30 SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 412
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30 SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 412
06 MASTER PLAN FOR MOTORCITY REVEALED
08 ACCOMMODATION
MR PROPERTIES EXPANDS IN AL MARJAN ISLAND
11 FLYNAS BOOSTS FREQUENCIES TO EGYPT
05 Agents
12 International 16 Rendezvous
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
UAE’s Tourism Spending to Soar
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
A recent analysis conducted by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry showed that based on the upcoming mega projects to the market, spending within the UAE’s travel and tourism sector is expected to rise steadily over the next five years to reach over USD56 billion in 2022.
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Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
he data from Business Monitor International and World Travel and Tourism Council also revealed that tourism and travel accounted for 12.1 percent of the UAE’s GDP in 2016, in other words USD43.3 billion. As per the same data, total spending in the industry is set to reach 4.5 year-on-year increase this year to reach USD42 billion.
UNWTO Reported Strongest H1
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of 28.9.2017
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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
113.40
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
17.68
Iran (IRR)
Rial
33,762.46
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,167.50
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,511.25
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.35
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.45
Syria (SYP)
Pound
517.23
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.45
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.50
According to World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) World Tourism Barometer, destinations worldwide welcomed 598 million international tourists during the first half of the year (H1), making the the strongest H1 since 2010.
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uring the period under review, international tourist arrivals increased six percent compared to the same six-months of 2016. Growth was strongest in the Middle East, with a year-on-year jump of more than nine percent increase in tourists ‘arrivals compared to the corresponding period in 2016, followed by Europe and Africa. Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, highlighted, “The first half of this year shows healthy growth in an increasingly dynamic and resilient tourism market, including a strong recovery in some of the destinations impacted by security challenges in 2016.”
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
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Egencia: Kids and Beds Equally Missed
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ccording to the fourth edition of Egencia’s Business Travel and Technology Survey of 4,521 corporate travellers across Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, the UK, and the US, business travellers globally equally miss their children and beds, with 36 percent agreeing on this. However in the UK, a different pattern was observed, 42 percent of corporate travellers yearn for beds and just 33 percent miss their children. In France, 42 percent miss their kids and only 28 percent long for their own bed. However, the survey indicated that spouses are the most missed, with 50 percent of those surveyed agreeing on this.
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY
Sabre Uncovers Nine Key Travel Technology Innovations Sabre Lab’s newest technology forecast, 2017 Radar Report, underscored the importance of the latest technology innovations such as artificial intelligence, neural interfaces and space tourism, in reshaping the future of the travel industry.
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ooking closer at the evolution of travel technology, the report evaluates nine key inventions with an outsized impact on the travel landscape. Emphasising the potential of current rapid technological change in revolutionising travel, Mark McSpadden, vice president, emerging products and technologies, Sabre, further explained, “We see tremendous opportunities for businesses to start experimenting with and implementing technologies like blockchain, augmented reality and trusted presence to help shape a more seamless, safe and personalised future for travel.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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QTA Launched Representation Offices in China In order to further tap into the growing outbound Chinese market, Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) collaborated with PHG Consulting to inaugurate representative offices in China, with headquarters in Beijing and supporting locations in Shanghai and Guangzhou.
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QnA International to Underline Experiential Travel
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he launch coincides with Qatar being officially awarded Approved Destination Status, allowing it to receive tourists from China and promote the destination in the Asian country. Rashed Al Qurese, chief marketing and promotion officer, QTA, said, “Our on-theground presence in China will enable us to actively promote Qatar to Chinese consumers, and develop relationships with members of the Chinese travel trade who will sell Qatar as a destination.”
Abu Dhabi Ports Credited for Outstanding Security Management
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Sidh NC
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head of The MICE Arabia and Luxury Travel Congress on February 27 – 28, 2018 which will be held in Dubai, organiser QnA International has highlighted the potential of the outbound Middle Eastern market. The company claims that travel demand in the region is underpinned by the lucrative GCC business and luxury travel buyers. Due to the shift towards unique experiences, segments such as adventure, culture, wellness and cruise will be part of the event’s focus on experiential travel, one of its key themes. Sidh NC, director, conferences, QnA International, said, “[...] The congress is undoubtedly a powerful initiative to harness the immense potential of the MICE industry in the Middle East with the surety of generating long lasting business relations and increasing revenue many folds.”
bu Dhabi Ports has been accredited with the ISO 28000:2007 certificate of Security Management System for Supply Chain by global certification provider Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance (LRQA). LRQA assessors independently audited the security management system that is in place at Khalifa Port, Zayed Port, Musaffah Port and Abu Dhabi Ports headquarters. The security management system is required to review the risks and challenges related to important aspects of security and threats, including piracy, terrorism and theft. The aim is to equip managers with the knowledge essential for effective supply chain management and risk mitigation.
