Middle East & North Africa
OCTOBER 15 2013
ISSUE 259
Unbroken focus
Destination Egypt PAGE 10
On Location
Update
Analysis
Germany
Japan
Muslim Travel
Thorough and determined, Germany is boosting its MENA appeal
Confident in its product, Japan is focused on attracting new markets
With this lucrative sector ever-growing, the world is adjusting its offerings
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Read online...
NEWS
ith our team now running full speed towards the long-awaited WTM, I am thrilled with how responsive and proactive our industry is when it comes to sharing news and developments, but also personal aspirations, views and comments on industry trends. On a daily basis, I receive tens of emails with responses for the Regional Round-Up section for our November 1 issue, and I thank you all for your continuous editorial support. I am confident that by working together, we will manage to turn heads at this global show towards our diverse and ever-developing region, enticing the readers to further explore the Middle East and immerse themselves in its vibrant colours, delectable flavours and open hearted hospitality. As for this issue of TTG MENA, which will mark its first presence at the prestigious Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions Forum in Jeddah (November 2-4, 2013), we have prepared a selection of groundbreaking news which spans several luxurious brand debuts in the MENA region, exciting new routes and newly forged industry partnerships. With regards to the features, we are first taking you to Egypt to see how its industry stakeholders are creatively finding ways to bypass current challenges and attract visitors – both domestic and international. We then move over to Germany and investigate how the country’s tourism sector is working to further bolster and facilitate the growth of the lucrative Middle Eastern market, before turning over to Japan and its steadily recovering travel trade industry, which has its eyes set on attracting more Muslim travellers. On that note, we will look at those very same Muslim travellers and their gently evolving needs, and find out how worldwide destinations are learning and adapting to provide bespoke Muslim-friendly travel experiences, thus capturing a share of this market. I hope that you will once again enjoy your reading and continue learning and evolving your business with us!
A LETTER FROM...
The power of synergy
By working together, we will manage to turn heads at the WTM towards our diverse region.
Determined to grow its Indonesian hotel portfolio sixfold by 2015 Best Western International (BWI) revealed extensive expansion plans across Indonesia, aiming to more than double its hotel portfolio in the country by the end of this year and reach 31 properties by 2015. On the occasion of the launch of Best Western Premier Sunset Road Kuta in Bali, vice president – Asia & the Middle East,
Best Western Premier Sunset Road Kuta will be joined by 26 new hotels
international operations, BWI, Glenn de Souza stated: “Right now we're standing at a very important period in the history of Indonesia. Across the country, disposable income is rising and demand for travel is increasing. And with the ASEAN Economic Community due to start in 2015, with Indonesia at its heart, this
growth trajectory will only get steeper in the coming years.” BWI currently has five hotels in Indonesia – one in Jakarta, one in Semarang and three in Bali, plus a pipeline of 26 properties across the country, with the Group's firsts planned for the cities of Samarinda, Bogor, Pontianak and Malang.
Luxury reinterpreted in Dubai Hilton Worldwide’s Conrad Hotels & Resorts has launched Conrad Dubai, its first property in the MENA region. Centrally located, the hotel offers 555 rooms, all equipped with rain showers, the latest technology and entertainment docking stations. Guests can additionally opt to customise their stay via the brand's Conrad Concierge app. Other highlights include a 5,500m² pool oasis located on the sixth floor;
state-of-the-art fitness and spa centres; more than 4,400m² of meetings and event space; and several F&B outlets. Global head, luxury and lifestyle brands, Hilton Worldwide, John Vanderslice commented: “The hotel exemplifies the true personality of the Conrad brand as a smart luxury retreat with a premium range of amenities, sumptuously chic rooms and an intuitive understanding of world class guest service.”
Conrad Dubai marks the luxury brand's debut in the Middle East.
October 15 2013
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Ana Mladenovic Media Reporter
LA connectivity strengthened Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has commemorated the launch of operations in the South Concourse of the new Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT), marking the conclusion of Phase I of its TBIT project worth $1.9 billion, which is a part of the airport’s $4.1 billion capital improvements programme. The terminal is set to offer 18 gates and boarding areas, as well as the Great Hall with its Antonio Villaraigosa Pavilion which is to house more than 60 F&B and retail outlets. Executive director, Los Angeles World Airports, Gina Marie Lindsey noted: “Passenger-friendly terminals and conveniences, aeroplane-friendly taxiways and gates are all ‘must haves’ as airports around the world compete for the economic vitality that world-class airports create. Our goal is to modernise LAX to ensure it retains its vital role as the cornerstone of Southern California’s air transportation system.” As for LAX’s dining and retail offerings, terminal concessions manager Westfield and its partners are investing $79.8 million to bring about storefronts inspired by Rodeo Drive and numerous dining options.
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NEWS Exhibition Calendar October 15-17
IMEX America, Las Vegas, USA www.imexamerica.com •
October 23-25
ITB Asia, Singapore www.itb-asia.com/en •
November 2-4
Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions Forum, Jeddah, KSA www.saudicef.com •
November 4-7
WTM, London, UK www.wtmlondon.com • •
November 19-21
EIBTM, Barcelona, Spain www.eibtm.com •
DECEMBER 2-5
ILTM Cannes, Cannes, France www.iltm.net •
January 22-26
FITUR, Madrid, Spain www.ifema.es •
• TTG Middle East & North Africa will be available at these shows • ttgmena luxury will be available at these shows
Partnering for a An elevated Istanbul premium trade show experience Starwood Hotels & Resorts is preparing for the debut of its luxurious St. Regis brand in Turkey with the opening of St. Regis Istanbul, planned for the first half of 2014. The property is set in the Sisli district on the European side of the city, overlooking the Bosphorous. It is expected to offer easy access to Taksim Square, Istanbul Congress Centre and
Marina Bay Sands will be the host of the 2014, 2015 and 2016 editions of the event ITB Asia partnered with Marina Bay Sands, Singapore’s high-end integrated resort, to have the three upcoming editions of the exhibition at its Sands Expo and Convention Centre. Executive director, ITB Asia, Nino Gruettke said that Marina Bay Sands offers ITB Asia a unique value proposition: accommodation for attendees – as official hotel partner; and conferencing
Further reaching out to both the east and west
Emirates Airline is set to debut in Afghanistan in December 2013 and expand its US network in March next year Emirates Airline is set to further expand its global presence with the launch of two new services from Dubai – Kabul, its debut destination in Afghanistan (December 4, 2013) and Boston,
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its ninth service in the US (March 10, 2014). Commenting on the airline’s entry into Afghanistan, divisional senior vice president – East, commercial operations, Emirates Airline,
Barry Brown stated: “With this new route, Emirates Airline will be able to offer passengers travelling to and from the city excellent global connections via Dubai, combined with the award-winning product and service the airline is renowned for. This includes operating the only first class cabin between Dubai and Kabul. “We expect the flight to be particularly popular with corporate business travellers, as well as Afghan nationals returning home to visit friends and family,” he further added. With regards to the plans for US expansion, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline & Group, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum outlined: “Based on passenger demand, we believe the time is right to further boost our US operations, while stimulating channels of trade and tourism to and from the state of Massachusetts and the wider New England region." October 15 2013
facilities – as official venue. “This partnership also provides ITB Asia with the space we need to grow this industry platform over the next few years and expand our exhibition and conference programme to reach out to more delegates and exhibitors worldwide,” he added. The events are scheduled for October 29-31, 2014; October 21-23, 2015; and October 19-21, 2016.
The debut of the St. Regisbranded hotel in Turkey is slated for the first half of 2014. the city’s shopping and dining hubs, making it suitable for both business and leisure travellers to the city. It is planned to feature 118 rooms, including four customdesigned suites and a presidential suite, as well as a rooftop restaurant, café, spa, fitness centre, several meeting rooms, a ballroom and a business centre. In addition, the St. Regis Butler Service, characteristic for the brand, is also anticipated. President – Europe, Africa & Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Michael Wale commented: “As a truly cosmopolitan city, Istanbul provides the perfect setting for the bespoke service and refined elegance defined by the legacy of the St. Regis brand.”
Cementing its footprint in Bahrain, Turkey and KSA
C
arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is set to launch its second property in Bahrain, Park Inn by Radisson Hotel Bahrain, slated for Q4 of 2015. The hotel is to feature 207 rooms; an all-day dining restaurant and outdoor roof bar; 510m² of meetings and events space; a gym; and a pool. Located in Manama’s Al Seef District, it will be close to the airport and the Diplomatic Quarter, catering to the business and corporate segment. President, Rezidor Group, Wolfgang Neumann commented: “We are delighted
to strengthen our presence in the Kingdom of Bahrain and to further extend our Park Inn by Radisson network in the Gulf’s primary and secondary markets.” The Group is also preparing to strengthen its presence in Turkey with the opening of Radisson Blu Conference & Spa Hotel, Istanbul Tuzla, its seventh property in Istanbul, scheduled for the last quarter of this year. Besides plans in Bahrain and Turkey, a new Radisson Blu-branded hotel was recently announced in Riyadh, thus expanding the Group's KSA portfolio.
