12 AUGUST 2017 ISSUE 405
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12 AUGUST 2017 ISSUE 405
07 ABU DHABI PROMOTED IN THE US
10 ACCOMMODATION
ELLINGTON TO LAUNCH BELGRAVIA III IN DUBAI
11 flydubai STRENGTHENS LINKS WITH RUSSIA
04 Agents 11 Air
16 Rendezvous
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
Bahrain Airport Served Less Passengers in June
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel SENIOR JOURNALIST Ellen Petty JOURNALISTS Maria Sabova Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou
Bahrain International Airport
CONTRIBUTOR 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
Bahrain International Airport released its June performance figures, which revealed a 1.2 percent fall in passenger traffic, while its freight unit grew 6.9 percent year-on-year.
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uring the month under review, 579,511 travellers passed through the gateway, which also saw 7,103 aircraft movements, down 8.9 percent over June 2016. Meanwhile, 18,843 tonnes of cargo was transported from the hub during the reviewed month. Despite the minor drop in passenger numbers, the airport is paving its way towards increasing the passenger handling capability by the construction of a new terminal building, alongside with opening an improved overflow car park.
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
Etihad Reported Net Loss for 2016
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of 8.8.2017
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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
17.75
Iran (IRR)
Rial
32,798.56
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,177.14
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,506.53
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.35
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.44
Syria (SYP)
Pound
515.22
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.40
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.06
In 2016, Etihad Airways recorded a net loss of USD1.87 billion on USD8.36 billion in revenue due to one-off impairment charges and fuel hedging losses despite a solid performance of the core airline.
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otal impairments stood at USD1.9 billion, including a USD1.06 billion charge on aircraft, reflecting lower market values and the early phase out of certain types of aircraft. During the year under review the airline business achieved passenger revenue of USD4.9 billion, 79 percent load factor and carried a record 18.5 million travellers. Although yields fell eight percent, this was partially offset by an 11 percent reduction in unit costs. Available seat kilometres jumped nine percent to 113.9 billion, while the carrier saw a slight improvement in freight over 2015.
12 AUGUST 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
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Business Travel Growth Forecasted Despite Uncertainty According to Global Business Travel Association’s (GBTA), Outlook – Annual Global Report & Forecast, global business travel spend reached USD1.3 trillion in 2016 registering 3.5 percent increase compared to 2015.
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eanwhile, business travel spending is expected to accelerate significantly in 2018, advancing 6.1 percent, followed by an estimated seven percent rise in both 2019 and 2020. Business travel growth looks solid over the coming years, however, uncertainty arises as political polices, geopolitical tensions and financial concerns have intensified. Michael McCormick, executive director, GBTA, highlighted, “Stronger footing in emerging markets and continued economic stimulus in the developed world has supported global stability leading to a positive forecast that is unfortunately clouded with more uncertainty than we have seen in decades.”
IATA Enhances Pay-As-You-Go Options
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iming to enrich and facilitate the global delivery of its EasyPay payment solution, a fast, secure and cost-effective tool for travel agents in more than 100 markets, International Air Transport Association (IATA) has partnered with Edenred and Multiservice Technology Solutions (MSTS) as part of its New Generation of IATA Settlement Systems (NewGen ISS). “We are pleased to join with Edenred and MSTS to deliver IATA EasyPay which is a cornerstone of NewGen ISS. Working together, we will be able to provide a convenient pay-as-you-go option to more than 58,000 IATA-accredited travel agents, enabling them to take advantage of new and more efficient forms of electronic payments,” revealed Aleks Popovich, senior vice president, financial and distribution services, IATA.
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12 AUGUST 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
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TripAdvisor Reveals the Trendiest US Attractions
Gulf Air Rewarded Travel Agents
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12 AUGUST 2017
According to TripAdvisor’s Seasonal Attractions Trend Index, which provides travellers with insight into the hottest US attractions for summer, natural sites such as parks, gardens and falls are becoming increasingly sought-after. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
ulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, recently honoured its top travel trade partners for their contribution, performance and continued support in 2016. The carrier presented awards to agents as an acknowledgement and in recognition of their constant high level of commitment towards its operations. The airline also recognised its most productive travel agent in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia for 2016, Mohamed Anwar, general manager, Khalid Saeed Al Hajri who received its award from Hamed AbdulRedha Khamdan, country manager, Dammam, Gulf Air.