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
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RateGain and roomsXML to Boost Global Online Inventory Hospitality and travel technology solution provider RateGain Technologies and roomsXML have announced a strategic partnership, enabling the online accommodation distributor to automate the process of offering real-time access to rooms.
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hrough the integration, the technology companies are also set to increase their inventory portfolio and service efficiency for the entire online business-to-business market. Prakash Bang, executive chairman, roomsXML, commented on the partnership, “Our alliance with RateGain is another step towards providing our wide set of customers with an immaculate and unified booking experience, and also help us enhance and multiply our reach with hoteliers.”
Tourico Reveals Indian Holiday Surge
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ccording to Tourico Holidays’ booking data for the year, there has been a 97 percent climb in hotel booking in India over the same period in 2016. The number of reservations from the European Union has been the driving force of the increase, with 109 percent more rooms booked. China, the UAE, and Canada all showed year-on-year growth, up 115 percent, 113 percent, and 105 percent, respectively. Madhuri Khanna, regional director, product development, Southeast Asia, Tourico Holidays attributed the success to the relaxed visa scheme.
Thomas Cook and Expedia Team Up
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homas Cook has entered into a strategic alliance with Expedia, whereby the latter will provide its booking platform to support all city breaks and hotel-only sales across Thomas Cook distribution channels in Europe. Additionally, the agreement gives the travel agent the option to offer its core sun and beach package holidays on Expedia sites globally, broadening its distribution reach, as well as offer its customers access to more than 60,000 hotels through the online travel platform. Peter Fankhauser, CEO, Thomas Cook, commented, “Joining forces with [...] Expedia will allow Thomas Cook to further simplify our systems and processes.”
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS Bahrain to Represent Middle East in UNWTO Council
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Master Plan for MotorCity Revealed
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nion Properties has announced a new master plan for its flagship MotorCity development in Dubai worth AED8 billion (USD2.2 billion), which will see construction of some 18,000 units comprising residential apartments and villas, hotel rooms and serviced apartments. Furthermore, the mega-project will feature Vertex, a new design concept comprising five mixed-use towers with a five-star hotel and apartments. Nasser Butti Omair bin Yousef, chairman, Union Properties, said, “For 30 years Union Properties has built a reputation as a leading developer in Dubai with some landmark buildings and communities. Today, with our new management team and clear growth strategy in place, we are setting out on a new phase that will take us to the next level […].”
MotorCity
epresented by Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Bahrain has been announced as a member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) Executive Council for the period 2018-2021. During the 22nd session of the UNWTO General Assembly in China, the Kingdom was selected following the votes made by the Middle East Committee. Alongside Egypt, Bahrain will represent the Middle East region’s tourism sector as a part of the 32-members council. H.E. Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani, chairman, BTEA, expressed, “We would like to extend our deep congratulations to the wise leadership on the occasion of selecting the Kingdom as member of the UNWTO Executive Council. This achievement will further strengthen the Kingdom’s position in managing the tourism portfolio on an international level.”
Dubawi Skyscraper to Adorn Dubai’s Skyline
DMCA Customer Initiative Scored Success
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Sheikh Zayed Road
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ubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road is set to welcome another signature building as SHUAA Capital unveiled plans for a new skyscraper Dubawi. Designed as a mixed-use hotel and residential tower, the address will feature some 500 hotel rooms and serviced apartments, as well as over 500 apartment units and penthouses. Jassim Alseddiqi, chairman, SHUAA Capital, commented on the announcement, “The steady roll-out of our strategic growth plans in the first half of this year has seen SHUAA begin to chart a new trajectory that leverages our core strengths to create new opportunities for our firm. Dubawi is a bold statement about both the ambition and the capabilities of SHUAA […].”
ubai Maritime City Authority’s (DMCA) initiative Shorkum, launched earlier this year in a bid to enhance customers’ satisfaction, experienced great success in meeting the emerging demands of the customers. Through interactive communication channels, the campaign enabled DMCA’s clients to share ideas and suggestions, which the authority considered for continuous development of the services in line with the customers’ needs. Amer Ali, executive director, DMCA, said, DMCA replied to the feedback, suggestions and queries received to improve the quality of government services […].”