New meeting venues in Oman Catering to the corporate sector, Muriya Tourism Development Group’s Sifawy Boutique Hotel unveiled three new event venues – Marina Hall, Hajjar Boardroom and The Library. “We can now welcome bigger events and conferences in this beautifully unique location, coupled with our signature service, ultimately enabling our guests to have the best and most memorable events in Oman,” remarked general manager, Sifawy Boutique Hotel, Daniel Fanselow. Marina Hall has the capacity to host between 16 and 150 guests; Hajjar Boardroom is ideal for smaller events of up to 12 persons; while The Library can comfortably host small groups of up to eight delegates. ttgmena.com
Sifawy Boutique Hotel can now welcome larger events
NEWS
Exhibition announces Focusing on the 75 newcomers MICE potential
The exhibition is welcoming its first group from Japan, along with four groups from Brazil The global meetings and events expo, EIBTM, taking place in Barcelona from November 19-21, has confirmed that 75 new Hosted Buyer groups have signed up to attend the show. “We have seen a huge increase in new groups coming on board from Europe, with 53 signed up to date. Our team has also recruited an additional 22 long haul groups for the show this year,” explained hosted buyer manager, EIBTM, Reed Travel Exhibitions, Joanna Warr. Warr highlighted that EIBTM is due to welcome its inaugural attendee from Japan, Marriott Japan, while it has also recruited four additional groups from Brazil. “We have welcomed three new groups in from Russia, who will attend in addition to the 26 groups whom we are already accommodating,” she further annotated.
hic Outlet Shopping – the collection of nine shopping Villages spread across Europe, has launched a new groups and events strategy which is set to see the company join forces with corporate and agency organisations, venues, convention bureaus, congress centres and communication and brand experience agencies. Chic Outlet Shopping aims to host around 800 events at its Villages throughout 2014. This year, its shopping Villages have welcomed 22,000 delegates from 31 countries attending 280 events across the nine locations. To support its aims, the company has launched four new MICE-oriented products:
HOTEL CHECK Ramada Hotels and Suites Ajman By Natalie Hami TTG staff and correspondents assess services used by them. We report the results, which are based on a one-time experience only and view services from a customer perspective.
Following on from a day of demanding business meetings and flitting from one place to the next, Ramada Hotels and Suites Ajman was the ideal hotel to rest and unwind. On arrival, I was greeted in the spacious and calm reception area by very helpful staff, who after check-in showed me to my room, where I was glad to enjoy a welcoming and relaxing living room area. My room was fully equipped with everything I needed as a business traveller, from an extensive work space to complimentary high speed Internet connection. The property also makes readily available coffee and tea making facilities, bottled
Groups–convention or corporate stand-alone meetings and events that incorporate a shopping experience into the partner or main programme; Special Events – including sponsor branding and the use of a Village on a large group or sole-hire basis, allowing for private access to boutiques and hospitality options; Meetings – use of VIP Lounges or other facilities for a personalised location and an exclusive meeting experience; and Incentives – a reward of gift cards. Tourism director, Chic Outlet Shopping, Ian Stazicker commented: “We’re expecting good demand in our four MICE products from the under-developed European MICE market."
Broadening its horizons in KSA RAK Airways, the national airline of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), has expanded its presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) by introducing new flights to Riyadh. Commenting on the launch was Chairman, Department of Civil Aviation, RAK and vicechairman, RAK Airways, HE Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, who declared: “The KSA is a major contributor of tourism into the United Arab Emirates and it is with
great joy that we fly into the capital, Riyadh, from Ras Al Khaimah, a Northern Emirate of the UAE.” The new services to the Saudi capital will operate three times per week and are scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays until October 28, 2013. From October 29, RAK Airways will increase the route frequency to four-times-weekly, scheduled for Monday, Wednesdays, Thursday and Saturdays.
Al Qasimi: It is with great joy that we fly into the capital, Riyadh
Construction kicks off for cruise giant Marking the first construction milestone for the largest cruise ship in its fleet, Oasis 3, which is slated for mid-2016, Royal Caribbean International has recently cut the first piece of steel for the vessel at a ceremony at the STX shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France. The ceremony was attended by chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Richard Fain; president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, Adam Goldstein; and CEO, STX France, Laurent Castaing.
water, temperature controlled air conditioning and in-room safe. Most importantly, as business trips require plenty of energy, the breakfast spread at the Orchid Restaurant offered ample food choices to suit all tastes. For guests on the go, R Café offers a variety of coffees along with pastries and muffins – something that I found extremely useful.
Fain commented on the occassion: “The Oasis-class ships have fundamentally changed the cruising landscape with the cornucopia of amenities and innovations that can be found on-board. We are delighted to be offering a third Oasis-class vessel for our guests as well as to be back at STX France after such a long tradition of building amazing ships together.” Castaing also added: “We have built 12 ships for Royal Caribbean and are extremely proud of the strength of our relationship. Oasis 3 is one of the biggest challenges ever undertaken in the history of our company and our teams are ready to make this a successful project.”
Suitable for: Business / Leisure / Families
October 15 2013
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NEWS
Aviation show moves to Denver
Major UAE expansion Luxurious project plans unveiled announced in Riyadh R Hotels, a hotel management subsidiary of R Holding, announced that it is set to double its hotel portfolio in the UAE to six properties by the end of 2015.
Denver has been chosen to host Routes America 2015 Denver, Colorado, the US has been named as the host city for the eighth Routes Americas event, due to take place in February 2015. Hosted by Denver International Airport and supported by Visit Denver, the event is set to mark the first time that Routes Americas, the route development forum for the entire Americas region, will be held in North America. Mayor of the City and County of Denver, Michael Hancock commented: “We are extremely excited to host Routes Americas in 2015 and provide a ‘Mile High’ welcome to airlines and airports from across North and South America." He added: “Expanding our global connectivity via Denver International Airport is a critical component of our ongoing international outreach efforts.”
Our new properties are designed for the new generation of business and leisure travellers. “R Hotels has kept a consistent growth strategy since its inception. Our focus has been on trophy assets and building a strong team. We are on track in terms of our acquisition and development and will be opening our second property this year in JBR, the Walk. We plan to invest $408 million (approximately) towards our acquisitions and development over the next three to four years, and have already committed $136 million (approximately) in 2013,” said managing director, R Hotels, Sumair Tariq, who further outlined that R Hotels now has its focus on the Palm Jumeirah. Tariq further noted: “Our new properties are designed for the new generation of business and leisure travellers who demand style and substance at the best of locations.”
Low-cost airline strengthens links between Dubai and the CIS
The new property is due to launch in the centre of Riyadh
Damac Properties, a luxury private developer for the Middle East, is due to introduce a Paramount Hotels & Resortsbranded serviced residences tower in Riyadh, KSA. The announcement follows the launch of two Paramount Hotels & Resorts-branded projects in Dubai – Damac Towers
Makkah to welcome new high-end property laf Group of Companies has recently announced the arrival of Elaf Bakkah in Makkah Al Mokarrama, which soft opened at the end of September 2013. “Given the steady level of demand for high quality hotel rooms in Makkah in the months ahead, especially during Hajj, we are adding hundreds of new rooms to the market through our new Elaf Bakkah Hotel,” commented CEO, Elaf Group of Companies, Ziyad bin Mahfouz. The Elaf Bakkah Hotel is strategically situated in the Mahbas Al-Jin area of the city, which is less than two kilometres away from the
flydubai has been welcomed in Kiev, Ukraine and Krasnodar, Russia
flydubai has further expanded its presence in Eastern Europe with the launch of its inaugural service to Zhulyany International Airport in Kiev, Ukraine, in addition to a new destination in Russia – Krasnodar, located in southern Russia. As for its Ukraine services, the airline is also expected to launch operations to the
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coastal city of Odessa, with twice-weekly flights. “flydubai remains committed to the Ukrainian market. We have been flying here since 2011 and we now offer 28 flights a week to Dubai. In October, we are delighted to announce that the first commercial flight equipped with our new business class service will land
in Kiev,” commented CEO, flydubai, Ghaith Al Ghaith. As for its Russian operations, the new debut flight to Krasnodar has opened a direct air link between Krasnodar and Dubai. The low-cost airline now offers services to seven destinations in Russia and more than 65 destinations around the world. October 15 2013
by Paramount Hotels & Resorts Dubai in the Burj Khalifa area and Paramount Hotel Jumeirah Waterfront, just off Sheikh Zayed Road. Damac Towers by Paramount Hotels & Resorts, Riyadh is set to include a spa, high-end restaurants and five-star hotel servicing. It is located on the King Fahd Road, overlooking the Kingdom Tower. “This new Paramount Hotels & Resorts-branded project in Riyadh offers a contemporary and highly refined design which brings the flavour of the movies to luxury serviced living,” said managing director, Damac Properties, Ziad El Chaar. The 215 units of luxury serviced residences are available in studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences, with a 932m² penthouse on the top floors.
Masjid Al Haram. The hotel offers 810 rooms and 32 suites, in addition to many other luxurious services and facilities that include 15 shops and two restaurants offering Arabic and international cuisine. Additionally, a helipad is also available for VIP arrivals. Elaf Bakkah Hotel represents a crucial element in the Group’s strategy to increase its number of hotel rooms to a total of 5,000 with an aim to accommodate the increasing flow of tourists to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Lebanon to embrace a new boutique hotel Warwick International Hotels (WIH) is preparing to unveil its third hotel in Lebanon, Warwick Stone 55 Hotel, scheduled to welcome its first guests in December 2013. Located in Zeinoun Street in Zalka, the new four-star
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boutique hotel is due to consist of 46 contemporary designed rooms, as well as a shopping mall; an international and a rooftop restaurant; and conference and meeting room facilities. Guests are to be offered easy access to key tourist
attractions such as Beirut's downtown area, La Marina Dbayeh, Byblos, Jeita Grotto, Zaarour Ski Resort, National Museum of Beirut, Baalback and others. With this new property, WIH has six hotels in its Middle East portfolio.
