjumbo service, featuring the carrier’s exclusive three-room suite, The Residence. With the deployment of the 496-seat double decker, Sydney will join London and New York as the airline’s all-A380 itineraries from Abu Dhabi.
Etihad Airways Airbus A380
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Gulf Air Renews IOSA Audit Registry
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ulf Air has successfully completed the internationally recognised, biennial International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and has been renewed on the IOSA Safety Audit Registry until May 2019. This is the seventh IOSA audit successfully completed by the carrier since 2005, whilst the airline’s quality assurance department continuously reviews and appraises internal operational processes, as well as conducts rigorous quality control processes and self-auditing to ensure conformity with IOSA Standards and Recommended Practices.
Nasser Al Salmi, chief operating officer, Gulf Air
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR Middle East Airlines and Turkish Airlines Partner Up
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iddle East Airlines (MEA) and Turkish Airlines (TA) have signed a codeshare agreement covering schedules between Turkey and Lebanon, which was effective as of May 15. As a result of the partnership, TA operates three daily flights on the Istanbul – Beirut route, while MEA serves the itinerary twice daily. Broadening the commercial ties between the two organisations and their respective countries, the collaboration offers passengers more flexibility and travel options. Mohamad El-Hout, chairman, MEA, highlighted that among other benefits, the fact that both companies are members of two different airline alliances, the agreement also enables both carriers to expand their networks to new destinations.
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Oman Air Commits to the Future
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n the context of building a brighter future, Oman Air has launched its corporate social responsibility strategy, focussed on supporting a range of sectors including small and medium-sized enterprises, environmental protection, tourism and education. Prioritising interaction with social groups, the airline will contribute to voluntary initiatives while also boosting the development of a sustainable society through investment in various public institutions. In line with the carrier’s expansion plans, the initiative will demonstrate best practice by creating a safe working environment to enable excellence and success in the aviation sector. Working closely with Oman Ministry of Social Development, the airline has pledged to deliver a range of projects to assist citizens in achieving their full potential.
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Qatar Airways Sponsors Formula E
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atar Airways has been named the official airline partner of the Paris ePrix, an electric street race, as well as sponsor of the 2017 Qatar Airways Paris ePrix, which is taking place in the French capital on May 20. The carrier has also been named the official airline partner of the firstever New York City ePrix taking place in Brooklyn on July 15 – 16. Commenting on the partnership with Formula E, H.E. Akbar Al Baker, group chief executive, Qatar Airways, said, “We are very pleased to be able to support this environmentally-friendly sport that promotes the latest technological innovations in producing alternative energy solutions for electric cars. […].”
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
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Dusit Spreads Wings to Bangladesh
Four Points by Sheraton Enters Japan
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arriott International has announced the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Hakodate, bringing the first Four Points branded hotel in Japan. Set to cater to independent travellers, the hotel offers approachable design and modern comfort, along with the brand’s aromatherapy spa treatments at the Relaxation Room Rilassa and more than 1,200m2 of versatile function facilities, including the signature Best Brews programme. Lothar Pehl, area vice president, Japan, Korea and Guam, Marriott International, added, “We are confident that Four Points by Sheraton Hakodate will resonate with those looking for a comfortable base to explore the region’s many attractions.”
Four Points Hakodate Night View Bar EsteLado
Dusit Princess Dhaka
fter signing a long-term agreement with Lakeshore Hotels, Dusit International has unveiled plans to open its first property in Bangladesh. Comprising 80 guestrooms and 10 suites along with an all-day-dining restaurant, a Grab ‘n’ Go outlet, a meeting room and a rooftop swimming pool, Dusit Princess Dhaka is slated to open by the end of this year and will be conveniently located in the north of Dhaka. Kazi Tareq Shams, managing director, Lakeshore Hotels, commented, “Our capacity to supervise hotel operations has grown significantly in recent years and we are pleased Dusit International has recognised those capacities on our side [...].”
IHG Celebrates 300th Property in China
Hotel Best Western Premier Panbil Debuts in Indonesia
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20 MAY 2017
Hotel Best Western Premier Panbil
A Rendering of HUALUXE Zhangjiakou
nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has recently opened HUALUXE Zhangjiakou, its 300th hotel in Greater China. Featuring 340 rooms, six restaurants and bars along with multi-functional meeting rooms, the new address is conveniently located close to key transportation hubs. “The opening of our 300th hotel in Greater China is a remarkable achievement for IHG and it is fitting that it is a HUALUXE hotel, designed specifically for Chinese travellers, that has helped us reach this milestone. Working closely with our partners, we look forward to continued growth in what is a very important market for us,” revealed, Richard Solomons, CEO, IHG.
iming to elevate business and leisure travel in Indonesia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts has recently opened a new upscale hotel on Batam Island. Marking the company’s 15th property in the country, Hotel Best Western Premier Panbil features 233 contemporary rooms and suites along with a wealth of amenities including an outdoor pool, an indulgent spa, a modern fitness centre and a restaurant providing local and international dishes. Olivier Berrivin, managing director, international operations, Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, enthused, “With an array of high-end amenities for both business and leisure travellers, plus outstanding conference and banqueting facilities, I am confident that Hotel Best Western Premier Panbil will become one of the island’s most sought-after hotels.”