Dubai
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30 SEPTEMBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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MR Properties Expands in
Al Marjan Island
DURING THIS YEAR’S CITYSCAPE GLOBAL, MOHAMED RUQIAT (MR) PROPERTIES UNVEILED PLANS TO LAUNCH ITS SECOND PROPERTY IN RAS AL KHAIMAH, BUILDING UPON THE SUCCESS OF DOUBLETREE BY HILTON.
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xpected to open during the fourth quarter of 2019, the 500key beachfront development will feature retail, recreation facilities and beach activities as well as four food and beverage outlets. “Our new beachfront property will showcase authentic luxury and personalised hospitality. The resort’s discerning guests will not only benefit from the project’s integrated lifestyle, but will also have access to best-in-class experiences. Ras Al Khaimah and Al Marjan Island have enormous growth potential in the tourism and lifestyle sector [...],” concluded Mohammed Ruqait, chairman, MR Properties.
Swiss International Boutique Saif - Al Rass
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iming to expand hospitality offerings in Saudi Arabia, Swiss International Hotels & Resorts launched two new hotels in Al Rass and Tabuk, joining the group’s existing addresses in Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, Al Baha and Turaif. Swiss International Boutique Saif - Al Rass is the first international chain property in Al Rass offering international standards, comfort and service. It features 62 rooms and suites, upscale amenities including a revolving restaurant, a café for women only and a lobby café. In addition, Swiss International Tabuk Hotel boasts 82 upscale fully equipped rooms and suites featuring traditionally inspired Arabian decoration along with two meeting rooms, a large banquet hall, fine dining restaurant, cafe, fitness centre, indoor pool and a spa.
BTEA Discussed Manama Souq’s Future
Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East, North Africa and Turkey, Hilton (left) and Al Qasimi
Swiss International Unveiled New Addresses
Al Marjan Island
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uring Cityscape Global, Tilal Properties and Hilton unveiled plans to launch DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Tilal Mall. Scheduled to open in 2021 within Tilal City, the 200-key upscale address will mark the global brand’s second property in the emirate, joining DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Suites, which is set to welcome guests in 2020. Commenting on the upcoming development, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, chairman, Tilal Properties, highlighted, “Tilal Mall and the wider Tilal City project will be a significant new destination. […] We are excited for the next chapter in Sharjah’s growth and believe Hilton – a prevalent global hospitality brand - is the right partner to help us reaffirm the project’s strength and significance.”
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Qatar Airways Expands Turkish Footprint
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ailed as the first Middle Eastern five-star airline offering the services to the destination, the carrier’s new three times weekly schedule complements its existing services to Ankara and two Istanbul hubs. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways Group, commented, “Qatar Airways’ new service to Adana will help reinforce links between Qatar and Turkey and deepen the friendship and cooperation between our two great countries.”
Turkey
In response to increased customer demand for travel to Turkey, Qatar Airways is launching a direct flight from Doha to the Southern Turkish city of Adana, the carrier’s fourth link to the destination, scheduled to commence in November.
Emirates to Enhance Links to Australia
Sydney
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iming to provide better connections between the Middle East and Australia, Emirates has unveiled plans to introduce a fourth daily service between Dubai International and Sydney Airport, effective from March 25, 2018. To be operated with an Airbus A380 aircraft, the additional itinerary will provide passengers travelling from Europe to Africa greater connectivity to Australia. Passengers can enjoy over 2,500 channels on Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system along with gourmet food. Demonstrating the carrier’s commitment to the Australian market and further supporting tourism and trade links between the carrier’s network and Australia, the extra schedule will result in a 7.3 percent increase in capacity on the route.
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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flynas Boosts Frequencies to Egypt
Qatar Airways Enhances Links to UK
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30 SEPTEMBER 2017
s a result of a period of increased passengers demand to North Africa, flynas has increased frequency between Saudi Arabia and Egypt with a new service linking Abha
to Cairo. Effective until October 28, the schedule will be operated three times weekly with Airbus A320 aircraft. The extra flight is expected to further strengthen the links between the two countries while also boosting economic growth. Currently, the Saudi low-cost carrier serves nearly 1,000 weekly flights to 33 destinations within and outside of Saudi Arabia.
