MARCH 2014
Update EGYPT Creative strategies to revitalise a tourism legend
On Location south africa
ISSUE 266
Spotlight OMAN The beauty hotspot emerges on the MICE map
Analysis Retail tourism
A harmonious synergy of offerings
irresistible magnetism
Regional trailblazer Dubai continues to successfully captivate new markets
A burgeoning MENA sector
Read online
Middle East & North Africa
CONTENTS > YOUR GUIDE 04
NEWS
20
DESTINATION DUBAI
27
AWARENESS MEDICAL TOURISM
28 32 34
UPDATE EGYPT ON LOCATION SOUTH AFRICA SPOTLIGHT OMAN
Celebrating a milestone
W
elcome to the first of our special TTG MENA 18th birthday celebratory issues!
Back in March 1996, TTG MENA newspaper
was established with a mission to offer products and services dedicated to the Middle East and North Africa regions’ travel and tourism industry, providing a valuable platform for news, communication and marketing for stakeholders within this segment. During these past 18 years, few could have anticipated the changes and developments,
A LETTER FROM...
we, as a region, were to experience. We have
37
ANALYSIS RETAIL TOURISM
marvelled at MENA’s ever changing hospitality landscape and reported on the staggering growth which has come to define it. We have shared a
40 41
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE TATOs
wealth of insight from industry experts and we have uncovered the innovations shaping each destination’s future. In honour of this milestone, TTG MENA has introduced a number of nostalgic flash backs,
42
PICTURE PERFECT
highlighting moments we have shared during our 18-year journey. Look out for the special ‘18 YEARS’ boxes, and for the other celebratory features in our upcoming birthday issues.
Naomi Leach Media Reporter
Have a wonderful month!
to mark our 18th birthday, general manager-publishing and sales, TTG MENA, Tony Fields commented:
TTG MENA has grown in clear alignment with the region, adapting readily and effectively to the many challenges and demands that have peppered our path over the years. 18 years back, this region’s industry was very new and made tentative steps as it began to find its feet in the world of travel and tourism. But now, the exceptional destinations across MENA have collectively thrust the region into the limelight, making it a truly global player – and TTG MENA’s own growth and development has mirrored this ambition and drive. As just one example, back in 1996 we had only four media partnerships, and we now stand at 38 per year. This 18-year celebration marks a significant milestone for TTG MENA and indeed all of its supporters, old and new. With our expansive portfolio across print and digital channels, and with our readiness and capabilities to evolve and adapt to this fast changing environment, we will continue to serve the travel trade industry with the utmost integrity. 2
18 YEA RS
NEWS Algiers route relaunched Air Malta has announced
Hotel to revitalise Doha Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has
New Exhibition tourism Calendar affiliate unveiled March 5-9
that it is restarting operations
n his capacity as the Ruler of
to Algiers, Algeria, as of
Dubai, UAE Vice President
March 19, 2014, following
and Prime Minister, HH
record demand. Flights are
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
scheduled to run twice-
Al Maktoum has issued a
weekly, on Mondays and
law establishing a new body,
Thursdays, throughout the
Dubai Corporation for Tourism
summer.
and Commerce Marketing
The service is expected to
(DCTCM).
announced the launch of The Westin Doha Hotel &
stimulate the movement of
Spa in Qatar, slated for 2015, marking the growth of
tourism in both directions.
an affiliate of the already
the Westin brand in the Middle East.
The schedule is aiming to also
established Dubai Department
The new corporation is
offer connectivity to and from
of Tourism and Commerce
district, the 372-room new addition is expected
Air Malta destinations beyond
Marketing (DTCM) and will
enjoy close proximity to the Museum of Islamic Art,
Malta in both directions.
become the entity responsible
Located in the centre of Doha’s central business
Education City and the Al Mushreib rejuvenation
for the promotion and
project of Doha’s downtown area. Adding to this,
marketing of Dubai. DCTCM is
the property is 15 minutes from Doha International
set to establish a new tourist
Airport.
information centre. Meanwhile,
The hotel site, comprising a total landscaped area
a fee named the Tourism
of 49,000m², has been designed to include a spa,
Dirham will be levied on a
three swimming pools and a choice of five food and
per night basis on short stay
beverage outlets as well as 10 meeting rooms.
accommodations.
4 March 2014
ttgmena.com
2014
ITB Berlin, Berlin, Germany www.itb-berlin.de/en/ •
March 9-11 Routes Asia, Sarawak, Malaysia www.routesonline.com • march 12-13 International Confex, London, UK www.international-confex.com • March 19-22 MITT, Moscow, Russia www.mitt.ru/en-GB • March 24-26 GIBTM, Abu Dhabi, UAE www.gibtm.com • APRIL 6-8 Routes Europe, Marseille, France www.routesonline.com • APRIL 22-24 Hotel Show KSA, Jeddah, KSA www.thehotelshowsaudiarabia.com •
• •
TTG Middle East & North Africa will be available at these shows ttgmena luxury will be available at these shows
NEWS
HOTEL CHECK
UAE debut
Hotel ibis Kuwait Salmiya, Kuwait
Ajman Saray, a Luxury Collection Resort, has marked the brand’s entry into the emirate.
By Naomi Leach
A beachside retreat, Ajman Saray is to feature 205 rooms and 24 suites, a number of F&B options,
Ideally situated in the heart of Ku-
I unpacked in my comfortable and
a spa, an outdoor swimming pool
wait, this hotel provided an ideal
clean bedroom before enjoying
and meeting and event space.
base for our business appoint-
the strong Internet connection and
ments and was never too far away
an international selection of TV
Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Guido
on returning each evening. We
channels. The hotel overlooks the
de Wilde said: “This resort truly
were also just a couple of minutes’
seafront and is attached to a shop-
celebrates the emirate’s beauty
walk away from the main business,
ping mall.
and culture through its spectacular
entertainment and financial districts of the city.
In addition to a varied breakfast
Regional director – Middle East,
design and impeccable service.
spread there is an outdoor terrace
Ajman Saray will provide a coastal
area with a shisha bar overlooking
sanctuary for international guests
building is designed with the econ-
the city. This is a great addition for
and a weekend retreat for locals.”
omy business traveller in mind.
the business traveller to unwind
Following a seamless check-in,
after a long day of work.
Modern and vibrant, the ibis
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.
Suitable for: Business
6 March 2014
ttgmena.com
FLASH BACK
18 YEA RS
...TO 1996
did you know ... in May 1996, TTG MENA reported that McDonald's launched special McPlanes to several European destinations during the summer season. The flights served McDonald's hamburgers to passengers.
NEWS
International tourism climbs
International tourist arrivals grew by five percent in 2013, equivalent to 52 million visitors, which altogether marked a record 1.087 billion arrivals, according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism
Barometer. Regionally, inbound tourism to North Africa swelled by six per cent throughout 2013, attributed to the ongoing rebound across the region and sustained growth of sub-Saharan destinations, which saw arrivals increase by five per cent throughout the 12-month stretch. All-in-all, Africa welcomed an additional three million arrivals throughout the year under review, reaching a new record of 56 million international visitors, according to the UNWTO’s data. Forecasts for the year ahead estimate a growth in international tourist arrivals of up to 4.5 per cent.
8 March 2014
buoyant cruise industry Abu Dhabi’s Mina Zayed
by the arrival of MS
has welcomed the maiden
Amadea in April.
call by boutique German
According to CEO, Abu
cruise operator Phoenix
Dhabi Ports Company,
Reisen and its MS Artania
Mohamed Juma Al
flagship, as it gears up to
Shamisi, the number
receive a further two Phoe-
of maiden calls in the
nix Reisen cruise ships in
current cruise season
the coming months.
has doubled compared to
The arrival of the nine-
the previous season. Al
decked MS Artania has
Shamisi commented: “We
launched a dual-season
will continue our efforts to
two-ship presence by
develop Zayed Port and
Phoenix Reisen in Abu
Abu Dhabi into a world-
Dhabi and will be followed
class cruise destination.”
BROADENING ITS PRESENCE Hilton Worldwide is expanding its DoubleTree by Hilton presence across the Middle East, having opened the brand’s inaugural property in Saudi Arabia in January. The 153-room DoubleTree by Hilton Dhahran, located in the commercial heart of Al Khobar in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, forayed into KSA with three dining outlets, a complimentary fitness area, a large ballroom and indoor leisure facilities including a swimming pool and spa. The launch of this hotel followed Ras Al Khaimah’s second DoubleTree by Hilton hotel which was unveiled in the same month.
FLASH BACK
18 YEA RS
...TO 2000
Did you know ... in January 2000 the aviation industry showed concern that the UAE might have too many airports and the region would become oversupplied. ttgmena.com
NEWS
insights to be revealed ITB Berlin Convention 2014 is set to open this year, March 5-8, with a line-up of experts. On the first day, the Convention is to open with an address by Minister of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia (this year’s Convention & Culture Partner of the ITB Berlin Convention), Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri bin Tan Sri Abdul Aziz. His address is to be followed by keynote speeches: CEO, Trend ONE, Nils Müller will be giving his predictions on how people will travel in 2025 and head, Travel Strategy at Facebook, Lee McCabe will be offering a look behind the scenes of the social network platform, among others.
10 March 2014
EXTENSIVE OPENINGS PLANNED TI’ME Hotels Manage-
further two properties in
ment has added another
Abu Dhabi and Ajman. The
three locations to its ex-
TI’ME Capital Hotel Apart-
panding portfolio of local
ments in downtown Ajman
and regional properties
is due to be handed over in
with new openings planned
March 2014 and includes
over the next 18 months.
120 apartments.
In Luxor, TI’ME is to
Meanwhile, TI’ME Rako
manage the 154-room
Hotel with 114 units, close
TI’ME Tut Hotel. In the
to Doha, is due to open in
UAE, TI’ME is opening a
mid-2015.
Luxury brand reshuffles Sofitel Luxury Hotels has revealed that it is moving into becoming a geography-orientated organisation, based on five key regions spanning the globe. Sofitel, part of Accor Group and formerly a standalone brand, is now part of a newly created luxury and upscale segment which comprises of Accor hotel brands Pullman, MGallery, Grand Mercure as well as The Sebel. These organisational changes underline the group’s support of Sofitel’s luxury approach and enable Accor to leverage the brand's expertise and best practices. As part of this realignment, the Accor luxury and upscale segment marketing and design functions will relocate to Singapore in Q1 of 2014.
