16 SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 410
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16 SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 410
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05 ACCOMMODATION
Nikki Beach Resort Joins SLH’s Portfolio
MILESTONE JULY FOR ABU DHABI’S ACCOMMODATION
06 ETIHAD BOOSTS COMFORT ON AMSTERDAM ROUTE
04 Destinations
10 International 16 Rendezvous
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
H1 Success for Orascom Egypt
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel SENIOR JOURNALIST Ellen Petty JOURNALISTS Maria Sabova Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou 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
Orascom Development Holding’s Egyptian subsidiary reported a strong first half of the year (H1), with a 76.9 percent increase in revenue compared to the first six months of 2016.
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owever, due to currency devaluation, this was not reflected in Orascom Development Egypt’s turnover, which decreased 0.7 percent to CHF108.6 million (USD112.54 million). Gross profit jumped 11.7 percent to CHF24.9 million (USD25.79 million), while the net loss attributable to shareholders was reduced to CHF18.8 million (USD19.47 million), compared to CHF41.3 million (USD42.78 million) in the first half of 2016. Revenue across the hotels segment in Egypt, Oman and the UAE soared 21.4 percent to CHF59 million (USD61.09 million) and a 153 percent increase in gross operating profits to CHF21 million (USD21.75 million) was observed.
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
Mixed June Results for Middle Eastern Airports
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of 15.9.2017
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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
111.30
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
17.64
Iran (IRR)
Rial
33,460.00
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,164.10
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,510.50
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.33
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.40
Syria (SYP)
Pound
517.40
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.45
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.30
Airport Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific has revealed that in June, passenger traffic across Middle Eastern gateways soared 3.3 percent year-on-year.
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hile geopolitical events affected travel to Qatar with consequent 14.6 percent year-on-year decline in traveller numbers at Hamad International Airport, hubs in Kuwait and Muscat continued to grow at a fast pace in June, up 19.3 percent and 17.5 percent, respectively. Dubai International reported a moderate 3.9 percent increase in passenger figures, attributed to Ramadan, a traditionally slow period. From January to June, passenger traffic in the region grew 7.2 percent over the same period in 2016. Meanwhile, the region saw a 1.6 percent surge in freight traffic in June, completing the first half of this year with a 6.6 percent year-on-year growth.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Travelport Renews Partnership with Ethiopian Airlines
Milestone July for Abu Dhabi’s Accommodation
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16 SEPTEMBER 2017
According to figures released by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), during July, the emirate achieved a four percent uplift in hotel guests compared to the corresponding month in 2016.
Abu Dhabi
ravelport has announced a new multi-year full content agreement with Ethiopian Airlines. Under the agreement, Travelport's technology will support the carrier’s market and retail its offerings in a more visual and effective way to some 68,000 travel agents in over 180 countries worldwide. Moreover, the two companies have renewed their long-term operator agreement, which will continue to see Ethiopian Airlines distributing Travelport’s technology in the country. Tewolde Gebremariam, CEO, Ethiopian Airlines, commented, “As travel technology advances, Travelport will support our business meeting and exceeding travellers personalised needs.”
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he report revealed that 396,548 guests checked into the emirate’s 164 hotels and hotel apartments, accounting for 928,502 guest nights. Hotel revenues for the month reached AED327 million (USD89 million) from a total of almost 33,000 available rooms. Double-digit growth from key tier one markets, namely the UK and the US, up 28.5 percent and 20 percent, respectively, reflect an upsurge in summer demand. Meanwhile, the expansion of tourists from China continued unabated, posting a year-on-year increase of 87 percent.
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WEEKLY NEWS DESTINATIONS
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RAKTDA to Launch World’s Longest Zip Line
Rendering of Ras Al Khaimah zip line
In partnership with Toro Verde, one of the world’s leading zip line operators, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), has unveiled plans to launch what is expected to become the world’s longest and highest zip line.
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et to break the current Guinness World Record held by 2,200m long The Monster in Puerto Rico, the Jebel Jais zip line is due to open in December. It will use solar energy and locally-sourced natural materials to ensure visitors enjoy a natural experience in the emirate’s mountain landscape. Haitham Mattar, CEO, RAKTDA, stated, “This key product launch will further enhance Ras Al Khaimah’s unique mountain-beach-desert offering as the emirate moves towards its goal of attracting one million visitors in 2018 […].”