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mong the 25 most popular destinations are Grand Canyon South Rim, Colorado’s Seven Falls, Fenway Park, and Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Commenting on the results, Brooke Ferencsik, senior director, communications, TripAdvisor, revealed, “With Americans looking to take advantage of summer weather to explore the great outdoors, TripAdvisor data shows that attractions in nature are climbing to the top of our trend index this season.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Phocuswright: Travel Activities Spending to Soar
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ccording to Phocuswright’s latest report Tours & Activities Come of Age: The Global Travel Activities Marketplace 2014-2020, travellers’ spending on tours, activities, attractions and events reached USD135 billion globally in 2016, accounting for 10 percent of a global travel revenue. Beating the rail, car rental and cruise tourism expenditure, the third largest travel sector is going through a positive change affected by suppliers’ shift towards digital tools, with reservation technology representing a critical foundation for the sector’s advancement. This is fuelling the segment’s growth, which is now positioned to reach USD183 billion by 2020.
Dubai Summer Surprises Supports Retail Growth
Egypt to Boost Real Estate Investment
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ccording to Jones Lang LaSalle’s Q2 Cairo Real Estate Market Overview, the Egyptian government's approval of a new investment law will pave the way for a stimulated business environment that will improve market conditions in the country. Aiming to attract investment into real estate and other sectors by removing long standing bureaucratic obstacles, the new regulations propose relaxations on foreign ownership, tax windows, and ease the current restrictions on the repatriation of capital. Moreover, the report revealed that the hospitality segment is the only sector currently in the upturn stage of its market cycle with local citizens contributing to the recovery of occupancies experienced over the past year.
Mall of the Emirates
Cairo
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ailed as one of the region’s most popular retail events, the 20th edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) began on July 01 and will run until August 12. Proven to be a catalyst for retail growth, this year’s event has generated improved sales and footfall at shopping malls, as reported by the organising partners. Steven Cleaver, director, shopping malls, Dubai Festival City, revealed that during the first week of DSS, a 16.6 percent year-on-year increase in footfall has been registered at Dubai Festival City. He further added, “[...] Visitors have flocked to the mall to take part in our activities in just one day alone more than 5,000 shoppers experienced the Confetti Dome, the largest of its kind [...].”
12 AUGUST 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS
Abu Dhabi Promoted in the US
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n a bid to promote the destination to one of its key markets, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) recently embarked a whirlwind road show to New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. Aiming to raise awareness of the emirate while also encouraging more US visitors to experience the destination, the trip involved meetings with major travel agents and key influencers from some of the country’s leading travel organisations. The US is currently the fifth largest overseas source market for Abu Dhabi, with the emirate welcoming 67,000 American hotel guests in the first five months of this year. Moreover, in 2016, the US accounted for 136,657 hotel guest arrivals, spending 592,235 guest nights.
American Express Enhances Business Travel
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n order to provide companies greater control and more visibility into their business travel expenses, American Express has recently launched enhanced Business Travel Account (BTA). The new product provides flexibility, with the ability to set usage dates and pre-authorise spending limits at the time of booking, helping reduce fraud and encourage compliance with company travel policies. Furthermore, it improves experience by providing options for various corporate traveller and features virtual account numbers enabling more types of spending into a single account. Gint Balodis, vice president, global product management, American Express Global Commercial Payments, highlighted, “Our improvements in the enhanced BTA further centralise control into one account, making the process of purchasing, tracking and reconciling travel expenses easier than in the past.�
Abu Dhabi
12 AUGUST 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS ACC0MMODATION
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Aldar’s Developments Maintain Pace
Aldar Properties has confirmed that this year’s multiple development projects are on track for handovers in the fourth quarter, including Ansam apartment complex on the west side of Yas Island.
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Al Jimi Mall
he Andalusian-style development has entered its final stage, with community road works and landscaping to follow. Among other developments, the company’s first mid-market project Meera on Reem Island continues to make headway and the completion of early works at Mayan, Yas Island’s luxury golf and waterfront apartment development, has allowed the contractor to commence with construction. Furthermore, Nareel Island and Al Merief in Khalifa City are both moving steadily towards completion, while the expansion of Al Jimi Mall in Al Ain has also made strong progress.
DAMAC to Launch New Sales Office
Mazagan Beach Resort Expands Golf Offerings
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AMAC Properties has unveiled plans to open a new Sheikh Zayed Road sales centre in Al Manara, expanding its current network of Dubai-based sales offices to four and the brand’s tally of regional centres to eight. Commenting on the launch, Niall McLoughlin, senior vice president, DAMAC Properties, commented, “The [...] centre aims to provide accessibility and convenience to our customers while showcasing DAMAC’s entire portfolio of prestigious developments in Dubai and beyond. The location offers easy access and ample parking in a prestigious part of Dubai, and our luxuriously appointed offices have been designed to welcome the most our discerning customers. ”
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort
DAMAC Properties' new sales office
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laimed to be one of the leaders in luxury golf resort communities across Africa, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, Morocco has launched a golf academy for both professional and amateur golfers. Following a simple, pleasant and performance-oriented philosophy, the new facility is equipped with a world-class golf course, offering personalised attention. Khadija El Idrissi, director, communication and public relations, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, explained, “The academy is equipped with the ultimate in learning tools for lessons at every level. The video equipment is perfect for self-analysis and allows players to even play better. Whether it is for recreation, socialising, learning a new skill or executive business, Mazagan Golf Academy is a perfect layout that thrills every golfer […].”