Entry into Al Khobar Marking its entry into Al Khobar, KSA, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed a 20-year management agreement with Al Khorayef & Sons for a 189-room Staybridge Suites property. Introduced to meet the increasing demand for extended-stay properties in the city, the property is to be strategically located on Al Khobar’s King Fahd Road. Upon completion, Staybridge Suites Al Khobar will form part of a larger mixed-use development which is to include multiple retail and F&B outlets. IHG currently operates 24 properties in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with nine hotels in the pipeline in the next three to five years. ttgmena.com
NEWS
Investing in EFFiciency
Soaring passenger figures
During the Bahrain International Airshow
Turkish Airlines has announced that in 2013 it served 48.3
2014, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC)
million passengers – a 23.6 per cent increase from 2012. The total number of domestic route passengers rose
signed a $3.2 million agreement with Shenzhen CIMC-TianDa Airport Support
by 26.1 per cent and on international routes by 21.9 per
– a China-based company specialised
cent. International business and comfort class passengers
in designing and manufacturing airport
also increased by 23.1 per cent, while international-to-
equipment, to replace existing passenger bridges at Bahrain International Airport (BIA) with new state-of-the-art passenger boarding bridges.
fifth Abu Dhabi property launch
international transfer passengers increased by 29.2 per cent in 2013.
bridges will be installed to replace the
& Spas has opened its
traditional thatched roofing and
existing bridges at BIA. The new bridges
fifth property in Abu Dhabi
is designed with couples in mind,
A stronger Dubai presence
Seven CIMC-TianDa passenger boarding
nantara Hotels, Resorts
The accommodation features
will provide weather protection, comfort
– Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al
while it also welcomes families with
Hospitality Management Holdings has signed a new
and a safe walkway between terminals
Sahel Villa Resort in the heart of
children aged 12 years and older.
management contract to operate Corp Al Khoory Hotel
and aircraft, as well as boasting a design
the Arabian Wildlife Park.
to create a welcoming ambience for passengers. CEO, BAC, Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah
The property’s accommodation
in Al Barsha, Dubai.
options range from the standard
Owned by Mohammed Tayyeb Khoory and Sons,
Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort joins
one-bedroom villa, the larger one-
the 228-key hotel is scheduled to open in Q1 of 2016.
Featuring 30 rustic villas, Anantara’s two existing properties
bedroom pool villa, and also the
Corp Al Khoory Hotel in Al Barsha, Dubai, is set to
noted: “With the cutting-edge passenger
on the island: Desert Islands Resort
two-bedroom pool villas aimed
feature all standard facilities such as multiple food and
boarding, we maintain our commitment
& Spa by Anantara, overlooking
at groups of families and friends
beverage outlets, including an all-day dining restaurant,
towards operations efficiency and
the Arabian Gulf, and Anantara Al
travelling together. All villas in
a lobby lounge as well as a conference hall, a spa and a
service excellence.”
Yamm Villa Resort on the island’s
the resort feature Anantara’s
swimming pool.
eastern shore.
signature amenities.
12 March 2014
ttgmena.com
NEWS
FLASH BACK
...TO 2005
DID YOU KNOW ... in February 2005, Bahrain's tourism industry was anticipating the second Gulf Air Grand Prix.
Palm Jumeirah to embrace entertainment oasis Dubai developer Nakheel has
due for completion in 2016.
system, while water taxis are ex-
been awarded a contract to build
The new project is designed to
pected to shuttle visitors across
The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah.
feature a diverse range of shop-
the bay from nearby hotels di-
ping, dining and entertainment
rectly to The Pointe’s marina. The
million, 136,000m retail and en-
facilities, including a spectacular
Pointe is one of several new Na-
tertainment complex – will be lo-
fountain display.
kheel developments underway at
The Pointe – Nakheel’s $217 2
cated at the tip of Palm Jumeirah,
The development is set to be
opposite Atlantis The Palm and is
accessible via The Palm Monorail
Y E 18 AR S
Palm Jumeirah, including Nakheel Mall and Hotel, among others.
March 2014
ttgmena.com
13
NEWS
robust qatar performance
Turkish expansion
The organisers of the Arabian Hotel Investment Confer-
non-stop operations to Antalya, Turkey.
ence (AHIC 2014) hosted a regional briefing in Doha to dis-
The new service from the carrier’s primary
cuss Qatar's long term vision for the tourism sector.
hub in Sharjah marks Air Arabia’s second
Air Arabia has announced the launch of
During the briefing, area director – Middle East and Af-
destination in Turkey. From July 29, 2014,
rica, STR Global, Philip Wooller revealed: "Despite another
Air Arabia is due to offer three weekly flights
year of increased supply, up 6.5 per cent, Doha continues
to Antalya.
unveiling twin destinations
to improve its reputation as a destination for business and leisure. Demand increased by 17.7 per cent resulting in occupancy increases of 11 per cent.” Furthermore, the Middle East and Africa region recorded positive performance results during December 2013 ac-
pportunities for Gulf destinations to leverage a twin-
cording to STR Global. The region reported a three per
centre incentive trend will be presented at the 2014
cent increase in occupancy to 59.5 percent, a 4.2 per cent
Gulf Incentives, Business, Travel and Meetings
increase in average daily rate to $180.65.
Doha continues to improve its reputation as a destination for business and leisure.
(GIBTM) exhibition, which returns to Abu Dhabi from March
NEWS FLASH
24-26, 2014.
City Seasons Group of Hotels is set to change
the feedback from our business partners has revealed that
its name to City Seasons Hotels while creating
incentive organisers are keen to get extra bang from their
a hierarchy of sub-brands. Managing director,
buck by visiting more than one destination in one trip.
City Seasons Hotels, Mohamed Al Aamri said:
Exhibition manager, GIBTM, Reed Travel Exhibition, Lois Hall explained: “Incentives are firmly back on the agenda and
“Oman is top of the agenda due to the diversity of activities
“We have refreshed our logo to match our
on offer and for its natural splendour, paired, in complete
present offering while reflecting on where we see
contrast, with the Gulf’s modern metropolis, Dubai, for an
ourselves in the future.”
immersive urban experience.”
14 March 2014
ttgmena.com
NEWS
yearly record broken
18 YEARS
osewood Corniche in Jeddah, KSA has celebrated a record year amid strong positive growth throughout the 2013 period. The hotel has announced that in-room revenue in-
FLASH BACK double hotels due Novotel & Adagio Al Bustan Abu Dhabi complex is set to enhance Abu Dhabi’s portfolio of properties. Slated for Q1 of 2014, the complex is set to feature both a mid-scale hotel and upscale serviced hotel apartments, with 361 guest rooms for Novotel and 279 apartments for Adagio. With six F&B outlets, seven meeting rooms, a ballroom, recreation and wellness facilities, Novotel & Adagio Al Bustan Abu Dhabi aims to cater for both business and leisure
...TO 2000
DID YOU KNOW
creased by 8.2 per cent in 2013, while occupancy levels rose by 3.7 per cent compared to 2012. Revenues were further boosted during the peak season from June to November 2013 leading to an increase of 6.1 per cent in revenue per available room and 2.6 per cent in the average room rate. There was also an increase of 1.2 per cent in its gross operating profit.
Expanding horizons
... in January 2000, entry procedures began for the Burj Al Arab in Dubai to be included in the Guinness World Records as the world's tallest hotel.
flynas has announced
regional travellers
the launch of its Global
access to affordable,
Flight Routes pro-
high-value international
gramme, due to begin
travel to Europe, Asia
services in April, 2014.
and Africa, all operating
flynas’ Global Flight
out of its Jeddah hub, to
Routes programme is
destinations such as the
designed to offer
UK and France.
travellers alike.
March 2014
ttgmena.com
15
NEWS Impressive arrival in Morocco
rak welcomes upscale hotel
Meliá Hotels International is to manage three new hotels to be developed in the tourist destination of Saidia Med, following the
Sterling revamp Resort, in Ras Al Khaimah, previously known as Al Hamra Fort & Beach Resort, following a major two-year refurbishment. The 265-room property provides direct access to an 18-hole championship golf course, including a mix of 181 villas and suites; 75 deluxe guest rooms and nine luxurious suites. It also includes 500m of private beach. Global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Rob
between chairman of the board of directors, Société de Développement Saidia (SDS), Anasshouir Alami
Hilton Worldwide has announced the official opening of Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf
signing of an agreement
Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort is now a world-class hotel. Resorts global portfolio.” In addition, the company along
and CEO, Meliá Hotels
Turkish hospitality chain,
discover the Rixos
International, Gabriel
Rixos Hotels has recently
dimension of the ultra ‘all
Escarrer.
launched Rixos Bab Al
inclusive – all exclusive’
Bahr on Al Marjan Island, in
concept.”
The three hotels are slated to open from 2016 to 2017, and consist of a beach
Chairman, Rixos Hotels,
655 deluxe, premium
hotel featuring 396 rooms,
Fettah Tamince said: “We
and family rooms, also
a spa and much more;
are delighted to welcome
features 14 multi-dining
a club hotel for families
all visitors from the region
food and beverage venues
overlooking the golf course
and overseas alike to
ranging from exclusive to
with 150 rooms; and luxury
Rixos Bab Al Bahr to
specialty and casual, as
enjoy our genuine Turkish
well as meeting rooms and
hospitality.
outdoor venues suitable
Palleschi said: “Hilton Al Hamra Beach &
with wasl hospitality, has signed
holiday apartments with 190
Golf Resort is now a world-class hotel and
an agreement to open two new
fully-equipped rooms.
a welcome addition to the Hilton Hotels &
properties in Dubai.
16 March 2014
The property, including
Ras Al Khaimah.
“We invite them to
for an array of events.
FLASH BACK
18 YEA RS
...TO 1996
DID YOU KNOW
... in March 1996, TTG MENA revealed that Dubai would be hosting a celebratory season for its first ever Dubai Shopping Festival.
Fruitful opportunities Yemeni delegation recently attended the EMITT 2014 in Turkey, with a view to bolstering Yemen’s tourism offering and enhancing the Yemeni-Turkish tourism relationship. During the event, Yemen displayed its historical, natural and cultural attractions to the public, with the stand offering visitors the chance to taste traditional raisins, witness henna and enjoy a religious band performing a number of anthems and hymns in Arabic and Turkish. ttgmena.com
NEWS
TOP NEWS best ever
year for abu dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s hotels witnessed recordbreaking results in 2013, which marked the emirate’s best year yet for guest arrivals, guest nights, length-of-stay and revenues. Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) released figures illustrating that 2.8 million guests checked into the
FLASH BACK
18 YEA RS ...TO 2005
DID YOU KNOW
emirate’s 150 hotels and hotel apartments over 12-months, a rise in equivalence of 18 per cent over 2012. This result, in turn, beat the tourism authority’s preliminary forecasts of 2.5 million and triggered a rise in guest nights of 26 per cent thus boosting total revenue which reached $1.5 billion. Chairman, TCA Abu Dhabi, HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan said: “Given
We are now looking to achieve 3.1 million hotel guests this year.
the fact that we have now achieved the original hotel guest targets set for 2014, we have reviewed our goals and are uplifting our sights by 10 per cent. We are now looking to achieve 3.1 million hotel guests this year
... in September 2005, Cyprus Tourism Organisation revealed to TTG MENA that it would be actively promoting the country to the Middle East at the Mediterranean Travel Fair, Cairo.
with a 10 per cent year-on-year compounded growth in the near term.”
