September 2016 by TTG MENA

T H E B U S I N E S S O F S E L L I N G T R AV E L

Spotlight SRI LANKA Beckoning to visitors from far and wide

Awareness NORTHERN EMIRATES A unique path to tourism glory

CLASSIC DESIGN A shining example of tourism success, the US claims the top spot on countless traveller bucket lists

SEPTEMBER 2016

ISSUE 298

Destination OMAN Change is afoot in this fascinating destination

Update QATAR Creating a product for an array of tastes

ibar

CONTENTS > YOUR GUIDE 04

NEWS

INTERVIEW

BEST LAID PLANS he summer is winding down and everyone has

started to trickle back into

DESTINATION OMAN

the office, back from some kind of exotic adventure (or perhaps

UPDATE QATAR

you’ve just been to the coast for a few quiet days of rest and relaxation). In any case, the TTG team is feeling

24 26

ON LOCATION USA

energised and ready to embrace the last few months of 2016 with verve and determination.

SPOTLIGHT SRI LANKA

We’re strategising, we’re planning and we’re making key connections with

34 36 38 40

the industry; so get ready for some

FOCUS ON LATIN AMERICA

fascinating interviews and features

A LETTER FROM...

in the following months, with more to

AWARENESS NORTHERN EMIRATES

come in the new year. Despite some regional turmoil the

ANALYSIS TRANSPORT PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

ROYALTY IN TOWN

Qatar highlights how the country moulds its offering in line with the needs

overriding theme for the majority of

of the industry and On Location USA

this month’s features is how each and

highlights that MENA travellers have

every one of the destinations covered

become a crucial inbound market for

in our September issue is seeking new

the destination. Further reports include

and innovative ways to constantly

Spotlight Sri Lanka, Focus On Latin

boost its visitor numbers and offer

America, Awareness Northern Emirates

unique experiences to tourists.

and Analysis Transport.

Speaking of strategies, one of the region’s destinations that has consistently and thoughtfully driven its tourism product forwards is Oman; find out more about its most recent plans in Destination Oman. Meanwhile, Update ment venues, DusitPrincess ACES Dubai will cater to both transient and extended stay guests. from home’, DusitPrincess

PRESERVING CULTURE

ACES Dubai will comprise

In an effort to maintain national heritage by utilising some historical sites and build-

of over 250 spacious apart-

ings across the KSA as hotels focusing on heritage hospitality, a new five-star herit-

ments, ranging from studios

age hotel in the historical Samhan District of Ad’Diriyah, Riyadh is being introduced

to three-bedroomed pent-

to the destination.

Creating a true ‘home away

houses. Amenities will include

D’Appolonia, the independent engineering consulting company of RINA Group, has

a spa, various dining options,

been appointed as lead consultant for the design of the hotel by Nuzul Saudi Herit-

a gym, sauna and pool with an

age Hospitality Company, established as an initiative led by the Saudi Commission

open-air café.

for Tourism & National Heritage.

Group CEO, Dusit Interna-

This project aims to bring together the historical look and feel of approximately 40

tional, Suphajee Suthumpun

historic mud buildings in the Samhan District with a modern five-star hotel, under the

said: “We are delighted ACES

supervision of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, and is the

Property Development has

first hospitality related renovation project in the country.

entrusted Dusit with this project, which we are confiDusit Hotels and Resorts has signed a manage-

dent will be a great success.

ment agreement with ACES Property Develop-

The DusitPrincess brand is

ment to operate DusitPrincess ACES Dubai, a

all about great value and

new hotel apartment project within Jumeirah

friendly, dynamic service,

Village Circle, Dubai.

and we are very glad to see

Overlooking the Dubai Marina Skyline and

it joining and complementing

offering easy access to the new Al Makhtoum

our existing Dusit Thani and

International Airport, the Palm Jumeirah and

dusitD2 properties within

Dubai’s many exciting shopping and entertain-

the region.” September 2016

The project area sits inside the UNESCO buffer zone so all techniques used to restore buildings also need to be compliant with UNESCO protocols. The proposed hotel design includes a souk in which traditional goods will be marketed and a museum area.

ttgmena.com

NEWS

DEDICATION TO THE USA

Etihad Airways has unveiled

In addition, responding to

dual enhancements in its US-

demand, the carrier has an-

bound services.

nounced it will boost capac-

The airline has opened

ity on flights between JFK

its First and Business Class

International and Abu Dhabi

Lounge at Los Angeles

International Airport, with the

International Airport. The

upgrade commencing as of

lounge is the carrier’s

June 1, 2017. Etihad Airways

third such facility in the

will upgrade its second flight

US after Washington

between Abu Dhabi and JFK

DC and New York City’s

International to its A380

John F Kennedy Inter-

aircraft which features The

national Airport (JFK

Residence and its acclaimed

International).

First Apartment cabins.

4 September 2016

WELLNESS COMES FIRST

R Hotels has revealed its plans to make its upcoming 253-room Palm Jumeirah property one of the first holistic health and wellness resorts in the UAE. In light of this, the group will be cementing a partnership with a well-known global brand to develop the concept and provide dedicated services. Managing director, R Hotels, Sumair Tariq explained: “With the increasing number of hotel projects underway in the region, R Hotels strives to offer a distinctive concept in this highly competitive market. People are more health-conscious than before and we have witnessed an increased demand for products which are designed for a healthy lifestyle, including leisure activities, food and even gadgets. With this trend, our group is keen to introduce the region’s first health and wellness resort, by partnering with trusted brands.” The four-star hotel will offer spa and beauty treatments, while guests will also be able to choose from a number of wellbeing and lifestyle packages ranging from proper diet and nutrition, fitness classes and health treatments.

2016

EXHIBITION CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 27 - 28 8th Edition Hotelier Summit – Middle East, Doha, Qatar www.hospitalityseries.com • SEPTEMBER 28 - 29 6th Edition RESCOM Summit – Middle East, Doha, Qata www.rescom-me.com • SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 1 Astana Leisure 2016, Astana, Kazakhstan www.leisure.kz/en/ • OCTOBER 5 - 7 23rd Ukraine International Travel Market, Kiev, Ukraine www.ukraine-itm.com.ua/eng/ • OCTOBER 13 - 15 TTG Incontri, Rimini, Italy en.ttgincontri.it/ • OCTOBER 18 - 20 IMEX America, Las Vegas, the US www.imexamerica.com • •

ttgmena.com

TTG MENA will be available at these shows

NEWS always appreciate. On entering the aircraft, I noticed how attentive the flight attendants were, showing great care to

AIRLINE CHECK AEGEAN AIRLINES

THE NEXT STEP

passengers and immediately

The UAE is forecast to

a presentation on ‘UAE

responding to any requests.

make up a whopping 90

theme park tourism: suc-

Even though entertainment

per cent of the leisure

cess factor insights from

didn’t seem to be a priority due

tourism market in the

Gold Coast, Singapore, Or-

to the fact that the flight was

Middle East by 2020, ac-

lando’ on day two (Septem-

only two hours, I had a chance

cording to research by

ber 18) of the fourth annual

to view some of Greece’s

Team Leisure ahead of

Vision Conference, part of

most beautiful scenery on the

The Leisure Show Dubai

The Leisure Show and

entertainment system.

2016, set to take place

co-located The Hotel Show

this month.

in Dubai.

During the flight a light and refreshing dinner was served,

Director, Team Leisure,

accompanied by traditional

Phil Taylor said: “The UAE

halva with mastic that made

is just about to take a

the dinner both distinct

huge step onto the world

s a loyal customer of Aegean Airlines over the years, I once again decided to

and delicious. We were also

leisure stage with some

book a flight with them for my trip to Thessaloniki, Greece this summer.

offered the choice of coffee

10–15 major leisure at-

or tea. With a cup of coffee in

tractions due to open in

with the high level of service along with the reasonable price of its tickets, I was keen

my hand and the chance to

2016 and many more in

to fly again with them.

By Natalie Leonidou

Having flown with Aegean Airlines a number of times and feeling pleased

enjoy some onboard duty free

the pipeline. This is the

With baggage weight always being one of my concerns while travelling, I was

shopping, this flight was one of

next big step in the UAE’s

happy to discover that as an economy traveller I was allowed 23kg and a handbag.

the most memorable I’ve ever

tourism strategy and the

Meanwhile, the check-in process and boarding was smooth and on time, something I

had on Aegean Airlines.

single biggest driver of growth in the hotel

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.

market for the next five years.”

STRENGTHENING TROPICAL HOTSPOT UK PRESENCE

In 2016 alone, four major new theme parks are

The UAE is just about to take a huge step onto the world leisure stage.

scheduled to open in the UAE: IMG Worlds of Adventure (recently opened)

Dorsett Hospitality

one of the most popular

and Motion Gate, Bol-

Taylor further said: “The

International has an-

destinations for tourists

lywood and Legoland at

Gold Coast in Australia,

nounced the develop-

and business travellers

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Singapore and Orlando in

ment of its second hotel

around the world.

(October), all in Dubai,

Florida are all successful

alongside the Louvre

leisure and tourism stories

13-storey building formerly

tries, including the UK,

Abu Dhabi, safari parks in

that are 50 years or more in

known as The Matrix.

are attracting an unprec-

both Dubai and Al Ain and

the making. The individual

edented number of Chinese

much more.

destinations offer lessons

in London, Dorsett City, a

Located next to Aldgate

Major European coun-

tube station and the 18

arrivals and the opening of

century St Botolph Church,

a second hotel in London

Dorsett City, London is ex-

will continue to capture this

pected to open in Q1 of 2017

key market for Dorsett.”

with 275 guest rooms. It will

Head of UK Development,

Team Leisure will host

Combining the key elements of a tropical seaside holi-

also house two restaurants,

Dorsett Hospitality Inter-

day, Best Western Hotels & Resorts has opened a

a bar and 150m2 of meeting

national, John Connolly

beachfront property in Japan located on the main island

space.

added: “Given the archi-

of Okinawa.

President and executive

tectural sensitivity of this

Best Western Okinawa Kouki Beach, set in a modern

the UAE can benefit from.”

I am confident it will be an excellent addition to our Asian portfolio.

director, Dorsett Hospitality

historic and typically dense

10-storey building, features a collection of light, bright

International, Winnie Chiu

area of London,

rooms with balconies that offer views across Nago

commented: “We consider

The Matrix is indeed a land-

Bay’s shimmering aquamarine seas, as far as Minna Is-

include laundry and massage

absolute beachfront

the United Kingdom to be

mark building.”

land and the Motobu Peninsula.

services, and a business centre.

location, spacious

Guests have a choice of room categories, ranging

Other facilities at the hotel

“Okinawa has always been a

He added: “With its

rooms and world-class

from the 30m² standard rooms to the 60m² deluxe

tourism hotspot for Japanese

service, Best Western

rooms, all of which come equipped with fast and free

travellers, and an increasing

Okinawa Kouki Beach

WiFi, flat-screen TVs with international satellite chan-

number of international visitors

is sure to become a

nels, ceiling fans and mini-bars. The hotel is also ideal

are now starting to discover this

popular seaside retreat

for families, with the larger rooms sleeping up to six

idyllic tropical island,” said

for both Japanese and

guests and featuring private cooking facilities.

managing director of interna-

international travellers.

tional operations – Asia, Best

I am confident it will be

rant, Kouki, which serves buffet breakfasts overlooking

Western Hotels & Resorts,

an excellent addition to

Nago Bay, and much more.

Olivier Berrivin.

our Asian portfolio.”