12 AUGUST 2017
WEEKLY NEWS ACC0MMODATION
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Dukes Dubai Welcomes Indian Concept Restaurant
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Khyber at DUKES Dubai
hyber, a celebrity-endorsed Mumbai fine dining restaurant has recently launched an outlet on DUKES Dubai’s 15th floor, marking its first branded store outside of India. Boasting 162 covers, including space for 40 diners on the terrace as well as live cooking station and plenty of private dining options, Khyber offers a 180-degree view of Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Marina skyline. Aiming to enrich Dubai’s vibrant dining scene, the restaurant specialises in authentic North Indian frontier food, best described as Ambrosia, which according to ancient Greek mythology was the food of the Olympian gods, providing them with immortality.
Jannah Introduced TemperatureControlled Pools
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iming to raise the bar of its offerings, Jannah Resort & Villas Ras Al Khaimah has recently launched temperaturecontrolled swimming pools, hailed as the first of its kind in the emirate. Guests can now enjoy the pools all year as they are designed to complement the weather and its surroundings. Commenting on the launch, Mohamed Hani Fakih, chief operations officer, Jannah Hotels & Resorts, explained, “As the first Jannah property in Ras Al Khaimah, our aim is to give an unparalleled noble Bedouin-inspired experience for both UAE residents and tourists to enjoy. Providing temperature-controlled swimming pools is imperative in creating a promising venue where guests can explore the great outdoor facilities while indulging in five-star hotel standards.”
12 AUGUST 2017
Deutsche Hospitality and GBI Unveil Upcoming Hotels
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BI, one of the largest active hotel developers in Germany’s major cities, has recently partnered with Deutsche Hospitality to develop new hotel locations. Aiming to strengthen the presence of Deutsche Hospitality in the German-speaking market, the project will focus on the IntercityHotel and Jaz in the City brands, beginning with the development of IntercityHotels in Heidelberg, Wiesbaden, Bielefeld, and Graz. Reiner Nittka, CEO, GBI, disclosed, “[...] Our hope is to be able to realise a total of up to seven projects together over the next three years. Indeed, specific plans are already in place for further hotels above and beyond the four IntercityHotels. The new hotel properties will be sold to institutional investors [...].”
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WEEKLY NEWS ACC0MMODATION
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Ellington to Launch Belgravia III
in Dubai
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arking the third residential building under the company’s flagship brand and the fifth in its portfolio, the new project is expected to be completed mid-2019. The property will feature 224 spacious studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, a swimming pool, a residents’ lounge, and a small cinema. Commenting on the upcoming opening, Joseph Thomas, managing director, Ellington Properties, explained, “[…] While we are catering to a demographic that is appreciative of great design and a quality product, Belgravia III will offer an efficient architectural layout that will meet and exceed the expectations of discerning customers.”
Rendering of Ellington Belgravia III
ELLINGTON PROPERTIES, A DUBAI-BASED DESIGN-LED BOUTIQUE PROPERTY DEVELOPER, HAS RECENTLY ANNOUNCED THE LAUNCH OF BELGRAVIA III IN JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE (JVC).
Al Habtoor City to Welcome Residence Collection
Al Habtoor City
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halaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, founding chairman, Al Habtoor Group, has confirmed that the construction of Residence Collection project in Al Habtoor City is progressing well, with more than 70 percent of the development completed. Featuring three luxurious residential towers named Noora, Amna and Meera, the project comprises of deluxe apartments, lofts and simplex, duplex and VIP penthouses with amenities including what is said to be the largest swimming pool and leisure deck in the UAE. Commenting on the forthcoming launch, Al Habtoor, revealed, “The multi-use development has sealed its mark on the map as it is a destination like no other, the region’s largest hospitality, entertainment and residential complex [...].”
12 AUGUST 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Qatar Airways Adds third Daily Moscow Flight
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pproaching the 14 year anniversary of its Moscow service, Qatar Airways launched an additional daily service from Hamad International Airport to the destination on August 02, bringing the total frequency to 21 weekly schedules. Reflecting a growing demand among leisure and business travellers, the extra service is operated with an Airbus A320 aircraft, offering all passengers comfort and nextgeneration entertainment with seatback TV screens, among other amenities. Speaking ahead of the launch, H.E. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways Group, said, “[…] Passengers from the Russian capital will have even more flexibility in travelling seamlessly through our Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, to any of our destinations across our growing network […].”