18 March 2014
wellness focus
green approach
C
ommitted to implementing its ongoing green initiatives, Ramada Hotels and Suites
Ajman has announced its participation as a gold sponsor of the upcoming UAE Green Festival, which is expected to take place from March 16 – April 16, 2014. Led by general manager, Ramada Hotels and Suites Ajman, Iftikhar Hamdani, the property is planning to organise different activities throughout the festival including visits for guests to other UAE Green Festival events. World Travel Market (WTM) 2014 is planning to launch its first comprehensive programme to support the wellness tourism sector. On a rapid upward trajectory, wellness tourism is set to steal the spotlight at the event, slated to take place from November 4 to 6, 2014 in London, the UK. Here, leading wellness experts are to meet to share their experiences and insights as part of WTM Wellness Tourism programme, organised by Spafinder Wellness 365 in association with the Global Wellness Tourism Congress. According to head of marketing and communications, WTM, Micaela Juarez, the programme will bring a new audience to WTM. ttgmena.com
Urban expansion The Pearl-Qatar has signed a contract with Al Siddiqi Holding to open eight world-renowned restaurant brands and luxury fashion outlets in the Porto Arabia and Medina Central districts. The deal will introduce Biella, Lord of the Wings, the first Tike Turkish international restaurant franchise, Wafi Gourmet and more to Doha.
INTERVIEW
Inspiring a legacy Following his New Year appointment, president and CEO, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, Omer Kaddouri exclusively spoke to Panayiotis Markides about the company’s achievements and his vision for the future
TTG: Having just taken the helm at
TTG: In your opinion, what are the driving
Rotana, what are your expectations for
factors behind the success of the
2014 concerning the group's current
Centro brand?
developments? The Centro brand is one that has developed Our main focus is on Turkey, where we
because of the need for something like it. We
are opening our first hotel; in Africa, East
currently have five in the UAE and 12 more
and West, we are maintaining our drive to
signed, soon to reach 16.
excel. We have a real want to enter India,
One of the key areas of differentiation
having had a sales office there for some 18
for our brand is that our product has been
months.
designed to cater to a clearly identified niche
We expect to open our first hotel in
within the economy segment in the region.
Turkey by the end of this year, or maximum
This, backed by Rotana’s knowledge and
during the first quarter of 2015, and aim
understanding of the regional markets, will
to open a hotel per year for the next five
be a force to reckon with. Centro is a unique,
years. Turkey will, in fact, become a very
out-of-the-box solution for the mid-tier
important market for us.
market.
We are also developing projects in
Centro Hotels by Rotana is highly distinc-
Tehran and Mashhad. Our project in Iran
tive, expressed through its contemporary
is still being built and from now we are
architecture and unique living space. While
sitting down as a company and making the
dramatic exteriors will reflect Centro’s pre-
decisions related to its operation.
sent–day style, its crisp and modern interiors
As for other openings this year, during
provide essential requisites and advanced
February, our second Al Ain property, Hili
technologies. Every element of the Centro
Rayhaan by Rotana, which is connected
concept has been thoroughly researched.
to a mall, opened and will complement our
This has resulted in a new, highly efficient
existing Al Ain Rotana.
operational model, which provides essential
We will be opening the 400-key Salalah Rotana Resort in Oman. Salalah is an amazing destination with lush surroundings,
amenities specifically geared to the travelling executive. Centro has come at a time that will ideally
the mountains, white-sand beaches as well
position it for continuous long-term develop-
as a culture that goes back centuries. This
ment, strong operating performance and
property will play an important role in our
sustainable growth.
growth strategy. March 1 will be its soft
We have 16 in development, and not just in
opening until Khareef, the monsoon season,
the region – we have a Centro in Turkey, and
where it will be booked out.
in Africa and there is interest in other parts
Creativity and innovation are a key focus.
We have two properties in Jordan set
of the world. It is one of my targets that the
to open within the next 18 to 24 months,
Centro brand reaches out to as many parts
TTG: As the spearhead of Rotana, how do
we have a fantastic team and corporate
so we will go from 0–700 keys in Amman
of the world as possible.
you hope to keep your teams inspired?
office, many of whom have been with us
And who, or what, inspires you?
a long time and are the real backbone of
within that time period; we are looking at June 1 for the opening of the first one, The
TTG: Will we see further development of
Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana.
any more Rotana sub brands?
Furthermore, we have just announced
the company. I hope to continue to work Everything inspires me. I enjoy creativity,
hard to keep them inspired. Creativity and
and I bring that to the team and I want
innovation are a key focus.
the management of the first property under
We have just launched our sub brand, The
them to be as creative. It’s like the old say-
this new brand in Doha, Sedra Residences
Residences by Rotana, which was developed
ing goes, ‘Have an open mind and keep the
by Rotana, due to open during the first
in line with market requirements and Ro-
eyes of a child.’
quarter of 2014.
tana's expansion plans.
March 2014
I like to think I have time for my team – ttgmena.com
View the full interview online 19
DESTINATION DUBAI
ABLAZE WITH SUCCESS
20 March 2014
Dubai’s stamina-fuelled tourism sector has gone from strength to strength and is now continuing its upward trajectory by not only diversifying but by generating customer loyalty. Natalie Hami reports from Dubai on how the emirate is achieving its vast ambitions
ursting with energy and perpetually abuzz with movement, growth and development, Dubai continues to aim high and deliver on its ambitions, with a recent testament to this being its win of the World Expo 2020 bid. Dubai’s journey on an upward spiral was expressed perfectly by chief operating officer, Emaar Hospitality Group, Philippe Zuber, who exclusively told TTG: “Dubai’s tourism industry is billed to witness phenomenal growth this year, complemented by the robust retail and hospitality sectors.” Its bountiful success was further echoed by director – business development, Total Holidays, Adnan Hafeez who noted to TTG: “Every year the number of tourists are increasing and that itself shows that for a small country like the UAE, it is a great achievement in just a span of few years.” This ever-expanding and thriving emirate is adroitly mapping its tourism future with the recent establishment of the new Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, Ruler of Dubai, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. “The Corporation’s focus on marketing and promoting Dubai will allow the government to coordinate activities and help to amplify all efforts to promote the strengths and diversity of Dubai globally. This, in turn, will attract more visitors and businesses, drive longer traveller stays and increase visitor spend, ultimately increasing the contribution of the tourism industry to Dubai’s economy,” director general, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, HE Helal Almarri commented to TTG. Further steps taken to ensure the constant growth of the emirate is the financial incentive to develop more mid-range hotels in Dubai, whereby eligible hotels are to be granted a concession on the standard 10 per cent municipality fee which is levied on the room rate for each night of occupancy.
ttgmena.com
DESTINATION DUBAI With this unstoppable advancement in mind, TTG spoke to an array of hospitality professionals in Dubai to discover how it continues to appeal to a plethora of markets as well as how it is set to diversify for the future. DUBAI
to diversify. Corporate magnetism
This drive for diversification has now targeted the business traveller. Dubai’s charms have traditionally lain in
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
the leisure segment, drawing on its appeal as an exciting city with a myriad of attractions to lure this specific type of traveller, with the result being that the corporate segment for some hotels remained less developed than their leisure segment. With the new year in full swing, a number of hotels are looking to either break into the corporate sector or expand on it. Director of sales and marketing, Grand Excelsior Hotel, George Tahhan exclusively told TTG: “We’re actually trying to shift segmentation to corporate and we need to have a bigger percentage from corporate. We also have a big ballroom so we’re looking to MICE markets.” A similar sentiment was reflected by general manager, Versailles Hotel, Manoj Padhi who wants to increase occupancy levels by entering into this segment. “We are concentrating on increasing corporate business to ensure higher occupancies during the summer months,” he noted to TTG.
Dubai’s tourism industry is billed to witness phenomenal growth this year.
An eagerness to expand into this specific segment was also expressed by director of sales and marketing, Dusit Thani Dubai, Julia Alvaro, who noted that they too have
Laurent Chaudet who explicated: “Being different or
plans to increase the property’s corporate sector for
being able to stand out from the rest is one way of retain-
2014.
ing guests.”
Director of sales and marketing, Emirates Grand Hotel,
However, he also noted that the dedication a property
Rohit Rattan pointed out that the hotel will be embarking
and its staff pours into creating the most seamless expe-
on a similar path to strengthen it corporate segment, by
rience for its guest is also paramount: “One of the main
looking to gain a new base of clients.
aspects that the hotel is working on is to continuously
Meanwhile, Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed
streamline the quality of its service to ensure the satis-
Road, is drawing on the benefit of its location within easy
faction of each guest who walks through the hotel door.
reach of the World Trade Centre and Dubai International
A happy guest who has been looked after properly will
Convention and Exhibition Centre. “Given our location we
not only talk about his wonderful experiences, however
are strategically positioned to take advantage of both the
also the possibility of him going back to the property is
business and leisure segments,” manager, PR, complex,
very high.”
Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road/Downtown Dubai, Aqsa Yahya explained to TTG.
The importance of commitment by hotel staff towards its guests was further expressed by director of marketing and communications, Amwaj Rotana Jumeirah Beach – Dubai, Jasmine Arika, who commented that the hotel’s
Long-standing loyalty
staff are continuously one step ahead of its guests’ requirements. “We ensure that our guest profiles are continually up-
However, despite Dubai’s keenness to constantly pro-
dated with our guests’ preferences so that we are able to
gress on a wave of success, it has also managed to
anticipate their needs before they arrive,” she affirmed.
skilfully retain its clientele, creating repeat visitors, be
Vice president, corporate communications, Jumeirah
it through dedicated and well-trained staff or through
Group, Piers Schreiber agreed: “Our success and sustain-
unique touches.
ability is achieved by making customers our first priority
Vice president, sales and marketing, TI’ME Hotels,
and striving constantly to exceed their expectations by
Tommy Ressopoulos commented to TTG how they differ-
applying our hallmarks, guiding principles and core stand-
entiate themselves from other hotel companies.
ards in our day-to-day activities.”