Egypt
ontinuing its ambitious expansion, Qatar Airways has unveiled plans to launch direct daily flights to Cardiff, from May 01, 2018. The new destination is one of 26 new routes announced by the national carrier for the remainder of this year and 2018. As a UK tourist hotspot, with countless museums and exhibitions, the Welsh capital is a strategically important destination for the airline. Deb Barber, executive officer, Cardiff Airport, highlighted, “I am immensely proud that world-class airline Qatar Airways has recognised the potential that exists within the region and chosen Cardiff Airport to operate a daily service. The service opens up a world of connectivity for our customers to destinations across Australia, New Zealand, Africa, and Asia.�
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INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS Carnival Began Construction of Revolutionary Green Vessels
SeaDream Yacht Club Sets Sail to Cuba
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eaDream Yacht Club has launched exclusive voyages around Cuba for the spring 2019 season, set to take passengers to some of the country’s most storied and leasttravelled ports. On board the 112-guest mega yacht SeaDream II, the series of seven-day itineraries will depart from Havana or Cienfuegos and circumnavigate the island. Guests will have the opportunity to experience the Caribbean nation’s rich cultural landscape and heritage, while enjoying the hospitality at sea. The inclusive fare incorporates ocean view accommodation, gourmet meals and gratuities, among other offerings. “Cuba is changing now in noticeable ways, and for many, there is a desire to see it before it loses its identity,” said Adrienne D’Annunzio, manager, trade marketing, SeaDream Yacht Club.
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arnival Corporation celebrated the beginning of construction of its first of seven next-generation cruise ships set to be fully powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the world’s cleanest burning fossil fuel. Scheduled for delivery between 2018 and 2022, the vessels are expected to pioneer a new era in the use of low-carbon fuels by using LNG to generate 100 percent of power. The innovation promises to reduce exhaust emissions, in line with the liner’s persistent sustainability goals. Speaking during the keel-laying ceremony, Arnold Donald, CEO, Carnival Corporation, said, ”Today marked a significant milestone in the construction of this next-generation of Carnival Corporation ships featuring our green cruising design, which will be the most environmentally friendly ships in our company's history.”
Conference in Chile Outlined Future of Tourism
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he Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2017 in Aysén, Chile was concluded with success with 250 delegates from 29 countries engaged in discussions and activities related to its topic Sustainable Destinations. Furthermore, local and international speakers also educated participants on other emerging topics, such as adaptation and mitigation of climate change impact on tourism, marketing of sustainable tourism and sustainable food, to name a few. Felipe Muñoz Narbona, director, Ecomapu Valparaíso, commented, “The conference gave us the opportunity to connect with people who understand and work the sustainable tourism, not as an alternative way to make the things, rather as an opportunity and need for the future of the world tourism.”
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Hertz Partners with Localiza
Travel Michigan’s Website Won an Award
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ichigan Economic Development Corporation (Travel Michigan) celebrated the recognition of its new website, which received the accolade of Best Travel Website by the Web Marketing Association’s 2017 WebAwards. The redesigned platform represents an important component of Travel Michigan’s ongoing promotion, aimed at strengthening the brand Pure Michigan through interest-based marketing, complementing its traditional marketing strategies. Delivering travel ideas inspired by unique traveller needs and interests, the new product enhances user experience with more personalisation, extended integration with social media and other features in line with the brand’s philosophy.
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ertz Global Holdings has entered into a long-term strategic partnership agreement with Localiza, one of South America’s largest rental car companies. As part of the agreement, Hertz Global Holdings finalised the sale of its Brazil rental and leasing operations to Localiza for BRL360 million (USD114.58 million). Moreover, the companies have launched referral and brand cooperation contracts, and will exchange information in the areas of technology, customer service and operational excellence. Commenting on the collaboration, Eugenio Mattar, CEO, Localiza, said, “Customers from both companies will have innovative services, attendance and solutions to facilitate their mobility and improve their experience of car rental and vehicle leasing.”
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
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Delta Confirmed Satisfactory August Performance
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elta Air Lines has reported a profitable August during which it carried 17.6 million passengers across its global network. During the month under review, the carrier also set ground for transformation of New York’s LaGuardia Airport into a completely rebuilt and unified next-generation hub, while a new nonstop service between John F. Kennedy International Airport and Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport has also been announced, set to take off in March, 2018. Looking ahead, the carrier expects two to three percent passenger unit revenue growth in September as the recovery in the domestic close-in yields has proven slower than anticipated.