Dining options include the hotel’s beachfront restau-

6 September 2016

ttgmena.com

NEWS

UNIQUE GETAWAY

CULTURAL ATTRACTION

A result of high demand, as of October 1, Emirates Airline will boost capacity on its Dubai-Milan route with the deployment of a second daily A380 service, which will be replacing a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The double decker aircraft will bring forth a capacity increase of 1,834 seats

Wyndham Hotel Group recently celebrated the opening

a week between the two cities, and will

of Ramada Hotel & Suites Kusadasi in Turkey, located

enable more A380 to A380 connections

near Kusadasi’s city centre and beaches, and a short

to and from key destinations in Australia,

drive from Izmir and Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. The newly opened property boasts 143 hotel

China, South Korea and South East Asia with just one stop in Dubai. The additional Airbus A380 aircraft boasts a three-class configuration with

angkok-based Bespoke

massages and signature spa

rooms and suites, each offering guests pull sofas,

Hospitality Management Asia

treatments. Guests may also

complimentary high-speed WiFi, tea and coffee making

(BHMAsia) has announced the

opt to begin their day with

facilities and LCD TVs. Dining options include five onsite restaurants

14 private suites in first class, 76 flat-bed

opening of the luxurious Away Koh

morning yoga classes or enjoy

seats in business class and 401 seats in

Samui Elements Resort and Spa in

a workout in the hotel’s Body &

ranging from breakfast and dinner buffets, à la carte

economy class. Passengers can make

Thailand, representing the first property

Soul fitness facility.

alternatives, a 24-hour lobby bar and 24-hour room

the most of access to free WiFi and over

on Koh Samui to become part of the

2,500 channels of films, TV shows, music

Away Resorts & Villas brand under the

McDonald, who is also the

and games, available on ice Digital Wides-

management of BHMAsia.

founder of the Away Resorts

creen – the airline’s inflight entertainment system.

CEO, BHMAsia, Anthony

service. Guests at the hotel can also enjoy free outdoor parking and a shuttle service to beaches. Also offering a variety of entertainment options,

& Villas brand, said: “We have

Ramada Hotel & Suites Kusadasi hosts DJ parties,

southwest of the island, the new

been seeking new locations

themed shows and live music.

hotel comprises of single and double

that have their own unique

Ideally placed for culture enthusiasts, the hotel is in

bedroom pool villas and deluxe suites,

flavour and style, to add to

close proximity to various sites such as Ephesus Ancient

all complemented by a relaxing

our specialty resort portfolio

City and House of Virgin, while Kusadasi International

private beach.

under the Away Resorts &

Golf Club and shopping centres are also nearby.

Situated at Phang Ka in the

Guests can enjoy Thai and

Villas brand. Koh Samui is a

international dishes at Fai restaurant at

perfect fit, having built a great

Bamboo, a Thai beachfront bar cafe and

reputation over the years as a

a restaurant.

romantic hideaway destination

Other facilities include the Serenity Spa, which offers a wide variety of

for honeymooners, couples and families.”

SMARTER BUSINESS TRAVEL Sabre Corporation is

of TripCase; Sabre’s innovative Virtual

corporate travel programme compliance

currently in the midst

Payments solution; and relationships

and reducing costs for corporations.

of developing an inte-

with industry leading expense

grated product platform

management services.

A COVETED ADDRESS

Senior vice president of strategy and traveller experience, Sabre Corporation,

for mobile devices

Clinton

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recently

the streets of Paris. CEO – Europe, IHG,

to power itinerary

Anderson noted:

announced plans for a

Angela Brav enthused:

management, policy

“Controlling

Kimpton-branded hotel in

“Bringing Kimpton to

compliant book-

and managing

culture-fuelled Paris, near

Paris marks another

ing mid-trip, as well

travel expenses

the famous Paris Opéra,

milestone for expansion

as payment and ex-

is important for

which is scheduled to open

of the brand into Europe,

pense management.

any corporation.

its doors in 2020.

and we’re delighted to

In order to create

But that’s not

such software, Sabre

enough. Travel

kind in the city and the

IM – Real Assets to bring

is integrating several

is a significant

second in Europe, fol-

Kimpton to France. This

of its best-in-class

corporate

lowing the signing of a

hotel will have one of the

products into one

investment.

property in Amsterdam,

most coveted addresses

intuitive mobile

Companies need

the high-end hotel will be

in the city and is set to

to maximise the value of that investment

home to 149 rooms and

create unbelievable mem-

platform: the online

The new platform is expected to

Marking the first of its

be working with AXA

booking capabilities

further simplify the travel management

by using technology that will make business

27 suites, a spa, fitness fa-

ories and experiences for

of GetThere; the

process, while also boosting business

travel easier for the travellers and smarter

cilities and state-of-the-art

guests – in the way that

itinerary management

traveller satisfaction, improving

for the corporation.”

meeting space overlooking

only Kimpton can.”

8 September 2016

ttgmena.com

NEWS

MAMMOTH EXPANSION NEW HOTEL ROOM BOOM IN ABU DHABI PLANS UNVEILED Throughout 2016, 2,400 new ho-

first hotel to open as part of The Bilt-

tel rooms will open in Abu Dhabi,

more Collection, will open in Q3

according to the Abu Dhabi Hotel

of 2016.

Market Summary report by JLL,

Chief operating officer, Millennium

ubai developer Nakheel has released con-

The new Dragon City hotel will feature a

struction tenders for new hotels at Dragon

restaurant, coffee shop and gym, while

City and Ibn Battuta Mall, adding another 670

the property at Ibn Battuta, located by

rooms to an expanding hospitality portfolio.

the Metro entrance, will have an all-day

prepared ahead of The Hotel Show

& Copthorne Middle East and Africa,

Dubai 2016.

Francois Kassab commented: “Our first

City, home of the famous Dragon Mart retail and trad-

The report also revealed that 200

hotel in the region was in Abu Dhabi

ing hub, featuring the mammoth Dragon Mart 2 shop-

rooms opened in Q2 of 2016 with the

back in 2002 and as the emirate has

ping, dining and entertainment complex, which opened

soft opening of the Four Seasons on

grown so has our regional presence.

in February.

Al Maryah Island in May, and an

With over 27 properties in the region

additional 2,200 rooms are ex-

and three properties in the UAE capital,

hotel at Ibn Battuta Mall, where a 27,870m2 extension

pected to be added to the market by

we are very excited to be adding a flag-

opened in May.

the end of the year.

ship property to our UAE portfolio.”

The Q2 report also predicts hotel

Kassab continued: “Abu Dhabi has

room supply in Abu Dhabi is set to

seen an impressive growth in tourism,

reach close to 26,000 rooms by the

receiving 4.1 million tourists last year,

end of 2019.

up 18 per cent on the previous year.

New hotel openings anticipated

Bab Al Qasr will offer a new luxury

for the emirate by the close of 2016

landmark on Abu Dhabi’s ever chang-

include: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi

ing skyline. Born from a partnership

Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl;

between the UAE and Morocco, it will

Gloria Downtown Hotel; and Bab Al

provide a truly unique Middle Eastern

Qasr. The 677-key Bab Al Qasr, the

experience.”

Nakheel is set to build a 295-room hotel at Dragon

The developer will also create a 15-storey, 375-room

The three-star hotels – scheduled for completion in 2017 – complement existing hotels at the two retail hubs, where further major expansion continues.

‘GREEN’ SUCCESS Placing the environment at the top of its agenda is TIME Hotels Man-

hotels and hotel apartments across

Swiss International’s partner in the Middle East,

its portfolio. “TIME Hotels has been

Hospitality Development Group (also known as Swiss

committed to pursuing an active

International Middle-East) from Dammam will

strategy of initiatives, events and

operate the hotel. known as the commercial heart of the city, serves as

our properties. This Green Key award

an ideal location as it draws not only travellers visit-

is further endorsement of this commit-

ing on business but also shopping enthusiasts eager

ment, and provides further motivation

to indulge in luxury retail.

for us to maintain our corporate policy

The property will feature 80 rooms, including

of putting the environment at the top

20 standard rooms and 60 suites, all of which are

of our agenda," said CEO, TIME Hotels,

equipped with free WiFi, as well as the Grill

Mohamed Awadalla.

Room restaurant.

and suites, which offer exclusive access

properties worldwide, Sheraton Hotels

to the Sheraton Club Lounge, a private

& Resorts has announced the designa-

London Park Lane into this premier tier

space where guests can enjoy compli-

tion of the Sheraton Grand London Park

of hotels as it represents the Sheraton

mentary breakfast, drinks and snacks

Lane, welcoming it to the brand’s pre-

brand’s new elevated and customised

during the day, a taste of The Palm

mier tier of hotels.

approach to design.”

Court afternoon tea, a full bar and evening canapés. For business travellers,

303-room Sheraton Grand London Park

the Club Rooms and suites also include

Lane has undergone a complete trans-

complimentary use of a private meeting

tives currently underway for Sheraton

formation of its guest rooms and public

room within the Sheraton Club Lounge,

2020, a comprehensive plan designed

spaces, combining the modern touches

which can seat up to eight people.

to solidify Sheraton as the leading

of a luxury hotel with careful restora-

global hotel brand of choice,

tion to retain the original elegance

hotel’s 21 suites have been reconfigured

everywhere.

and Art Deco glamour of this historic

to maximise space, with select rooms

property. The renovation features the

offering the option to connect

addition of 43 Sheraton Club rooms

adjoining suites.

Vice president, Sheraton, Westin and

The new hotel’s location at the Olaya District, also

a pro-sustainability culture across all

proud to welcome the Sheraton Grand

SSB brands in Europe, Africa and Middle

panding its brand in the KSA with the opening end of 2016.

East, Elena Mendez said: “We are very

Sheraton Grand is one of many initia-

Hospital, Swiss International is further ex-

of its first Green Key status for all

Joining 32 other Sheraton Grand

Having originally opened in 1927, the

ocated at the Olaya District near Saudi German

of Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Metropolitan at the

A NEW ERA BEGINS The property is set to relaunch this

COMMITMENT TO KSA

agement with the announcement

programmes designed to engender

October, following a hefty renovation.

restaurant, gym and pool deck.

In addition to the Club rooms, the

10 September 2016

ttgmena.com

NEWS

UPSCALE PROPERTY FOR TOKYO

NEWS FLASH Aeroflot and Jumeirah Group have

MAJOR SHOW REVEALS PARTNER World Travel

Tourism will be looking to speak to

Market London

WTM Buyers’ Club members from its

2016 has revealed

key source markets of the US, the UK,

India Tourism as its

China, Australia, France, Germany,

Premier Partner.

Canada and Spain as well as the

Over the last 18

partnered to offer members of the

months, the Indian

Aeroflot Bonus loyalty programme

government has

the opportunity to earn one mile

Mitsui Fudosan, a Japanese real estate development company, have announced

as Tokyo’s nightlife. The hotel tower will offer world-class dining through

plans for a luxury hotel in the heart of

multiple indoor and outdoor

Tokyo’s bustling Otemachi business

restaurants and bars, as well

the Middle East and Russia. Senior director, WTM London,

invested over $300

Simon Press said: “WTM London

million on developing

is delighted to welcome India as its

company’s 22 hotels and resorts

its tourism

Premier Partner for 2016.

worldwide. Jumeirah is also offering

infrastructure around

5,000 miles to Aeroflot Bonus

the country as it

Partner cements that relationship

aims for more than

further and puts India in a prime

13 million visitors a

position to promote the diversity

year by 2020. India

of the country’s tourism offering to

per one US dollar spent at the hotel Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and

growing markets of South East Asia,

Members who stay at any Jumeirah hotel for 15 nights or more a year. Chief commercial officer,

“Becoming WTM London’s Premier

is experiencing a

more than 9,000 important buyers

from the 39th floor rooftop

Jumeirah Group, Alison Broadhead

10 per cent annual

through the WTM Buyers’ Club.”

property is set to open in the spring of

terrace. Leisure facilities will

said: “Jumeirah’s hotels and resorts

growth in foreign

2020 with 190 guest rooms. Offering

include a spa, fitness centre

in Dubai and other countries such as

tourist arrivals

panoramic views of the city, the upscale

and indoor pool. Business

hotel will occupy the upper six floors

travellers will also benefit from

of a 39-storey office tower. It will also

the property’s meeting and

district. Part of a mixed-use development, the

as sweeping views of the city

be located in close proximity to transit

events space and an Executive

routes, shopping and dining areas as well

Club lounge.