“We’re very service-orientated and we’re constantly training our staff. This is where we found it can make a
Commanding an unyielding force in the hospitality
difference and this makes us different.”
industry, Dubai continues to drive forward with un-
The immense significance of creating an experience
matched tenacity, looking to capture new sectors of
which is distinct from other hotels was also elaborated
the industry whilst also adeptly maintaining those it
on by general manager, Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre,
already serves.
March 2014
ttgmena.com
21
DESTINATION DUBAI
Introducing a Dubai duo Marriott International has opened two new properties in Dubai. The
news
blending style and technology
Beckoning MICE guests Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre has recently fully completed its renovation, with the final part of the hotel renovation – the entire meeting floor – having been launched.
ccording to
Sweet Sleeper Bed, Shine
general manager,
for Sheraton bath amenities,
Sheraton Dubai
in room safe, tea and coffee
two properties carry the
Creek Hotel and Towers,
company’s signature brand,
Stephan Vanden Auweele,
Marriott Hotels, as well as its
the property is currently
upscale serviced apartments
undergoing a $50 million
brand, Marriott Executive
refurbishment, and is due to
Apartments, which are both
reopen in April 2014.
situated in close proximity to
“[It will reopen] with 268
Zabeel Palace.
guest rooms and suites that
“The Dubai Marriott Hotel
provide a stylish, relaxing
Al Jaddaf is our first of many
escape from the bustling
future properties that are
city for both the business
aligned with the brand’s new
and leisure traveller. The
Executive Apartments
NEWS FLASH
fully refurbished and brand
Dubai Al Jaddaf further
Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) has announced
and technology,” Auweele
strengthens our footprint in
its participation at ITB Berlin under the umbrella of Dubai
commented to TTG.
the region’s extended stay
Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.
segment,” said president
CEO, HMH, Laurent Voivenel said: “While reinforcing
to feature enhanced
– Middle East and Africa,
our existing relations with the global travel trade, ITB is
technology with a 42-inch
Marriott International, Alex
the perfect platform to network and connect with new
LCD TV, media hub and
Kyriakidis.
business partners.”
WiFi, the signature Sheraton
positioning and strategic direction, while the Marriott
22 March 2014
new rooms will offer the perfect setting of style
All guest rooms are
facilities and much more.
The fully refurbished and brand new rooms will offer the perfect setting of style and technology.
African expansion Dubai–based Emirates
Kano, the capital of Kano State in northern Nigeria, is
Airline has plans to
the second most populous city in Nigeria after Lagos.
expand its presence in
“Nigeria is experiencing strong demographic and
Nigeria, with the start
economic growth. The country is strategic to Emirates
of a daily linked service
Airline’s global expansion, as is Africa. With a daily
to Abuja and Kano from
linked service to Abuja and Kano, we will offer from
August 1, 2014.
three major cities in the country a very convenient
Home to most of
and comfortable access to Dubai, and onwards to
Nigeria’s institutions,
other destinations on the Emirates Airline network,”
Abuja is located in the
commented executive vice president, Emirates Airline,
centre of the country.
Thierry Antinori.
An invitation to unwind In a bid to enhance the customer experience, director of sales and marketing, Ramada Plaza JBR and Ramada Sharjah, Binu Varghese unveiled to TTG the many improvements on the way for Ramada Plaza JBR. “We are currently working on developing a spa within the hotel to meet the needs of
We are currently working on developing a spa within the hotel.
our leisure and business travellers. Apart from this we also plan to rebrand and repo-
from its Brazilian outlet and recreated as
sition our lounge on the 35 floor with an
one with an Arabic theme, to serve an array
Arabic setting and theme,” said Varghese.
of Arabic dishes. It is to also be renamed
th
Fogueira Lounge is to be separated out ttgmena.com
Sama Lounge.
DESTINATION DUBAI
news
A competitive edge
Future strengths TI’ME Hotels has a number of plans in the pipeline; vice president, sales and marketing, TI’ME Hotels, Tommy Ressopoulos revealed to TTG how the company will be moving forward. “At the moment, we’re
We have completed our first serviced hotel apartment project, DAMAC Maison - Dubai Mall street, and will soon provide bespoke hospitality offerings to residents in 7,351 serviced hotel apartments by the end of 2017.
Additionally, Ressopoulos
trying to get better MICE
noted that the company
business. As soon as we
is now managing a new
can build hotels with bigger
serviced villa concept in
In an effort to further boost its guests’ stay, Dusit Thani
meetings rooms we will
Dubai, offering a specialised
Dubai is to carry out renovation works on its furnished
be able to get better MICE
butler option and more.
apartments, according to director of sales and marketing,
business,” Ressopoulos
Dusit Thani Dubai, Julia Alvaro.
highlighted.
“To uplift our guests’ experience during their stay with
He also stressed that
us, renovation of our furnished apartments will take place
the group plans to attend
in April of this year. The reason behind it is simply to update
ITB Berlin, with a view to
our product and to stay competitive in this very vibrant
renewing existing contracts
market where new properties are opening almost every
with the German market.
month,” Alvaro revealed to TTG.
This is a market
The refurbishment of the apartments is in the second Senior vice president, DAMAC Properties, Niall McLoughlin
We’re trying to get better MICE business.
considered particularly
phase of renovation, with the bedrooms and suites having
lucrative for the expanding
been upgraded last year.
company.
24 March 2014
EVOLVING A supreme GUEST experience Director of sales and marketing, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Robert El Khoury exclusively shared with TTG the property’s many plans for the year. According to El Khoury, the hotel is currently refurbishing a new indoor and outdoor Sinbad’s Kids’ Club, as well as the opening of the Rib Room in the existing Club Lounge space. Recent enhancements also include the expansion and upgrade of both Al Nafoorah and Lalezar restaurants, allowing more guests to enjoy the views of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s gardens.
Hotel on the upswing General manager, Park Regis Kris Kin Dubai, Scott Butcher commented to
TTG on the accomplishments of the property for 2013. “We have been successful in the corporate, government, MICE and wholesale markets. In 2013, the hotel realised a 26 per cent increase in RevPAR over the previous year through strategies that we had implemented in these market segments.” ttgmena.com
DESTINATION DUBAI
NEWS
FLASH Amplifying facilities In a bid to boost its leisure
bishing our Rooftop Lounge
facilities, manager, public
and Bar – Level 43. A pool
relations, complex, Four
bar by day and a swanky
Points by Sheraton Sheikh
lounge by night, it offers
Zayed Road Downtown
an excellent venue to enjoy
Dubai, Aqsa Yahya an-
tasty treats, cocktails and
nounced several new devel-
360 degree views of Dubai’s
opments to TTG regarding
skyline,” Yahya said.
Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai. “We are currently refur-
Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre revealed to TTG its plans for Q2 and Q3 of 2014 with the main
focus point being a massive expansion plan worth $123 million. This is to include:
197 spacious new guest rooms New ballrooms catering to 1,550 guests Six new meeting rooms
She also highlighted that they are currently renovating the gym.
CONVEYING A MESSAGE Executive assistant manager in charge sales and marketing, Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, Dubai, Muhammad Haider announced the property’s key message AT ITB Berlin:
This is the first Hawthorn Suites in the UAE – we want to spread the word, and for the German market especially, we want to make ourselves known.
Enhanced entertainment Atlantis, The Palm has rolled out a slew of thrilling developments, which were unveiled to TTG by vice president, sales and marketing and corporate communications, Atlantis, The Palm, Ravini Perera. “There have been several exciting projects that Atlantis, The Palm implemented recently including the opening of the spectacular ‘Tower of Poseidon’ – a 40m tall attraction at Aquaventure Waterpark that is now ready for action which has raised the stakes in entertainment,” said Perera. Further developments include the opening of the contemporary Chinese restaurant, bar and lounge Yuan, set to provide guests with a traditional Chinese experience. The refurbishments on the resort’s ShuiQi Spa & Fitness Centre have also been completed. March 2014
ttgmena.com
25
DESTINATION DUBAI
news
Timely updates Cultivating Looking to grow the brand, chief operating officer, Citymax Hotels, Russel Sharpe recently revealed to
TTG several key focuses for Citymax Hotels. Sharpe said: “Our research and development team is continuously looking at ways to improve the products
relationships
A
rea general man-
destination among tour-
ager, Gloria Ho-
ists from the Middle East
tels and Resorts,
and North Africa, our main
and services offered in our hotels without significant
Freddy Farid recently com-
target is to discuss our
increase in costs to our guests. We will soon be able to
mented to TTG on the
summer business, promote
announce new innovative designs to our mid-market
company’s upcoming plans
our property expansion and
hotel rooms to equip them for business and leisure
for ITB Berlin and beyond.
summer activities.”
travel well into the next decade.”
A keen eye on business
“At ITB 2014 our efforts
company has several plans
existing partners and solic-
in the pipeline; penetrating
iting new buyers as well as
the upscale Chinese and
maintaining the relations
African markets as well as
with our industry partners.”
continuing brand expan-
He added: “As the UAE is Amwaj Rotana Jumeirah Beach – Dubai is looking
Farid highlighted that the
will be concentrated on our
becoming a more popular
sion in the Middle East and North Africa.
to expand on its business segment, according to direc-
Satisfying longer-staying guests
tor of marketing and communications, Amwaj Rotana
Millennium and Copthorne has announced its 150-key
Jumeirah Beach – Dubai, Jasmine Arika.“In 2014, there
property to be located on the promenade in the popular
will be a larger concentration on the corporate seg-
Marina area of Dubai, namely Millennium Executive
ment,” Arika exclusively told TTG. She stressed that the
Apartments, Dubai Marina, set to open in Q1, 2015.
potential to grow this segment has risen especially with
They are to comprise mostly large studios and one-
the opening of the new airport in Jebel Ali and the work
bedroom apartments, incorporating kitchenettes, luxury
that has already begun on the Expo 2020 site close by.
furnishings and high technology, alongside communal
26 March 2014
facilities such as meeting rooms, restaurants and gyms.
ttgmena.com
AWARENESS MEDICAL TOURISM
regional vitality As the medical tourism industry develops across the Middle East into an emerging powerhouse, Panayiotis Markides spoke to leading experts to investigate how medical tourism stakeholders can provide the ultimate service for patients
According to a recent Patients Beyond Borders estimate, the medical tourism industry is worth between $24 billion and $40 billion, as of 2013. With this in mind, it comes as no surprise that many countries are eager to increase their medical offerings to capitalise on this lucrative market. Key medical figures from the region informed TTG of their insights on responsibility, growth and the demands of Middle Eastern patients.