Dubai Tourism Uses Playful Tools to Educate
Saudi Arabia’s Events Sector Soared
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Saudi Arabia
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ith the goal to involve companies outside the hospitality industry to contribute in developing Dubai’s sustainable tourism, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) has brought a thematic hospitality sustainability board game to a wider segment within the private sector. As an innovative educational tool of Dubai Sustainable Tourism project, the board game has been played by more than 300 hotel industry professionals during the authority’s workshops and road shows. Participants in the latest activity comprised of experienced players from hotel industry assisting the newcomers from diverse sectors, such as real estate, travel and environment, to understand through the game how to adopt more eco-friendly practices and efficiently manage the resources.
ccording to Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau (SECB), several achievements were made during the second quarter of this year (Q2) regarding the country’s MICE sector, including the licensing of 2,756 events. Riyadh accounted for 47 percent of total number of the events held during Q2, followed by Mecca and the Eastern Province with 32 percent and 16 percent, respectively. During the period under review, the authority responded to 580 inquiries by visitors and provided 270 professional consultations to business events operators. Meanwhile, the average number of monthly visits to SECB portal reached 7,176 visits, and the portal recorded 13 exhibition and conference facilities.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Portfolio
SMALL LUXURY HOTELS OF THE WORLD (SLH) HAS ADDED NIKKI BEACH RESORT & SPA DUBAI ON PEARL JUMEIRAH TO ITS NETWORK OF INDEPENDENTLY MINDED HOTELS, MARKING ITS FIRST PROPERTY IN THE UAE.
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
Nikki Beach Resort Joins SLH’s
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eaturing 132 rooms and 15 private villas, the stylish retreat features five restaurants and a lounge. Guests are able to enjoy extensive leisure facilities such as four pools, private cabanas with plunge pools, a wellness centre and a private beach. Daniel Luddington, vice president, development, SLH, enthused, “Dubai is one of the most requested destinations on SLH.com and we have been searching for the right hotel here for a number of years. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai is a notable addition to the SLH family […].”
DAMAC Teams up with Roberto Cavalli
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AMAC Properties has announced a collaboration with Roberto Cavalli Group to launch what is said to be the world’s first villas to feature interiors with the Just Cavalli signature style. Located in AKOYA Oxygen, the luxury villas embody the designer’s bold and iconic styling and ethos. Just Cavalli villas are available in a variety of configurations and sizes including three bedroom options. Hussain Sajwani, chairman, DAMAC Properties, revealed, “As pioneers in branded real estate in Dubai, this association will further expand our stable of unique living concepts [...].”
Emaar Unveiled Sky Walk
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maar Properties has announced Sky Walk, an exhilarating 200m high cantilever observation corridor in the upcoming The Address Sky View, which overlook Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain. The 30m long half-oval shaped structure with 45m of walking distance has been made with 350 tonnes of structural steel. Mohamed Alabbar, chairman, Emaar Properties, revealed, “Appealing to adventure seekers, Sky Walk will add to the touristic appeal of the city and offer visitors a never-before experience. Lifting the Sky Walk in place is a true engineering feat accomplished seamlessly by a team of experts from across the world.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Etihad Boosts Comfort on Amsterdam Route Passengers travelling to Amsterdam on Etihad Airways’ daily service from Abu Dhabi are now able to enjoy enhanced comfort following the deployment of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the route.
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he introduction of the ultra-modern and fuel-efficient aircraft heralds the start of a year-round schedule to the Netherlands and brings the total number of Dreamliners in the carrier’s fleet to 16 jets serving 14 destinations. Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways, revealed, “We received great customer feedback when we first flew the aircraft to the Dutch capital last summer, and I am very pleased that more travellers will now be able to enjoy the superior levels of comfort and technology it offers, year-round.”
Oman Air SATS Automate Cargo Processes
Emirates – Qantas Alliance to Bring More Benefits
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man Air SATS Cargo, a joint company formed in 2016 between Oman Air and Singapore-based SATS, has recently launched a new Cargo Managing System (CMS) along with a corresponding website. CMS allows the organisation to offer automated processes at reception, cashier and delivery counters at Muscat International Airport. In addition, the website, available in both Arabic and English, provides customers with up-to-date information on the cargo clearance process, schedule of charges and related information while also serving as a platform to share the latest news and developments of the company with the industry. The company’s recent developments will be instrumental in providing even better services to the air freight industry.