12 AUGUST 2017
flydubai Strengthens Links with Russia
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lydubai has recently announced the addition of three destinations to its Russian network, which are expected to bring its presence in the country to 10 points. During autumn, the carrier will launch flights to Makhachkala and Voronezh and resume services to Ufa. Along with the new additions, flydubai’s network in Russia includes Kazan, Krasnodar, Mineralnye Vody, Moscow, Rostovon-Don, Samara and Yekaterinburg. Travel between Russia and Dubai has been recently benefited from changes in visa requirements enabling Russian passengers to automatically receive a free 30-day visa on arrival to the UAE. According to Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, the new regulations prompted 140 percent growth in Russian arrivals within the first month since its introduction in February.
Gulf Air Updated Dubai Representatives
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uring an event in Dubai, Gulf Air showcased its latest developments and customer-focussed initiatives to the emirate’s key travel industry representatives. Aiming to give passengers greater control in managing add-ons pre-travel, the carrier recently launched services such as prepaid seat selection, excess baggage and lounge access. Among its most highly-anticipated upcoming initiatives is the dedicated holidays unit, Gulf Air Holidays, offering travellers a wide range of packages and tailor-made travel solutions to destinations worldwide. Meanwhile, the carrier is also preparing to launch an online visa facility this summer that will support its efforts in promoting Bahrain as a destination to a broad spectrum of travellers.
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INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS Delta to Return to Mexico
WestJet Unveiled Winter Highlights
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Huatulco
Mexico City
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fter signing a joint cooperation agreement with Aeroméxico, Delta Air Lines has unveiled plans to launch a daily nonstop service between Los Angeles International Airport and Mexico City International Airport, in order to meet demand of the top US market to Mexico. Effective from December 01, the flight will complement Aeroméxico’s existing schedules and bring the total number of daily flights between the destinations to seven. Deborah Flint, CEO, Los Angeles World Airports, revealed, “International flights are a strong driver of economic activity for our region, and I applaud Delta’s decision to return to the Mexico City market after 15 years."
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estJet has announced a new nonstop weekly service between Edmonton and Mexico’s Huatulco, set to commence on November 02 as a part of its winter schedule. The upcoming season will also see additional flights from Vancouver, as well as an extra weekly schedule from Calgary to Belize City. Further connecting Canada, the carrier plans to boost its Edmonton – Abbotsford link from 11 to 13 weekly services, as well as its Edmonton – Victoria schedule with three extra flights. Brian Znotins, vice president, network planning, alliances and corporate development, WestJet, said, “As the carrier providing more service from Edmonton International Airport than any other, WestJet is committed to providing new destinations and routes, more convenient connections and more opportunities for Edmontonians and Northern Albertans […].”
Strong June Performance for United
Tourico Holidays Launched Olympus X
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ourico Holidays has launched Olympus X, a proprietary platform designed to help travel distribution clients improve inventory accuracy, identify hotel deals with the highest profit margins, and increase sales. Claimed to be the first-of-its-kind interactive dashboard, the tool provides detailed monthly reports where clients can view all of their bookings, total room nights, cancellation ratios, average daily rates as well as identify the best opportunities for boosting profits. Moreover, the platform enables sales managers to monitor client trends and strengthen margins. Lev Koutamonov, vice president, professional services, Tourico Holidays, disclosed, “[…] Never has there been a singular platform that proactively updates and assists travel distributors with their business, and offers them the automated reporting that brings it all together […].”
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nited Airlines revealed that in June, revenue passenger miles increased 3.4 percent, while available seat kilometres increased five percent over June 2016. Despite serving 4.6 percent more passengers year-on-year, consolidated load factor decreased 1.4 percentage points to 85.7 percent. Scott Kirby, president, United Airlines, said, “In June we continued our impressive streak, finishing the second quarter as the best airline operation among major competitors – all while carrying more customers on our flights than ever before. Last month's performance capped off an exceptional first half for our operation, and we look to continue this momentum through the second half of the year and beyond.”
12 AUGUST 2017
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INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS
Hawaii to Welcome Largest Holiday Inn Express
Hyatt Centric Debuts in Central America
Hawaii
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), has recently announced the opening of the 44-storey, 596-room Holiday Inn Express Waikiki in Hawaii. Said to be the largest Holiday Inn Express property in the Americas, the new resort is located close to Waikiki Beach and features the brand's newest design solution which includes a new modern interior, ample access to power outlets and more community workspaces. Jennifer Gribble, vice president, Holiday Inn Express, IHG, revealed, “At Holiday Inn Express, we are committed to helping our guests Be The Readiest by delivering more where it matters. This is something that will continue to ring true at our largest property in the region, and we look forward to welcoming travellers to this fun and exciting destination.