Owner, Harmonia Surgical Tourism Istanbul, Didem Ozyigit reveals the responsibilities and expertise offered by medical facilitators
CEO, Dubai Health Care City (DHCC), Marwan Abedin informs TTG on how medical tourism is growing exponentially in Dubai
Medical tourism is a very special field of business that you need to understand well, along with the ethics of medicine to put the patient’s safety as the top priority. It does not mean the type of tourism where we talk about sea or culture, but it means going to another city or country for a medical need. For many procedures, you cannot combine tourism with a treatment plan. Many agents try to sell touristic activities together with medical treatment plans and clients cannot understand if this is applicable or not. I advise that medical tourists compare the prices with the offered services and always try to concentrate on how professional the approach is of a medical travel agent/facilitator. The difference of Harmonia comes from it having a medical director as the co-founder who is a plastic surgeon and has a scientific approach as well as high ethical standards. He is also objective when listening to his patients and making the right choices to find the perfect match in their fields of medicine.
An estimated 15 per cent of our current patients are medical tourists. In 2013, the medical facilities and clinics at DHCC grew by 12 per cent in terms of services and occupied space. Since 2010, our patients have increased from approximately 400,000 to one million in 2013. To quote but one example, one of our clinical partners specialising in cosmetic surgery reported a 71.6 per cent increase in patients from the GCC and MENA region in 2013 compared to 2012. Moving forward, we will continue to work with health authorities, our stakeholders and our clinical partners to build on DHCC’s reputation as an internationally renowned centre for integrated medical services. We have collaborated with government authorities at various levels to ensure medical tourists have access to quality care. This year, medical tourism will get a muchneeded shot in the arm with DHCC increasing visibility at international medical conferences.
March 2014
ttgmena.com
Director, operations & marketing, American Institute of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (AIMIS Spine), Nikos Anastassiades describes how the facilities offer world class services AIMIS Spine consists of more than 30 leading USbased spine surgeons who come on an on-going rotational basis to Cyprus to perform advanced Minimally Invasive Spine surgeries on international patients. AIMIS Spine surgeons perform exactly the same surgeries that are offered in the US, with the same cutting edge technologies as those used in the US, allowing patients from all over the world to receive the best of US spine healthcare outside of the States. There are many advantages for patients to have their spine surgery at AIMIS Spine in Cyprus. Besides easy access to Cyprus and the support of a full multilingual concierge service which includes Arabic, the costs are also significantly cheaper than those of the US. AIMIS prices are around 60 per cent cheaper for patients than the same standard procedure would cost in the US.
27
UPDATE EGYPT ith the lifting of international travel restrictions and the return of airline operations from key feeder markets, a sense of optimism has engulfed Egypt’s patient and stalwart travel industry. As stakeholders begin to utter sentiments of recovery and confidence, triggered by more sanguine political circumstances, a number of key industry players revealed to TTG their strategies for surpassing the recent challenges faced by the country. Amongst these creative approaches is the targeting of new feeder markets such as China and India, coupled with initiatives to recapture GCC visitors. “There are many elements of optimism in the industry of tourism in Egypt. To start with, the most important element is lifting the travel ban to Egypt which was imposed by many countries as a result of the circumstances that Egypt passed
illuminated aspirations
through. This means a very important step in regaining the trust in the Egyptian destination,” Minister of Tourism, Egypt, Hisham Zaazou exclusively told TTG. Further clarifying how Egypt’s tourism outlook is transforming, Zaazou highlighted that the country has succeeded in attracting a number of important events such as the annual meeting of the Italian federation of tour operators (FIAVET) in addition to receiving high profile celebrity endorsement as international communities begin to re-establish their support for the country.
Imbued with confidence, the industry is re-envisioning this legendary destination’s future. Naomi Leach reports
28 March 2014
Echoing this anticipation for recovery, executive assistant manager, Swiss Inn Resort Dahab, Rany Nashed shared:“This year’s outlook is positive as the political scene is gradually stabilising. The political factor has and will continue to play a crucial role in the recovery of the tourism industry and we are optimistic that 2014 will witness promising developments in this aspect.” Indeed, illustrating their continued commitment to the country, international hospitality brands continue to invest, as PR manager, Sheraton Miramar El Gouna, Manal Isaac said: “Starwood Hotels & Resorts remains a strong company in Egypt with expansion plans in the major cities and destinations to cover existing brands
ttgmena.com
UPDATE EGYPT and new brands from our portfolio.” Likewise, regional director of sales – MENA,
industry has unveiled collaborated efforts
Alexandria, Ahmed Diab told TTG that China, Korea, India and Russia were potential new feeder
to improve perceptions of the country and
markets to focus on. Interest in the promise of the Far East was also affirmed by chairman, Nature Travel, Gasser Riad, who attended SATTE 2014 in Delhi, India.
Kempinski Nile Hotel, Avsar Koc assured TTG:
to reach out to new markets. Zaazou noted:
“Kempinski remains confident in Egypt as
“This strategy consists of both traditional and
The Ministry of Tourism is additionally keen to regain arrivals from markets closer to home,
a destination for both business and leisure
creative factors. Of the creative ones there is
with the GCC countries representing 20 per cent of tourist movements to Egypt, according to
travel.” Providing sure evidence of this, the
the broadcast of the proper images through
Zaazou. He announced: “By next March, two direct flights will fly weekly from Jeddah, KSA and
brand is due to expand its Egyptian footprint
live stream from Sharm El Sheikh and
Kuwait to Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada with competitive prices. With this, we are promoting
with the launch of Kempinski Hotel Royal
Hurghada.“ He also elucidated on the use of
leisure tourism to the GCC traveller, who has always been attracted to Cairo only. We are also
Maxim in New Cairo during 2014.
social media platforms to re-engage with visi-
introducing to this traveller remarkable destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.”
This uptick in confidence is becoming apparent beyond the capital, as senior vice president – Africa, Mövenpick Hotels & Re-
tor markets in addition to co-operating with the private sector and the UNWTO. The Ministry of Tourism is also implement-
Illuminating how Egypt can magnetise GCC markets, director of sales and marketing, Fairmont Nile City, Cairo, Magdi Gamil declared: “With a destination like Egypt, the culture, the language, the authentic experience, and value-for-money will represent a key incentive to get that
sorts, Alan O'Dea told TTG that the group’s
ing steps to attract markets from China and
market back, and we shall continue to offer competitive packages to revive such an essential
Red Sea resorts have witnessed a large rise in
India, an initiative supported by industry
and valued market.”
occupancy over the past two months.
stakeholders. O’Dea noted of Mövenpick
Area general manager, InterContinental Hotels Group in Port Ghalib, Marc Reissinger ex-
Hotels & Resorts, Africa: “We are looking at
plained how the GCC will become key to Port Ghalib and, as such, they have launched special
it is pretty much business as usual. We invited
China, Brazil and India; all three markets have
packages aimed at this market.
and still do invite press trips, fam trips and
shown excellent growth over the last year.”
Isaac concurred, asserting: “On the Red Sea
continue to project a sound situation, espe-
Additionally, director of marketing, Sofitel
Similar initiatives to recapture this market have been rolled out by Egypt Express TravelCairo as its general manager, Mohamed Farouk outlined: “We try to present tempting offers for
cially here in El Gouna. Along this line, tourists
Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Winter
GCC favourite locations in Egypt like Alexandria and Sharm El Sheikh.” In addition to devising
in Egypt experience an outstanding warmth
Palace Luxor, Sofitel Cecil Alexandria, Pavillon
attractive packages, there is also a growing need to be even more visible to this market. With
and hospitality of the Egyptian people that
Winter Luxor, Lamia Assem said: “In terms of
this in mind, and fully recognising the potential strength of the GCC market, junior marketing
comes from the heart.”
tourism from China and India, we are expect-
manager – Europe, Sunrise Resorts & Cruises, Bianca Grubinger confirmed that the company is
ing a good percentage from these new mar-
not only offering city break packages but is also bolstering its presence at GCC trade shows.
Fresh focus United in a desire to restore Egypt to its former touristic glory, the country's travel
kets to visit Egypt.” Adopting a similar perspective, director of sales and marketing, Radisson Blu Hotel,
March 2014
As a cautious sense of optimism pervades Egypt, the industry is inviting new markets and welcoming GCC visitors to re-engage with this unique, timeless destination.
ttgmena.com
29
UPDATE EGYPT
news
Confidence inspires accolades Sunrise Resorts &
are optimistic about the
vantage when it comes
Cruises is celebrating, hav-
future. These awards show
to the uprising segment
ing been recently honoured
that our constant efforts
of online bookings, as the
with two TripAdvisor ‘Trav-
in enhancing our quality
typical online booking cli-
eller’s Choice’ awards.
and level of service we
ent usually checks these
Junior marketing manager
provide to our guests, are
online comment portals
- Europe, Sunrise Resorts &
recognised and honoured
and is, according to recom-
Cruises, Bianca Grubinger
by the clients. This brings
mendations, checking for
commented to TTG: “We
us, in our opinion, an ad-
his holidays.”
30 March 2014
Spring arrival of coastal haven Baron Hotels & Resorts
a private pool as well as
has revealed coastal luxury
royal suites with their own
property Baron Palace Sahl
private swimming pools and
Hasheesh is set to open in
butler service.
April 2014. The Red Sea resort is
The hotel is to feature a range of culinary offerings
to comprise 615 rooms,
including 18 restaurants and
numerous suites includ-
bars, a spa and wellness
ing swim-up suites with
centre and a MICE complex.
Incentives industry focus The Cairo Marriott Hotel recently hosted a delegation from Euromic, an organisation concerned with global incentive tourism. This visit, for the Euromic annual meeting, for the members of the board of directors and the 40th anniversary of the organisation, also aimed to showcase a positive image of Egypt and to help to stimulate tourism.
highlighting a new concept Porto Holidays has launched its new concept, Porto Rentals, which seeks to provide services through a number of units and villas in different Porto Resorts across Egypt’s north coast, Ain Sokhna, then Sharm El-Sheikh and Matrouh in the future.