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mirates and Qantas Airways are set to extend their strategic codeshare partnership for further five years, with changes to reflect customer demand, new aircraft technology, and the strengths of the airlines’ networks. Through the partnership, the Australian and Emirati carriers will deliver additional benefits to their passengers on the combined networks, increasing convenience and introducing extra frequent flyer perks. Alan Joyce, CEO, Qantas Group, commented, “The first five years of the Qantas – Emirates alliance has been a great success. Emirates has given Qantas customers an unbeatable network into Europe that is still growing. We want to keep leveraging this strength and offer additional travel options on Qantas, particularly through Asia.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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flydubai Expands Network in Russia
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iming to offer its customers the opportunity to explore Russia’s historical and cultural heritage, architecture, and food, flydubai will add flights to Makhachkala and Voronezh in October as well as resume services to Ufa. The itineraries will bring total number of Russian destinations served by the airline to 10, with its current network including Kazan, Krasnodar, Mineralnye Vody, Moscow, Rostov-on-Don, Samara and Yekaterinburg. Ahead of the launch, the carrier has joined forces with Russian Emirates Publishing & Advertising to develop a list of the top experiences in the country this September, including opera and ballet shows, festivals, and exhibitions.
Rostov-on-Don
Qatar Airways Touched Down in Kyiv
Air Algerie Strengthens Links with Saudi Arabia
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ursuing its dynamic expansion in Eastern Europe, Qatar Airways has launched yet another new route with the inaugural flight from Hamad International Airport to Kyiv’s Boryspil International Airport. Marking the introduction of direct daily flights between Doha and the Ukrainian capital, the debut flight was welcomed with a traditional airport arrival ceremony hosted by Ukrainian key industry partners and followed by a press conference and dinner highlighting the airline’s expansion plans. Pavlo Riabikin, CEO, Boryspil International Airport, commented on the occasion, “Developing cooperation with the best airline companies in the world is a matter of fundamental importance for us. [The] arrival heralds a further step in qualitative development of the main airport of Ukraine.”
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Algeria
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s part of its continuous expansion strategy, Air Algerie has recently announced the launch of new routes between Ouargla’s Ain Beida Airport and Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport and Medina’s Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport. Due to take off on October 29, the schedules will be operated once a week with a widebody aircraft featuring 269 seats and capacity for cargo. The itineraries are expected to strengthen links between Algeria and Saudi Arabia, while also opening new routes for economic development and growth.
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INTERNATIONAL: AFRICA
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ith support from Central African Wilderness Safaris, Peace Parks Foundation has recently translocated 34 elephants from Liwonde National Park to Nyika National Park, both in Malawi. For the next 12 months, the animals will remain in a newly constructed 7,000ha sanctuary that is big enough for them to feed naturally from the vegetation. The elephants will be monitored closely on a daily basis and once the newly introduced herd is established, they will be released into a larger park. Just 30 years ago, more than 300 elephants graced the steep foothills of the Nyika Plateau spanning the international boundary between Malawi and Zambia. Tragically, extreme poaching pressure resulted in an estimated 67 percent decline in the population since 1992.
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AVANI Hotels to Debut in the Maldives
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VANI Hotels & Resorts has unveiled plans to launch AVANI Fares Maldives Resort, its first resort in the country. Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2019, the address will be located on Fares Island, a private 12.4ha island in the Baa Atoll. The USD70 million development is a joint venture partnership between Minor Hotels and Cyprea Group and will feature 200 guest rooms, including a selection of villas. Alejandro Bernabe, group director, AVANI Hotels & Resorts, stated, “The Maldives is the ultimate beach destination in the world and we are excited to deliver an alternative hospitality offering in the region. AVANI is a true lifestyle brand.� Fares Island
Nyika National Park Welcomed 34 Elephants
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The Comfort Brand is Expanding
INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS
Less Hotels Under Construction in Central and South America
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omfort Inn and Comfort Suites, franchised by Choice Hotels International, have a record-setting hotel pipeline and is successfully executing its strategy to open one hotel per week. The group’s development team secured 40 percent more contracts in the second quarter of this year compared to the corresponding period in 2016, boosting the brand's pipeline while being on the right track to hit 56 openings this year. Commenting on the growth, Brian Quinn, vice president, franchise development, Choice Hotels International, highlighted, “The Comfort brand continues to fortify its position by beating the upper midscale segment in RevPAR growth and stealing share in the US. The brand has recorded 33 consecutive months of RevPAR index gains compared to its competition.”