Hyatt Centric Guatemala City
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yatt Hotels has entered Central America’s hospitality market with the opening of Hyatt Centric Guatemala City, the brand’s first address in the region. Located in the city’s most upscale commercial area, the 138-room pet-friendly property invites modern explorers to enjoy its distinct dining outlets, including an open kitchen concept, and rooftop fitness centre offering skyline views, among other amenities. George Vizer, vice president, franchise operations, Hyatt Hotels, said, “This hotel is a prime destination in Guatemala City, allowing guests to begin their journey of the country’s economic, governmental, and cultural centre. We are confident Hyatt Centric Guatemala City will deliver on the brand’s commitment to put guests in the middle of the action and inspire them to explore Guatemala’s capital city.”
Park Hyatt Los Angeles Introduce Residences
Crowne Plaza Arrives in Mexico
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Puebla
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the launch of Crowne Plaza Puebla, marking the brand’s deput in Mexico. Opening under the Crowne Plaza Accelerate Plan, with an investment of more than USD17 million by Consorcio Hotelero GR5, the new address is said to be the first property in Mexico to feature the innovative WorkLife guestrooms, designed to offer a mix of comfort, connectivity and flexibility for the modern business traveller. With this launch, IHG continues its multi-brand portfolio expansion in Puebla to a total number of 1,102 rooms, distributed across seven hotels, under the group’s various brands.
Los Angeles
n partnership with Oceanwide Plaza, Hyatt Hotels has unveiled plans to launch Park Hyatt Long Angeles Residences at Oceanwide Plaza, marking the first Park Hyatt-branded residences on the West coast of the US. With sales set to launch in 2018, the 164 residences will enjoy convenient access to the 184-room Park Hyatt Los Angeles, as well as The Collection at Oceanwide Plaza, a spacious galleria of curated retail shops and restaurants. Thomas Feng, CEO, Oceanwide Plaza, revealed, “We are setting a new tone for what it means to live well in downtown Los Angeles by redefining urban living with an amenity and service offering never before seen on the West Coast […].”
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INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PACIFIC ADR Continues to Fall in Singapore
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India Sees Inbound Tourism Growth
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n June, India welcomed 670,000 foreign tourists, a year-on-year surge of 22.5 percent, as revealed by India Ministry of Tourism. Bangladesh represented the most popular source market, with 29.23 percent of tourists, followed by the US and the UK, accounting for 19.7 percent and 6.14 percent of inbound visitors, respectively. Moreover, the number of visitors using e-tourist visas in June soared 81.7 percent to 67,000. During the first half of the year (H1), the number of arrivals reached 48.85 million, up 17.2 percent over H1 2016.
India
Singapore
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TR’s preliminary June data has revealed mixed results for hoteliers in Singapore with average daily rate (ADR) down 2.5 percent to SDG258.03 (USD189.01), continuing the year-on-year declines observed each month since February 2016. However, occupancy rose 4.1 percent to 78.9 perfect and RevPAR grew 1.5 percent compared to June 2016, reaching SGD203.62 (USD149.17). Moreover, demand surged 6.5 percent, while supply also increased, up 2.3 percent. The jump in demand is thought to be due to the calendar shift in Ramadan, with an influx of tourists during Eid al-Fitr, despite growing hotel supply and local economic challenges.
Positive June for Melbourne Hotels
Thai Tourism to Focus on Local Gastronomy
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ourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to strengthen links with the agriculture sector by promoting the globally-renowned Thai cuisine as a part of its TAT Action Plan 2018, set to maintain a strong Thai brand image in a highly competitive environment. While explaining that such linkage is expected to create more jobs and boost prosperity in the country’s two leading industries, Yuthasak Supasorn, governor, TAT, said, “[…] Encouraging both Thai and foreign tourists to enjoy Thai food, especially home-grown products, not only increases the average expenditure per visitor, but also generates downstream benefits for suppliers of culinary ingredients and equipment. Ultimately, our farmer brothers will be the primary beneficiaries of the government’s objectives.”
Melbourne
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ccording to STR’s preliminary data for June, hotels in Melbourne reported positive performance, with a two percent year-on-year jump in RevPAR to AUD137.88 (USD109.01). Despite a 0.7 percent dip in occupancy to 78.3 percent, average daily rate (ADR) rose 2.7 percent to AUD176.10 (USD139.23). It is thought that the slight decline in occupancy was a result of a 4.2 percent increase in supply compared to June 2016, which was mostly offset by a 3.5 percent surge in demand. Thanks to a football match between Brazil and Argentina on June 09, ADR soared 29.9 percent and occupancy grew 9.5 percent compared to the same day in 2016.