London, the Maldives and Mallorca, have always been popular with Russian visitors."

this year taking visitor numbers to a projected nine million in 2016. The Ministry of

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES iven the challenges faced

the sector currently faces, in

by the tourism industry of

turn influencing the tourists

late, the board of directors

targeted by Morocco.

of the Moroccan National

URBAN LUXURY

Haddad further highlighted

Tourism Office (MNTO) held a

the resilience of the

council meeting recently in Rabat

destination in spite of very

under the chairmanship of Minister

unfavourable factors, with

of Tourism, Lahcen Haddad. During

2015 having the same number

the meeting, all achievements of

of arrivals as 2014 (10.2

2015 and the end performance

million).

review in May 2016 as well as

During 2015, arrivals from

Situated where urban culture and

Hotel, Changsha is an integral part of the Meixi Lake Zone in

the main projects for the coming

Sub-Saharan Africa grew four

commerce meet 3,000 years of

the city’s Two-Oriented Society Pilot District. China Jinmao

months were examined by the

per cent, as well as from the

history, The Luxury Collection

is committed to leading the development of the high-

Council members.

UK (five per cent), Germany

Hotels & Resorts is to open

tech industries in this internationalised service zone and

In addressing the board, Haddad

The Luxury Collection Hotel,

contribute to Changsha’s economy growth,” said general

focused on the difficult geopolitical

(12 per cent), Brazil (16 per

Changsha by the end of this

manager, Jinmao Hotels, the owning company of The

and security environment which

cent) and China (12 per cent).

month.

Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha, Su Jihua.

Invested in by China Jinmao

General manager, The Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha,

Holding Group Limited and

Eddie Tang said: “The Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha

will offer an urban oasis of modern luxury where guests

the property will offer guests

can enjoy serene river views, captivating culture and prime

310 guest rooms – including six

access to the city’s multilayered history.”

suites and an expansive 270m2 Presidential Suite. “The first Luxury Collection

Some of the luxury facilities that guests will be able to enjoy include a 25m heated indoor swimming pool, a 1,100m2 spa with 14 treatment rooms, four distinctive restaurants

hotel in Central China and the

ranging from casual to elegant to entertaining, and 2,700m2

first international luxury branded

of flexible event space on the third level, overlooking Meixi

hotel to open in Changsha over

Lake including the Jin Mao Grand Ballroom, meeting and

the years, The Luxury Collection

board rooms.

12 September 2016

ttgmena.com

(eight per cent), the Gulf States

INTERVIEW

AWESOME ENTERTAINMENT TTG: Tell us about the exciting concept

many ways it’s a great offering for the

behind La Perle and who it's aimed at.

MICE segment as it’s easy to bolt it onto another Dubai MICE offering. The show

Dragone saw an opportunity to contribute

itself cannot be customised but we can

to Dubai’s vision. In fact, we expect the

customise the before and after.

majority of tickets to be purchased by tourists – this is the first opportunity for

TTG: How will La Perle be adapted to

them to experience anything like this,

suit the Middle East markets?

such a visual feast. La Perle is the story of Dubai – its future. And the great thing

La Perle will not be adapted as it is

about Dubai is that it is a laboratory of

being created for and in the Middle East,

the future. If you think of the people, they

and there is no dialogue so there is no

come from such a varied background.

language barrier. It is also culturally appropriate as they are in full costume

TTG: How will La Perle enhance Dubai’s

dress. This makes it ideal for Dubai,

already strong leisure offering as well as

given the many nationalities [making up

bolstering a number of other segments

the emirate].

such as MICE? Dubai has an unrivalled leisure offering and La Perle is a complement with 450

TTG: Tell our readers a bit about the location. How is it unique?

shows a year. However, ours is a night

Executive producer, Dragone, Craig Hartenstine talks to Natalie Hami about the dazzling live performance show that is set to elevate Dubai’s leisure and MICE offering

time offer, for example, the average

It is performed in a custom made state-

tourist comes for three-four days, so what

of-the-art theatre, and the special

would you do at night and now there’s this

effects have been in the making for

wonderful opportunity to see La Perle.

the last four to five years. It cannot be

We’ve already started receiving requests

replicated in a standard theatre and

to buy out the show in 2018. Furthermore,

could never be replicated, as it’s built for

we want to create a bespoke experience

Dubai. In addition, the technology has

for employees and partners. Groups can

been taken from industry but has never

also buy out a space [if they wish]. In

been used in theatre before.

About... Al Habtoor Group and Dragone confirm La Perle will open in March 2017. La Perle will take advantage of new ground breaking technology, previously not seen in theatres before, in order to make it the most immersive and spectacular theatrical experience in the region. As a result, group bookings will be taken from March.

What? The UAE’s first resident live performance masterpiece A culmination of theatre, intense aerial and aquatic thrills, and technical wizardry A cast of 65 world-class artists

Where? An intimate 1,300 seat state-of-the-art theatre A tailor made aqua-stage that holds 2.5 million litres of water Al Habtoor City, an upscale enclave on the banks of Dubai Water Canal

When? 450+ performances every year Performances from Tuesday to Saturday, at 19:00 and 21:30

September 2016

ttgmena.com

DESTINATION OMAN

WINNING LEGACY Oman truly stands out among the MENA countries with its fascinating terrain, heartwarming hospitality and maturing tourism product. Tatiana Tsierkezou catches up with the industry to unveil developments, trends and forecasts

DESTINATION OMAN he Sultanate of Oman is fully aware of

has continued to invest in further development of

this will cascade down to raising the country’s profile as a perfect

its charm and ability to woo anyone

the tourism industry due to limitless potential as a

holiday destination, full of culture, history and unique experiences.”

who walks its beautiful and cultural

key revenue driver. Over the last year, we witnessed

lands. It is therefore consciously

the government invest in impressive infrastructural

Resort Salalah by Anantara, James Hewitson also noted: “As the

working to boost its economy by capitalising on

projects that have played a very pivotal role in boosting

hotel’s launch draws closer, our main focus at the moment is making

tourism and working on its infrastructure to make

tourism in the Sultanate.”

the market aware of the brand and the unique elements of our

the country more attractive to tourists spanning the globe. Reflecting on Oman’s allure was director of sales, InterContinental Muscat, Youssef Alonzo: “Oman is a beautiful and spectacular country.

More specifically, Kamal was referring to the opening

Anticipating the property’s opening, general manager, Al Baleed

property. We have done this through a number of different methods

of the new Salalah Airport last year as well as work on

but mostly focused on communications (marketing, advertising and

the new Muscat International Airport, which aims to

PR). We have also had the help of our fantastic sales team who have

accommodate 12 million passengers per annum.

been spreading the world and teaming up with tour operators to help

Commenting on this in more detail was Al Haremi

us get a foot in the door.

Its unique nature and landscape attracts tourists

of Oman Air: “In parallel with the expansion of Oman’s

“We plan on giving GCC residents a fantastic opening offer and

worldwide – even business travellers decide to

hospitality sector is the growth of our airports sector.

then after that, in true Anantara style, we will roll out a number of

stay a few extra days to tap into the undiscovered

Salalah International Airport has been enlarged and

packages and experiences to entice different types of travellers,” he

wonders that this land is known for.”

includes a range of outstanding new facilities, including

concluded to TTG.

Also referring to Oman’s grace was senior

Oman Air’s sumptuous premium airport lounge. New

manager – corporate communications and media,

airports at Sohar, Duqm, Ras Al Hadd and Adam have

Oman Air, Usama Al Haremi, who told TTG: “The

been opened, or are about to come on-stream, and the

country offers warm and authentic hospitality,

new airport in Muscat will soon be opened. This will

awe-inspiring landscapes and 3,000km of pristine

be able to accommodate 12 million passengers a year,

And while all of these exciting pipeline projects are intriguing the

coastline. It is a unique destination and one that is

with subsequent phases of expansion accommodating

industry, the movers and shakers of Oman’s tourism network must

attracting more and more visitors, both from the

24, 36 and 48 million passengers a year. I am proud to

keep up-to-date with trends and expectations.

GCC region and worldwide.”

say that Oman Air is playing a key role in preparing the airport to accept its first customers.”

EXPECTATIONS AND TRENDS

When quizzed on whether any significant tourism trends have been witnessed over the last year, Al Haremi replied: “Visitors to Oman are generally in search of the ‘real’ Arabia: one that retains its authentic

SEASON OF CHANGE

spirit and culture, has not been overly affected by ‘progress’ and whose unspoiled landscapes reflect the region’s rugged beauty. The

Since the arrival of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin

Sultanate of Oman is one of the very few places that still offers this,

Said, who assumed the prestigious role of Sultan

thanks to the wisdom and long-term planning of His Majesty Sultan

in the 1970s, the destination has been working diligently to expand its tourism inventory. The country has long been home to a range of exclusive hotels and resorts, especially in the Muscat area. Al Haremi explained that expansion is

Oman is a beautiful and spectacular country.

moving ahead, not just in terms of luxury

are other impressive and game-changing projects,

the country’s determination to tap into markets

according to Alonzo of InterContinental Muscat.

“Oman’s investment in its tourism sector has

witnessing an increasing number of visitors from Asia. “We are also welcoming increasing numbers of sports enthusiasts, who are attracted by Oman’s climbing, trekking, diving and sailing opportunities. And we continue to welcome visitors who are attracted atmosphere,” Al Haremi added.

Alongside these transportation developments

breakfast-type accommodation, thus, highlighting of all types.

Adding to this, he shared with TTG that Oman Air has been

by Oman’s year-round sun, high-quality hotels and safe, relaxing

accommodation, but also across three- and fourstar properties, boutique hotels and bed and

Qaboos bin Said and his Ministers.”

“There are many tourism developments underway

Meanwhile, Alonzo shared that InterContinental Muscat has been witnessing steady business in 2016. “We are optimistic about 2017 because of the many tourist and investment initiatives that will help lure the business and leisure

in Oman that work hand-in-hand to boost tourism in

guests into this promising destination. We are open to all markets and

been significant, and continues to be so. We are

the country. The Omagine Project [a development

are keen on the Far Eastern and Sub-Continent Asia region.”

seeing this not just in Muscat, but throughout the

in Muscat that will comprise of four- and five-star

Sultanate: from Salalah to Jebel Shams, Sohar to

hotels, an open theatre, a small marina and a series of

Inn Duqm hotels are implementing new strategies to keep updated

Nizwa,” he added.

restaurants], Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre

with the latest trends.

And with these developments spanning the

and new hotel complex openings around the country

Moving on to Neves, he explained that the Park Inn Muscat and Park

“This year, we see that the upcoming trends are online marketing,

entire country, Oman’s Ministry of Tourism is

are just a few of the many initiatives [set] to boost

growth of millennial travellers, food, health and wellness, boutique

striving to promote it as a year-round destination.

tourism,” he exclusively shared.

hotels, connectivity and sustainability. Living in a mobile era,

According to the new cluster general manager

Alonzo further touched upon the fact that

technology and Internet are the key fundamental needs of a traveller.

of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm

InterContinental Hotels Group is bolstering its Oman

As a hotel we have to have a competitive edge to stay in the game,

and Park Inn by Radisson Muscat, Nuno Neves,

portfolio with InterContinental Muscat Hills Gulf Resort

thus, we are more active on social media platforms which help us

Oman’s Ministry of Tourism is developing more

and Crowne Plaza Muscat Oman Conferences and

engage more with the guests.”

facilities and a number of major projects in order

Exhibitions Center.

to cater to the needs of year-round tourism. “These developments are aimed at making

Neves explained that the hotels have upgraded their free high-

Meanwhile, Minor Hotel Group is bolstering its

speed Internet – a must for any business traveller – while the Park

footprint in the Sultanate this year, with two new, ultra-

Inn brand website now proudly boasts a fresh new look that makes it

Oman not just a seasonal destination by creating

luxurious hotels: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

more user-friendly and accessible.

activities during the off-season period and

and Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar.

allowing visitors to experience the country’s

Finally, Kamal of Salalah Rotana Resort told TTG that in Salalah,

General manager, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar,

different weather. This will also attract families

Darren Darwin told TTG: “As a market leader, we

from other areas, granting them the chance to

believe that Anantara’s presence in Oman will continue

enjoy the beauty of Oman.”

to develop the country [to entice more] international

Also touching upon other tourism

the leisure segment is a key driver of tourism with guests visiting to discover the city’s rich cultural heritage and friendly climate. “It is also important to note there is a growing demand for the MICE segment from neighbouring GCC countries and beyond,” he added.

travellers and place Oman firmly on the map as a

advancements within the country was general

sought after destination in the Middle East. As a global

Poised for success, Oman has a clear vision for its tourism

manager, Salalah Rotana Resort, Hossam Kamal:

brand, we will also be using our resources around the

portfolio and an incomparable understanding of the needs and

“The government of the Sultanate of Oman

world to promote our opening in Oman, and we hope

wants of its visitors.