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Solar Eclipse Fuelled Huge Rise in RevPAR
São Paulo
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ccording to STR’s July 2017 Pipeline Report, the Central and South America region reported 27,333 rooms in 169 hotel projects in construction during the month, a 2.1 percent drop in the number of keys over July 2016. Moreover, the number of rooms under contract fell to 60,151 units in 384 developments, down 7.8 percent year-on-year. Two key markets in the region noted more than 1,000 rooms in the construction phase. Bogota in Colombia registered 1,752 keys in seven properties, while Brazil’s São Paulo recorded 1,202 rooms in five addresses.
n the three days leading up to the total solar eclipse on August 21, hotels in the path of the totality reported an 87 percent surge in RevPAR, and a 244 percent jump in RevPAR the night before the event. Most of the 139,000 hotel rooms were in non-urban locations, with midscale and upper midscale properties outperforming all other classes. Hopkinsville in Kentucky, achieved the highest RevPAR gain of any city, up 1,644 percent on August 20, bolstered by the destination’s limited supply of just six properties. Moreover, the 15 largest cities in the path of totality reported absolute occupancy of more than 94 percent on August 20.
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INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PACIFIC Hilton Busan Welcomed First Guests
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Grand Hyatt Signed its Second Largest Property
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yatt has announced a new partnership between its affiliate and Lotte Tour Development in South Korean Jeju Island, which will see the launch of what is said to be the second largest Grand Hyatt-branded hotel in the world. Grand Hyatt Jeju will be located in the centre of the island’s capital Jeju City, taking advantage of the destination’s position on one of the world’s busiest air routes from Seoul. The property will form a part of the developer’s integrated resort project and will boast 1,600 rooms, 11 food and beverage outlets alongside extensive meeting spaces, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, two kids clubs and two spas with eight treatment rooms.
Hilton Busan
Four Seasons to Launch Second South Korean Resort
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n collaboration with Landing Jeju Developments, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has unveiled plans for Four Seasons Resort Jeju Island at Jeju Shinhwa World. As a part of the island’s highly-anticipated first integrated leisure and entertainment development planned to open in phases later this year, the property will feature some 240 lavish guestrooms, suites and exclusive villas, complemented with a variety of dining outlets, state-of-the-art event facilities and a spa inspired by traditional Korean tea house style. “Korea is an important market for luxury leisure and business travellers. We are pleased to be extending our presence with a new resort experience on Jeju Island to complement our urban property in Seoul,” said J. Allen Smith, CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
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Jeju Island
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ilton has inaugurated its first property in South Korea’s second largest city, with the opening of Hilton Busan, an urban retreat in a prime coastline location. As a part of the East Busan Tourism Complex, the 310-room address is targeting business and leisure travellers with extensive recreational facilities including all-weather swimming options, a wellness centre with 24-hour gym and versatile meeting space mixing function with style. Both guests and locals can enjoy innovative dining at a variety of onsite outlets including an all-day restaurant, a lounge, a bar and a sweet corner. “Busan is a key tourism destination and we are delighted to be introducing Hilton's trademark hospitality and flagship brand to the city […],” said Sean Wooden, vice president, brand management, Asia Pacific, Hilton.
Best Western Unveiled Tropical Vietnamese Resort
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est Western Hotels & Resorts has signed a license agreement with Vietnam’s CEO Group for an upscale beachfront resort Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc, slated to open in January 2019. Overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, the property will feature 565 modern rooms, while its tropical layout will also boast villas surrounded with outdoor pools. Guests will be able to immerse in local and international cuisine at the property’s dining outlets, work out at wellequipped fitness centre and take advantage of the resort’s private beach. Olivier Berrivin, managing director, international operations, Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, enthused, “Modern, stylish and commanding a prime location, Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc represents the new era of Best Western Hotels & Resorts in Asia.”
INNSIDE by Meliá Celebrated Chinese Debut
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he opening of INNSIDE by Meliá Zhengzhou marks the inauguration of Meliá Hotels International’s upscale urban lifestyle brand in China, coinciding with the hotelier’s 60th anniversary. The new four-star 335-key property is located in close proximity to Zhengzhou East Railway Station, and seamlessly blends into the urban landscape with its modern aesthetic. Set to meet the demands of modern corporate travellers, the address features an all-day dining restaurant and bar creating a working and socialising space offering city views. Guests are also able to enjoy 24-hour fitness centre and the brand’s signature service. Bernardo Cabot Estarellas, senior vice president, Asia Pacific, Meliá Hotels International, stated, “We are confident the INNSIDE by Meliá brand in China will enrich the experience for next-generation business travellers.”