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS
United Airlines Launches Innovative Amazon Feature
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edicated to innovation and enhancing customers’ travel experience, United Airlines has become what is said to be the first US airline enabling passengers to acquire flight information through Amazon’s Alexa devices. The new option allows flyers to ask specific flight-related questions, learn about onboard amenities and check-in with simple verbal commands when enabling United Airlines skill in the Alexa application. Praveen Sharma, vice president, digital products and analytics, United Airlines, elaborated, “Every day we connect nearly 400,000 customers to business meetings, loved ones and new adventures. Introducing the new skill to check-in and receive flight information with Alexa is an innovation that gives our customers extra time to […] get ready for their upcoming flight.”
Record Breaking August for WestJet
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estJet reported that in August, it achieved a 4.1 percentage point climb in load factor to 90.6 percent, the highest recorded in its 21-year history. Revenue passenger kilometres (RPK) jumped 10.6 percent year-on-year, while available seat kilometres (ASK) grew 5.6 percent. Marking another record for the carrier, WestJet transported 2.3 million passengers, an increase of 13.8 percent over August 2016. Gregg Saretsky, CEO, WestJet, noted that the airline also set a new single day record on August 08, when it served 81,423 travellers. These figures contributed to the positive year-to-date results, which includes a 1.7 percentage point rise in load factor to 84.3 percent, and increases in both RPK and ASK, up 8.1 percent and 5.9 percent, respectively.
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INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS Holston House to Debut in Nashville
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Iowa Welcomes Home2 Suites by Hilton
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ome2 Suites by Hilton has announced its latest property, Home2 Suites by Hilton Iowa City/ Coralville, capitalising on upward trajectory of statewide tourism revenues. Designed for travellers who wish to maintain their normal routine, the 102-key address boasts a range of value, technology-focussed and ecology-conscious amenities alongside its flexible and customisable accommodation. Guests are able to take advantage of communal spaces, combined laundry and fitness zone, as well as an in-house grab-and-go market and a heated indoor pool, among other facilities. “Opening our first Home2 Suites in Iowa is an important milestone, and indicative of the brand's growth since 2011 with more than 140 properties in North America,” said Adrian Kurre, global head, Home2 Suites.
Iowa City
Nashville
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RI Properties and Hyatt have announced the upcoming Holston House, which scheduled to open in December. The 191-key property will feature six suites along with a fitness centre, a series of food and beverage offerings, including a lobby lounge and rooftop bar, as well as a flexible meeting and event space. The recently reimagined address, located in downtown Nashville, will combine art deco details with traditional architecture. “Nashville has become a hot spot for travellers in the US and abroad, and we are excited to offer visitors and locals alike a uniquely decadent, personalised and authentic experience in the heart of Nashville,” revealed, Peter Tziahanas, general manager, Holston House.
Viceroy Chicago Debuted
Surge in Caribbean and Mexico Hotel Pipeline
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n July, the Caribbean and Mexico region recorded 16,015 rooms in 89 hospitality projects in construction, marking a 23.6 percent yearon-year increase, as revealed in STR’s July 2017 Pipeline Report. Moreover, the number of units under contract during the period reached 41,131 in 234 hotels, a jump of 44.7 percent compared to July 2016. Four key markets reported more than 1,000 keys in construction, led by Central Mexico with 4,466 rooms in 34 developments. Yucatan Peninsula and Northwest Mexico documented 2,946 units in nine addresses and 2,350 keys in 14 properties, respectively. Lastly, Dominican Republic had 1,193 rooms in five hotel projects.
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Viceroy Chicago
Dominican Republic
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n September 01, Viceroy Hotel Group and its partner Convexity Properties announced the opening of the 180-key property Viceroy Chicago. Positioned in the vibrant Gold Coast neighbourhood, the urban 18-storey resort will host weekly yoga classes from CorePower, which will be open to guests and locals alike. As well as offering a rooftop swimming pool, the group has partnered with local women’s clothing boutique FELT to provide guests with individualised styling sessions and private shopping experiences. Bill Walshe, CEO, Viceroy Hotel Group, emphasised, “[…] We are proud to make our Chicago debut in partnership with hotel owner Convexity Properties, with whom we share a passion for creating distinct, memorable experiences, and who are a team with a unique knowledge of this incredible city.”