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
emirate in 2016, which amounts to a quarter, 25 percent of all inbound traffic. Asia, meanwhile, was the secondlargest source region with 404,960 visitors to Sharjah in 2016 – accounting for 23 percent of all visitors to the emirate. This constitutes a nine percent increase from the 370,528 Asian visitors who came to the emirate in 2015. [...]
H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA CHAIRMAN, SHARJAH COMMERCE AND TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
WHEN TRAVELLING, THE IMPORTANCE OF SHARING EXPERIENCES BECOMES A FAMILY MATTER. SHARJAH OFFERS A PLETHORA OF RETAIL AND CULINARY OPTIONS AS WELL AS WATERSPORTS, AMONG OTHER ACTIVITIES. H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA, CHAIRMAN, SHARJAH COMMERCE AND TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (SCTDA), SHEDS LIGHT ON HOW SHARJAH CATERS TO MENA TRAVELLING FAMILIES WHILST PROMOTING ITS CULTURAL HERITAGE. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are Sharjah’s top inbound source markets? H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA: The GCC continues to dominate the list of Sharjah’s source regions for the tourism sector, sending 450,388 visitors to the
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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important is it for Sharjah to promote cultural heritage alongside family tourism? H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA: Families have been a major market segment for us and have continued to be the core of our marketing strategy. We recognise that Sharjah is a perfect destination for people travelling as a family unit, due to its safety and good positioning in terms of economic value. There is also so much to do for families, the 22 museums and other attractions offer edutainment opportunities not found in other locations. The GCC remains an important market mainly due to the synergy between our cultures. [...] Sharjah places a lot of emphasis on its signature tourist offering balancing culture and heritage on one hand, and family-centred offerings on the other. [...] Moreover, in April 2016, SCTDA launched Sharjah My Family Destination. The campaign, which aimed to introduce new tourism offers and packages for families visiting Sharjah, was a clear testament to the emirate’s commitment to families as a core pillar of its tourism strategy. [...] TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How do Sharjah’s offerings set the destination apart from other MENA products and areas? H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA: Sharjah stands out from other destinations in the region as it blends the modern glittering skyscrapers and ultra-luxury hotels that are very characteristic of other Arabian Gulf destinations, with traditional – and even ancient structures – emblematic of destinations in the wider MENA region, such as the old souks and the Al Hisn fort in the Heart of Sharjah, and the archaic relics of the Mleiha fort in the desert outside the city [...].
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lers can kick off their journey at Al Majaz Waterfront [...]. In addition to that, the waterfront features an open-air Romanstyle amphitheatre that can accommodate up to 4,500 spectators on Khalid Lagoon’s Al Majaz Island. Meanwhile, Al Qasba [...], is home to the 60m tall Eye of the Emirates Wheel. The recently completed Al Noor Island, engulfed in the emirate’s famed Khalid Lagoon, houses structures designed to invoke nature, [including a Butterfly House] which harbours as many as 500 exotic butterflies brought from Far East Asian countries. [...] For the outdoorsy and adventurous, the emirate offers water sports, snorkelling, and diving activities on its east coast, where travellers have the option to either camp on the beach or stay in any of the hotels that line the coast [...]. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What can families visiting Sharjah look forward to in the future? H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA: Sharjah will spend the next few years focussing on its natural assets. The emirate has placed large areas under environmental protective measures and the authority has committed to promoting the opportunities available for outdoor tourism. [...] TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: In 2016, how many visitors did the emirate welcome? H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA: Guests from all around the world spent a total of 4,021,069 nights in Sharjah’s hospitality establishments in 2016 – a 17 percent increase from 2015 – according to statistics released by the SCTDA. Hotels and hotel apartments across Sharjah welcomed a combined 1,779,446 guests in 2016, putting the emirate-wide occupancy rate and generating AED685 million (USD 184.4 million) in revenue.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the must-sees in Sharjah? H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA: Travel-
Sharjah during Sharjah Light Festival
20 MAY 2017
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Emirates Group Welcomed Foreign Delegates
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overnmental representatives from Australia and Greece met with H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, CEO, The Emirates Group, to strengthen the ties and discuss cooperation. During Arabian Travel Market, Al Maktoum welcomed Australian delegation headed by Steve Ciobo, trade, tourism and investment minister, Australia, and discussed the airline's ongoing contribution to trade and tourism sectors in the country. The Greek government officials, led by Elena Kountour, tourism minister, Greece, were received at the Embassy of Greece and debated the opportunities to increase tourism flows between the UAE and Greece.