September 2016

ttgmena.com

DESTINATION OMAN

LINKING OMAN AND IRAQ

ANTICIPATING NEW HOTELS

POSITIONED FOR SUCCESS Introducing something extra special to Oman, Anantara

arking its first service to Iraq, Oman Air is this

Al Jabal Al Akhdar Hotel is expected to up the coun-

month adopting four-times-weekly flights from

try’s luxury game. The property's general manager, Darren Darwin

Muscat to Najaf.

shared his hopes and expectations with TTG: “As we

The news is a strategic move to assist with strengthening political, economic and social links

are a new property opening in Oman with a number of

between the two countries.

unique selling points (including being the highest five-

Enthusing on the ground breaking news was deputy

star property in the Middle East), we believe Q4 will be

CEO and executive vice president commercial, Oman Air,

successful in terms of footfall with hopefully many ea-

Abdulrahman Al Busaidy: “Oman Air is undertaking an

ger guests wanting to visit the property. We plan on giv-

ambitious growth programme to develop our network

ing GCC residents a fantastic opening offer and will be

and ensure international connectivity. We are committed

Over the next two years,

– both of which

introducing a number of unique indigenous experiences

to ensuring that our customers have greater choice and

Oman Tourism Develop-

will be situated at the

to entice different types of travellers.”

the opportunity to discover new destinations. We are

ment Company (Omran)

flagship master develop-

therefore delighted to be launching this exciting new

will be delivering three

ment, Madinat Al Irfan

service to Najaf.”

new hotels that are

Urban Centre.

expected to contribute more than 900 rooms. The Sultanate will be hotel, which is currently

reinvigoration of the seg-

under construction and

ment as it works with the

situated next to the Royal

public and private sectors

Darwin shared that the hotel will first focus on at-

Opera House Muscat; a

to establish a robust plat-

tracting the fruitful GCC market, while he also antici-

five-star JW Marriott and

form for Oman to grow

pates great interest from food connoisseurs, leisure

a four-star Crowne Plaza

steadily and sustainably.

travellers and wellness enthusiasts.

Promising its visitors endless hours of fun and

comic book fans but the

entertainment, Oman Convention & Exhibition

entire family. With its diverse

Centre (OCEC) has confirmed that it will

attractions and activities,

be hosting IGN Convention from December

IGN Convention is an event

9-10, 2016.

not to be missed, expecting

just pop-culture followers and video game, film and

to attract thousands of

welcome a number of special guests including

attendees to Oman’s state-of-

Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn, among

the art events hub.” OCEC also recently

Attendees will enjoy a range of activities,

announced that it will be

games and discussion panels throughout the

hosting OmanPlast, the

two-day event. Free workshops, concerts and live

Sultanate’s leading Plastics

video game music will also take place.

and Petrochemicals event,

General manager, OCEC, Trevor McCartney enthused: “IGN Convention is on a mission to

are said to represent the first stage in Omran’s

enthral and entertain not

others.

tionally branded hotels

We believe Q4 will be successful in terms of footfall.

welcoming a five-star W

AN ODE TO POP-CULTURE

Oman’s inaugural comics event is expected to

The three new interna-

taking place from March

CONSCIENTIOUS EFFORT Speaking exclusively to TTG, cluster general manager, Park Inn Muscat and Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm, Nuno Neves speaks to TTG about the importance of sustainability and CSR in Oman

21-23, 2017.

16 September 2016

Sustainability is the future

community through its

food to customers. The

of tourism. Park Inn by

corporate responsibility

acquirement of this cer-

Radisson Muscat and Park

programmes, participating

tificate is another step the

Inn by Radisson Hotel

in activities such as beach

hotel has taken to prove

& Residence Duqm are

clean-ups, recycling drives

its commitment to offer-

Green Key certified hotels,

and supporting local

ing the best to its guests

a label awarded to around

charities.

while conducting busi-

2,400 hotels and other

Park Inn by Radisson

ness in a responsible way.

businesses worldwide,

Muscat has secured the

In addition, the second

acknowledging their com-

coveted HACCP Certifi-

newly opened Park Inn

mitment to eco-friendly

cate (The Hazard Analysis

by Radisson Hotel & Resi-

business practices.

and Critical Control Point)

dence Duqm is working

for its efforts in provid-

on achieving the HACCP

ing safe and wholesome

certification.

Both hotels have built close ties to the local ttgmena.com

DESTINATION OMAN

REMARKABLE EVOLUTION Eager to gather insider information on Oman’s tourism industry and initiatives, Tatiana Tsierkezou exclusively spoke with director general of tourism promotion, Ministry of Tourism, Oman, Salim Al Mamari, who shared all TTG: What tourism developments are currently underway across Oman?

accommodate world congresses, exhibitions, regional meetings,

convenient transportation options as well as comfortable

gala events, performances and concerts. The OCEC is located 10

luxury hotel rooms, and proximity to the airport.

minutes away from the new Muscat International Airport, and Currently, we are focusing on a summer

offers 1,000 hotel rooms within the precinct including a shopping

campaign called ‘Discover Oman’s Beauty’ to

mall and business park. The OCEC is due to be completed

promote Oman as a summer destination to GCC

in 2017.

countries. Our neighbouring GCC countries are

TTG: What are you doing to raise awareness of Oman’s impressive tourism portfolio? We participate in a number of travel and tourism shows

key markets for us, as they are the closest in

TTG: Have you picked up on any major trends over the

across the GCC and the globe, most recently the Arabian

terms of geographical proximity and tourists from

last year?

Travel Market in Dubai, ITB in Berlin and IMEX in Frankfurt.

GCC countries visit Oman the most often over weekends, or over longer four to five day breaks.

Additionally, we have a digital and PR campaign running For leisure travellers, Oman is a destination that offers

for the ‘Discover Oman's Beauty’ summer campaign which

something for everyone. The monsoon (Khareef) season and

runs across the GCC. We have also conducted a number of

across the Sultanate, including the Saraya Bandar

cooling mountain areas offer a respite from the hot summer for

successful trade shows in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait

Jissah ITC, W Hotel and Kempinski, The Wave in

GCC tourists. However, water sports, turtle watching, cultural

to promote our summer packages to travel agents and

Muscat, Grand Millennium, Anantara Al Jabal Al

and heritage experiences are also picking up in the Sultanate.

tourists in the GCC.

Akhdar in Al Dakhiliya and Anantara Al Baleed

The country also offers a variety of experiences from mountains,

in Dhofar. We have also invested in a 1,207m2

wadis, beaches and desert, to points of cultural and historical

TTG: Finally, how do you predict 2016 will pan out for

space for the National Museum in Muscat, which

interest. The Royal Opera House in Muscat is a big draw for

Oman’s tourism industry?

contains some of the richest and oldest pieces of

tourists, as is the unspoiled 3,000km coastline.

A number of new hotels and resorts are opening

Omani heritage.

For visitors from Europe looking for an introduction to the

In total, Oman saw about 2.5 million tourists visit the

Arabian Gulf, Oman’s political stability and safety and security,

country in 2015 and around one million were from the GCC.

up the Oman Convention and Exhibition Bureau,

coupled with its stunning natural beauty and legendary Omani

In 2014, Oman welcomed 2.1 million tourists. This reflects a

a government body in charge of developing the

hospitality make it the destination of choice.

17.7 per cent increase in the number of tourists from 2014

In terms of MICE tourism, we have recently set

Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC). It

Corporate travellers require conference centres, meeting

is situated within a purpose built, fully integrated

rooms and exhibition halls that are equipped with the latest

attractions being developed, we hope to welcome even

business precinct and has been designed to

technology in order to run events smoothly, that offer

more in 2016.

18 September 2016

ttgmena.com

to 2015, and with the number of new hotels and tourism

UPDATE QATAR

EXPERT WORKMANSHIP

routes include daily services to Pisa, Italy and direct services between Doha and Birmingham in the UK. And naturally a number of Doha properties have been taking their cue from Qatar Airways’ new routes, encouraging them to target the relevant feeder markets. One such property is Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. “As a result of our long business relationship with Qatar Airways, we have been welcoming their transient guests which will increase as Qatar Airways acquires new links to international destinations. Therefore, we are targeting all markets,” said cluster director of sales and marketing, Wyndham Grand Regency Doha, Tarek Shehata. And following suit is Regency Travel and Tours, which according to its CEO, Tareq Abdullatif Taha, will be capitalising on Qatar Airways’ new services by aligning its own business strategy along similar lines. He said: “The new routes and destinations from Qatar Airways open up new possibilities for us. We align our leisure products and outbound tourism offering to compliment the new destinations and promote the same via newspaper advertisements and social media. We constantly offer new products to our client base in Qatar.”

STRONG BASE However, the backbone of Qatar’s tourism achievements is Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), spurring on the industry and its various entities, which take their cue from the Authority. Working tirelessly, QTA has recently introduced a number of initiatives focused on attracting foreign and local investment to the

Boasting an enviable tourism portfolio, Qatar aims to keep its product strong and fluid, developing with the needs of the industry, as Natalie Hami discovers

destination. A QTA spokesperson explained to TTG that the tourism body has established a Tourism Investment Promotion Unit, which works to encourage local and international investment in tourism and provides the support and guidance needed by investors. In addition, in conjunction with Qatar Chamber of Commerce, QTA has been working to identify licensing solutions aimed at enhancing investment opportunities within the sector. A more streamlined process for licensing operations has been developed in a bid to attract local

onstantly aspiring to appeal to an array of

– within the next two to three years. We have our first hotel

and foreign investment in tourism, through which the average time needed to

in Qatar – Langham Place, Doha, Lusail City, slated to open

acquire a tourism license has been significantly reduced from several weeks to

in 2018.”

two days.

The start of 2017 will welcome the five-star Centara

visitors, it seems Qatar

Grand West Bay, Doha, boasting a specialty Thai spa and

– with the assistance

a large selection of dining outlets including a fine dining

STANDING OUT FROM THE CROWD

of key stakeholders – has

grill room, an Arabic and international restaurant, and

Meanwhile, as Qatar’s tourism industry reaches new heights, already established

successfully created a tourism

Centara’s own brand contemporary Thai venue, plus

members of the industry must ensure that they stand out from the crowd.

inventory to be rivalled in the

a tempting patisserie outlet. The property’s general

MENA region; a complete product

manager, James Robert Wilson revealed to TTG which

manager, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas, Christoph Franzen told TTG that

which calls out to business and

source markets the city hotel will be focusing on. “Our

the hotel will now be welcoming guests to its upgraded work-out facilities and

leisure travellers alike, along with

leisure target markets will include GCC nationals who

improved beach facilities. According to Franzen, the property is also in the

culture, history and culinary buffs.

are perhaps looking for something new in the city with a

process of finalising new food and beverage concepts, which will hopefully be

different feel and unique service ethic. South East Asia

implemented next year.

Meanwhile, developments

Area vice president for the State of Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman/general

within this sophisticated

will also be an important tourism market since this area

destination continue in the form

represents our ‘home ground’ where our brand has a

Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, according to its general manager, Andreas

of new hotels established by

strong presence and loyalty base, throughout Thailand

Wissdorf.

prominent brands such as luxury

and across Vietnam and Indonesia. European travellers

global hotel company, Langham

– specifically those from the UK, Italy and Germany – will

convenient for both target audiences. Additionally, our 577 rooms and suites,

Hospitality Group and Thai luxury

also be a key demographic to reach as they are frequent

including 122 luxurious apartments for long-stay guests, provide luxurious

hotel company, Centara Hotels

travellers to Doha.”

accommodation solutions in Doha.

and Resorts. Langham Hospitality Group’s

And further upping Qatar’s hotel room count is the

Seamlessly catering to both the business and leisure segments is Marriott

“Firstly the central location with direct mall access to the City Center Mall is

“At the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel we blend work and play

recently opened Centro Capital Doha and DoubleTree

seamlessly, adapting to the demands of the next generation traveller. Our

vice president sales and

by Hilton Hotel Doha Old Town. According to general

signature Greatroom concept is a public space, designed for guests to meet and

marketing, Simon Manning

manager, Centro Capital Doha, Luca Medda, the team is

socialise, which features a meeting room set up with boardroom table, TV and

spoke exclusively to TTG on the

currently focusing on creating a ‘wonderful stay

in-built connectivity to conduct a meeting for up to eight people.”

company’s upcoming plans

for a guest’.

for Doha.