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INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PACIFIC
Best Western Hotels Expands in Japan
STR: Asia Pacific Hotel Pipeline Expands
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est Western Hotels & Resorts has announced opening of Best Western Osaka Tsukamoto on September 01, bringing the hotelier’s Japanese portfolio to 13 properties. Nestled in the centre of Japan’s second largest city, the modern midscale address boasts 105 guestrooms equipped with the latest technology facilities. Guests will also be able to take advantage of in-house restaurant serving local and international cuisine, a 24-hour business centre and laundry services. Olivier Berrivin, managing director, international operations, Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, commented, “Osaka will play a major role in the country’s tourism development. Best Western Osaka Tsukamoto will provide the city’s rising number of visitors with a contemporary, convenient and well-connected midscale hotel option in the heart of the city.”
TR’s July 2017 Pipeline Report revealed that 626,535 rooms in 2,834 hotel projects were under contract in the Asia Pacific region, marking a year-on-year increase of seven percent in terms of keys. Compared with July 2016, the number of rooms in the construction phase across the region rose 8.3 percent, with the total number of units reaching 276,757 in 1,210 developments during the month under review. Three key markets reported more than 5,000 rooms in construction, including Shanghai with 9,737 keys in 43 upcoming properties, Jakarta with 5,715 units in 23 projects, and Chengdu with 5,182 rooms in 23 addresses. Shanghai
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INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PACIFIC AirPlus and JAL to Ease Travel Expense Monitoring
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HK Express to Launch Nagoya – Guam Route
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irPlus International and Japan Airlines (JAL) have entered into a strategic partnership bringing the payment provider’s solutions to Japan with the introduction of JAL-AirPlus Company Account and the AirPlus Information Manager. Reflecting both partners’ commitment to developing more convenient methods of business travel expense settlements, the products enable corporate customers to better analyse and control their travel spending, as well as generate reports and indentify saving potentials as a basis for negotiations with travel service providers. Hideo Ninomiya, president, sales, JAL, noted, “[…] We have experienced a shift in business travel demand in the last few years and most companies require full data when it comes to payment. Our partnership with AirPlus gives us the edge in offering this type of solution.”
Hong Kong Airlines and Fiji Airlines Joined Forces
Thailand Boosts its Global Connectivity
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Hyderabad Hub Introduces Express Security
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trengthening Thailand’s status as a global aviation hub, five international airlines have expanded the links to the destination, responding to growing travelling demand. Among these, Thai Airways, Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines have already launched new services and increased frequencies to various Thai locations this year. Set to follow, operating from Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport, Thai AirAsia added daily Bangkok – Male flights on August 11, along with new schedules to India in September. Meanwhile, Jetstar Asia Airways plans four weekly services between Singapore and Hat Yai commencing on November 03. Yuthasak Supasorn, governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand, elaborated that the organisation has also signed strategic agreements with major international airlines aimed enhancing tourism cooperation and tourism arrivals.
ong Kong Express (HK Express) has announced a new service between Nagoya’s Chubu Centrair International Airport and Guam International Airport, commencing on October 29. The airline will become what is said to be the only low-cost carrier to operate direct services between the Japanese city and the Micronesian island. Guam has for long been a popular destination among Japanese travellers with over 320,000 arrivals visiting the island during the first half of this year. Andrew Cowen, CEO, HK Express, revealed, “The new route between Nagoya and Guam will provide affordable and convenient options for HK Express guests originating in Japan to visit the enchanting island.”
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iming to offer customers seamless connections between the South Pacific and Asia, Hong Kong Airlines and Fiji Airways have signed a codeshare agreement, under which Hong Kong carrier’s HX code will be placed on Fiji Airways’ flights from Nadi to Hong Kong and Auckland. Meanwhile, Fiji Airways will put its FJ code on Hong Kong Airlines’ flights between Hong Kong and Bangkok, Tokyo, and Osaka. Andre Viljoen, CEO, Fiji Airways revealed, “[The partnership] is a key part of our growth and presence in the region, and the three destinations are welcome additions to our network […]. We look forward to welcoming more Asian travellers to our home, Fiji, one of the world’s most sought after tourist destinations.”