NEWS
Kuwaiti carrier records growth
Eyeing the Italian market ooking to catch the eye of Italian travellers, Abu Dhabi’s tourism stakeholders are attending TTG Incontri, Italy’s largest B2B tourism show in Rimini, taking place from October 17-19, 2013.
The report highlighted a positive increase in flown passengers Kuwait-based Jazeera Airways has reported a 21 per cent year-on-year growth in passenger numbers in its August 2013 Operational Performance report, based on official figures and statistics from Kuwait’s Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGCA). The report highlighted that passenger numbers rose by more than 50 per cent on the Kuwait-Beirut, Kuwait
Amman, Kuwait-Dubai and Kuwait-Mashhad routes. The Kuwait-Bahrain route saw a 24 per cent rise in flown passengers; Kuwait-Riyadh route welcomed a six per cent rise and passenger figures on the Kuwait-Istanbul route grew by 33 per cent. The operational performance report further outlined that Jazeera Airways recorded a 97 per cent ontime performance.
Director, overseas offices & promotions, TCA Abu Dhabi, Mubarak Al Nuaimi stated: “This push comes as we are reaping the reward of investment in Italy, where we operate a full-time representative office.
We are witnessing ever greater numbers of Italians staying in our hotels. Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) is due to lead a team of eight at the event and will be looking to build on inbound visitor numbers to the emirate, as well as the average-length-of-stay.
October 15 2013
Dubai Marina area to acquire new hotel
“We are witnessing greater numbers of Italians staying in our hotels – and they are among our longest-stayers. We believe we can encourage lengthier stays, now that the destination has so much to offer.”
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The new Dubai-based property is slated for 2016 A brand new Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, slated for 2016, has recently been signed for by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and TAJ RP International. The property, spanning 3,037m², will be situated next to Marina Mall and will be close to Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Knowledge Village. Chief operating officer – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG, Pascal Gauvin stated: “As a brand that focuses on the needs of both the business and leisure traveller, the up-and-coming Dubai Marina area is a great urban location for this project.” Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina is due to provide 280 rooms; meeting and events facilities; a spa and health club; three restaurants; lobby lounge; and a bar.
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TECHNOLOGY
App launched with added features
APP REVIEW
Katara Village app for iPad The Katara Village application is an informative and snappy application which features a simple, to-thepoint and easy-on-the-eye user interface. Sporting a maroon colour scheme, the app offers users information on everything they need to know about The Cultural Village, which can be accessed via a toolbar on the left-hand side. Options include ‘The Village’ – offering an overview as well as the vision of the development; Events Calendar, allowing potential visitors to browse through all upcoming cultural events; News; Restaurants and Cafes – a list of the available food and beverage outlets; Facilities – outlining everything that is available to the public; Photo Gallery – a selection of high-resolution images of the development offerings; Traveler Info –
comprising of a map; as well as Contact Details. The application is simple to navigate and even if the user is not experienced, it is extremely selfexplanatory and highly user-friendly. Links to social media sites are also provided.
Content ✰✰✰✰✰ Navigation ✰✰✰✰ Presentation ✰✰✰✰✰ Overall ✰✰✰✰✰
Immersing itself in the Chinese market
Joining the family of Travelocity iPhone apps, ‘Hotel Booking with Travelocity’ can be used to book hotel nights. It features a new
first travel companies to provide our customers with an application optimised for this radically different user experience."
Reaffirming commitment to Arabic speakers
China is one of The Ritz-Carlton’s largest growing markets
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visual layout with numerous pictures; an AirDrop functionality – which allows users to securely send reservation details to friends and family via e-mail or text; and an easier checkout service with credit card scanning technology for better covenience. Clarke further enunciated: “We want to ensure we stay at the forefront of innovation by becoming one of the
We want to ensure we stay at the forefront of innovation.
By Tatiana Tsierkezou
Consolidating its commitment to one of its largest growing markets, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has launched a brand new Chinese language website and a page on Sina-Weibo – the first Mandarin language social media website, and also aims to launch a Chinese mobile site by the end of 2013. Chief sales and marketing officer, The RitzCarlton Hotel Company, Ed French said: “To thrive in China, a brand needs to go beyond the data and immerse itself in the culture to develop relevant marketing in-market. That is what The Ritz-Carlton has done and so far our efforts have struck a powerful chord. The research process in China not only helped us to understand the needs of a Chinese consumer
ravelocity has launched its new mobile application, ‘Hotel Booking with Travelocity’, specifically designed for the recently launched iOS 7 operating system. Director of mobile, Travelocity, Blake Clark noted: “Apple’s iOS 7 operating system dramatically changes the way we approached design at Travelocity.”
in the digital space, but also the way in which they have come to know The Ritz-Carlton. We learned how our brand can enhance a luxury experience for the people of China."
To thrive in China, a brand needs to go beyond the data and immerse itself in the culture. October 15 2013
In a bid to meet the everexpanding demand from GCC-based hotel bookers and clients, UAE-based TIME Hotels Management (TIME) has launched a dedicated Arabic language online booking platform, powered by Sabre Hospitality Solutions. “It is vital that we remain market competitive by expanding our online capabilities to capture new online demand and while English may be the language of business across most of the Gulf states, as a Middle Eastern-born hospitality company, we felt that it was important to offer full online accessibility in Arabic – the language of the region,” remarked CEO, TIME Hotels Management, Mohamed Awadalla. The Arabic booking engine has been developed by TIME and Navarino Services, its online representation company, and covers all six hotels in the company’s portfolio, allowing bookers to check date availability, review ttgmena.com
room/rate options; shop at retail boutiques and book added-value extras such as airport transfers, late checkout and F&B options – which are exclusive to the platform and are not available via online travel agencies. “To be able to further refine
our Arabic online service to become a seamless booking experience, we have also included two marketing questions in Arabic that will help us to determine the purpose of travel and learn how they found out about us,” Awadalla further explained.
The application has a clear focus on design and photography
INTERVIEW
Love for our business and our passengers is the factor which moves us up. two airports in the city – Ataturk International Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport. With the addition of a third one, there will be room for more planes, which is especially important to us as we recently made two giant deals of purchasing 252 aircraft – one with Airbus for the purchase of 137 aeroplanes including 117 narrow-body A320 CEO and NEO family aircraft to be delivered until 2020, and 20 wide-body A330-300s; and another with Boeing to purchase 115 aircraft including 95 narrow-body B737 NG and MAX family aircraft to be delivered until 2020, and 20 wide-body B777-300ERs. This new airport will have six runways and will be able to accommodate about 150 million passengers per year. This will enable Turkish Airlines to meet the growing demand of both domestic and international travellers coming in and flying out. TTG: Which markets have a strong potential for you?
Striving towards excellence Clearly passionate about his company and passengers, CEO, Turkish Airlines, Temel Kotil shares exclusively with Ana Mladenovic the carrier’s massive fleet and network expansion plans, revealing the secret to its widely acclaimed success TTG: What is the latest news from Turkish Airlines? We are glad to announce that Turkish Airlines has been chosen as the Best Airline in Europe and Best Airline in Southern Europe at the 2013 Skytrax World Airline Awards, also receiving the Best Business Class Catering award. Concerning our onboard service, we are in the process of designing a new service concept and new menu details. We hope that the modifications will be implemented by the end of this year. Also, we announced the launch of our new luxury amenity kits, designed by the world famous brand, Porsche Design, in cooperation with the universally recognised Italian skincare niche brand, Acca Kappa. This elegant product, specially designed for Turkish Airlines, is yet another example of our wish to offer our passengers genuinely high-quality amenities. This hard-shell case marks the first time that Porsche Design has allowed its brand to be applied to any in-flight amenity kit. Lastly, we have inaugurated our new Istanbul Arrival Lounge, designed to provide a space where our inbound
guests will be able to refresh themselves before exiting the Ataturk Airport.
We assume that the centre of gravity of the global aviation market is still moving from the West to the East, so it becomes closer to Istanbul day-by-day. We assume that the crucial importance of Istanbul will become more concrete in the next 10 years. While we are highly appreciating our immediate area, we assume that the African market will also gain more importance in the near future. TTG: How does Turkish Airlines help advance Turkey’s tourism sector? It is clear that Turkish Airlines, as the national carrier of our country, is a crucial actor for the advancement of Turkey’s tourism sector. As Turkish Airlines, we assume that there is a strong correlation between the growth of Turkey and that of Turkish Airlines. That correlation is certainly valid on the economic field and our business is being affected very positively by the development of the economy of our country. Besides, one must also affirm that the Turkish government has a clear vision concerning civil aviation, and thanks to its political support and motivation, major investments have been made in Turkey in that area. We are working in great harmony with our government to realise our growth strategy.
TTG: What are your new and upcoming routes? Our newest route is Kathmandu, Nepal, which became the 104th country and 239th destination we are operating in. Destinations in which Turkish Airlines is planning to operate in the future include Bamako, Kano, Abuja, Ndjamenia, Luanda, Juba, Aswan, Luxor and Asmara in Africa; Rotterdam, Nantes and Krakow in Europe; San Fransisco, Montréal, Mexico City, Havana, Bogota and Caracas in the Americas; Abha, Ahwaz and Mazar-Sharif in the Middle East; and Manila and Lankaran in Asia. TTG: How are you looking to further strengthen your operations infrastructure? We are pleased with the progress that is being made for the third and the newest airport in Istanbul. Currently, there are October 15 2013
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TTG: How are you looking to exceed your passengers' expectations? What is the secret of your success? As Turkish Airlines, we have assumed that all of our passengers are our bosses. By doing so, we have committed ourselves to do our best to satisfy their needs from the commencement of their trip and to make them feel that they are at home while on board. One can affirm that love for our business and our passengers is the factor which moves us up, thus making us so special in comparison to other airlines. We will continue to offer an excellent service to our passengers which exceeds their expectations.