The five-star property also pays dividends to the destination’s burgeoning

“Even though it has only been a few months since we

F&B segments with 10 dining options including the first authentic Brazilian

opened, we are already experiencing many guests from

Churrascaria, Ipanema, the fine-dining New York Steakhouse, the Italian Kitchen

important market for our group

various countries enjoying our new product in town,”

Cucina and Champions Sports Bar.

and we are excited that we are

said Medda.

“The Middle East is an

making in-roads into the Middle

Hotel developments aside, the destination’s flag carrier

Casting aside its reputation as simply a destination for business travellers,

East, at the same time frame

is also providing a helping hand in enabling access to new

Qatar is now grabbing worldwide attention as it caters to a broader

working with like-minded owners

feeder markets. Some of Qatar Airways’ most recent

range of tastes.

20 September 2016

ttgmena.com

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‫منتجعات‬

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UPDATE QATAR

PREPARED FOR SUCCESS

We are actually about to launch a brand new menu, ‘Only At’ which will be launched in Hakkasan

AMBITIOUS PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

properties worldwide. The ‘Only At’ promotion will use locally inspired

In a bid to enhance its guest

comprise one-, two- and

a unique mix of facilities

dishes, all of which have been

experience, the InterCon-

three-bedroom apartments

for both the business and

constructed by local produce, to

tinental Doha is about

and villas, a luxurious high

leisure traveller.

create a menu which will be unique

to complete an extensive

tech Spa InterContinental,

to each and every Hakkasan. Set

revamp, according to area

an all new Coral all-day din-

to launch this September, the

director for sales and

ing experience along with a

exclusive menu will consist of eight

marketing – Qatar, Kuwait,

revamped Greek dining op-

à la carte dishes and one dessert

and Bahrain, InterConti-

tion at Mykonos,” explained

which will be accompanied by eight

nental Hotels Group, Janet

Turner to TTG.

Boasting the only fine-dining Cantonese restaurant in Qatar, general manager, Hakkasan Doha, Milos Zekovic talks to TTG about its latest taste bud tantalising innovations

exclusive cocktails, all of which

Turner.

TTG: Share with our readers your latest

There are many reasons as to

and most exciting news.

why we are a popular choice for

will tie in with Hakkasan’s 15

She also highlighted that

“This will see the addi-

every improvement has

tion of 120 new club rooms

been carefully undertaken

and suites, an extensive

to ensure that the property

TTG: How does Hakkasan Doha

club lounge, 90 beachfront

remains the only destina-

stand out from other dining

residential units which

tion in Qatar which provides

anniversary.

experiences in Qatar?

consumers in Doha, one of the main We have launched many exciting offers

factors being that we are the only

and promotions over the last few months

fine-dining Cantonese restaurant

including the launch of our Saturday Lunch,

in the city which serves innovative

an offer which has become very popular

dishes and creative cocktails. As

with the expat and local community in Doha.

we import special produce from

Most recently, we have introduced the Ling

outside Qatar, I feel this gives us

Ling menu which will celebrate the opening

an edge and through many market

of Ling Ling Marrakech with a limited edition

surveys, we understand that our

cocktail flight illustrating the ‘Evolution

guests feel that we give them what

of Ling Ling’, from London to Mykonos to

they are looking for in terms of

Marrakech, paired with three dim sum.

F&B, atmosphere and an all-round

Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) has launched a new corporate brand and domain name, aligning QTA’s corporate brand with the Qatar destination brand, launched last November. It also unifies the organisation’s online presence under the single domain name of VisitQatar.qa.

ITALIAN CONNECTION

experience. We also pride ourselves

TTG: What bespoke/exclusive

on great customer service,

2002, Rome since 2003

experiences are you offering diners at

something that our guests always

and Venice since 2011.

the moment?

appreciate and comment on.

The airline already offers five daily frequencies to Italy: two to Milan and Rome and one to Venice. The new daily flight to Pisa will increase the

HOSPITALITY INVESTMENT

airline’s weekly flights from Doha to Italy from 35 to 42. Chief executive, Qatar Airways Group, Akbar Al

Looking to boost its position in Doha, home-grown

Baker said: “Pisa is an

brand Retaj Hotels & Hospitality will be manag-

isa, Italy recently welcomed its first Qatar

important addition to our

ing yet another property in the city, the Retaj Inn

Airways flight from Doha at its international

route map, strengthening

Msheireb.

airport.

our ties with the people

Located in the heart of Doha, in the Msheireb

The Airbus A330 landed and was subsequently

of Italy by offering them

area, the new hotel will be home to 110 guest rooms

greeted by a celebratory water canon salute as well

another opportunity

and suites. Ideal for both business and leisure travel-

as a welcome ceremony with flags and drums from

to connect with more

lers, it is slated to open to the public this November.

people in traditional costumes. The VIP delegation

than 150 business and

on board the flight, which included the airline’s

leisure destinations. We

Group, Mohammed Bin Johar Al-Mohammad elabo-

senior vice president for Europe, Jonathan Harding,

are equally delighted to

rated that the group has plans on further expanding

were welcomed by airport authority representa-

be giving our loyal pas-

its reach both within and outside Qatar, especially in

tives including president, Tuscany Airports, Marco

sengers from around the

the hotel and hospitality sector.

Carrai, CEO, Tuscany Airports, Gina Giani and

globe the chance to visit

Mayor of Pisa, Marco Filippeschi.

the beautiful city of Pisa

Vice chairman and managing director, Retaj

Johar Al-Mohammad further commented that this signing is a result of the successful plans, visions and policies formulated by Retaj Board of Directors.

22 September 2016

Pisa is the fourth city in Italy to be served by Qatar Airways, which has been flying to Milan since ttgmena.com

and the surrounding region of Tuscany.”

ON LOCATION USA favourite for the millions of visitors who head to the destination every year and a bucket list destination for the rest of the world, the US needs no introduction. The tourism numbers speak for themselves, attesting to the States’ sheer popularity. According to preliminary data made available by the US Department of Commerce, National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) in its report, International

Visitation to the United States: A Statistical Summary of U.S. Visitation (2015), the country welcomed 77.5 million overnight international visitors in 2015, setting a record. According to the report, this represents ‘a sixth consecutive record for total arrivals to the United States’, reflecting the destination’s growing desirability for international travellers, a result in part due to the increase in the amount of people travelling. CEO, Orange County Visitors Association, Ed Fuller elaborated on this exclusively to TTG: “The visitor market continues to grow due to the expansion of our global travellers. All market age groups are therefore increasing. The United States has seen the market increase from global source markets.” He added that Orange County has specifically seen an increase in young middle-class visitors. Fuller also commented: “The newest market is the Middle East which has increased over the past

AMERICAN MUSCLE Welcoming record numbers of visitors, the US is constantly bolstering its tourism product, as Panayiotis Markides discovers

three years.” With the rise in arrivals of MENA travellers, US stakeholders are striving to attract the market

Middle Eastern breakfast options, to our Arabic speaking Guest

is also under development: “Recently renovated hotels, such as

further, as TTG discovers.

Relations Ambassador, Arabic television channels and a Holy

SIXTY Beverly Hills and Mosaic Hotel, and the launch of Waldorf

Quran available if requested. We want our guests to feel at

Astoria Beverly Hills arriving in 2017, will herald a new era of

ease here in Los Angeles. Additionally, we partner with local

modern luxury accommodation for the destination.” She noted

businesses, such as Westfield Century City to provide a custom

that the city is also home to one of the largest concentrations

shopping experience for MENA region travellers.”

of five-star hotels in the US, second only to New York City.

A MARKET IN DEMAND A large part of this growing market is the Middle Eastern traveller - a market that premier

From the south west coast of the US to the north east shores

Turning to the West Coast, principal/co-founder, Lang &

in New York City, Middle Eastern travellers are being targeted

Schwander, Sebastian Lang revealed the hotel design firm’s

for business. “MENA travellers are an integral part of New

upcoming projects across the US: “We are working on an

the sixth largest inbound market in 2015, providing

York City’s tourism landscape, and the city welcomes visitors

exciting property in Bay Harbor, Miami Beach, in which we

1.3 million visitors (up 10 per cent from 2014), and

with open arms,” said senior vice president, global tourism

have provided a very complete scope of services from interior

with an active approach taken by US stakeholders

development, NYC & Company, Makiko Matsuda Healy to TTG.

design to custom manufacturing of the furniture, fixtures and

this number is only set to increase.

Healy enthused that the city is a family friendly destination, and

equipment to procurement of various miscellaneous items.

noted it is ‘the safest big city in the United States’ with much to

We are also currently working on the redesign and furnishing

Bureau (BHCVB), Julie Wagner relayed to TTG the

offer guests, from museum exhibitions, Broadway shows and

of a Hyatt Centric, the Hyatt Hotel Corporation’s new brand of

importance of the MENA market to the larger-than-

New York City’s waterfront.

hotels directed at a full-service boutique hotel experience for

destinations are eager to attract within the US. In fact, according to NTTO, the Middle East ranked

CEO, Beverly Hills Conference and Visitors

leisure travellers, which we are certain will be quite

life destination. “The Middle East is ranked 10 in th

global luxury markets, according to recent data from Bain & Co, and continues to demand luxury goods

SETTING THE BENCHMARK

a landmark.” Focusing on keeping a visitor’s experience as the key reason

in spite of fluctuations internationally. It is therefore

Across the US, stakeholders are working to keep pace with the

to visit Las Vegas, namely through providing unforgettable

an important region for Beverly Hills. Middle Eastern

destination’s popularity, with more and more rooms being added

gastronomy and entertainment, vice president, leisure sales,

tourists, whilst they make up a smaller percentage

to the country’s inventory.

Caesars Entertainment, Susan Moore described how the group

of total visits, generally have a higher spend whilst in

Vice president sales and marketing, Langham Hospitality

has achieved this: “We have experienced a focus on celebrity

Group, Simon Manning highlighted the group’s US pipeline

chefs as part of travel trends over the last several years. With

toTTG: “Langham Place, Wade Park, located in Frisco, Texas,

this trend, Caesars Palace welcomed the first Wolfgang Puck

through media exposure and attending trade and

will open in early 2018 as part of the exciting Wade Park

restaurant in the destination and is now home to Gordon

travel shows, sales missions and trade events in the

development, a $1.6 billion, 175-acre project created by Thomas

Ramsay, Bobby Flay, Guy Savoy, Francois Payard and other

MENA region. We participate in the Arabian

Land & Development.” He revealed the property will boast a

popular chefs from around the world. We have also set the

Travel Market.”

range of guest rooms, including several one- and two-bedroom

trend with resident headliners in Vegas with the opening of A

suites and two impressive 270m Presidential Suites. In addition,

New Day by Celine Dion, spanning now to Rod Stewart, Elton

and marketing, InterContinental Los Angeles

Langham will welcome Langham Place, San Francisco, part of

John, Reba, Brooks & Dunn and Mariah Carey.”

Century City, Jake Megrikian, who emphasised

the new Transbay Transit Center; and The Langham, Bishop’s

the importance of the MENA region to the Beverly

Lodge, Santa Fe in New Mexico. Manning informed TTG that the

With an eclectic tourism product at hand and endless

Hills property: “We make a conscious effort to

Santa Fe property will be the company’s first true resort when

appeal globally, the US is promoting itself strongly to the

create an atmosphere that feels like a home away

it opens.

MENA market, as it aims to welcome larger numbers of

the city.” Wagner added: “We try to attract the market

Agreeing with Wagner was director of sales

from home for our MENA region guests: from our

Wagner revealed to TTG that Beverly Hills’ selection of hotels

24 September 2016

ttgmena.com

travellers to its shores.