12 AUGUST 2017
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Fairfield by Marriott Premiers in China
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arriott International has announced the debut of Fairfield by Marriott brand in Greater China with the opening of Fairfield by Marriott Nanning Nanhu Park, marking the first opening among more than 100 hotel signings slated for the next five years. Following the development partnership signed in 2016 with Dossen International Group, the launch of the property marks a milestone for the introduction of the brand to the Chinese market in Nanning, set to impress travellers with the quality and consistency of the service, allowing guests to maintain routine and productivity while on the road. The hotel’s signature services include, among others, healthy complimentary breakfast, 24/7 in-house food market and fitness centre.
12 AUGUST 2017
INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PACIFIC
Hotel Indigo Opens First Property in a Resort
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otel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach has recently opened its doors, welcoming guests to its Balineseinspired interiors. Marking the first Hotel Indigo property in a resort setting, the new address features 270 spacious rooms and suites appointed with a striking mix of locally influenced design touches. Guillaume Epinette, general manager, Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, explained, “[…] Our inspiration has been to weave the flavours of Seminyak into our resort, not only with our design but throughout the whole experience. The result is a design-led property that reflects the changing tastes of today’s affluent travellers — who not only aspire to enjoy a relaxing escape, but also crave new inspiration.”
ONYX Hospitality Launches Amari in Sri Lanka
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NYX Hospitality Group has announced opening of Amari Galle in the Sri Lankan historic coastal city, marking the hotelier’s third Amari-branded property launched this year. The 172-room beachfront address caters for diverse travellers, comprising facilities such as three gourmet dining locations, 24hour lounge, a signature spa inspired by local therapeutic rituals, alongside a ballroom and a kids club with babysitting services available. Douglas Martell, CEO, ONYX Hospitality Group, noted, “Amari celebrates the colours and rhythms of modern Asia with each hotel highlighting the textures and flavours of its unique setting […]. With the opening of our first Amari in Sri Lanka, we are building a service culture which combine Asian hospitality values and the deep rooted local customs”.
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How does smart technology enhances passengers’ experience in airports around the world and how does SITA help make travellers’ experience more efficient, secure and convenient?
HANI EL-ASSAAD PRESIDENT, MIDDLE EAST, INDIA AND AFRICA, SITA
IN LIGHT OF THE ACCELERATED TRAFFIC GROWTH PREDICTED FOR MENA AIRPORTS IN THE COMING YEARS, HUBS IN THE REGION ARE INVESTING TO FURTHER IMPROVE SAFETY AND SECURITY WITHOUT IMPOSING UNNECESSARY BURDENS ON TRAVELLERS. HANI EL-ASSAAD, PRESIDENT, MIDDLE EAST, INDIA AND AFRICA, SITA, EXPLAINS WHY THE USE OF SMART TECHNOLOGY PLAYS A KEYROLE IN IMPROVING AND SPEEDING UP PROCESSES THROUGHOUT THE REGION’S AIRPORTS. 16
HANI EL-ASSAAD: The advent of new technology provides passengers with more control over their journey and eases their movement through the airport. For example, many airlines and airports are using mobile and beacon technology to deliver personalised information through mobile services and applications, whether it is way-finding, gate changes or commercial offers. This allows passengers to manage their own check-in, pass through immigration quickly and find the services they need in the airport, all from their mobile phone. It is not surprising that airports have been investing in installing smart technology rapidly across the region to make a passenger’s experience more efficient, secure and convenient. A secure walkthrough experience, from check-in to the aircraft door, has been an ambition of the best airports around the world for some time and is fast becoming a reality. At SITA we have taken a step closer to making this a reality with Smart Path, which captures a passenger’s biometric details through a facial scan at the first touch point in the journey. Once checked against the passenger’s travel documents, a secure single token is created. Then, at every step in the journey, whether self-bag drop, at border control or aircraft boarding, facial scanning removes the need to show a passport or boarding card, making for a smooth passage through the airport. [...] There is also strong interest in this service from customers in the Middle East, the US and Europe. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How crucial is the implementation of smart technology for the improvement of passengers’ experience at MENA airports? HANI EL-ASSAAD: The MENA region boasts some of the most innovative airports globally, using cutting-edge technology to ease the flow of passengers through the airport to maximise their investment on one hand, while offering a great passenger experience on the other. [...] SITA’s Airport IT Trends Survey indicated that IT spending by airports is
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likely to surpass the USD9 billion mark this year. Furthermore, chief information officers are forecasting higher budgets for 2018 with 58 percent expecting an increase over this year and 29 percent expecting their budget to stay the same. The Passenger IT Trends Survey, carried out by SITA across the UAE’s main airports showed that increasingly passengers use self-service technology to book check-in and access their boarding pass. All these investments are aimed at enhancing the passenger experience while achieving operational efficiency and reducing costs. Therefore, in the coming years, we expect more passengers to make the switch to selfservice rather than face-to-face transactions. For example, airline travellers in the UAE are increasingly using selfservice technology to better manage each step of their journey and to make the most of their time in the airport to relax, shop and dine. A total of 48 percent of UAE travellers use self-service technology where available rather than interact with a person. Technology will also play a key role in helping airports in the region manage a growing number