MR Hyderabad International Airport (GHIAL), the operator of India’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, has collaborated with Central Industrial Security Force to become the first airport in the country to provide pre-embarkation express security check points for domestic passengers travelling without any check-in baggage. Now, 10 self-check in machines and signage have been installed outside domestic departures in order to save vital time for both business and corporate travellers. SGK Kishore, CEO, GHIAL, highlighted, “As part of our Passenger is Prime programme, the facility envisions substantial reduction in the load at check-in counters and the regular security check areas during peak hours. This new concept of express security check, if adopted, will benefit other airports in the country.”
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INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PACIFIC
Vietjet Expands Asian Route Map
Qantas Reported Second Best Year
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esponding to growing travel demand between Vietnam and Indonesia, Vietjet has revealed that its new daily service between Ho Chi Minh City and Jakarta will take-off on December 20. Announced during a ceremony attended by high-ranking representatives of both countries, the new link is expected to enhance regional trade while offering travellers extra flexibility and convenience. Dinh Viet Phuong, vice president, Vietjet, said, “With its mission of making air travel approachable and possible for everyone and building a future in the air, Vietjet’s new route from Ho Chi Minh City to Jakarta will boost ties between these two economic, cultural and financial hubs, thus helping to boost regional trading and integration.”
Vietnam Airlines and Garuda Indonesia Sign MoU
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ietnam Airlines and Indonesia’s flag carrier Garuda Indonesia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in the areas of codeshare partnership, services, maintenance, repair, overhaul and cargo. Commenting on the agreement, Duong Tri Thanh, CEO, Vietnam Airlines, explained, “This MoU today takes our cooperation further in the direction of a solid and mutually beneficial partnership, helping both airlines achieve the vast potential of the market.” He further added that with the expansion of the long-term partnership, the airlines hope to see more passengers travel between the two countries, as travellers can benefit from more flight options.
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antas Airways and its subsidiaries reported an underlying profit before tax of AUD1.4 billion (USD1.11 billion) for its financial year, which concluded on June 30. Despite an 8.6 percent year-on-year drop in this measure, the result marked the group’s second highest performance in its 97 year history. Moreover, the group achieved a statutory profit before tax of AUD1.18 billion (USD934 million), while statutory earnings per share stood at AUD0.46 (USD0.36). Achieving exceptional success in the domestic market, Qantas Airways and Jetstar Airways combined achieved underlying earnings before interest at tax of AUD865 million (USD684 million), accounting for around 90 percent of Australia’s total profit pool.
Hong Kong Aviation and Partners to Sponsor Education
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irport Authority Hong Kong and the National School of Civil Aviation of France (ENAC) announced a partnership with civil aviation authorities and industry players to sponsor aviation staff from six Southeast Asian countries to participate in the advanced master in air transport management programme set to commence later this year. Launched by the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy and ENAC, the 18-month programme is part of the joint initiative to provide training to countries, such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, looking for capacity and expertise to enhance aviation industry. The participants will be trained through analytical approach covering topics of the economy, operations, financial strategies, safety, human resources, as well as major issues related to air transport in the future.
HK Express Continues to Soar
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ong Kong Express Airways (HK Express) reported yet another month of strong business performance in July, with the number of passengers carried reaching 344,776, a surge of 38.8 percent over the same month in 2016. This contributed to a 22.6 percent yearon-year rise in travellers in the 12 months to July. Moreover, load factor grew to 92 percent during the month, while for the 12 months prior, it stood at 90 percent. Ancillary revenue also continued to soar, it expanded to 23.2 percent of total revenue in July, while during the past year, it accounted for 24.6 percent of total revenue. Andrew Cowen, CEO, HK Express, said, “Our increasing load factor is a clear indicator that we are running well-utilised routes that HK Express guests love.”
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RENDEZVOUS
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at the same time we are pleasantly surprised to have just under 10 percent of our mix from the Middle East region, it seems that word of mouth still travels fast!
Q & A with
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What is the resort’s main target market and what are its unique features?
NINA FLEISCHMANN-TOROSYAN DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, HURAWALHI ISLAND RESORT
BOASTING CULTURAL SIMILARITY WITH THE MIDDLE EAST, THE MALDIVES ENJOY HIGH POPULARITY AMONG ARAB TRAVELLERS SEEKING AN ULTIMATE HOLIDAY RETREAT. NINA FLEISCHMANNTOROSYAN, DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, HURAWALHI ISLAND RESORT, SHARES PERCEPTIONS ON THE STRATEGIC SEGMENT ALONG WITH THE RESORT’S ABILITIES TO FULFILL ITS UNIQUE NEEDS.