Read the full interview Online 9
DESTINATION EGYPT
Unbroken focus Determined and forward thinking, Egypt is steadily piecing together its once shining tourism offering, whilst simultaneously journeying along the path of expansion and diversification. Natalie Hami talks to a variety of industry stakeholders and reports
gypt has forever been recognised as a place of archaeological wonder, where culture meets history and the modern meets ancient – a place where the pyramids represent just the tip of what the country has to offer. In recent months, a shadow – created from the political turmoil and ensuing travel bans – has been cast over this destination’s highly prominent and appealing tourism product that ranges from the hustle and bustle of the country’s capital to the exotic trips along the Nile, and from the exploration of Alexandria’s architectural offerings to the luxurious natural wonders of its coastal regions. To highlight its diverse appeal, director of marketing communications, JW Marriott Hotel Cairo, Yasmine Sherif outlined its most memorable features: “As you know, Egypt has approximately 7,000 years of recorded history, culture and civilisation. It's the land where
art meets history and stunning places. Mentioning culture, we definitely can’t forget theatre, movies and amazing poets, who are pretty popular in the Middle East.” Aware of its acclaimed uniqueness, Egypt is actively seeking to bring the destination back to its former glory. Minister of Tourism, Egypt, Hisham Zaazou has spoken out against the travel bans to Egypt as well as the negative portrayal of Egypt on a global front. Media advisor and spokesperson, Ministry of Tourism, Egypt, Rasha El Azaizi revealed to TTG: “It is with no doubt that tourism in Egypt is facing real challenges. The most important of them being the negative travel advisory to Egypt imposed by some countries and the untrue image about Egypt given to tourists via media in many countries around the world.” Times, however, are changing and optimism can be felt in the air. Egypt is now
DESTINATION EGYPT not only aspiring to give reassurances of the country’s safety to bring visitors back but, looking to the future, to also expand on its tourism offering. And this compelling confidence and move towards tourism rejuvenation is seeping through to a number of popular and trusted tour operators, such as TUI Germany and Thomas Cook Germany, which have shown their faith in the destination by restarting tours to the Red Sea. Spreading the word This readiness to move forward has encouraged a slew of initiatives from the industry, including the full co-ordination with the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to change the travel advisory to Egypt imposed by some countries, organising familiarisation trips for specialised media representatives and tour operators, participating in all international tourist exhibition and launching an aggressive online campaign on Google, Youtube, Facebook and Twitter, among others. The significant issue concerning perceptions of safety is the one that is being addressed across these varying platforms and is echoing its way across the private sector. Indeed, director of sales and marketing, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo Heliopolis, Mohamed Idris reiterated to TTG that the unrest was the main challenge for his team which was striving to convey the message that the hotel was located in a safe area. “Since we are in a safe place, we are promoting this message – as well as the fact that we are close to the airport, and that we have created a package for the curfew to make people enjoy their night in the hotel.” In spite of Egypt’s challenge concerning safety being further exacerbated by wider regional turmoil, director of marketing communications, Abercrombie and Kent – Egypt (A&K Egypt), Rasha Mabrouk’s comments were imbued with a sense of optimism. Mabrouk told TTG that A&K Egypt, along with a number of travel agencies, is engaging more fully with the international travel community to give a clearer picture of events happening on the ground in Egypt. “Slowly and surely, this is beginning to have an effect as we are seeing bigger numbers come into Egypt. Currently, there are also fabulous offers being made which many travellers are eager to take advantage of.” In order to promote such new opportunities and to maintain a positive momentum, a number of properties are planning to use the upcoming WTM as a platform not only for generating new business, but to also offer reassurance concerning the destination’s safety. General manager, Steigenberger Al Dau Resort, Lars Geweyer revealed to TTG: “We also seek further business opportunities from the UK market. We are there to introduce our new upcoming project to our business partners and clients and to reassure them on the fact that Egypt is taking all measurements to secure its visitors, and that the Red Sea destination has never been in question.”
All traveller types have started slowly but surely to return. Promise in the air This fresh wave of confidence was perhaps most succinctly expressed by marketing manager, Kiromena Egypt Travel, Kamal Omar, who said: “I'd like to inform you that tourism has started to awake again after a long coma because of the political struggle.” As part of this awakening, the Ministry of Tourism stated that there have been levels of demand in the local market. El Azaizi noted: “To promote this market, the Ministry of Tourism, represented in the Egyptian Tourist Authority, launched a domestic campaign, in cooperation with Egypt Air, which has achieved great success reflected in the big demand to join the programme of this campaign.” Furthermore, with its eye steadily focused on the future, Mabrouk revealed how many of A&K Egypt’s markets are picking up: “Our European and Middle Eastern travellers, as well as our guests from Latin America are making a comeback. We are confident that
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our American guests will be returning to Egypt in the not so distant future. “We are already seeing some numbers increasing from Europe and also, recently, our Australian market. All traveller types have started slowly but surely to return,” Mabrouk further added. Sherif commented to TTG similar findings from JW Marriott Hotel Cairo: “The corporate segment has already improved, leading the way to travel adventure in Egypt, followed by the leisure segment.” With Egypt’s tourism industry gaining a footing in former market strongholds, Minister of Tourism, Egypt, Hisham Zaazou elucidated to TTG on certain trips he had made to Europe with an aim to ameliorate the tourist movement from them:
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“I have been on visits to some countries (England, Russia, Germany, France) to meet with the decision makers of the tourist sector in these countries. My main concern is to improve the tourist movement coming from these markets to Egypt via explaining the actual situation, as well as to assure that all tourist destinations in Egypt are secured and safe.” One step further This determined country is not only looking to regain its lost markets but is also set on expanding its tourism product and presenting it from new angles. “We are very interested in diversifying our tourist products and generating new ones; such as rural tourism along the sides of the Nile, after upgrading the ‘sleeper train.’ In addition to this, we are concentrating on using modern technology (Google, Youtube) to promote the new elements of Egyptian tourism, besides placing the White Med as a new tourist destination similar to the Red Sea Riviera,” El Azaizi elaborated. The role of promoting Egypt in a less traditional way was also touched upon by Idris, who told TTG: “We will be attending WTM London and will proudly promote our beloved Egypt and our hotel, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo Heliopolis; we’ll be going to attract, with our exclusive service, the big tour operators and will also focus on the new trend of e-marketing; and we will try to work out new attractive packages to Egypt – something that really makes the tourist feel more and more safe. We will be there as visitors and our location will be in both the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group stand in Europe and the Egyptian pavilion.” With multiple plans in the pipeline, designed to propel the country back to a leading rank on the global tourism map, it seems that Egypt’s eyes are firmly fixed on the goals ahead, and with a collective determination, is sure to see them through.
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DESTINATION EGYPT
Optimism on welcoming visitors
Riad: The current situation is quiet now all over Egypt, especially in South Sinai
Chairman, Nature Travel, Gasser Riad has recently revealed to TTG the challenges faced by Egypt’s tourism industry, explaining how the country is looking forward to welcoming back guests from various regions. “The current situation is quiet now all over Egypt, especially in south Sinai, and thank God that we still have groups from Czech Republic,
Russia, Romania and others, both for beach holidays and pilgrim tours,” said Riad, noting that the challenges the tourism industry in Egypt is facing relate to the current situation which, he highlighted, is quite safe at the moment. “We are dealing only with incoming tourism and now it is almost the end of the season, however we are sure that tourism in Egypt will return back to normal from October." Riad further elucidated on the fact that they are still receiving charters from England, France, Russia, Poland and Germany. He explained that Nature Travel has been reaching out to this market mainly via social media and the company website, among other communication channels.
Travel group puts its faith in Egypt Looking to reinstate its trust in Egypt, TUI Germany has recently decided to resume its Egypt programme, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs amending its travel advice for Egypt, no longer warning of trips to
the Red Sea. The company is also evaluating offering Cairo and Luxor as well as Nile cruises again. TUI Hotels on the Red Sea are open again and TUI representatives are ready to receive guests.
Proud reception of accolade
S
emiramis InterContinental Cairo was recently awarded the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence 2013 for the third consecutive year. On the occasion, chief operating officer – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG, Pascal Gauvin visited the property to congratulate the management team and general manager, Semiramis InterContinental, Sameh Sobhy on their accolade. The Semiramis InterContinental Cairo and the Birdcage restaurant were both recognised for exceptional feedback earned from travellers over the past year.
Improving technology facilities for guests
Upgrades on the way from hotel group General manager, Steigenberger Al Dau Resort, Lars Geweyer revealed to TTG details surrounding the ongoing developments of the new Steigenberger Aqua Magic Hotel, due to soft open in November 2013. “We are currently working on the development of our new Steigenberger Aqua Magic Hotel, a five-star family hotel with 700 rooms and extensive recreational facilities encompassing a Splash-branded aqua park." The new hotel will be adjacent to our existing Steigen-
Al Dau Promenade will become a destination for all Hurghada visitors. berger Al Dau Beach Hotel,” he said. According to Geweyer, Al Dau Promenade is planned to stretch between the two Steigenberger hotels on the Red Sea, turning this stretch into a hub. “Al Dau Promenade will become a destination for all Hurghada visitors,” he added. Other upgrades include the opening of Steigenberger Al Dau Banquet Hall, set to open in mid-2014, with a capacity to host over 1200 delegates in theatre style.