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Carlson Rezidor Signed Second Vietnamese Address
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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s latest agreement with Phu Quoc Tourist Investment & Development prepared the ground for the group’s second resort in Vietnam scheduled to open at the end of this year. Capitalising on the region’s positive hospitality outlook, the 522-key Radisson Blu Resort Phu Quoc will form part of an integrated resort boasting a convention centre, safari and water parks, a golf course as well as multiple retail and dining outlets. The property will feature an in-house restaurant and bar, wellness facilities, VIP lounge and Casino Phu Quoc. “The growth opportunities in Vietnam are immense and we are proud to be a part of the country’s economic growth story,” said Andreas Flaig, executive vice president, development, Asia Pacific, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
30 SEPTEMBER 2017
INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PASIFIC Four Seasons Sydney Revealed Transformed Ballroom
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our Seasons Hotel Sydney has unveiled the upgrade of its iconic pillar less Grand Ballroom, enabling the guests to benefit from the latest technology alongside its redesigned premises. Following the renovations, the venue now boasts a large cinema-style screen providing effective visual opportunities with high resolution video, imagery and high quality matching sound. Complementing the technological enhancements, the facility’s pre-function foyer was transformed with elegant interiors. “We are delighted to be adding a new chapter to the story of our iconic Grand Ballroom – a grand and timeless space that has played host to unforgettable celebrations in Sydney for more than 30 years,” said Rudolf van Dijk, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney.
Concorde Hotel Singapore Presented Renovated Rooms
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ollowing a nine-month long refurbishment, Concorde Hotel Singapore has unveiled its brand-new rooms, transformed to better cater to modern business and leisure travellers. The property’s 407 units, including Deluxe and Premier Club types, now boast renovated bathrooms, new wallpapers, lighter hues, improved in-room lighting, bedside charging points and brand new carpets, among other upgraded amenities. All guestrooms are equipped with a work area while a complimentary Handy smart phone device with unlimited mobile internet is also offered to the visitors. Strategically located on the city’s renowned Orchard Road within the commercial and shopping district, the calming retreat aims at constantly improving its guests’ experience while offering a home away from home.
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: The Maldives enjoy high popularity among Middle Eastern travellers. What is the proportion of such guests to your resort including travelling families?
ROBERTO ARGANESE DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, GILI LANKANFUSHI, MALDIVES
THE MALDIVES IS AN ATTRACTIVE HOLIDAY GATEWAY FOR MIDDLE EASTERN TRAVELLERS, INCLUDING FAMILIES, WHO ENJOY ITS CLOSE PROXIMITY, LUXURIOUS PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION, HALAL-FRIENDLY OFFERINGS AND PLETHORA OF LEISURE ACTIVITIES. ROBERTO ARGANESE, DIRECTOR OF SALES, GILI LANKANFUSHI, MALDIVES, FURTHER HIGHLIGHTS WHAT LAYS BEHIND THE DESTINATION’S APPEAL FOR THE LUCRATIVE ARAB OUTBOUND MARKET. 16
ROBERTO ARGANESE: In quarters one and two of this year, there was an increase of approximately five percent compared to the numbers in 2016, with approximately 60 percent of such guests being travelling families. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Expanding on the satisfactory numbers of such visitors, what makes the resort an ideal family holiday location? ROBERTO ARGANESE: At Gili Lankanfushi, we have villas of different categories ranging from large villas that are suitable for families of four to six persons, to a presidential villa, also known as the Private Reserve, catering to families of eight to 10 persons. The resort offers easy access to Velana International Airport and is only 25 minutes away by speedboat. Furthermore, we have Mr/Ms Friday service, our personalised butler service, available 24/7 to guests. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: In your view, what makes the Maldives stand-out among other family holiday destinations frequently visited by Arab travellers? ROBERTO ARGANESE: The Maldives cultural similarities and understanding provides an advantage for Middle Eastern guests. Since the Maldives is an island destination most of the attractions and popular activities to do are water sports, diving, surfing, sunset excursions, such as dolphin cruise, and various types of fishing. Local island tours are also made available to those who are keen on some cultural immersion and knowledge of the marine biodiversity in the lagoons of the different atolls during their visit. The destination is also suitable for Middle Eastern guests because of privacy, rest and relaxation and a wide selection of food and beverage offerings at the resorts. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Based on the culture, the needs of the Middle Eastern guests may appear more specific. What common require-