NINA FLEISCHMANN-TOROSYAN: Our target market is almost entirely honeymooners, […] as we are a focussed adults-only retreat. Rather than providing good service and facilities to all types of guests, we are designed for exceptional experiences for this clientele type. Our organic spa, stunning villas, exhilarating sea plane arrival and dining at our all glass restaurant submerged 5.8m under the sea is an experience of a lifetime, even for the most seasoned travellers. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Although the resort focusses on romantic holidays, are you considering expanding the offerings to cater for families in the future? NINA FLEISCHMANN-TOROSYAN: […] Our sister property aimed to open late this year will set a new benchmark of luxury in the Maldives and it will be a tremendous family retreat. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How would you describe typical requests of the Middle Eastern guests and how do you address their needs? NINA FLEISCHMANN-TOROSYAN: Travellers from the Middle East over the past decade or so have become some of the
most affluent and well-travelled globally. As such, their demands are changing and we see that they yearn for unique experiences, personalised service, warm and well trained staff as well as of course a high standard of food offerings as well as private and comfortable accommodation. At Hurawalhi there is always something more to be done, our guests can enjoy a variety of dining venues, Duniye Spa, diving, snorkeling, our marine biology centre, indoor fitness facilities, various non-motorised water sports, indoor games room, excursions, playing golf on a nearby sister island and also to utilise our sports ground to play tennis, badminton, futsal to keep themselves energised and active. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What promotional tactics have you implemented to attract more visitors from the Middle East? NINA FLEISCHMANN-TOROSYAN: We work closely with our travel partners both within the Maldives and of course in the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Lebanon. They act as an extension of our sales team and constantly introduce our unique property to their clients day in and day out, we thank them for their support and partnerships. Above and beyond that, we have as well invested heavily in marketing our resort through traditional as well as social media platforms both directly as well as through bloggers to grow our brand awareness and coverage. The Middle East is a very important part of the world to our hotel and our guests will surely be thrilled to return home to tell all their families and friends about their experience with us.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What proportion of your guests hail from the Middle East? NINA FLEISCHMANN-TOROSYAN: Hurawalhi is just a few months old now, and as such we are expanding our brand awareness in various global markets, but
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Hurawalhi Island Resort, Undersea Restaurant
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Dubai Airports Promotes Gender Equality
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eaffirming its commitment to the female workforce, Dubai Airports has recently launched a new career development programme targeting Emirati women in managerial and internship positions to ensure that they play an important role in the future of the UAE’s aviation industry. The nine-month programme will provide Emirati women with leadership coaching, workplace challenges, workshops, as well as support them to build their network across the organisation and wider airport community. Commenting on the initiative, Ann-Marie Campbell, executive vice president, human resources and development, Dubai Airports, revealed, “The passion and commitment of Emirati women who strive to exceed in their professional lives is truly inspirational and is sure to enhance their professional careers and the future of this great country.”
Emirati Archaeologists Investigate Early Agricultural Village Excavations at Hili 8
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rchaeological excavations have restarted at Hili 8, one of the UAE’s most significant archaeological sites with Emirati and international experts participating in a project commissioned by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority. Said to be one of the earliest agricultural settlements in the country, Hili 8 dates back to the Bronze Age, some 5,000 years ago. Using the latest techniques and equipment available, archaeologists are focussing on the recovery and analysis of microscopic plant remains from the site. Analysis of plant and animal remains as well as artefacts will help scientists to have a deeper understanding of the beginnings of oasis life in Al Ain, while also helping Abu Dhabi to preserve its culture and heritage dating back thousands of years.
H Sharjah Puts Spotlight on Museums Sharjah Art Museum
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eart of Sharjah, a Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) heritage initiative, is calling visitors and residents to learn about the emirate’s history through its array of interactive museums. Offering opportunities to get familiar with historical events and landmarks, the venues are regarded as key contributors in preserving the emirate’s heritage and in supporting the destination experience. In line with this, Shurooq aims to revamp the city’s historic areas with contemporary and artistic touches while maintaining the emirate’s full integrity and authenticity. Yousif Al Mutawa, manager, Heart of Sharjah, noted, “For residents, museums help us to relate to each other and for visitors, they are a tool to understand the people of Sharjah, the UAE and the greater Arab world.”