Airline awarded for record mobile bookings
Other improvements include a new executive lounge and the introduction of wireless Internet in all public areas.
The hotel is looking to bolster its technology offering whilst also carrying out a soft refurbishment
With a view to upgrading its guest offering, director of communications, JW Marriott Hotel Cairo and Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel, Yasmine Sherif unveiled to TTG the latest developments at JW Marriott Cairo. “They include the renovation of our grand ballroom Tutankhamun, one of Cairo’s
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largest ballrooms that seats up to 2,000 guests,” she said. Sherif also explained that they have carried out a soft redo of all guest rooms and suites which includes an upgrade of in-room technology involving Internet connection. She added: “In addition to an interactive TV system (IPTV) which offers more than 80 channels and supports high definition channels, a remote jack pack has also been added which allows the guests to connect their laptop or any external devise or HDMI cable to the television.” The property comprises of seven floors, 354 rooms and 84 suites. Other improvements include a new executive lounge and the introduction of wireless Internet in all public areas of the hotel such as restaurants, bars and lounges. October 15 2013
The carrier achieved the biggest airline ratio between number of visitors and their mobile booking
EgyptAir Mobile Portal has recently been recognised for its unique mobile booking experience on smartphones at the Airline Ecommerce & Mobile conference 2013. The carrier has won the Amadeus Mobile Achievement Award for yielding the biggest airline ratio between number of visitors and their mobile booking, which reached seven per cent, in comparison to a three per cent global average ratio for the airline industry. ttgmena.com
E-commerce manager, EgyptAir, Salah Kadri commented: “We are honoured to have achieved the world record in mobile booking, which is more than double the global rate of three per cent. This tremendous uptake of mobile booking on EgyptAir’s mobile portal reflects the customer-centric experience embedded in every single function featured on it. Link Development has built a seamless, as well as personalised experience that is consistent
and user-friendly, which led to high business conversion rates, more than double that of the industry.” EgyptAir mobile portal provides travellers with a variety of features and functionalities including: flight booking service, check in, modify and manage the booking details (selecting and modifying seat, meal, traveller details), flight status information, as well as checking the latest offers, baggage information, time table and more.
Utilising social media to reassure tourists
The resort is encouraging visitors to share photos via social media channels In a bid to promote the safety of the region, the Red Sea based resort of El Gouna has launched a brand new social media campaign titled
#LiveFromElGouna to showcase all it has to offer. The campaign invites El Gouna’s residents and guests to share live images
and videos of their time at the resort through social media channels such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram by using the hashtag #LiveFromElGouna. Senior director of marketing and sales, Orascom Development, Jens Freise said: “With El Gouna an already well-established year-round destination on Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera, particularly with repeat visitors and families with young children, we wanted to illustrate that the destination is still safe to visit. We decided the best way to do this was by creating a forum through which our community could share their holiday memories at the resort with other holidaymakers, and in turn encourage visitors not to be deterred by the recent events in Egypt.”
Red Sea region to once again attract visitors
T
our operator, Thomas Cook Germany has restarted trips to Egypt, according to spokesperson, press office, Thomas Cook Germany, Nina Kreke, who shared the news exclusively with TTG. “For weeks the situation has been calm in the Red Sea region so we decided to take guests to the Red Sea destinations again,” she said. Kreke explained that since August 16, they had stopped taking new guests to the Red Sea and anywhere else in Egypt.
We decided to take guests to the Red Sea destinations again.
Kiromena Travel Egypt RECOMMENDS:
Diving in the Red Sea
(Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh)
A cultural tour of Cairo and Alexandria Nile cruises in Luxor and Aswan October 15 2013
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ON LOCATION GERMANY
Munich Airport puts great effort in welcoming and accommodating Arab-speaking passengers. are able to offer a combined 42 weekly services between the UAE and Germany. Additionally, airberlin is able to place its code on 32 Etihad Airways destinations beyond their Abu Dhabi hub. The combined route network of airberlin and Etihad Airways covers 227 destinations in 83 countries which is a great proposition and advantage for all our combined travellers.” She added: “The Middle East market is strategically important for airberlin and the Middle Eastern traveller is certainly of great importance to us.” Reiterating on the significance of the MENA market and predicting its growth was vice president – sales and services – Southeast Europe, Middle East and Africa, Lufthansa, Carsten Schaeffer: “With the current boom in many Middle Eastern countries, Lufthansa positively expects growth in the region. “Lufthansa is always keen on positioning itself to any growth market. In the Middle East and North Africa regions, the airline has increased flight operations in Saudi Arabia, Libya and Egypt in response to the growing demand in passenger traffic.”
SUSTAINED STRENGTH
Beyond the conventional
Confident in its appeal and eager to welcome visitors from the Middle East, Germany is steadily cementing its position as a top destination. Natalie Hami delves in to discover what makes the country so alluring to MENA tourists ermany has long regarded the Middle East as one of its key markets and has steadily been building on these solid foundations, greatly assisted by an evergrowing network of flights to and from the region. Seeking to uncover exactly what the destination offers to MENA travellers, TTG spoke to branch manager – Abu Dhabi, Net Tours, Atif Kader, who elucidated: “It has leisure, incentives and there are also medical treatments available. “The weather is perfect in the summer and the very long day (a late sunset) means that there’s plenty of time to explore,” he added. Not a country to rest on its laurels and rely on such advantages, Germany’s industry is working hard to provide visitors with a complete experience, making them feel appreciated throughout their stay. Hospitality at its best From the very moment of arrival, Middle Eastern guests are being greeted with the renowned and heartfelt German welcome. Munich Airport, for example, prides itself on truly making its Middle Eastern travellers feel welcome from the moment they step inside its facilities as manager PR, Munich Airport,
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Corinna Born exclusively revealed to TTG : “In addition to being perfectly connected, service at Munich Airport does not end upon touch-down. Munich Airport puts great effort in welcoming and accommodating Arabic-speaking passengers and aims to make Munich Airport the so-called ‘Gateway Arabia’ - especially in Terminal 1 (Hall C) where the majority of all Middle East carriers operate.” According to Born, the expansive service portfolio includes Arabic signs and announcements to guide arriving passengers around the airport, and immediately after immigration and baggage claim, guests can find an information counter with Arabicspeaking staff to assist with any request. Also, when departing from the airport they can find interactive information screens in Terminal 1, which connect passengers directly with airport staff via video conference. With the rise in weekly frequencies to Munich Airport from the GCC – from 37 in 2008 to 51 for this year – Born explained that the airport strives to constantly evolve its offering to travellers from the region. Its service initiative ‘Arabian Gateway’ is due to grow, with long-term plans including playrooms for children and halal meals in the airport’s restaurants. Reflecting on future aspirations for growth was area manager – Middle East, Asia Pacific & Africa, airberlin, Stella Warmuth, who informed TTG: “Together with Etihad Airways we October 15 2013
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As Lufthansa’s hubs of Frankfurt and Munich are the main gateways into Germany from Europe, it seems only natural that MENA visitors would flock mainly to these two cities. However, with increased connectivity, it appears that they are now expanding their horizons. Kader informed TTG that Middle Eastern travellers are looking to explore and experience other cities too via high speed trains, and their growing presence across Germany was confirmed by Starwood Hotels and Resorts Germany. Area director sales – Southern Germany & Switzerland, Petra Kessler exclusively told TTG: “Guests from the Middle East are an important group in Germany, especially in the cities of Munich, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Stuttgart, and they have taken an increasing market share over the last 10 years, especially during the European summer months.” One such city is Berlin, which has been witnessing a surge in Middle Eastern guests during 2013, as head of press and public relations, visitBerlin, Katharina Dreger revealed to TTG: “The Middle East is an increasingly important market for Berlin. Our marketing efforts in these countries have paid off with high growth rates in visitors. The German capital welcomed, for instance, 19 per cent more guests from the Arab Gulf States in the first half of 2013.” Another such city is Cologne, which not only has experienced growth from the Middle East but is looking to see this market further prosper. Head of marketing/manager aviation, Cologne Tourism, Gregor Gosciniak highlighted to TTG that the city has a significantly sized Arab community so is therefore quite adept at catering to Middle Eastern needs: “The city offers a big choice of Arab restaurants and fine hotels like the Excelsior Hotel Ernst or the Hyatt Regency, which are great addresses for high end clientele from the Middle East. Germany’s biggest mosque is soon to be opened in Cologne,” he further noted. With such a warm and adaptive approach towards the MENA market, supported by constant growth in air connectivity, Germany is surely and thoughtfully taking the right steps in engaging the Middle Eastern traveller.
Luxurious growth plans for Berlin evealing plans to expand in the lucrative German market, managing director, Titanic Hotels, Aytac Aygün revealed to TTG the company’s plans in Berlin. “Another two significant projects are announced to
be opening in 2014 in Berlin, which allows the Titanic Hotels group to operate in three categories to serve all markets.” According to Aygün, one of the new hotel is located on the Gendarmenmarkt in the centre of the city, and is slated for
Another two significant projects are announced to be opening in 2014 in Berlin.
mid-2014. It is to offer 208 guest rooms, a restaurant, a cigar lounge, 500m2 conference area and a luxury spa and fitness area with Turkish hamam. She added: “The second hotel will be located in Chausseestrasse in Berlin as a convention centre and is offering 389 guest rooms.It will also offer restaurants, a 2,500m2 conference area, 2,500m2 fitness and spa area, indoor pool and Turkish hamam.” The hotel is set to open at the end of 2014.