NEWS FLASH the return of non-stop flights from the UK and France to Luxor are imminent, according to Minister of Tourism, Egypt, Hisham Zaazou. ttgmena.com
INTERVIEW
Unveiling a continent Celebrating a milestone for the burgeoning African tourism industry, managing director, Thebe Reed Exhibitions, Carol Weaving shares the highlights of the upcoming Africa Travel Week exhibitions with Naomi Leach
TTG: What can visitors to the inaugural
ing the successful launch of ILTM Africa
Africa Travel Week expect to experience?
earlier in 2013, the decision to launch an
Can you reveal any show highlights?
all-encompassing travel week was based on several factors. The continent as a whole
Africa Travel Week is unique – this is the
has one of the highest growth rates in the
first time a platform this significant has
world, surpassing even Asia. Africa holds
been created on one continent. With three
enormous potential for the global travel
co-located events covering three key sec-
industry both inbound and outbound. We
tors of the travel industry: leisure (WTM
believe the time is right for Africa to take a
Africa), luxury travel (ILTM Africa) and
bigger role on the global stage.
MICE (IBTM Africa), this will be an unrivalled
Because of the sheer size of the conti-
opportunity for creating business. All the
nent and the diversity of its travel offering,
events take place in one venue but at dif-
all three brands will together bring the
ferent times in the week of April 28–May 3,
world to Africa and promote Africa to the
2014. Dates for Africa Travel Week events
world’s leading source markets.
are ILTM Africa, April 28–30; IBTM Africa,
Reed Travel Exhibitions is committed to
April 28–30 and WTM Africa taking place on
the African continent and its future as a
May 2–3.
global player in the leisure, business and
WTM Africa will attract exhibitors from
luxury tourism sectors.
all categories of the leisure travel industry within sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa,
TTG: What impact do you anticipate
Indian Ocean and international destinations,
the event will have on Africa’s tourism
aligning itself with sister events; WTM, WTM
industry?
Latin America, Arabian Travel Market and IFTM Top Resa. Having successfully launched earlier this
During Africa Travel Week in Cape Town, we expect the destination to benefit hugely,
year, ILTM Africa will be the second edition
not just from the promotion it will get
and a table-top event targeting Africa’s in-
through leisure, luxury travel and the meet-
bound luxury travel market.
ings sector for future business, but also
IBTM Africa will be a table-top summit,
see a direct benefit through its restaurants,
for exhibitors from Africa and Indian Ocean
shopping, cultural attractions and nightlife
who will meet with international buyers of
throughout the week.
meetings, incentives, events and business
IBTM Africa and ILTM Africa will host
travel. Following the success of IBTM India
international buyers, so therefore there
which also launched recently, IBTM Africa
will be a big impact of inbound luxury
will provide up to 50 international hosted
tourism and MICE business for all those
buyers and an equal ratio of suppliers
participating. For WTM, hosted buyers will
one-on-one appointments, as well as a pro-
be recruited from sub-Saharan Africa’s
TTG: What are Africa’s tourism offer-
continent join forces to assist each other
gramme of formal and informal networking
key source markets, as well as a greater
ings and how is the industry working to-
to provide the diversity of experiences on
and education.
proportion of buyers from emerging
gether to promote the continent?
offer, and partnerships are being formed
markets in particular Asia Pacific and the
to ensure this.
TTG: How did the combination of the
Americas. WTM Africa will deliver a pan Af-
Africa is rich in diverse cultures, breath-
three shows come about and why did you
rican audience of some 4,000 travel trade
taking landscapes, abundant wildlife and
in bringing the various key players and
feel the time was ripe for such an event?
professionals both inbound and outbound
a mix of modern sophistication versus
tourism bodies together in that week.
Africa Travel Week will play a huge part
in addition to bringing 300 senior hosted
wild and rugged experiences. There is
Africa deserves to have an event of this
This is the first time that we have chosen
buyers from both established and emerging
much that can be done to ensure that the
magnitude. Africa Travel Week truly is one
to create the three-in-one concept. Follow-
key source markets globally.
many countries that make up the African
week, three events, in one venue.
March 2014
ttgmena.com
31
ON LOCATION SOUTH AFRICA eflecting on the paramount importance of tourism to South Africa, in an endof-year statement for 2013, Minister for Tourism, South Africa, Marthinus van Schalkwyk reported that tourism injected 3.2 billion into the economy from January to June during the year under review – a higher figure than the $2.9 billion that gold exports contributed during the same period. With the sector’s lucrative
HARMONIOUS SYNERGY
potential apparent, travel industry stakeholders are taking strides to invest and expand to increase South Africa’s international popularity.
Bountiful opportunities
Affordability is a key draw for South Africa, revealed managing director, Thebe Reed Exhibitions, Carol Weaving exclusively to TTG: “The affordability of the Rand makes all experiences possible too – value for money is certainly a guarantee here in South Africa.” Coupling value for money with an array of experiential offerings, South Africa is showcasing its charms to international audiences. “South Africa is uniquely very diverse in its offerings from wildlife to adventure and sport offerings with sophisticated cities, great, modern hotels and restaurants, first-class infrastructure for guided tours and travels,” outlined general manager, 12 Apostles Hotel, Horst Frehse to TTG. Promoting the country’s varied leisure offerings and a climate which would appeal to the MENA market, CEO, Cape Town Tourism, Enver Duminy revealed: “Cape Town’s moderate winter months
South Africa is strengthening its tourism appeal to the world, with a symphony of offerings. Panayiotis Markides investigates how the travel industry is beginning to perform specifically for the MENA traveller
afford great value, excellent food, shopping and spa treatments, and in addition visitors can add on safaris and various enjoyments in other parts of South Africa.” Furthermore, reinforcing Cape Town’s leisure
company representative based in Dubai.”
To ratify this success, Duminy gave
at the trade show which represents
strengths, director of sales and marketing, Taj
insight to Cape Town’s feeder markets,
Cape Town, Willie Williams noted: “The culture and
having revealed: “Traditionally, Cape
a professional Muslim butler service.
acknowledged: “ATW gives us a great
heritage is definitely a positive factor and Taj Cape
Town’s key source markets are Ger-
Similarly, keen on attracting the Middle
opportunity to tell new stories and
Town is located in the heart of historic Cape Town
many, the UK, the US, the Netherlands
Eastern market is sales and marketing
showcase the lesser known and growing
where high-end shopping is in abundance.”
and France.”
coordinator, Radisson Blu V&A Water-
offering of Cape Town.”
Across the other end of the country, in Johan-
However, MENA is also emerging as
He also noted that the property boasts
front Cape Town, Wendy Erasmus who
the country’s growth potential. Duminy
Williams reiterated this point, pinpoint-
nesburg – South Africa’s economic nerve centre –
an important market for South Africa
informed TTG that the property invests in
ing that trade shows are welcomed: “We
the city also prides itself as a tourist destination.
to target. Keen to increase the number
seasonal promotions for the region.
are participating at ILTM Africa – these
“Johannesburg is a year-round destination
of visitors to Cape Town, Duminy ex-
(blessed with a temperate climate) for urban tour-
plained: “At this point, a lot of research
are forged with countries in this region
just to promote the Taj Cape Town but
ism, entertainment, cuisine, heritage, the arts,
and strategy is being put into develop-
from a trade and ambassadorial perspec-
also to showcase our city and country.”
fashion, shopping, sports and large events. Its
ing new and emerging markets for Cape
tive, sending a signal that the MENA’s
varied demographic profile makes for a vibrant,
Town, and the Middle East is certainly a
contribution to South Africa’s tourism is
hance South Africa’s presence on the
welcoming city culture – it’s an exciting place, full
key market for us to work with. A report
growing in importance daily.
worldwide tourism platform, Weaving
of opportunities and potential, which attracts peo-
by South African Tourism in August
ple from all over the world,” commented PR and
2013 showed that from January to
communications manager, Johannesburg Tourism,
August 2013, arrivals from the Middle
Laura Vercueil.
East to South Africa had increased by
STRATEGIC GROWTH
Vercueil also asserted that closer ties
shows are valuable to South Africa not
Looking to the future of how to en-
told TTG: “We have long term plans for ATW, and for the foreseeable future,
PROFOUND EFFECT
South Africa will be the host country for our Africa events.”
3.8 per cent year-on-year, with Saudi-
It is not only the leisure segment which
Arabia, the top performer.”
South Africa aims to encompass. Industry
South Africa’s diverse offerings are
Recognising the importance of this
professionals are set to welcome and
quickly coming to the fore, with an in-
market, Frehse revealed to TTG how he
showcase the destination for MICE
dustry working hard to showcase the
South Africa’s abundance of offerings is expected
is actively seeking to encourage MENA
markets during the upcoming inaugural
country as an attractive destination
to magnetise a range of visitors globally, ensuring
visitors to the property: “We are pro-
Africa Travel Week (ATW); properties and
both internationally and to the Middle
the country offers a successful tourism product.
moting our hotel and services through a
organisations alike are vying to exhibit
Eastern traveller.
32 March 2014
ttgmena.com
news
ON LOCATION SOUTH AFRICA
extending global reach South African Airways (SAA) has entered into a codeshare agreement with Virgin Australia. SAA currently flies daily between Johannesburg and Perth and this new partnership offers SAA customers expanded access across Australia to domestic destinations such as Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide. Additionally, SAA has announced that it is resuming
luxury brand makes debut our Seasons Hotel
from the hotel bedrooms.
Westcliff Johannes-
The property aims to
burg is set to mark
evoke a hillside Mediter-
the brand’s debut in South
ranean village, featuring
Africa, when it opens in
courtyards, fountains and
mid-2014.
gardens.
Located on a cliff side gar-
It comprises two restau-
den estate in the northern
rants and a bar, with a fo-
suburbs of Johannesburg,
cus on local beverages and
the property is expected to
cuisine. The hotel’s spa will
offer panoramic views over
offer six treatment rooms,
Johannesburg Zoo, where
a lap pool, relaxation deck
animals can be spotted
and a fitness centre.
its popular non-stop flights between Johannesburg and New York’s – JFK International Airport.
South African market growth
refurbishment revealed The Tsogo Sun luxury property, Drakensburg Sun
to the rooms. All bedrooms now boast
Resort, has opened follow-
modern soft furnishings,
ing an extensive $2.3 mil-
including the resort’s
lion, 11-month renovation.
presidential suite, with the
All areas of the resort
bathrooms having been
were updated and guest
completely stripped and
bedrooms received new
re-finished with porcelain
flat screen TV’s, glass
tiles and floor, timber fin-
fronted fridges, new dress-
ishes and all the modern
ing tables/desks with gran-
fixtures and accessories to
ite tops and desk chairs,
create a fresh, invigorating
thus adding extra comfort
experience.
Marriott International has finalised the agreement to acquire Protea Hospitality Holdings, announcing it will pay $186 million for the South African hoteliers.