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Fiji Airways Supports National Rugby Team Qatar Airways Serves Locally-Smoked Salmon
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he Fiji Rugby Union has announced that Fiji Airways will become the naming rights sponsor of the Fijian Drua team which will compete in Australia’s National Rugby Championship. Under the sponsorship, the team will be branded as Fiji Airways Drua, wearing the airline’s credentials on the front and lower back of all playing kits. The Australian tournament will comprise nine rounds run for 11 weeks with four games hosted in Fiji. Speaking about the collaboration, John O’Connor, CEO, Fiji Rugby Union, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Fiji Airways as the inaugural naming rights sponsor of the Fijian Drua. To have the support of such an iconic Fijian company and our national airline is a wonderful boost for our team […].”
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n a bid to enhance its dining offering for first and business class customers, Qatar Airways has begun to serve high-grade fresh Norwegian salmon on board its flights. Sourced from the Doha-based company Ocean Fish, one of the region’s premier seafood producers, and smoked in Qatar using traditional Scandinavian methods, the expertly crafted dishes include pre-sliced smoked salmon, tender-loin smoked salmon and chilled salmon gravlax, in addition to an Atlantic salmon fillet option. “Our attention to detail means passengers flying with Qatar Airways and guests at top hotels in Doha can now enjoy the freshest and most succulent locally-smoked Norwegian salmon in a variety of delicious dishes,” highlighted Anders Jensen, factory manager, Ocean Fish.
Millennials Invest in Career Breaks
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ccording to a survey conducted by Gatwick Airport, 60 percent of 25 – 39 year olds are planning to take an extended break from work before they reach 40. Faced with longer careers, millennials are six times more likely to take a sabbatical compared to just nine percent of the previous generation. Some 26 percent of respondents said they did not like the idea of working continuously until retirement, while the same number cited the stress of work as the reason. Stephen King, head, airline relations, Gatwick Airport, added, “The extended break from work is being used as an opportunity to travel extensively in long haul destinations, something people do not necessarily feel like they have the time to do during a one or two week holiday.”
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Al Hokair Group celebrates the debut of its MENA Hotels brand in the UAE with the opening of MENA Plaza Albarsha Dubai
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Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham JBR embraced popular Ice Bucket Challenge to help raise funds for the #StrikeOutALS campaign
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Αbu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority partnered with TUI Group to promote the emirate in the Ukrainian market
TIME Hotels received Green Key certification by the Emirates Green Building Council for its sustainable and environmentaly-friendly strategies
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NEWS & EVENTS Hotelier Summit to Unveil Groundbreaking Technologies
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n line with the surge of technological innovations, the upcoming 2017 Hotelier Summit Africa, taking place at Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort in Morocco on October 04 – 06, promises to introduce some of the latest cutting-edge technology solutions. Through presentations, interactive panel discussions and workshops, the 13th edition of the mega event will offer attendees the opportunity to learn about emerging technologies that are set to transform the industry by boosting productivity and enhancing daily operations. “[...] Hotelier Summit Africa North aims to dive deeper into the implications of this technological revolution and understand what it means for the local and global hospitality industry,” said Ravi Kumar Chandran, director, IDE.
Dubai to Host AccessAbilities Expo
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iming to transform the lives of more than 50 million people with disabilities, AccessAbilities Expo will take place on November 07 — 09 at Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, showcasing the latest technology catering to a wide spectrum of needs. According to estimates, the global market for elderly and disabled assistive devices projected to surpass USD26 billion by 2024, indicating the growing role of assistive technology toward empowering those with disabilities. Daniyal Qureshi, group exhibitions director, Middle East, Reed Exhibitions, revealed, “More than anything else today, technology has the astounding ability to transform the lives of people with disabilities and enable them to perform their daily tasks independently and comfortably.”
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EVENTS THE HOTEL SHOW DUBAI Dubai, UAE September 18 – 20 www.thehotelshow.com More than 50,000 hospitality professionals are expected to participate and find out about the latest products and trends shaping the industry.
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.
SEATRADE OFFSHORE MARINE & WORKBOATS MIDDLE EAST Abu Dhabi, UAE September 25 – 27 Widely recognised as the largest regional gathering of offshore marine and workboats companies, this year's event will once again play a pivotal role in serving these industry sectors.
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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