20 MAY 2017
WEEKLY NEWS TRAVEL CHANNELS Four Seasons Hotel Amman Supports Women
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iming to support sustainable livelihoods for Jordanian communities, Four Seasons Hotel Amman has recently signed a partnership agreement with Jordan River Foundation (JRF). The partnership engages the hotel’s La Capitale restaurant, which launched a year-long fundraising initiative in March, in celebration of International Women’s Day. La Capitale adds a JOD 1 (USD1.41) to each table bill to support JRF’s work matched the amount raised in March. Enaam Barrishi, general director, JRF, stated, “Four Seasons Hotel Amman's, [...], continuous support to our work, helps us achieve more, reach more and raise more awareness on the important work JRF does in creating sustainable livelihoods for Jordanian communities.”
Star Wars Marathon Athlete Inspires All
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heelchair competitor Kurt Blankenship won the men’s push rim wheelchair division of the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side at Walt Disney World Resort on April 23, with a time of 1:27:46. However, it was said that there was more to the achievement than the victory. Having previously struggled to adjusting to being paralysed from the waist down after a car accident, his participation helped to educate and inspire his wife and their three children, who are each overcoming their own challenges as a result of being born premature. Blankenship took on the race to demonstrate resilience, in line with the athlete’s views that his children’s medical challenges motivate him to be an inspirational example of persistence and fortitude.
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HAREB AL MUHAIRY has become senior vice president, UAE and GCC sales at Etihad Aviation Group, moving from his previous role at the company of corporate and international affairs. Al Muhairy first joined Etihad Airways in 2004, where he has worked in a variety of positions including vice president of corporate communications. Furthermore, Al Muhairy held the position of vice president of sales in the UAE, before moving to oversee corporate and international affairs in 2015.
EMILE SAADEH
HAREB AL MUHAIRY
WHO’S MOVED
AXEL BETHKE has been appointed as general manager of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, bringing 25 years of international hospitality experience to the role. Passionate about the industry from a young age, Bethke has built his career in various positions in destinations such as Jordan, Germany, Austria and the US, including executive roles, like his precedent post of general manager at a 471-key luxury city hotel in Chengdu, China. As the seasoned professional with a proven track record of performance, Bethke aims to enhance the resort’s reputation while driving its continuous growth and success.
Bethke has built his career in various positions
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EMILE SAADEH has been announced as group director of sales, leisure at City Seasons Hotel Group. Saadeh has an extensive background in sales at international groups such as Crowne Plaza and Al Habtoor Group. From 2013, Saadeh worked for Royal Rose Hotel Abu Dhabi, first as sales manager before being promoted to cluster assistant director of sales, travel trade in February 2016. The appointment is part of the group’s strategy to increase the number of leisure guests at the hotel. In his new role, Saadeh will be instrumental in developing new markets that are not familiar with Dubai, such as Africa and South America.
Saadeh will develop new markets
ABOUDI ASALI
AXEL BETHKE
Al Muhairy first joined Etihad Airways in 2004
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ABOUDI ASALI has been named as CEO of Hospitality Management Holding, where he will be responsiple for identifying growth opportunities in line with the group’s strategic vision. Since beginning his career at Four Seasons Hotel Boston in operations, Asali has accumulated in excess of 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He returned to the Middle East in 2002 and signed more than 40 hotels across the region during his time as vice president of international lodging development at Marriott International. Asali joins the company from Jumeirah Group, where he served as senior vice president of development, a role in which he led the expansion of Jumeirah and Venu brands.
20 MAY 2017
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H.E. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways and Fatma Samoura, secretary general, FIFA, at the signing of a sponsorship agreement, making the carrier an official partner and the official airline of FIFA
PHOTO ALBUM
Etihad Aviation Group and Emirates Autism Society kick started Autism Awareness Parade
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.
Handy Smartphone to be utilised within UAE's hospitality sector
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham JBR presented recognition to its top corporate partners
20 MAY 2017
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Hamad International Airport successfully completed an full-scale emergency training exercise
Sharjah Girl Guides celebrated the Emirati tradition of Hag Al Lailah
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NEWS & EVENTS
SCTH Promoted Sustainable Tourism
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audi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) recently commemorated International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development at the opening ceremony of the 10th Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market in Riyadh. Through a number of tourism and cultural activities, programmes and media publications, the celebrations were led by World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in cooperation with government and tourism authorities in an attempt to raise awareness of the importance of sustainable tourism for development while drawing attention to the potential of tourism to foster economic growth, job creation and investment.
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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.
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.
ADIBF Attracted 300,000 Visitors
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atering to readers of poetry, literature, and culture, the 27th edition of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) concluded on May 02, and attracted over 300,000 visitors of all ages and nationalities. The book fair saw the participation of 1,320 exhibitors from 65 countries, and was host to more than 900 seminars and discussions that attracted high attendance from local and international leaders and intellectuals. Commenting on the event, H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, said, “The success of the fair is driven by the unprecedented levels of intellectual and cultural momentum that highlight the prestigious position Abu Dhabi holds as a leading international hub for literature."
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22ND UNWTO GENERAL ASSEMBLY Chengdu, China September 04 – 09 World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) annual meeting will bring together tourism officials and private sector leaders.
20 MAY 2017