March 2014
ttgmena.com
33
SPOTLIGHT OMAN
collective artistry Blessed with a tapestry of unique, natural surroundings, Oman offers corporate travellers more than just a venue. Stefanie Saghbini reports on how the country is crafting a major launch on to the MICE tourism map
hen it comes to corporate travel, Oman is not all about
is a direct flight for many European cities. This has been the key enabling factor behind it being a realistic
the meeting room, vice president of sales and market-
competitor to Abu Dhabi and Dubai.”
ing, The Wave, Muscat, David Stafford shared with TTG. “The facilities and activities for the incentive traveller are in plentiful supply,” he continued, adding that for corporate travel
Likewise, general manager, Muriya Hotels, Daniel Fanselow considers Oman to be a promising and ideal destination for incentive travel and one which is unique. Hence, with its infrastructure under development all-encompassed by natural rugged terrain and sandy
in Oman, the added value comes outside of meetings. “The beautiful
dunes and beaches, the country is propelling itself to the forefront of MICE tourism, alongside the region’s
surroundings make for exceptional half-day or full-day excursions,
pioneers thanks, in large, to the efforts made by the country’s Ministry of Tourism.
whether tacked on to a conference or as a full corporate team building trip. The desert, the mountains and wadis and the beautiful sea of Oman offer some stunning backdrops to a corporate stay,” Stafford
APPLAUDED EFFORTS
further expressed to TTG.
With this rise in future establishments currently underway, a number of Oman’s tourism professionals are
Similarly according to director of sales and markering, InterContinental Muscat, Dorien Smit, Oman is already very well established for incentive travel with a lot to offer, from Omani culture to outdoor
praising the endeavours of the country’s Tourism Ministry for raising awareness of Oman’s promising MICE properties. “The Ministry of Tourism in the Sultanate of Oman is doing a great job to promote and increase the
activities and beaches as well as entertainment with the Royal Opera
country's attraction and is focusing on business tourism,” commented general manager, Park Inn by Radis-
House, Muscat.
son, Rabih Zein, who added that this comprises the developments of new airports including direct flights
Director of events management, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Matthias Emperhoff concurred, describing Muscat as the perfect destination for MICE as a result of the variety of excursions
and driving in more tourists; something which, as Zein further informed, is also apparent in new destinations such as Duqm, Musandam and Salalah, with several new hotels and resorts in the pipeline. Also affirming that Oman is well on its way to becoming a trailblazer in the region as a premier leisure
available and, as he further enthused, the strong infrastructure which
and incentive destination, owing to the Ministry’s efforts in infrastructural developments such as the
makes transporting groups around the country a relatively easy task.
capital’s new meeting venue, was general manager, Hilton Salalah Resort, Nader Halim, who commented
“Activities in Oman are often built around the natural beauty of this
to TTG: “The Ministry of Tourism in Oman is actively taking steps to target the region’s flourishing MICE
country; in one day you can go and see snow on the mountains and
sector as a key growth market for the Sultanate ahead of the 2016 opening of the Oman Convention and
travel from there to stay at night in the desert. Long sandy beaches
Exhibition Centre (OCEC).”
and crystal clear water allow for any sort of water sport activities, be it diving or snorkelling,” Emperhoff explained. Highlighting the travel industry’s collective anticipation of Oman
Fanselow echoed Halim’s opinions while further expressing confidence that OCEC, alongside the new terminal at Muscat International Airport soon set to launch, will capture more incentive travel to the destination. “For the moment, I very much believe Oman is truly the ‘hidden gem of the Middle East’, and this is
realising its MICE potential, Emperhoff added: “On a development
bound to change as the destination matures,” he said, clarifying that at present, Oman is suitable for small-
note, we are looking forward to the completion of the new airport and
to medium-sized incentives; something which Muriya Hotels can certainly take care of.
to accommodate more flights due to a lack of aeroplane seats during peak seasons. With more hotel projects and the convention centre on the way, Oman will be able to host large international events.”
“This, together with the new meeting facility and ample outdoor space in Jebel Sifah, will certainly be a unique attraction for delegates,” Fanselow further enthused. “Our ‘incentive slogan’ is very simple: ‘Think outside, no box required’,” he concluded.
For director, Hud Hud Travel, Eric Walters, while Oman still remains a relatively new destination for incentive travel it is gradually emerging on to the regional MICE tourism map alongside its neighbours.
Through cooperative efforts and a solid upcoming infrastructure, Oman is paving its own way to
“The recent developments in Oman Air’s network have meant that it
becoming an ideal option for the MICE traveller seeking unique incentive experiences.
34 March 2014
ttgmena.com
news
SPOTLIGHT OMAN
regional expansioN man’s capital city is soon set to welcome the 88-unit Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments, which is reported to be at an advanced stage and slated for opening in Q2 of 2014. According to CEO, Hospitality Management Holdings, Laurent Voivenel, this property represents the success of the brand’s expansion in the GCC.
HEFTY DEVELOPMENTS Arabian Travel Market’s (ATM) annual
A number of large-scale transport infra-
SHORT BREAK PARTNERSHIP UNVEILED
seasons this year, include return flights with Oman Air together with accommodation in any of the large array
roadshow arrived at the City Seasons
structure developments are due to come
Hotel in Muscat early February, which saw
to fruition across the country over the
key industry players gather to discuss
next few years, at a cost in excess of $50
Oman Air and Oman’s Ministry
with Oman Air, Oman Ministry of Tourism
marketing opportunities to showcase
billion, according to global research and
of Tourism have launched this
has managed to create tremendous
Oman’s tourism ambitions.
analytics company, Aranca, which further
year’s ‘Oman Short Breaks’; a joint
awareness about tourism options in the
revealed that as of July 2013, Oman had
project offering holiday packages
country, according to deputy director
awareness of its tourism-related estab-
the largest growth in its active hotel de-
for customers from the GCC region,
general of tourism promotion, Oman
lishments through the attendance of the
velopment pipeline of all the MENA coun-
particularly those from the UAE.
Ministry of Tourism, Ghasi Humaid Al
Ministry of Tourism, Oman Air and, for the
tries, up 59.9 per cent on July 2012, with
first time, Muriya Tourism Development.
4,577 rooms.
At this year’s ATM, Oman is set to raise
March 2014
The packages, available for travel during the spring and summer
ttgmena.com
of deluxe hotels in Muscat and Salalah. Through this on-going collaboration
Hashmi, who added that, in turn, this has brought fruitful results.
35
SPOTLIGHT OMAN
news
growing ITS BRAND
Glorifying Oman’s incentives attributes, tourism professionals across the country SHARE how this sector is set to flourish over the coming years.
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recently opened Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb in the heart of the
General manager, Hilton Salalah Resort, Nader Halim
capital’s new business district.
As we approach the opening of Oman Convention and
The 185-room property is lo-
Exhibition Centre and with the introduction of key travel
cated some 10 minutes by car from Muscat International Airport and is ideal for corporate travellers as well as families, the latter which can benefit from special
links to the Sultanate, we expect this number to further
COMPLETION IMMINENT
rise, as MICE business becomes a greater focus for Hilton Salalah Resort and the tourism industry as a whole.
General manager, Muriya Hotels, Daniel Fanselow
rates. “With our close proximity to the airport and to the attractions
Muriya Tourism Development, a joint venture
Oman is a unique destination with various possibilities
of Old and New Muscat, the hotel
between Orascom Development Holdings and
of activities and incentives that are also unique to the
is a great place to stay whether
Omran, is nearing completion of the construction
country. The Ministry have recognised the potential
you’re here for business or lei-
of Jebel Sifah; a hospitality and residential project
of this market and are working hand-in-hand with the
sure,” commented general man-
spanning 6.2 million metre2.
authorities to improve the infrastructural developments.
ager, Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb, Oppenheimer Pinto.
Nestled in between the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, Jebel Sifah is soon set to open its doors to the public with the 800m entrance road
VICE PRESIDENT, SALES AND MARKETING, THE WAVE MUSCAT, DAVID STAFFORD
ter for up to 250 people while the
from the gate having been completely tarred along
Upcoming infrastructure developments which will add
F&B options comprise the all-day
with the Marina and Sifawy Boutique Hotel roads.
significantly to what’s on offer in Muscat include the new
The hotel’s meeting venues ca-
dining outlet Omede and Halwa
Omran-owned international conference centre, currently
Work on the 1,100m main boulevard is also
Lounge Café, offering traditional
progressing and is expected to be finished within
under construction, and a major hotels pipeline, not just
Omani delicacies.
the next three months followed by the completion
in Muscat but around the country.
of the 18-hole golf course slated for June 2014.
36 March 2014
Director of sales and markEting, InterContineNtal Muscat, Dorien Smit We are working very closely with companies such as Muscat Hills Golf course, Royal Opera House, and Oman Sail among others in order to sell a combined (incentives) package. We already have good relationships however establishing these is key for the future.
ttgmena.com
ANALYSIS RETAIL TOURISM
developing form
ore than ever, shopping forms
Centre to create the most attractive pack-
a significant part of any des-
ages, Mabire further divulged.
tination’s leisure offerings, a sentiment expressed to
TTG by strategy and policy director, Abu
property’s main selling points, was gen-
Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA
eral manager, Mövenpick Hotel Ibn Bat-
Abu Dhabi) and chairman, Retail Industry
tuta Gate, Michael Nugent who further
Development Committee, TCA Abu Dhabi,
shared: “In order to attract and appeal to
Mohammed Al Dhaheri.
the ‘shopping tourists’, we have specially
And it is an activity that is by no means
With the growing importance of shopping as an integral tool in any destination’s tourism product, Stefanie Saghbini gained an insight into how this budding segment is being used to ensure tourism success
Also highlighting its location, opposite Ibn Battuta Mall, in Dubai as one of the
devised affordable room packages as
limited to wealthy travellers, according to
well as ways to facilitate their shopping
regional manager – Asia Pacific and Middle
experience.” He announced, that the ‘My
East, VisitBritain, Sumathi Ramanathan.