A homely feel extended to Middle Eastern visitors
Starwood's hotels offer an array of Bavarian and German services combined with tailor-made ones specifically for Middle Eastern guests
Area director sales – southern Germany & Switzerland, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Petra Kessler revealed to TTG what MENA travellers enjoy about Germany. “In the beginning most Middle Eastern travellers were coming for the refreshing climate
and medical treatment, and in the meantime they started also coming for leisure activities, especially shopping and sightseeing," said Kessler. "Another reason seems to be the country’s collection of varied landscapes: they love the green hills, lakes and Bavarian Alps as a contrast to their home countries. At the same time, they truly like that cities are compact and offer great shopping for fair rates.” Referring to specific needs of the MENA market, she said: “They appreciate that our hotels offer traditional Bavarian and German services, as well as tailormade ones for Middle Eastern guests." Kessler also commented on the more popular cities for the Middle Eastern traveller saying: “Arab guests have started to explore new cities out of Bavaria, so that after Munich, Dusseldorf is the most popular one at the moment, especially for shopping purposes, but also Frankfurt, Hamburg and Stuttgart are of rising interest."
Airlines consolidate relationship Etihad Airways has launched its new European headquarters in Berlin, thus increasing its presence in the German domestic market and further cementing its strategic relationship with airberlin. The new office houses both Etihad Airways’ European and Germany sales
and marketing teams, and includes joint Etihad Airways-airberlin reservation and ticketing counters. President, Etihad Airways, James Hogan commented: “Germany remains a critically important part of Etihad Airways’ growing passenger and cargo network, and while much of
Europe continues to face challenges linked to the prevailing euro crisis, the German inbound and outbound travel continues to perform well for us.” He added: “It makes sound business sense to be based in Berlin, and close to our strategic equity partner.”
October 15 2013
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UPDATE JAPAN
We are trying to reach a new target market – the Muslim tourists. necessary, as Lorvo emphasised: “We believe that the public and the private sectors need to work together to promote Japan as an attractive tourist destination and further publicise its tourism abroad, while developing and supporting attractive tourism products to Japan.” Luxurious allure
Dynamic magnetism Energised by strategic promotion and economic recovery, Japan’s travel industry is working hard to attract domestic and international tourists. Naomi Leach reports sense of pride and heightened anticipation buoys Japan’s steadily recovering travel industry following Tokyo’s win of its bid to host the 2020 Olympic Games – a testament to the country’s ongoing commitment to achieving robust growth, soaring beyond the challenges of 2011. The industry-wide enthusiasm is supported by new research from Timetric which suggests that a strong rebound is imminent, forecasting that by 2017, inbound tourist arrivals are set to reach 11 million. Indeed for 2013, Japan aims to attract 10 million visitors, more than ever before. Tourism strategies to achieve this target come under the theme ‘From Recovery to Full Flight’, as the head of PR & marketing – London office, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Kylie Clark outlined to TTG. “Initiatives will include further strengthening association between diplomatic missions abroad and Japanese-affiliated companies; building a foreign tourism framework that is not easily affected by external factors by promoting individual travel and diversifying tourism sources; and establishing a Japan tourism brand and enhancing its promotion,” explained Clark. In addition, JNTO is proactively targeting its key global markets with online, newspaper and magazine campaigns running from September 2013 through to February 2014, and it seems that the country is reaping the rewards of this enhanced promotion, coupled with fortuitous economic circumstances, as
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Clark further revealed: “Overall visitor numbers to Japan were up 22 per cent for the seven months of 2013. The devaluation of the Japanese Yen has made Japan a cheaper destination.” Leading the growth Elaborating further on how the economic climate has influenced the country’s tourism prosperity, director, business development, Conrad, Tokyo, Leo Frankel told TTG: “It encourages the Japanese to travel domestically, and international travellers to come to Japan.” An additional tourism driver highlighted by industry stakeholders was the modification of visa procedures for Asian countries such as Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines, which has triggered a surge in arrivals from these markets. General manager, Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Christophe Lorvo revealed that the property has been focusing its attentions on Asian markets and is anticipating tremendous growth from these countries during the rest of 2013, as well as 2014. Confirming that the improvement in Japan’s fortunes can be attributed to the interplay of several factors, managing director, conventions and tourism, Kyoto Convention Bureau, (KCB) Shuhei Akahoshi surmised to TTG: “The biggest key must be the lower Yen, simplified visa procedures and intensified promotion by each player.” To further drive growth, industry-wide cooperation is deemed October 15 2013
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Connoisseurs of the high-end hospitality sector have long been assured of Japan’s status as a top-calibre destination as Akahoshi acknowledged: “For more than a millennium, Kyoto is the choice of those seeking the epitome of Japanese luxury. The city’s by-invitation-only restaurants, galleries, private gardens, temples and meeting places continue to be the preserve of the elite nationwide and worldwide.” Nowadays, engaging international markets with Japan’s luxury offering is seen vital to tourism as director, overseas marketing, Hotel Granvia Kyoto, Shiho Ikeuchi told TTG: “The Japanese tourism industry has been focused on high-end and ultra high-end travellers to help boost the recovery of the trade. “Moreover, world-renowned international hotels continue to open in Japan on an on-going basis, thus encouraging luxury travellers to travel to Japan. This new phenomenon stimulates domestic hotels to be competitive and overall better establishments,” she added. Assistant communications executive, Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo, Hiroko Nakanishi went on to explain how competition in the luxury sector is fuelling growth: “We are still the newest international hotel in Tokyo. However, by the middle of the year, new hotels are opening in the capital. This means more competition, but will also re-energise the city and it’s something to look forward to. With the addition of more and more flights from the Middle East and the US both into Haneda and Narita airport, we see the trend as developing positively.” Bolstered by a strong infrastructure, the country’s luxury magnetism emanates beyond just Tokyo, reaching Kyoto and other cities, as Frankel revealed: “We have recently hosted a few incentive groups from the Middle East and Japan offers a wonderful destination for luxury incentives. The quality of the hotels, unique venues and cultural activities make it very easy to put together a great incentive trip; with Kyoto just 2.5 hours on the bullet train or the mountains just an hour away, it is very convenient to also make it a twin destination.” Inviting MENA Across Japan’s varied landscape, its relationship with the Middle Eastern market is one that, through careful cultivation, is beginning to blossom, with industry-wide steps being made towards welcoming this burgeoning market. KCB is set to invite travel agencies and media groups from the UAE to discover how to appeal to the MENA traveller, as Akahoshi explained: “We are trying to reach a new target market – the Muslim tourists. Now there are lots of tourism players who are eager to learn more about Muslim tourists, to welcome and make them satisfied.” Shangri-La Tokyo created special Eid packages in a bid to establish this market. Similarly, Muslim friendly Hotel Granvia Kyoto has achieved a Local Halal Certificate. Determined and confident, Japan's tourism sector is poised to succeed in luring less traditional markets to experience its premium offerings.
UPDATE JAPAN
Airport embraces Muslim travellers
Luxury show to make Set to welcome Kyoto return the world ollowing the inaugural ILTM Japan earlier this year, organiser Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) announced that the 2014 edition of the event will take place once again at the luxury Sodoh Garden Oriental, Kyoto, Japan, from March 17 – 19, 2014.
Portfolio, Alison Gilmore commented: “The success of our launch edition of ILTM Japan earlier this year has driven an increase in interest to attend our 2014 edition. For international exhibitors, the lucrative high-end Japanese leisure traveller continues to seek bespoke Organisers are planning the world's most compact Olympics
The airport plans to offer a more Muslim-friendly service Japan’s New Kansai International Airport Company has revealed that in a bid to satisfy its growing number of inbound tourists from South East Asia, it is aiming to make the airport Muslim-friendly. The company has outlined plans to establish three prayer rooms within the airport, to be separated by gender. A shower room/washing space will also be created for use before praying. These are slated for completion in March 2014. Additionally, there are plans to offer two restaurants where all menu items will be prepared in a kitchen which has been recognised as halal certified. Both restaurants are to be certified by Malaysia Halal Consultation & Training Agency. Work on these developments is expected to begin in November 2013.
The lucrative high-end Japanese leisure traveller continues to seek bespoke luxury holidays. Dedicated to the high end Japanese luxury travel sector, ILTM Japan 2014 is expected to increase in size as shown by the early demand from participants. Exhibition director, ILTM
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luxury holidays and we provide each of our exhibitors with one-to-one appointments with Japanese buyers who are responsible for planning itineraries, as well as tour programmes,” she said.
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As Tokyo celebrates winning its bid to host the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) revealed to TTG what the event is to showcase. Head of PR & marketing, JNTO, Kylie Clark revealed: “Tokyo 2020 will offer an amazing experience for visitors. It will host an incredible city-centre party, based on staging the first ever ‘downtown’ games.” Around 85 per cent of the competition facilities are due to be located within a radius of eight kilometres from the athlete’s village to provide athletes and spectators short travel times. Visitors to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics will benefit from the city’s public transport network of 13 subway routes and more than 60 railroad lines.