ON LOCATION USA

A GROWING FLEET

New York-based JetBlue Airways has amended

JetBlue, Robin Hayes. “The A321 is an

its purchase agreement with Airbus to include

incredible aircraft that is delivering

an additional 15 Airbus A321ceo (current

results for our business. We intend

engine option) and 15 A321neo (new engine

to deploy many of these aircraft to

option) aircraft. The airline, which already

expand our successful Mint experience

operates A321s, has not yet announced its

and our West Coast presence.”

engine selection for the newly ordered aircraft. Beginning in 2019, JetBlue has the flexibility to

160 A320 Family aircraft, comprising

configure the New Engine Option aircraft to the

of 130 A320s and 30 A321s. Including

Longer Range version of the A321 – the A321LR.

the order announced today, the

“Airbus has been our partner since the

UPDATING ITS INVENTORY

JetBlue currently operates a fleet of

airline’s backlog of Airbus aircraft

beginning, and we are proud that our partnership

comprises 116 planes: 25 A320neo, 31

continues today,” said president and CEO,

A321ceo and 60 A321neo aircraft.

SAN FRANCISCO ICON UNVEILED

BREAKING RECORDS Announcing a successful performance for the tourism sector in 2016, Governor of Florida, Rick Scott announced that the State of Florida recently set a record in tourism by welcoming the highest amount of visitors of any six months in the state’s history with 57.4 million visitors. The number of out-of-state and international visitors represents a 4.3 per cent increase over the previous year. In Q2 2016 (April-June), 27.3 million visitors came to the state, an increase of 3.1 per cent over the same period in 2015. The average number of direct travel-related jobs in Q2 of 2016 was also a record high, with an increase of 4.3 per cent year over year.

aldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts has announced its newest property, Waldorf Astoria San Francisco, which will be the centrepiece of a 185,000m2 mixed-used complex that will

BIG APPLE GETS ROOM BOOST

feature luxury entertainment, retail and office space. Waldorf Astoria San Francisco will reside

Caesars Entertainment

while 672 rooms at Harrah’s Las

has been busy renovating

Vegas have been overhauled in the

within the first 21 stories of a signature

4,800 hotel rooms during

hotel’s south tower which has been

tower designed by the architecture

2016 at four of its Las

rebranded as the Valley Tower.

firm Foster + Partners. The hotel will be

Vegas resorts.

Later this year, Paris Las Vegas

situated in the city’s exciting new Transbay

will begin taking reservations for the

Neighbourhood, in the centre of a vast

with the Caesars Palace

approximately 1,320 rooms and suites

redevelopment project surrounding the

Las Vegas’ original

that are currently being transformed.

Transbay Transit Centre.

tower, the Roman

The room and suite upgrades at

The renovations began

The property will offer an elegant and

According to analysts at

comprising of 8,868

Tower, which has been

all four Las Vegas hotels will include

spacious spa for wellness enthusiasts, as

Lodging Econometrics,

rooms that are set to start

reborn as the new Julius

modern rooms and soft goods. All

well as an iconic Peacock Alley serving a

consulting partner

in the next 12 months,

Tower in time for the

rooms will feature enhanced in-

San Francisco approach to the legendary

for global real estate

while there are 31 projects

hotel’s 50 anniversary.

room electronics, new furnishings,

cuisine and libations that have established

intelligence in the lodging

in the early planning

The Julius Tower will

large 50-inch TVs as well as fully

Waldorf Astoria as synonymous with

industry, the New York

stage, bringing a total of

boast 586 rooms and

refurbished bathrooms along with

unforgettable luxury experiences.

City hotel construction

4,243 rooms.

is expected to welcome

elevated in-room amenities and

guests in January 2016.

services.

The property has also

The renovation represents

“With the revitalisation taking place

pipeline is at 196 Projects

The company

around the Transbay Transit Centre, this

(32,121 rooms) – the

reports that Marriott

neighbourhood is poised to become a

largest pipeline in the

International has the

US. New York City also

most pipeline projects

refreshed approximately

approximately 20 per cent of rooms

major hub for locals and global luxury

948 rooms in the

in Las Vegas and 15 per cent of total

travellers, which underscores Waldorf

has the highest number

under construction of

Augustus Tower.

rooms throughout the company.

Astoria’s commitment to being in the

of projects under

any franchise company

At the end of 2016, following the

centre of coveted gateway destinations,”

construction with 103

in New York City with 22

company has reimagined

completion of this series of room

said global head, Waldorf Astoria Hotels &

projects (19,010 rooms), or

properties, bringing an

more than 1,294 rooms

renovations, Caesars Entertainment

Resorts, John Vanderslice. “Waldorf Astoria

53 per cent of New York’s

inventory of 5,526 rooms,

and suites at its Planet

will have updated more than 10,000

San Francisco marks our third property in

total pipeline. There are

the largest of which is a

Hollywood property,

hotel rooms in the last three years.

California,” he added.

reportedly 62 projects

614-room Moxy.

Additionally, the

September 2016

ttgmena.com

SPOTLIGHT SRI LANKA

Giorgio Chiarel elaborated on the propAccording to general manager,

erty’s leisure facilities. “Our RIU Sri

LUSH PROSPECTS

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Re-

Lanka Hotel offers our renowned RIU

sort, Tamir Kobrin, up until 2014, the

All Inclusive 24-Hour programme. This

destination mainly attracted business

means that all of the meals, drinks and

travellers along with backpackers

activities in the hotel are included. We

and low-priced full-board package

have a complete programme of enter-

travellers. “However, as the country

tainment and sports activities running

has become more stable and with

throughout the day for those guests

the opening of smaller luxury resorts

that like to join fun group games in the

particularly in Weligama and Koggala,

pool and beach, as well as for those who

Rich greenery, culture and a land blessed with eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sri Lanka is on the right path to strengthening its tourism industry. Natalie Hami reports

and now with Anantara entering the

want to stay fit during their holidays. At

market place, Sri Lanka has started

night we have a different show every

to attract luxury travellers.”

day as well as live music.”

He added: “With the opening of our

Chiarel highlighted that the hotel will

second Anantara, Anantara Kalutara

be targeting an array of feeder markets

Resort in September, and the opening

including Scandinavia, the UK, Poland,

of two other internationally-branded

Germany and India, plus many more.

hotels in the south, we expect this

Bangkok-based ONYX Hospitality

onsidered an island paradise by the many tourists that flock to its lush shores, Sri

trend to be maintained and strength-

Group, which has already set down

Lanka’s tourism product has come a long way in recent years. As it continues to grow

ened. Both Anantara resorts are pri-

roots in Sri Lanka with OZO Colombo

and develop, it entices visitors from as far off as Poland and the Netherlands and from

marily focusing on luxury travellers

and OZO Kandy, is now keen to further

as near as India to experience its beaches, heritage and wellness resorts.

from India and the MENA region and

its relationship with the destination in

Europe, with Anantara Peace Haven

the form of a new property and brand:

to achieve even more through infrastructural enhancements, expected to boost its

Tangalle being a popular honeymoon

Amari Galle scheduled to open in the

tourism offering.

destination thanks to its unique loca-

last quarter of 2016.

The latest figures can only highlight Sri Lanka’s tourism success story, while spurring it on

tion and Anantara Kalutara Resort

Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka for 2015 indicate an increase of 17.8 per cent over the previ-

Vice president and area general

ous year reaching almost 1.8 million visitors. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority

targeting family travellers by offering

manger for Sri Lanka, ONYX Hospital-

(SLTDA) has targeted 2.5 million arrivals for 2016.

extensive family amenities.”

ity Group, Simon Dell explained to TTG:

Sri Lanka’s key tourism bodies spoke to TTG, elaborating on how the island destination can

The Thai luxury brand will be open-

“ONYX now takes a leap into launching

ensure that it is not only providing guests with a unique, well-rounded experience but also

ing Anantara Kalutara Resort on

Amari Galle, with its modern, guest-

keeping up with the region’s tourism industry.

the southwest coast with 141 guest

centric concepts.”

rooms, suites and pool villas. Ap-

Vice president – sales and marketing, Aitken Spence Hotels, Althaf Mohamed Ali said: “It

He pointed out that the property will have

is important that the country’s culture and bio diversity is protected as Sri Lanka tourism is

pealing to culinary aficionados, the

a leisure focus with individuals and groups

hugely dependant on its natural resources. In order to compete with the rest of the region’s

property will house the all-day dining

visiting the country on roundtrip tours.

tourism hot spots, Sri Lanka needs to focus on improving its infrastructure and entertainment

restaurant Olu, which will serve inter-

options whilst ensuring that its hospitality offering remains on par with its regional

national favourites and local special-

ing Amari hotel, travellers can plan their

neighbours.”

ties. Elegant coastal Italian cuisine for

round tours using our Onyx Hospitality

lunch and dinner paired with ocean

Group properties as their base. Whether

Ceysands Resort and Spa, Riaan Drever: “As a hot topic on the travel channels, Sri Lanka is

views will be offered at Acquolina.

it’s a relaxing tour to the hill country or

receiving a decent chunk of the tourism pie at the moment with many new segments being

Showcasing the rich diversity of Asia,

some adventure on a stunning beach, we

added. The country has lots to offer from water activities, hiking and trekking, safari, tea pro-

Spice Traders will serve Thai, Indian

can create that memorable Sri Lankan/

duction tours to name but a few.

and Chinese cuisines for dinner in a

Asian experience,” added Dell.

Also expressing his faith in the destination’s tourism allure was general manager, Centara

“I feel the country will still be in the limelight for some time to come and the trends will grow more and more over the next couple of years as the market develops further.”

modern dining room and outside in a riverside dining sala. Meanwhile, Spanish operator RIU

CONCRETE CHANGES

“With two OZO hotels and an upcom-

With copious adventures on tap for travellers from the budget conscious

Hotels and Resorts is expanding its

backpacker to the more discerning

extensive portfolio in Sri Lanka with

traveller, Sri Lanka has taken great

With visitor numbers set to rise, Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry is accommodating this de-

Hotel RIU Sri Lanka. Speaking exclu-

and confident strides in cementing its

mand by increasing room inventory, notably in the luxury and upscale segments.

sively to TTG, general manager,

tourism product.

26 September 2016

ttgmena.com

ibar

SPOTLIGHT SRI LANKA

ULTIMATE IN LUXURY xpanding its portfolio in

Indian Ocean breezes before

Sri Lanka is Shangri-La

being whisked away by electric

Hotels and Resorts

tuk-tuk to their private guest room.

with the recently opened

Beginning at 48m2, the guest

Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa.

rooms feature louvered

Shangri-La’s Hambantota

shutters and polished wooden

Resort & Spa is the first of

floors that lead to balconies

two Shangri-La hotels in Sri

where peacocks can be

Lanka with the second hotel

spotted roaming the grounds

– Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo –

in the early mornings. Each of

slated to open next year.

the 21 suites, ranging in size

Home to 300 rooms, the

from 96 to 240m2, provide the

beachfront Shangri-La’s

ultimate in privacy and butler

Hambantota Resort & Spa is

service. All guests can stay

located on a 145-acre former

connected with free WiFi.

coconut plantation on the

Visitors to the resort can

southern coastline of

make the most of CHI, The

Sri Lanka.

Spa; the par-70 course at

Upon arrival, guests are met

VISION OF THE FUTURE With the first Asia Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference (AHTIC) set to be held at the Hilton Colombo in Sri Lanka from November 27-29, managing director Middle East – Bench Events, Jennifer Pettinger-Haines speaks to TTG about the significance of the conference for Sri Lanka’s tourism

Santani Wellness Resort and Spa is offering guests the opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s first fullyfledged spa, which includes the first ever hydrotherapy facility in the country. The resort’s brand and marketing manager, Nadika Alexander told TTG: “We have a 557m2 underground spa and hydrotherapy facility. The resort also features a thermal salt bath — a first of its kind in Sri Lanka. We are also adopting LightingScience’s new Good Night lighting to improve sleep.” Alexander added that the resort aims to introduce a wellness festival.

Shangri-La's Golf Club; and a

by turquoise sea views, the

selection of four restaurants

sound of breaking waves and

and bars.