Weekend, My choice’ package is ideally
The role which retail plays in a destina-
designed for regional tourists who choose
tion’s tourism success, can be ascribed to
to visit Dubai on weekends primarily for
the increasing availability of international
shopping.
designer brands in many expanding markets, as head of tourism, McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, Anthony Rippingale exclusively explained to TTG. “More and more, consumers from these markets seek brands which they feel are authentic and specific to the region,” he continued. Similarly, Al Dhaheri revealed a large demand overall, and in particular from leisure visitors, across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain for the traditional ‘souk’ style shopping. Echoing these views was regional general manager - Egypt and Lebanon, InterContinental Hotels Group, Simon Stamper who said: “Our guests are interested in upscale brands along with unique local
Our guests are interested in upscale brands along with unique local specialties.
specialties and both are available at Citystars Mall.” Ramanathan also observed this trend,
InterContinental Cairo Citystars also enjoys a perfect location for those seeking
referring to VisitBritain’s latest research
shopping experiences, situated adjacent
on shopping, released in February 2013,
to the capital city’s largest retail and lei-
which showed that at least half of poten-
sure complex. As Stamper informed TTG,
tial visitors around the world would shop
this allows for collaboration with a number
for clothes, accessories, souvenirs or
of the malls’ stores to offer all guests ex-
British-made products or brands if they
clusive discounts or gift cards. “We some-
visited Britain.
times manage to give guests a ‘sneak
Overall, shopping is a growing sector
preview’ of collections or sales before
with a change unlikely to happen in the
they hit the stores,” he enthused, adding
near future, as public relations manager,
that in conjunction with some stores, a
Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City
‘shopping bags drop off’ to the hotel is
Centre, Sari Mabire expressed to TTG, re-
offered to provide a bag-free shopping
ferring to the MENA region.
experience. Undoubtedly, retail tourism constitutes
COLLABORATED EXPERIENCE
a lot more than an ordinary shopping experience, with special packages on offer for customers to keep up with rising com-
“Shopping is certainly one of the key
petition, as Rippingale acknowledged: “It’s
drivers of tourism in Bahrain, especially
all about providing a great day out desti-
for our guests from across the border in
nation – an easy-to-shop and fun shopping
Saudi Arabia and other neighbouring GCC
experience, with a quality customer ser-
countries,” Mabire explained.
vice and shopping environment.
“They often choose to stay at Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre
Location, collaborated offerings and
because of our ideal city centre location
seasonal packages make up just a
and our connection to the largest and
handful of the basic components needed
most popular retail and entertainment
to perfect a shopping holiday and tour-
destination on the island,” she continued.
ism professionals worldwide are forging
Dedicated to enhancing the overall
ahead with plans to ensure retail tour-
shopping experience, the team capitalises
ism is a promising and prosperous
on close relationships with Bahrain City
sector in the coming years.
ANALYSIS RETAIL TOURISM REGION WITNESSES SHOPPING BOOM al AIn welcomes heavy footfall Al Ain is strengthening
The highest footfall of
ajid Al Futtaim, a pioneer in retail and leisure in the MENA region and central
Global Blue, specialists
balance sheet throughout 2013 having
in worldwide tax free
concluded yet another year of strong
shopping, have listed the
operational performance across its
Middle Eastern nations,
businesses.
the year under review
including the UAE, Kuwait,
shopping hub with some
was recorded in August,
KSA and Qatar, as those
9.5 million people having
with 932,762 shoppers,
which spent record
visited Bawadi Mall in
followed by 882,500 visi-
amounts, mostly in Europe,
2013, this being 6.3 per
tors in December, thanks
during Q4 of 2013.
cent higher than that re-
to a strong line-up of en-
corded in 2012.
tertainment activities.
The average spend of
This was another very good year for the company.
ness results but have also united our companies under one umbrella corporate brand
Middle Eastern visitors during the three-month
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) recently partnered with Bloomingdale’s-Dubai to offer an exclusive shopping package called ’Shop With You‘, according to director of sales and marketing, The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Rania Keedy.
EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE
Asia, continued to maintain a strong
its position as a growing
ASSORTMENT OF EXPERIENCES
news
Total revenues reached approxi-
– Majid Al Futtaim – as we embark on the next
stretch ranked among the
mately 6.3 billion, rising 10 per cent,
highest in the world with
while earnings before interest, taxes,
The company also has major plans to in-
Qatari residents having
depreciation and amortisation from
vest over $816 million on enhancing its Dubai
spent $1,362; Saudi
recurring operations grew 12 per cent
businesses over next five years, in its initia-
Arabians contributing
year-on-year to reach $898 million.
tive to support the Dubai 2020. The plans
chapter of our expansion plans.”
Commenting on the company’s per-
include two new hotel developments; reno-
approximately $1,070; and
formance, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Hold-
vating two existing hotels; re-developing its
Kuwaitis having spent an
ing, Iyad Malas said: “This was another
flagship Mall of the Emirates and Deira City
average of $722.
very good year for the company. We
Centre shopping malls; and building a new
have not only delivered robust busi-
14-screen cinema complex, among others.
$1,095; UAE residents,
38 March 2014
ttgmena.com
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE If you have recently been promoted or appointed key staff, please visit our website...
welcomed Fathi Khogaly to his new position as general manager. Prior to this, he held the resident manager role at Hyatt Regency Dubai for a year before becoming hotel manager of Grand Hyatt Dubai. Khogaly first joined Hyatt in 1988 and now boasts extensive work experience of over 25 years across the UAE.
General Hotel Management has installed Markus Iseli as general manager of The Chedi Muscat, Oman. Previously, Iseli managed the pre-opening and soft-opening of the Palazzo Parigi, a Leading Hotels of the World member in Milan, Italy. Throughout his career, he has held managerial positions in Istanbul and Damascus and has worked in Sudan and Kenya.
40 March 2014
GENERAL MANAGER Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence and Ramada Sharjah have announced the appointment of Alper Can Bulcum as general manager. With a distinguished 27-yearlong career in the international hospitality industry, Bulcum brings an abundance of experience to the role which he is joining from Wyndham Istanbul Kalamis Marina where he was general manager.
ttgmena.com
Emirates Grand Hotel
Hyatt Regency Dubai recently
GENERAL MANAGER
Rohit Rattan
Alper Can Bulcum
Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence and Ramada Sharjah
GENERAL MANAGER
Markus Iseli
the Chedi Muscat, OMAN
Hyatt Regency Dubai
Fathi Khogaly
Director of sales and marketing Emirates Grand Hotel has revealed Rohit Rattan as the new director of sales and marketing. Aside from leading the sales and marketing strategies, Rattan is in charge of providing an effective communication scheme in dealing with clients’ feedback and requirements. He has 14 years of extensive sales experience in the hospitality field.
TATOS 18 YEARS Managing director, Nawafir Travel and Tours, Adnan Habbab
INDUSTRY SNAPSHOTS
As of 1994, tourism started to grow in Syria, and between 1996 and 2010 tourism numbers were doubling. Since 2010, Dubai, Oman and Turkey have experienced large growth due to their stability. In 2010 Jordan was nominated as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. In mid-2010 there were 2.8 million tourists visiting Damascus alone; for cultural/religious tourism and daytrips between Syria, Lebanon and Jordan.
The region has been experiencing a unique growth in the last two decades and no doubt we see with emotion, the achievements and changes that have happened. No one was even able to place the Gulf and the UAE on the tourist map, nowadays there is no magazine or TV channel not featuring Dubai, Abu Dhabi, the UAE, Oman, Qatar for a reason always connected to tourism, landmarks, projects and creations. The entire region has lots to offer and to surprise still.
SPECIAL AGENT... Managing director, Corinthian Travel, Hugh Fraser
March 2014
Chairman,The Vision Destination Management, Ali Abu Monassar
ttgmena.com
Corinthian’s product is always evolving in response to new developments and opportunities. 2014 is almost 100 years since the First World War came to the deserts of Arabia, and 50 years since the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia. To mark this, Corinthian Travel has launched a special tour
of Jordan. This journey visits many of the sites associated with Lawrence. “We will be keeping an eye on developments in Egypt and Iran. If the political winds are favourable, these two countries could be the great regional comeback stories of the year for cultural tourism.
41
PICTURE PERFECT FITUR Queen Rania of Jordan meets with the industry at the 34thannual International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) which launched in the Spanish capital, Madrid.
Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi
the UAE’s first mega waterpark, marks its first birthday with a special weekend.
Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas is announcing the 2014 dates of the highly popular King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament to be held in Bangkok.
Emirates Airline Rugby World Cup Emirates Airline
Burj Al Arab is awarded
extends its sponsorship of International Rugby Board’s match officials until the end of 2019.
Green Globe Certification following a comprehensive audit.
A visual tour of recent events in the region
42 March 2014
ttgmena.com
for more news visit: www.ttgmena.com
SOCIAL HUB Our Team
Media Voice
General Manager PUBLISHING & sales Tony Fields TFields@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803001
Dion Maritz
General manager Middle East, ICLP
GENERAL MANAGER eVENTS & COMMUNICATIONS Alexandra North ANorth@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803071 Media ReporterS Naomi Leach Natalie Hami Panayiotis Markides Stefanie Saghbini DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR Tatiana Tsierkezou Creative Director TTG MENA Publishing Edward Beales Designer Maggie Bdjian E-Commerce Manager Panayiotis Philippou PPhilippou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803008 E-Commerce executive Constantinos Voniatis Sales Manager Adrian Exley AExley@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803004 Account Managers Helen Moss Hmoss@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803074 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
This will support the creation of more sophisticated segmentation and communication strategies.
”Traditional loyalty models need to extend into the social world if they are to maintain relevance. Giving consumers the option to log in using their social credentials, offers an opportunity to gain new social data insights. Adding this rich social data layer is a huge opportunity for brands, especially those with loyalty programmes. Being able to connect behaviour in social channels to transactional behaviour via a loyalty initiative provides immense value in identifying the overlap in customers with high commercial value and social influence. This will support the creation of more sophisticated segmentation and communication strategies in understanding behaviour across multiple channels.”
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support and loyalty with an exclusive offer; anybody booking an advert within our birthday month issues (March 1 issue and March 15 MICE issue) will get it at the original 1996 rate! For more information contact sales manager, TTG MENA,
Adrian Exley
TOP 5 MOST READ STORIES
INTERNATIONAL PARTNER MANAGER Elaine Hockley EHockley@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803011
TTGMENA.COM
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
What's trending in the MENA world?
1 2 3 4 5
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 TTG Italia TTG India TTG Nordic TTG Poland TTG Russia TTG Media
Positive outlook for Turkey’s tourism industry following EMITT Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London announces opening date Hofuf welcomes its first flydubai aircraft Troon appointed to manage golf development in Ajman The Pearl-Qatar to welcome eight new outlets
NEXT ISSUE MICE SPECIAL • DESTINATION Abu Dhabi • UPDATE Bahrain • ON LOCATION Europe MICE Round Up • SPOTLIGHT HONG KONG • ANALYSIS TECHNOLOGY FOR MICE
* For information on these publications, please contact us at: INFO@ttgmena.com
March 2014
Since its launch on March 1, 1996, TTG MENA has blossomed into the region’s leading source of travel trade news and has acquired a loyal fan base throughout its 18 years.
ttgmena.com
43