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ments have you observed among your guests? ROBERTO ARGANESE: Some of the most common requirements [include] requests for large villas to accommodate at least three to four persons at the minimum […], villas with privacy and amazing views. All of our over water villas offer a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean including our Crusoe Residences, standalone water villas, accessible only by boat, and The Private Reserve, the world’s largest over water villa, for exclusive privacy, Halal food, which is easy to cater as Maldives is a Muslim country [and] personalised butler service [which the resort provides as] each villa is assigned to a Mr/ Ms Friday throughout the entire stay. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: The Middle East holds a strong potential as one of the main source markets for the Maldives. Based on this, what promotional campaigns have you implemented to expand the reach in the region? ROBERTO ARGANESE: Maldives Marketing and PR Company (MMPRC) and Maldives Association for Travel Agents and Tour Operators participate in annual trade shows, travel fairs and other road shows in the Middle East – specifically the Arabian Travel Market. For marketing campaigns with both print and digital media, individual resorts execute several different marketing campaigns offering different packages. Specifically for Gili Lankanfushi, apart from working with print and digital media for marketing campaigns, we work with UAE based travel agents and tour operators to create attractive packages for the Arabic market. Additionally, we do offer the Gili Family Getaway packages on our website for individuals who are looking to get away from the summer heat in the Middle East. To attract more Arab travellers and families in the coming months, MMPRC works with journalists from different publications from the Arab market for general coverage on destination travel to the Maldives. Additionally, individual resorts work with journalists from travel and lifestyle magazines, both digital and print, for travel features, curated story angles specific to individual resorts and special features relating to family travel. 30 SEPTEMBER 2017
MOHAMED AHMED has been named as the new CEO of SalamAir, an Omani low-cost carrier. Set to begin the role in October, Ahmed brings with him more than 30 years of expertise in the aviation industry. Prior to this, he served as director of operations and maintenance of Air Arabia where he played a key role in the startup of the airline and most of its subsidiaries. During his tenure, he was also involved in major projects including aircraft and simulator orders, airport expansion, starting and operating the Pilot Aviation Academy. In his new role, Ahmed will be leading the airline through its new phase of development, focussing on driving efficiency, performance and customer satisfaction.
RABIH MERHY has assumed the position of cluster director of information technology at Amwaj Rotana – JBR, Centro Barsha, and Arjaan Dubai Media City, where he will be responsible for managing the properties’ teams. Merhy has been a key member of Amwaj Rotana – JBR’s management team as director of information technology. During his time at the property, he has been recognised with a number of accolades, most recently emerging as a winner of the CIO 100 Awards. In his new role, Rabih will focus on improving digital services to guests of the three hotels under his care.
Merhy will improve digital services for guests
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CAROLINE ROWE
WHO’S MOVED
ZURAB POLOLIKASHVILI
RABIH MERHY
MOHAMED AHMED
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CAROLINE ROWE has taken on the role of director of marketing and communications at Media One Hotel, bringing with her more than a decade of experience. At the beginning of her career, Rowe worked for Three on the Bund Storage, where she was responsible for remapping the existing communications department and developing a strategic public outreach plan that increased omnichannel coverage by around 300 percent. In 2013, she moved to Dubai where she worked as an independent strategy consultant and led a number of digital transformation projects. In her new role, she will continue to highlight the spirit of Media One team, while bringing a fresh, digitally driven approach to marketing.
ZURAB POLOLIKASHVILI has been appointed secretary general of World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), for the period 2018 – 2021. Bringing with him a wealth of expertise in politics, ministries and related public service, Pololikashvili is the current ambassador of Georgia to Spain, Morocco, Algeria, and Andorra. Prior to this, he held the role of minister of economic development of Georgia and he served as the deputy minister of foreign affairs of Georgia. Pololikashvili was elected by consensus at the 22nd UNWTO General Assembly, held in Chengdu, China. In his new role, he will be responsible for implementing UNWTO's programme of work and serving the needs of members and affiliate members.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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Another Archeological Gem Discovered in Egypt UNWTO Approved Historical Convention
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dding to this year’s rich portfolio of Egyptian archaeological discoveries, Egypt Tourism reported a new burial chamber found within the Draa El-Naga necropolis, near the Valley of the Kings. Eight metres beneath the surface, the uncovered location featured humain remains, funerary artefacts, four wooden sarcophagi, jewellery and funerary cones belonging to a goldsmith named Amenemhat from around 1500 BC. The tomb also contains passages to other tombs with contents dating back as far as 2000 BC. Furthermore, 40 of the 50 funerary cones discovered are believed to belong to another nobleman said to have been buried within close proximity.
he member states of World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have approved the transformation of the Code of Ethics for Tourism into an international convention, a landmark document covering responsibilities of all tourism stakeholders in the development of sustainable tourism. Representing a significant step towards consistency of tourism business conduct, the framework further recommends ethical and sustainable best practices, including tourism rights and the freedom of movement for tourists, among others recommendations. Taleb Rifai, secretary-general, UNWTO, commented, “The approval of the convention is a strong legacy of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development that we celebrate this year. It is also a strong sign that countries are committed to make tourism a force for a better future for all.”