of passengers. Enhancing capacity and ensuring seamless operations is one of the primary drivers for GCC airports, which are expected to handle 450 million passengers by 2020. Within the airport community, efforts are concentrated on transforming data coming in from all areas of the airport and beyond into knowledge that will inform decision making and ensure those insights are visible to their staff. [...] TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What does the future hold in terms of smart technology at airports? HANI EL-ASSAD: Looking forward 10 years, technologies and processes supported by artificial intelligence and the internet of things, among others, will Introduce a major shift in how airports operate and how passengers travel. However, to accomplish this transformation will require new kinds of data sharing, common-use systems, government engagement and integration of future modes of high-speed ground transportation. There is already activity in many of these areas, including the research we do in SITA Lab, initiatives by International Air Transport Association and International Civil Aviation Organization, and engagements with governments to start determine the way forward. 12 AUGUST 2017
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INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PACIFIC
Record Year for Hong Kong Airport
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uring the fiscal year 2016-2017, Hong Kong International Airport set new annual records, exceeding the 70 million mark for the first time with 70.5 million passengers, a year-on-year increase of 1.1 percent. Moreover, flight movements rose 0.1 percent to 410,440, while cargo volume expanded 6.7 percent to 4.6 million tonnes, securing the hub as the world’s busiest cargo airport for the seventh consecutive year. During the reviewed period, 14 new global destinations were added and four new carriers began operations from the gateway, namely Austrian Airlines, Vietjet, T’Way Air and Bismillah Airlines. To cope with future air traffic demand, the construction of its third runway began in August, 2016, new facilities are being added to Terminal 1 and plans for SKYCITY were unveiled.
China Airlines Strengthens Ties with Boeing
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oeing has recently signed a memorandum of understanding with China Airlines enabling the development of the airline’s capabilities to serve the growing maintenance, repair and overhaul market in Asia. On the basis of the agreement, Boeing will provide technical support and maintenance training to the carrier, enhancing its ability to service Boeing products. With nearly 40 percent of the future market demand for commercial airplanes coming from the Asia Pacific region, the collaboration will significantly contribute to Taiwan’s growing commercial aviation industry. Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, revealed, “[...] This relationship will allow China Airlines to develop and deliver world-class maintenance service to global airline customers, while also adding value to Boeing’s network of global supplier partners.”
SriLankan Airlines Links Hyderabad with Colombo
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angkok Airways has celebrated the delivery of its latest Airbus A319, during a ceremony at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport attended by officials and pilots. The new member of the carrier’s expanding fleet of 37 jets comprises 144 economy class seats and will be deployed on domestic services and international routes to Myanmar, Cambodia, Bangladesh and India. Since 2004, the carrier has pursued its branding strategy of becoming Asia’s boutique airline, aiming to provide credible and trustworthy services while maintaining its modern and trendy character though personalised passenger service and a network of exotic and cultural destinations.
Japan Airlines Keeps Flyers Connected
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ollowing the provision of paid in-flight internet access, Japan Airlines has announced that the service will now be offered free to all passengers on its domestic routes operated with Wi-Fi equipped aircraft, including the flights of its subsidiary, Japan Transocean Air. The amenity, available from five minutes after take-off until five minutes before landing, also enables guests to stream video programmes on their own devices, such as sports, gourmet, music and animation, among others. The service is facilitated through the satellite communication network and therefore is a subject to favourable weather conditions and location of the aircraft.
Colombo
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MR Hyderabad International Airport (GHIAL), the operator of Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, has announced a new connection from the hub to Colombo, with SriLankan Airlines’ nonstop service. The new schedule operated with Airbus A320 aircraft is served four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, thus offering travellers a convenient weekend escape to Sri Lanka, complemented by a seamless online visa application for Indian visitors. S.G.K. Kishore, CEO, GHIAL, commented, “[…] The new service by SriLankan Airlines will help passengers from 13 catchment cities from the South and Central Indian regions to have direct connectivity to Sri Lanka, which has emerged as a top tourist destination for Indians.”
Bangkok Airways Boosts Airbus Inventory
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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GSF Fights Against Rhino Poaching
Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Commits to Saudisation
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ccording to experts, in under a decade 7,134 rhinoceros have been killed in South Africa alone, while by 2020, rhinos in the wild will be extinct if the levels of poaching continue. Aiming to raise funds to continue its fight against poaching in South Africa, Gondwana Conservation Foundation (GCF) has organised a seven-day bicycle race to take place on October 16 – 21. The goal is to raise ZAR1,000 (USD75.90) per kilometre for the GCF’s Rainbow Rhino Initiative, which focusses on delivering high quality training on tracking, crime scene investigation and drone surveillance, as well as partnering with companies to create interactive awareness of rhino relocations through drone technology allowing international communities to follow real time movement and imagery of individual animals.
Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Riyadh team members
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n accordance with Saudi Vision 2030, Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Riyadh has recently employed 25 Saudis in its hospitality, food, beverage and housekeeping departments. Considered to be one of the first private entities to adhere to Saudisation, the property is committed to reducing unemployment levels among local youth, and exceeds the required percentage of Saudi team members. Commenting on the initiative, Nawaf Al-Subaie, manager, human resources, Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Riyadh, revealed, “The aim was to employ as many Saudis as possible within a short period […] and giving them the opportunity to train in one of the most important international training institutes to acquire the required skills, and then recruiting them.”
Oman Air Supports Young Scientist
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n collaboration with the Italian Agency for Nuclear Physics and Oman’s Research Council, Oman Air has recently announced its support of a scholarship for Zainab Obuad Al Salhia, a talented physics student. The scholarship will enable Al Salhia to work on a project suggested by the European Space Agency, in the fields of particle physics, cosmo physics, nuclear physics and theoretical physics, as well as technological research. Khalid bin Abdulwahab Al Balushi, senior manager, government affairs, Oman Air, revealed, “We are proud to engage with prestigious scientific research and delighted to support such a gifted Omani student. It is vital for the future of the Omani economy that we encourage the country’s youth to be technological and scientific innovators.”
Centara Hotels & Resorts Fights Hunger
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iming to eliminate hunger and food waste, Centara Hotels & Resorts has recently unveiled plans to participate in ThaiHarvest|SOS, a joint initiative with Thai Foundation Scholars of Sustenance and Oz-Harvest, an Australian organisation that has established a proven and successful food rescue model. From August, the hotelier will begin donating surplus food from its hotels at CentralWorld and Ladprao. “As we prepare food for our guests, unavoidably at the end of each day we have surplus – for example, bakery items or excess from a large banquet. It is a shame to let this food go to waste when there are so many people who could benefit from it,” said Winfried Hancke, director, food and beverage, Centara Hotels & Resorts.
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Modhesh World has launched a number of new attractions, aiming to turn its amusement arena into a training ground for children
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chief executive, Emirates Group, centre right, welcomed Cecilia Aben Dapaah, minister for aviation, Ghana, centre left, who was accompanied by a number of high-ranking Ghanaian officials
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Emirates celebrated nine years of Airbus A380 service alognise the unveiling of its enhanced onboard lounge
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Gulf Air has announced captain Waleed Abdul Hameed Al Alawi as its newly appointed deputy CEO
Airbus celebrated the delivery of 100th A350 aircraft to China Airlines
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NEWS & EVENTS Accenture Became Official Expo 2020 Partner
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ccenture has been appointed as the new digital services partner and systems integrator of Expo 2020 Dubai, where it will facilitate unprecedented connectivity throughout the show. In collaboration with international telecommunication provider Etisalat Digital, the company will develop client support solutions in the areas of virtual assistance, business intelligence and analytics. Gerardo Canta, leader, communication, media and technology, Middle East, Africa, Russia, Turkey, Accenture, commended, “We recognise the unique opportunity that Expo 2020 Dubai presents and will use our experience, network and specialised digital skills to ensure the underlying systems infrastructure for this remarkable event is state of the art.”
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EVENTS THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON TOURISM AND BUSINESS Lucerne, Switzerland August 31 – September 01 The second edition of the event will see the presentation of research related to the tourism and hospitality sectors.
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.
Hotelier Summit to Capitalise on Morocco’s Tourism
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n the back of Morocco’s flourishing tourism industry, the Hotelier Summit Africa (North) scheduled on October 04 – 06 is set to boost the strategic relationships instrumental for the further development of the country’s multiple sectors. Moroccan tourism experienced significant growth this year, recording higher tourist arrivals from traditional and emerging markets. In February, the country registered a 92 percent leap in Chinese visitors over 2016’s figure, with Russia, Japan and the US also soaring, up 82 percent, 62 percent and 32 percent, respectively. Ravi Kumar Chandran, director, Hotelier Summit Africa (North), IDE, commented, “[...] Overall, the summit will serve as a strategic platform to help deliver growth, competitiveness and innovation in the hospitality and real estate industry [in Morocco].”
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OTDYKH LEISURE Moscow, Russia September 20 – 23 www.tourismexpo.ru The 23rd edition of the exhibition will be held alongside its events focussing on MICE, luxury as well as medical tourism, spa and health.
IFTM TOP RESA Paris, France September 26 – 29 www.iftm.fr More than 31,000 trade visitors are expected to attend the multi-target event with dedicated programmes for the leisure, business and MICE sectors.
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