CULTIVATING EXPERIENCES Vice president, sales and marketing, Aitken Spence Hotels, Althaf Mohamed Ali talks to TTG about the company's very latest developments as well as the cultural activities on offer to guests

The intended impact

Additionally, it is a

is to facilitate the long

great opportunity to

term development of

bring the industry

TTG: What tourism seg-

which makes this travel segment lucra-

Kandalama guests can pick their

the country’s travel

together to learn,

ments are you currently

tive to pursue during the traditional off

own vegetables from the hotel’s

and tourism product

share best practices

focusing on?

season.

vegetable cultivation and have the

helping the sector to

and network.

locals prepare delectable local cuiWhile focusing on our

TTG: Tell us about the latest tourism

sine which will later be served in a

we aim to expose to

in 2009 Sri Lanka

traditional European

trends in Sri Lanka and how you're

traditional mud hut.

international investors

has experienced

markets we are actively

creating experiences for your clien-

and operators the vast

massive organic

pursuing the Middle East

tele through these new trends.

opportunities which Sri

growth in tourism,

and Indian markets as

Lanka offers, as well as

last year attracting

well. The Middle East is

Travellers now like to explore the local-

create a platform for a

1.8 million tourists.

becoming the fastest

ity, culture and cuisine of the destina-

Aitken Spence Hotels recently

growing outbound mar-

tion moving away from the check list

launched Heritance Negombo.

grow. Through AHTIC,

two-way dialogue where

Since stabilising

AHTIC’s

TTG: Please share your latest news with our readers.

the government can share

conference patron,

ket registering a nine per

approach to travel. We have taken a

The 139-room property offers

its strategy and vision for

HE President

cent growth in outbound

cue from this trend and are focusing on

ocean view rooms with modern

tourism infrastructure

Maithripala Sirisena,

travel last year. We see

providing tailor made experiences to

amenities. It is perfectly situated

development in the

and the government

tremendous potential

our guests especially at our Heritance

20 minutes from the International

country and investors

are aiming to

in pursuing this market,

properties. For instance guests have

Airport and 45 minutes away from

are able to feedback

attract four million

it is an advantage that

the option of picking their own tea at

the bustling city of Colombo. With

on the support they

tourists by 2020

the travel season of the

Heritance Tea Factory, assisting in

its sophisticated conference ven-

need at a governmental

and make tourism

Middle Eastern traveller

the processing of it at the hotel’s mini

ues the hotel is ideally suited to a

level to make the

the country’s

does not coincide with

tea factory and take back home with

wide range of corporate functions

sector and country an

biggest foreign

the European season,

them their very own tea. At Heritance

and social events.

attractive place to invest.

exchange earner.

30 September 2016

ttgmena.com

FOCUS ON LATIN AMERICA

EXHILARATING EXPANSE A region that seemingly has it all, Latin America is currently basking in the limelight, with increasing numbers of travellers allured by its plethora of exotic offerings. By Emily Millett atin America is enjoying a positive year of growth and development this year, with all eyes on the region, thanks to one very special sporting event last month. Thrust into the spotlight by the Olympics – which saw five billion international viewers tune in and turn their attention to Rio – Brazil is enjoying a peak in tourism arrivals as general coordinator, competitive intelligence and market access, Embratur, Bruno Reis told TTG: “According to the Brazilian association of Rio de Janeiro hotels, the hotel industry’s occupancy rate in Rio reached 95 per cent occupancy for the period of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Five-star hotels sold 98 per cent of their rooms.” a lot, making it easier, faster and

and is developing programmes that

action and adventure, there is also

to attract even more tourists to Brazil throughout 2017,

cheaper to visit. Especially new

cater specifically to bird-watchers

a new tourism trend coming to light

2018 and beyond, as Reis explained: “All these improve-

flights from Europe to Costa Rica

and nature photographers.

this year, with the advent of roman-

ments in accommodation and infrastructure will help to

will have a big impact. At the Ca-

increase business for 2017, and the Brazilian government

yuga Hotels we create unique and

experiences and adventures is also

is aware of this potential and works its hardest to attract

authentic experiences. Guests have

proving high on the list of traveller

further investment in the sector.

life changing experiences in nature,

expectations in Latin America as

community manager, Luna Runtun,

they learn new things and we try to

Ponce explained to TTG: “There’s a

Adventure Spa and Luna Travel,

connect our guests with the locals.”

big ‘seeking experience’ travel trend

Gabriel Freire said: “Our expectation

Latin American countries in the World Economic Forum’s

in Latin America. Travellers do not

for 2017 is a growth in the romantic

Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, last year, and

only come to learn about our his-

segment. Luna Runtun has become

tory, they come looking for specific

a hot spot in Latin America for

And as Latin America embraces the

experiences and the Latin American

honeymooners.”

global trend for authentic travel,

tourism industry has learnt to cre-

Rica, with record-breaking visitation numbers in 2015 and

the region’s tourism industry is also

ate experiences for different

29 rooms and romantic suites, Luna

double digit growth at international airports, according to

working with its multitude of diverse

traveller profiles.

Runtun, Adventure SPA, has now

general manager, Rainforest Adventures in Costa Rica,

niche markets from nature tourism

Nicolas Staton.

and adventure travel, to honey-

aline-filled experiences and each

casions, wedding anniversaries, hon-

mooners and medical visitors.

country offers that, from tours to

eymoons and romantic getaways,

infrastructure. Others come for

according to Freire, who shared that

Embratur aims to use this unique moment of attention,

“Our expectations are very optimistic, not least because Brazil jumped 23 positions and entered first place among

NICHE OFFERINGS

also ranks first in terms of using its natural resources to boost tourism.” This year has also proved to be a good year for Costa

Destinations such as Peru, are making the most of the region’s current tourism success, to improve infrastruc-

Commenting on Costa Rica’s

Seeking out adrenalin-fuelled

“People come looking for adren-

tic honeymoon trips to destinations such as Ecuador. Commenting on the phenomenon,

Following a recent renovation of

become an ideal spot for special oc-

ture in hotels and services, as marketing and business

unique offering, Staton told TTG:

gastronomic experiences, which is

guests to the hotel can enjoy a wide

development director, Mava Travel Peru, Vanessa Ponce,

“Costa Rica has targeted a very spe-

one of the biggest trends nowadays.

variety of activities from relaxing in

told TTG: “Peru stands out for its continued focus and

cific tourism sector which has paid

Others come for local immersion

the property's spa and hot volcanic

work in the tourism industry, from opening up new paths

off greatly in the country developing

and finally, there are travellers who

pools, to horse riding, exploring the

and access to our history and culture and developing new

and positioning itself as the best

seek the deluxe experience in every

Amazon and sampling delicious

projects in various cities and communities, to promoting

nature destination in the world, and

tour they embark on, from an Inca

Ecuadorian food.

our varied and diverse coast, highlands and rainforest

also one of the best adventure des-

Trail and staying at luxe lodges

destinations to the world.”

tinations in the world. Due to these

along the way, to staying at an ex-

Boasting such diverse tourism op-

trends, the country is specialising

clusive hotel with a view of Machu

tions from experiential travel and

brightly, is the current explosion of the experiential,

more and more in these focused

Picchu from their rooms.”

gastronomic pursuits, to active

authentic tourism niche.

markets by continued growth in new

Mava Travel Peru is responding

adventures and romantic honey-

segments such as photography, bird-

to these trends by launching a new

moon breaks, the region is seeing

watching and mountain biking.”

series of luxury adventure tours and

its tourism industry thrive, as

deluxe trekking experiences.

increasing numbers of travellers

Perhaps one area that Latin America shines particularly

“Guests are looking for authentic destinations. Costa Rica and Nicaragua meet those criteria, and the result is driving more visitors,” said president and co-owner, Ca-

In response to these trends Rain-

yuga Sustainable Hospitality, Hans Pfister. “We are seeing

forest Adventures in Costa Rica in-

that flight connections to both countries are improving

augurated mountain biking this year

34 September 2016

ttgmena.com

And while the Latin American countries seem predisposed for

grace its stunning shores year-on-year.

FOCUS ON LATIN AMERICA

CONTEMPORARY EDGE

INCREASED OPTIONS

Small Luxury Hotels of

marble bathrooms. The

Aeromexico, Mexico’s

the carrier’s 17th destina-

the World (SLH) has wel-

Smart Suite also features

global airline, has an-

tion in the US, making

comed a new boutique ho-

its own balcony with an

nounced the expansion

Aeromexico the only

tel in Argentina to its col-

outdoor Jacuzzi.

of its service to the US

Mexican airline serving

from Mexico City, with

this many destinations to

Austin, Texas set to join

the US,” said chief reve-

its route network on No-

nue officer, Aeromexico,

lection, with 1828 Smart

This city centre retreat

Hotel joining the portfolio

houses a small spa, a gym,

recently.

an urban garden with a

Located in the Palermo district of Buenos Aires,

HISTORIC MILESTONE DEBUT

pool and cabanas, and a piano lounge restaurant.

the hotel offers 14 con-

In addition, each guest

temporary rooms with

receives their own tablet

monochrome palettes and

or smartphone.

vember 17, 2016, making

Anko Van der Werff.

tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has an-

it the fourth destination

“The Austin route allows

nounced the opening of Four Points Havana – the

in the state of Texas.

us to offer customers

company’s first hotel in Cuba, establishing the

The carrier is set to

group as the first US-based hospitality company to enter

operate the flight four

the market in nearly 60 years.

times a week using an

increased flight connectivity options.” Austin is the fourth

Embraer 170 aircraft that

destination Aeromexico

meeting facilities, full-service dining at Don Quixote,

has a seating capacity

serves in the State of

breakfast and lunch service at El Olivo, and poolside light

of 76.

Texas, in addition to Dal-

Four Points Havana offers 186 guest rooms, expansive

bites. Amenities include a 24-hour fitness centre and a

“The addition of this

fully equipped spa, offering a variety of massage treat-

new service represents

las/Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio.

ments, a sauna and a steam bath. “We are thrilled to once again be pioneers with our ground-breaking entry into Cuba, offering our guests a way to stay with Starwood in this sought after destination,” said senior vice president and chief of Latin America operations, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Jorge Giannattasio.

EUROPEAN FLAIR IN RIO DE JANEIRO

ANCHORING PRESTIGE ON LOS CABOS The coveted high-end Mexican tourism hot

Residences, Mark Cooley. “The resort

spot Los Cabos, is set to welcome a new

will be unlike anything else in the mar-

luxury boutique resort property in December

ketplace, offering a modern, active

2016, with the opening of Chileno Bay Re-

and outgoing spirit in its design and

sort & Residences, Los Cabos.

lifestyle.”

Managed by Auberge Resorts Collection,

Aiming to attract families, groups

Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, is set

of friends and active couples, the re-

amidst the 1,200-acre resort community

sort will offer 60 guest rooms and 32

of Chileno Bay, which comprises a private

two-, three-and four-bedroom villas.

beach club, Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole golf

All ground floor villas will have private

course, residences and more.

pools, while the upper-level villas will

“Auberge Resorts Collection is synony-

have Jacuzzis.

mous with exceptional luxury experiences

Additional amenities are set to in-

The 225-room AC Hotel

with hotels in Mexico City

ment to making distinctive

and we are pleased to work in partnership

clude three culinary concepts, a three-

Rio de Janeiro Porto

(Mexico), Panama City

architecture and design

to create the premier resort destination in

tiered zero-edge pool, a signature

Maravilha and the 378-

(Panama), and Santiago

affordable and accessible

Los Cabos,” said partner, SV Capital Part-

full-service spa, water sports, as well

room AC Hotel Rio de

(Chile).

for creatives and entrepre-

ners – the developer of Chileno Bay Resort &

as meetings and events space.