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ANALYSIS MUSLIM TRAVEL and similar. Our rating system looks at all of these areas and rates destinations and hotels according to them,” he asserted. Adapting needs
SURPASSING BARRIERS Identifying the vast potential of the Muslim travel sector, Tatiana Tsierkezou investigates how travel professionals can, and are, capitalising on this fruitful niche segment ith Muslim travellers seeking bespoke experiences in destinations spanning all four corners of the globe, the tourism industry is rapidly evolving to meet their intricate demands to further bolster trust and confidence from this specific clientele. Industry stakeholders are adapting their offerings, striving to appeal to this market and secure certainty within the industry. To do this, companies across the globe are making available Arabic language websites, fact sheets and applications, as well as Arabic-speaking staff, while travel agents and tour operators are composing specialised packages with itineraries dedicated exclusively to Muslim travellers. And so what discerning requirements does the industry need to meet?
as a destination is for a traveller to come for a visit and spend half a day looking for where to eat) and easy access to prayer areas (this is specific for locations with a greater concentration of visitors, such as theme parks for example, as people don’t want to pray in public and need a private space). “The ‘Good to Have’ category goes a bit further,” he continued, explaining that it includes the ability of an establishment to cater to Muslim guests during Ramadan, as well as to provide sanitary water facilities in bathrooms. “This is something very common in the MENA region but hard to find in Europe, for example,” noted Bahardeen. “Finally, the ‘Nice to Have’ category extends to services and facilities that allow for greater privacy, such as separate swimming pool, spa and gym areas, as well as absence of alcohol serving outlets, gambling facilities, inappropriate TV channels
Imperative factors A pioneer in advancing halal-friendly travel, Singapore-based Crescentrating has developed a unique rating system for destinations and tourism-related establishments, based on three distinct categories – ‘Must Have’, ‘Good to have’ and ‘Nice to Have’ – which addresses facilities available to this market. CEO, Crescentrating, Fazal Bahardeen confirmed to TTG: “Our categories provide clear information for the industry stakeholders, destinations and all those looking to cater to this market.” He further revealed what each category encompasses: “The ‘Must Have’ category sends a clear message to them: you need to cover two basic areas – halal food (the last thing you want
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Middle Eastern clientele are becoming more travel savvy. October 15 2013
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With the above needs now identified, TTG looked at how industry members around the world are incorporating them into their offerings. Focusing on the F&B segment was director of sales – UK, Ireland and the Middle East, Sheraton New York Times Square, Paula Clancy, who told TTG: “The most important consideration is halal food for any Muslim of any age.” She further outlined that guests can have their dietary requirements catered to by liaising directly with the property’s F&B team. Across the other side of the world in Thailand, Royal Cliff Hotels Group has recognised that this is a make-or-break factor for the Muslim visitor. Executive director, Royal Cliff Hotels Group, Vitanart Vathanakul told TTG: “With our wide selection of Muslim-friendly benefits, our guests are always ensured to be well-accommodated in every regard. When it comes to our 11 award-winning restaurants, our promise of variety extends to our Muslim clientele with the implementation of a Hal-Q certified kitchen that is maintained and utilised by our halal certified chef.” Outlining his pride in being the only resort in Pattaya to have obtained this status, Vathanakul also highlighted that Royal Cliff offers pre-dawn meals during Ramadan, as well as a beverage list that contains a range of non-alcoholic drinks. Other factors that were pointed out as instrumental to the Muslim travel experience include facilities that cater to large families. Clancy explained: “Muslim travellers usually travel with a group or family, so big suites and connecting rooms are in demand. When they do come to New York, the Sheraton New York suites and subsequent interconnecting rooms offer a great family-friendly option.” Meanwhile, in London, the UK, Wyndham Grand London Chelsea Harbour has gone out of its way to provide exclusive amenities to its guests from the MENA region. “At Wyndham Grand Chelsea Harbour we provide a dedicated Middle Eastern sales manager; Arabic speaking staff; hotel fact sheets in Arabic; halal meat; and a Middle East-inspired menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” listed director of sales and marketing, Wyndham Grand London Chelsea Harbour, Belinda Finitsis, who also revealed that the hotel provides a Middle Eastern welcome pack which comprises of information on local shopping facilities and restaurants, plus shopping packages, prayer mats and a compass upon request. A burgeoning market Having recognised the revenue potential in this unique travel sector, stakeholders are developing ways in which to further appeal to Muslim travellers and enhance their tourism product. “The global industry has realised the potential of this segment as the more traditional markets weaken. Even destinations that have no domestic Muslim population, like Japan, have started looking towards this market more seriously,” said Bahardeen, noting that Asia is most eager to tap into this market, with Indonesia and the Philippines leading the way. “As for Europe, Munich, London and other major cities are relatively well equipped to cater to this market due to significant local Muslim population. However, there are a lot more that could be done in Europe, as well as the US,” he said. As Middle Eastern travellers journey more frequently and explore less conventional destinations, they are becoming more savvy and are looking for value. Finitsis confirmed: “Offering good value for money is a key factor which would influence decisions in selecting both holiday destinations and hotels.” So, as Muslim voyagers head to new destinations, some of our industry peers are perhaps faced with having to satisfy their travel requirements for the first time. Very often just the simple willingness to accommodate a guest's request can be enough, however to reap the full benefits of this emerging outbound market, education remains the key to success.
ANALYSIS MUSLIM TRAVEL
Leading the way forward TTG: How did Crescentrating come about? It all started back in 2006. As I was travelling a lot due to my work at the time, I realised that the global travel trade industry largely lacks facilities sought after by Muslim travellers, such as Muslim-friendly bathrooms, for example, or facilities to cater to their dietary needs as well as needs for specific information and similar. This prompted me to think – if I am facing this issue, others must be facing it as well. This is how Crescentrating came about – it is a rating system which aims to assist both the travel trade industry and the travellers. TTG: What is its primary aim? It rates our industry members, showing how friendly a certain establishment or a destination is for a Muslim traveller. For example, in the case
of hotels, it looks at how well they are catering to a range of Muslim guests’ needs. As for the travellers themselves, it assists them by providing information on how good the services are at locations they are interested in, which specific facilities and services are available, and more. Besides the rating system, the portal also offers all kinds of useful information, written specifically with the Muslim traveller’s needs in mind. Both the rating system and the website were launched in 2009. TTG: Are there any new products or services that you are looking to introduce in the near future? Well, we first started off as an online travel portal and rating provider, and today we offer a range of specialised services to both the industry and the consumer. We now provide ratings for airports,
hotels and other industry members, as well as research, consultancy and training services for the hospitality and other industries. In addition, we currently provide online information platforms for consumers and are planning to focus more on digital activity and new apps for them. We launched a new web application in April 2012, Air Travel Prayer Time Calculator, which proved a great success; our Crescent Trips Apple iOS mobile application was released in August this year and we are preparing to launch an Android version very soon. We are also looking into developing a complete platform for Muslim travellers which is to include places to visit, booking services, tour packages and similar, as well as providing tours and packages as we are receiving lots of requests for itineraries.
Commitment to providing for a specific audience otel Granvia Kyoto has announced that the Café Restaurant Le Temps has been awarded the official Local Halal Certificate from Malaysia Halal Corporation (MHC). MHC is represented by three Muslim-certified internal auditors and issues the Local Halal Certificate – an international standard developed in line with Islamic law in nonMuslim countries. Hotel Granvia Kyoto is the first hotel in Western Japan to acquire the certificate, and reports that it is proud to assure all Muslim guests that the halal meals that they enjoy at the hotel are fully halal-certified. Le Temps, the 164-seat dining facility located on the lobby floor, now has various
daily halal-friendly menus from 11:00 to 23:30, and those same menus are available through room service. ‘Ukihashi’, a Japanese restaurant, is also offering halal menus on a reservation basis. Moreover, a prayer room will be available upon request, in addition to the hotel-prepared Qibla direction sign and prayer mat currently available in the guest rooms. Director of overseas marketing, Hotel Granvia Kyoto, Shiho Ikeuchi commented: “The Hotel Granvia Kyoto is keenly aware of the constant growth of Muslim Tourism, and we continue in our efforts to satisfy the needs of our valued guests from all over the world.”
October 15 2013
CEO, Crescentrating, Fazal Bahardeen outlines exclusively to TTG the company’s origins, ethos and plans for the future
Adapting to welcome Middle Eastern guests
The handbook was launched to better cater to MENA travellers
In a bid to better cater to the MENA market and capitalise on its vast potential, Official Tourism Portal of Bulgaria has recently announced that a handbook outlining how to welcome and host Muslim tourists to the country has been released. The publication is to be utilised by tourism entrepreneurs in Bulgaria, as well as other countries in the Euro-Mediterranean region. Created by the Information and Nature Protection Foundation (FIP) team for a project entitled ‘Knowledge and Understanding of the Religious, Cultural and Human Differences in Favour of Sustainable Development’, the handbook is distributed on a CD with versions in both Bulgarian and English. It is additionally available online. ttgmena.com
The handbook aims to assist with welcoming Muslim travellers. The publication aims to aid the industry by providing them with information and tips on how to welcome Muslim tourists, enriching their knowledge about cultural differences and improving multicultural communication. The handbook features information on Muslim holidays, customs and traditions and also lists appropriate tourist destinations for this specific genre of travellers.
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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
PR & MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Doha Marriott Hotel
DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
Marwan Haddad has joined Doha Marriott Hotel as director of sales and marketing, bringing to this new post more than a decade of sales experience. He first joined the group as a sales intern at JW Marriot in Dubai, and during his career he was recognised as one of Marriott’s top sales and marketing professionals in the MEA region, having acquired many accolades.