Delta Supports Relief Efforts for Irma Victims
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n an effort to aid the vast number of people affected by Hurricane Irma, Delta Air Lines announced plans to donate USD1 million to the American Red Cross . In addition, the carrier will make a contribution of USD100,000 to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, to support relief efforts in the hardest hit areas in the Caribbean, such as Sint Maarten and Turks and Caicos. Customers can support relief efforts for hurricane victims by donating miles to the Red Cross through SkyWish, the charitable arm of the airline’s loyalty programme, SkyMiles. The carrier will match donations up to 10 million miles.
A Malawi Safeguards the Future of Elephants
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iming to promote animal conservation while also transforming the country’s wildlife and safari offering, African Parks and Malawi Department of National Parks and Wildlife have collaboratively completed the 500 Elephants initiative. The programme involved moving up to 500 elephants as well as around 1,500 other animals from Liwonde National Park and Majete Wildlife Reserve to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve. As well as helping to safeguard the future of these animals, the initiative helped Malawi to become one of the most complete destinations in Africa offering unique wildlife experiences of the highest quality. The project is said to be one of the largest ever translocation of elephants to a single reserve.
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PHOTO ALBUM
Oman Air completed a crisis simulation exercise to test the airline’s emergency response plans and procedures
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Delegates from Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority promoted Bahrain's cruise industry at Seatrade Europe, in Hamburg on September 06 – 08
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Model Martha Hunt was pictured in London with members of Etihad Airways’ cabin crew at the Julien Macdonald VIP Party sponsored by the airline
Qatar Airways brought its award-winning hospitality and service to Rolex Central Park Horse Show in New York City on September 20
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NEWS & EVENTS
Hotelier Summit to Highlight Sustainability
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aking place on October 04 – 06 in Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort in Morocco, Hotelier Summit Africa North 2017 is set to focus on sustainable practices, conscious cleaning solutions and energy efficient advancements in the real estate and hospitality industry. In line with Morocco’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, the summit’s panels will discuss topics including the latest advancements in green design, corporate responsibility programmes and marketing ecologically-friendly conducts, among others. “Renewable energy and green economy are part of modernisation and to ensure economic growth for the country, it is essential to build a reliable bridge to the future through strategic sustainable projects,” said Ravi Kumar Chandran, director, IDE consulting service.
WTM London is Dedicated to Responsible Tourism
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he upcoming World Travel Market (WTM) London will host WTM World Responsible Tourism Day on November 08, an event dedicated to sustainable tourism. As well as featuring WTM Responsible Tourism Awards, the occasion supports the WTM’s Responsible Tourism programme’s goal to build on its growing popularity and increase its profile amongst its mainstream audience. As a result, for the first time, themed sessions will take place in the main halls, and an exclusive theatre will also be launched. Overall, this year’s WTM London will focus on the topic by offering some 30 themed panels over three days, also in line with the International Year of Sustainable Tourism declared by the World Tourism Organization.
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EVENTS THE GLOBAL FRANCHISE MARKET (TGFM) Dubai, UAE October 29 – 30 globalfranchisemarket.com TGFM is the connection platform for franchising in the MENA region, offering the opportunity for franchisors, franchisees, suppliers and informationseeking individuals to learn more about the current industry and trends.
2ND ANNUAL CULTURAL TOURISM MIDDLE EAST Dubai, UAE October 31 – November 02 www.culturaltourismme.com The second edition of the event will gather high-level officials from tourism, cultural development and antiquities, heritage and arts, to showcase the latest developments and share ideas and strategies to protect, preserve and promote their unique culture and heritage.
ACCESSABILITIES EXPO Dubai, UAE November 07 – 09 www.AccessAbilities-Expo.com The event provides an opportunity to government and private sectors to showcase future plans to support people with disabilities worldwide.
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