Doha Marriott Hotel has recently appointed Katie Roberts as the new PR and marketing communications manager. Originally from North Wales, Roberts joined Marriott Hotels & Resorts in 2011. She worked for two years as PR manager at Taba Heights Marriott, Egypt, before moving to Doha. Prior to joining the Doha Marriott Hotel team, she had lived and worked in Egypt for nine years.
Al Bander Hotel & Resort
Katie Katie Roberts Roberts
Marwan Haddad
Neman Abdallah
Katie Abdulla Roberts Al Samahiji
General Manager
Director of Sales & Marketing
Al Bander Hotel & Resort has welcomed Neman Abdallah as its general manager. A French national with more than 34 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Abdallah has worked in several countries and regions including France and the Middle East. In his new post, he will be responsible for overseeing the overall management and operation of the newly renovated resort.
Abdulla Al Samahiji recently became the new director of sales and marketing of Al Bander Hotel & Resort in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Al Samahiji, a Bahraini national, boasts more than 25 years of experience in hospitality management and has an extensive knowledge of sales and marketing operations in five-star hotels. Prior to joining Al Bander Hotel & Resort, he worked at Hilton Bahrain and Golden Tulip Bahrain.
If you have recently been promoted or appointed key staff, please contact us... Shahan Panossian
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Shahan Panossian was promoted to the position of new director of sales for the IHG Cluster in Jordan. A Jordanian national, Panossian brings 11 years of experience to his new post, where he is due to oversee the sales of InterContinental Resort Aqaba, Crowne Plaza Amman, Crowne Plaza Resort Petra, Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa and Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea.
October 15 2013
Nasir Bin Abdullah & Sons Group
Dusit International named Sameh Shawkat as regional director of sales and marketing - Middle East and Africa. Based in Dubai, he will focus on strengthening the brand in the region, driving performance and assisting the group’s development team in expanding regionally. An Egyptian national, Shawkat held key posts with Hilton Hotels & Resorts in Egypt and Hyatt Hotels & Resorts in the KSA and Doha.
Director of sales
IHG Cluster IN JORDAN
Dusit International
Regional director of sales & marketing – Middle East & Africa
Ian Phillips
Samah Akl
ttgmena.com
PR & marketing manager
Nasir Bin Abdullah & Sons Group (NAS) has welcomed Samah Akl as its new group PR & marketing manager. She brings to her new post more than 14 years of experience that spans companies such as Glaxosmithkline, Sonesta Collection, Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, to name some. Her most recent post was with Wyndham Regency Doha as PR & marketing manager.
Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa in Fujairah
Sameh Shawkat
General Manager
Ian Phillips has been appointed as general manager of Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa in Fujairah, following its soft reopening. A graduate of Cornell University General Managers Programme, he has more than 15 years of experience, having held a number of senior roles at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Vittaveli Island Resort & Spa in the Maldives, and most recently the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales.
TATOS
DEALS OF THE MONTH
Gearing up for extreme fun
AGENT SPOTLIGHT... General manager, Elite Travel and Tourism, Karen Hardan shares with TTG how the company is currently promoting the everdiverse destination of Oman, whilst exploring the most efficient ways to service clients. “We promote self-drive tours with GPS, as well as the so called road books that describe the route in detail and contain GPS points of all major sights and hotels,” she said. “This sells well to families as it is an affordable way to explore Oman in style,” she added, further explaining how Elite Travel & Tourism is also looking into technology in order to strengthen its customer service offering. “Elite has purchased a comprehensive booking software that allows partner agents to book out of our room allocation via an XML interface – a novelty to Oman. We believe that this is the way forward.” According to Hardan, the software allows for XML interfacing with other agent's softwares. “Any overseas tour operator working with the company and utilising the XML interface option can book online from Elite's allocations that we have negotiated with hotels in Oman.”
In a bid to offer visitors added benefits, new ticket categories have been introduced for this year’s 2013 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix which include Abu Dhabi Hill, the Trackside Terrace, Marina Boxes and more.
Autumnal escape Century Travel has announced its 14-night Autumn Escape package on board Holland America’s ms Rotterdam departing on November 4 from Limassol, Cyprus. It is to make stops in destinations such as Greece and Turkey.
An active winter Nira Alpina, located in the Swiss resort of Surlej, near St Moritz, unveiled its 'NirA For All' campaign this winter with a collection of 10 packages offering experiences in and around the hotel, ranging from ski excursions to helicopter rides.
General manager, Elite Travel and Tourism, Karen Hardan
NEWS ROUND UP training travel trade professionals Ensuring that travel trade partners are up to date with property upgrades, JA Resorts & Hotels has completed the first phase of its new online training programme, which targeted UK tour and travel professionals operating in the UAE leisure market.
Top solutions for agents EmQuest, a division of Emirates Group, has teamed up with Contac Services to launch the mywurld travel platform in Middle East and Africa. The mywurld suite of products is to allow EmQuest to provide travel agents with new and innovative products.
Boosting outbound car rentals The Hertz Corporation appointed AiRep Aviation & Tourism as its outbound general sales agent representative in Turkey. The partnership will see the travel management company grow Hertz outbound car rentals from Turkey.
October 15 2013
ttgmena.com
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PICTURE PERFECT 1. Ayla Hotel
In cooperation with more than 35 partners, Ayla Hotel has recently organised an event to welcome Al Ain’s new residents – teachers, doctors, students and many others, and assist them in getting to know their new home.
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2. Abu Dhabi TDIC
Award-winning author and leadership expert Deepak Chopra was recently hosted by Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) during his visit to Saadiyat Island, where he visited the interactive experience centre – The Saadiyat Story.
3. flydubai
flydubai’s inaugural flight to Odessa, Ukraine was warmly welcomed at Odessa International Airport, the low-cost carrier’s fourth destination in the country.
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4. VisitBritain
As a part of VisitBritain’s ‘Dunes to Dales’ digital summer campaign, a group of cyclists from Dubai, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have embarked on a cycling trip in the UK, inspired by the Grand Départ of the 2014 Tour de France.
5. Limassol Tourism Company
To mark the recent World Tourism Day, Cyprus-based Limassol Tourism Company has organised a range of family-friendly events and activities or tourists and locals.
6. Bahrain International Airport
Late September has seen the landing of the
biggest and heaviest aircraft in the world, the Antonov AN 225, at Bahrain International Airport (BIA) – a testament to the quality of its facilities and services, as well as its readiness to welcome all aircrafts regardless of size.
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7. TCA Abu Dhabi
Seven malls across Abu Dhabi are set to welcome internationally-renowned street performers from Argentina, Spain, the UK, the Netherlands, the US, Canada and Australia during EidFest Abu Dhabi celebration, set for October 15-17.
8. Coral Beach Resort - Sharjah
Coral Beach Resort – Sharjah’s newly launched Culinary Academy recently saw the first group of ladies graduating upon successful completion of a pastry-making programme. The Academy offers a range of courses for both men and women spanning sushi making; Italian and French cuisine; seafood; table settings; flower arrangements; mocktails and similar.
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October 15 2013
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A visual tour of recent events in the region ttgmena.com
SOCIAL HUB Media Voice
Our Team General Manager Tony Fields TFields@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803001
Nehme Imad Darwiche
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CEO, Jannah Hotels and Resorts
Media ReporterS Naomi Leach Natalie Hami Ana Mladenovic Tatiana Tsierkezou Head of design Edward Beales Designer Maggie Bdjian E-Commerce Manager Panayiotis Philippou PPhilippou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803008 E-Commerce executive Constantinos Voniatis Senior account Manager Adrian Exley AExley@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803004 Account Managers Elaine Hockley EHockley@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803011 Inna Armeanu IArmeanu@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803013 Kyriacos Kyriacou KKyriacou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803014 Marianne Shokry MShokry@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803012 Operations Manager Chris Christou CChristou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803003 Chief Financial Officer Costas Miaoulis CMiaoulis@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803002 Accounts Executive Vasilis Eracleous VEracleous@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803026 CREDIT CONTROL Stala Antoniades SAntoniades@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803015 Headquarters Nietzsche Street, Ria Court 9, 1ST Floor 6028 Larnaca, Cyprus Tel: +357-24 803000 Fax: +357-24 803060 Email: INFO@ttgmena.com Website: www.ttgmena.com Thailand Representative Public Major Media Ltd, Janya Limmanee Janya.Limmanee@publicitas.com Tel: 662 651 9273 Japan Representative Pacific Business Inc,Hiroko Kujime Kujime-pbi@gol.com Tel: 81 33661 6138 TTG Worldwide Titles* TTG Asia TTG Balkans TTG China TTG Czech Republic TTG Hungary
Our social influence is growing tremendously day by day.
Having recently opened Eastern Mangroves Suites to the public, CEO, Jannah Hotels and Resorts – a UAE-based hospitality management company – Nehme Imad Darwiche speaks exclusively to TTG about the company’s focus on social media. “We’ve been called many times by other companies to inquire about our social media practices as our social influence is growing tremendously day by day,” noted Darwiche. “We are the greatest believers in social media and we have developed a Social Media Protocol; so for example, Jannah Hotels and resorts tweets and posts on social media the whole day, but the protocol says that we, the brand Ambassadors, stop at 19:00 every day and re-tweet, share on Facebook, like on YouTube and share on LinkedIn. With this order, we echo the brand message to a bigger audience.”
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• REGIONAL ROUND UP • DESTINATION ABU DHABI & AL AIN • UPDATE TURKEY • ANALYSIS WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS • SPECIAL REPORT HONG KONG October 15 2013
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