Janeiro Barra da Tijuca

“We are thrilled to be

neurs around the world.”

have opened their doors,

bringing this new class of

The AC Hotel Rio de

inviting guests to experi-

lifestyle hotel to two of Rio

Janeiro Porto Maravilha

ence Brazil’s newest class

de Janeiro’s most dynamic

offers a gym and a rooftop

of lifestyle hotels.

neighbourhoods – Porto

pool with views of Christ

The two Rio openings

Maravilha and Barra da

the Redeemer atop Cor-

debut the brand in Brazil,

Tijuca,” explained vice

covado Mountain, Guana-

following the launch of

president, lifestyle brands,

bara Bay and Maracana

properties in Guadalajara

Marriott International, Toni

Stadium. The AC Hotel Rio

and Queretaro Antea,

Stoeckl. “Our rapidly grow-

de Janeiro Barra da Tijuca

Mexico. Later this year, AC

ing portfolio of design-led

also features a rooftop

Hotels by Marriott is sched-

hotels illustrates Marriott

pool and deck with views of

uled to expand its portfolio

International’s commit-

Rio de Janeiro’s East Zone. September 2016

ttgmena.com

AWARENESS NORTHERN EMIRATES

SHINING BRIGHT

SCTDA, HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa said: “We are highlighting our clear differentials in the MICE sector, especially as authorities across the world focus on education, training and exchange of experiences.” Executive assistant manager, Radisson Blu Resort Sharjah, Kamal Rijhwani told TTG exclusively that the property is also focusing on further developing its MICE product: “Our outlook for 2016 continues to remain positive, and we are preparing for the year with an enhanced hotel offering, driving MICE from the GCC and India and also increasing our presence in markets such as other Middle Eastern markets, eastern and northern Europe, and India and China by participating in the exhibitions and approaching wholesalers and DMCs.”

BUILDING THE ATTRACTION The increased interest in the UAE’s Northern Emirates however is not without good reason, with a slew of developments across the destination strengthening the emirates’ tourism product. Major hotel operator FRHI Hotels & Resorts has a number of MENA hotels in its pipeline, including Fairmont Fujairah. Set for a 2017 opening, the project will consist of a 194-room

The Northern Emirates are reaping the rewards of a well-managed strategy, lighting the way to a bright tourism future. Panayiotis Markides reports

hotel with dedicated meeting facilities, a Willow Stream spa and a marina. Meanwhile, Al Nuaimi of ATDD described to TTG some of Ajman’s latest developments: “The Al Zorah project, one of Ajman’s biggest attractions, located in the north of the city, will see the opening of The Oberoi Al Zorah at the end of the year. A new Ajman Marina Restaurant

he UAE is a diverse nation offering visitors an

identity, ‘Sincerely Emirati’, along with launching its new website,

complex is also underway opposite Ajman Saray

array of accommodation options and copious

ajman.travel.

and new hotel and hotel apartment openings are

unique experiences. The Northern Emirate destinations of Sharjah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah are all reporting

With encouraging figures across the board for these emirates,

TTG spoke with key stakeholders to find out how the Northern Emirates have achieved their success, and what more lies ahead.

Ramada at the Corniche.” General manager, Kempinski Hotel Ajman, Kai Schukowski added to this: “There have also

strong growth in 2016 arrivals which indicate that, in terms of the tourism industry, the destinations can

on the way for 2016 and 2017 including a new

A FOCUSED VISION

been discussions about a major shopping mall in order to reposition Ajman for tourists and boost

compete with their sisters, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Speaking to TTG about Ajman’s rising popularity, Al Nuaimi

footfall.” He noted that the Al Zoraj Golf Club,

Rotana Resort – Ras Al Khaimah, Andreas Mueller

expressed: “Ajman is still a favourite destination or staycation

with its course by Nicklaus Design, is already

commented to TTG that Ras Al Khaimah is in fact seeing

for the UAE and GCC markets. Our tourism statistics for the

ranked in the top ten in the Middle East.

the strongest growth of all the emirates. He noted:

first half of 2016 indicated strong numbers from these markets

“Ras Al Khaimah Tourism is working hard to make the

staying at our hotels and hotel apartments.”

Highlighting this strength, general manager, Cove

destination popular by highlighting the natural beauty

In terms of promoting Ajman, Al Nuaimi informed TTG that

and endless possibilities of the emirate, apart from

ATDD is working with industry stakeholders to attract the

beautiful beaches and unspoiled nature.”

European, UAE, GCC and Indian markets. “We make sure we

Ajman’s developments can only do Kempinski Hotel Ajman no end of good as Schukowski relayed to TTG that in terms of occupancy, the hotel is ranked first in the emirate. Mueller of Cove Rotana Resort – Ras Al

are present at local and international exhibitions including

Khaimah also highlighted to TTG how the five-

with Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development

road shows to create awareness and promote Ajman as a safe

star property will be enhancing its offering. “The

Authority (SCTDA) having recently revealed that for H1

destination for tourists, families and investors.”

Cove Rotana will be adding a total of 150 rooms

Sharjah is also witnessing an increase in guest arrivals,

of 2016, the emirate welcomed a 19 per cent increase on

He also noted that the MICE sector is an emerging segment

in the new wings located at the resort entrance

the same period in 2015, indicating that there is nowhere

for Ajman, and the emirate’s hotels offer facilities to

which will be opened in 2017. The new extension

to go but up for the destination. It also highlighted that

complement those already available from its universities and

consists of a pool, kids’ area, main restaurant

Sharjah is well on its way to achieving Sharjah Tourism

municipal buildings.

and pool bar.”

Vision 2021 – which aims to welcome 10 million visitors

Similarly making an effort to develop Sharjah's respective

by 2021. Ajman too is on its way to fulfilling Ajman Vision

MICE offerings, SCTDA recently produced a study aimed at

An alternative to the glitz and glamour of

2021 and to meet this, general manager, Ajman Tourism

discussing factors that would enable the emirate to enhance its

Dubai and culture-infused offering of Abu

Development Department (ATDD), Faisal Al Nuaimi

MICE sector, and hosted a workshop to discuss the study with

Dhabi, the Northern Emirates are taking

remarked to TTG that it has launched a new brand

industry stakeholders. Speaking at the workshop, chairman,

their own unique path to tourism glory.

36 September 2016

ttgmena.com

AWARENESS NORTHERN EMIRATES

EXPANDING CONNECTIVITY

CUSTOMER COMES FIRST HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) has achieved an increase of 12 per cent in positive guest reviews year-to-date as compared to last year at the various hotels managed by the company. Securing an average of 75 to 95 per cent positive reviews, properties including The

reputation. We are delighted by

the customer at the heart of the

Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort

the continuous growth in positive

proposition and delivering

Sharjah topped the popularity index charts

reviews and comments by our

outstanding quality and service

on leading Online Travel Agencies and

valued guests. Their feedback is

that sets us apart from the

popular guest review sites such as

extremely precious for us as we

competition.

TripAdvisor.

are committed to exceed their

CEO, HMH, Laurent Voivenel said: trengthening links with the Republic of Georgia, Shar-

“There’s no substitute for a strong brand

"Every hotel within our net-

expectations. Our brands are

work, must meet the requisite

built on our core values, putting

brand standards,” he concluded.

jah-based low cost carrier Air Arabia recently touched down in Batumi, the second largest city in Georgia. The airline now operates two weekly flights to the Black Sea

With the increasing demand for rooms in the emirate, R Hotels will be opening its third property in the emirate by the second quarter of 2017. Located right next to Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman, along Ajman Corniche, it will have 182 rooms, mostly with sea views, a restaurant, a spa and fitness centre along with an indoor swimming pool.

port city from its primary Sharjah International Airport hub on Thursdays and Saturdays. Group CEO, Air Arabia, Adel Ali said: “We are glad to expand our connectivity in Georgia. Batumi is a growing tourism destination and is popular during the summer months. Air Arabia’s new flights to Batumi will allow people and businesses across the Arabian region to discover this beautiful city while positively impacting tourism and economic growth.”

BOOSTING TIES WITH INDIA

YEAR OF SUCCESS The Ajman Tourism De-

for the second quarter

Nuaimi commented: “The

velopment Department

was reported at 63 per

increase for the second

Ras Al Khaimah recorded a 23 per cent in-

tremendous growth in outbound

(ATDD) has announced

cent for hotels while hotel

quarter of 2016 may be

crease in visitors from India during the first

corporate travel in recent years

that the emirate earned

apartments witnessed 68

minimal but it is still a sig-

six months of 2016 compared to the cor-

as more and more corporates

$54 million in tourism

per cent occupancy.

nificant increase because

responding January-June period last year,

recognise the importance of

revenues from a total of

according to the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism

MICE activities as a key driver

272,021 visitors in the first

second quarter reached

the revenue of the first

half of 2016.

293,512 with the major-

quarter, the result is very

ity of guests staying at

encouraging. Factors such

Development Authority (RAK TDA). The positive growth trend during

to engage internal and external

Tourism revenues

customers.

Guest nights for the

when combined with

from April to June 2016

five- and four-star hotels

as the fall in oil prices, cur-

international source market for the UAE’s

500 of India’s leading trade

reached $25 million, 11 per

and superior and standard

rency fluctuations and the

most northern emirate – up from fourth

stakeholders to promote the

cent higher compared to

hotel apartments. Local

geopolitical situation are

last year.

2016 ranks India as the third largest

“We’ve engaged close to

destination as an ideal choice

the same period in 2015.

tourists still top the emir-

impacting industry perfor-

“Our new brand positioning emphasises

for the country’s business and

The emirate also wel-

ate’s guests, followed by

mance but as the report

Ras Al Khaimah’s natural assets, luxurious

leisure travel trade, and these

comed a total of 129,617

visitors from Asia, Africa

indicated, the numbers of visitors are picking up

indulgence, range of activities for different

activities will continue in the

guests for the period,

and other Arab countries,

types of travellers and authentic Arabian

second half of 2016,” Mattar

up from 119,376 in 2015.

while GCC nationals,

which means tourists view

heritage and culture – our diverse

concluded.

Three serviced hotel

Europeans, Americans and

the UAE as a safe destina-

destination pillars resonate well with

apartments were added to

Russian visitors comprised

tion with our stable and

Indian travellers,” said CEO, RAK TDA,

the inventory of establish-

more than 30,000 of the

economic environment

Haitham Mattar.

ments during the three

total guests.

and diverse offerings that

In line with the emirate’s international promotional strategy, RAK TDA recently attended the MICE India and Luxury Travel Congress (MILT) in Mumbai, the latest stop in a series of roadshows and familiarisation trips with Indian travel trade partners in the first six months of 2016. The promotional programme in India has targeted the country’s growing MICE

Our diverse destination pillars resonate well with Indian travellers.

month period. The occupancy rate

General manager, ATDD, HE Faisal Al

attract both existing and potential markets.”

and luxury market, which has witnessed September 2016

ttgmena.com

ANALYSIS TRANSPORT

By Emily Millett

POSITIVE TRAFFIC INCREASE Abu Dhabi Airports has released figures for passenger traffic at Abu Dhabi International Airport, for the first half of 2016. Total traffic for January to

FLOATING TAXI PLAN PROGRESSES

June reached 11,848,359 million passengers, representing a 6.6 per cent increase from the 11,111,577 in the first six months of 2015. The number of people

The Road and Transport

of completion, the project, worth $545 million will

passing through Terminal

cent in June, with passengers increasing from 53,912 to

Authority of Dubai (RTA)

comprise 18 stations along the full length of Dubai

1 saw the largest increase,

60,395 and 52,342 to 58,816, respectively.

has released the first two

Creek, including five new ones on the last stretch of

reaching 4,790,469 — a

images showing plans for the

the project, with seven more to be created on the

22 per cent growth from

Khoori said: “January and March have been the busiest

new water taxi terminals on

existing waterways, in addition to the six that are

3,918,322 in 2015.

period for Abu Dhabi International Airport in the first half

the Dubai Water Canal.

already in existence.

Traffic to and from Doha

Commenting on the project, director general and

Approved by Vice President and Prime Minister,

chairman, RTA board of executive directors, Mattar

UAE and Ruler of Dubai,

Al Tayer said: “This will make marine transit the

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin

favourite choice of mobility for citizens, residents, and

Rashid Al Maktoum, the

visitors who will be ferried from the shores of

images show open and

the Dubai Creek and the two water canals.”

and Jeddah grew by 12 per

Acting CEO, Abu Dhabi Airports, Abdul Majeed Al

of the year, with passenger traffic crossing two million in both of these months.”

STRONG FINANCIAL GROWTH RECORDED

In mid July, the RTA revealed that with all

accessible ports, designed to help people along the

three new flyovers (Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Wasl

airline posted a turnover of $258

network of waterways that

and Jumeirah Beach Road) complete, the canal

million, an increase of seven per cent

run through the city.

excavation work would be over by the end of

on $241 million in the first quarter of

September.

last year.

Currently in its final stage

The airline flew more than 2.1 million passengers between January and March 2016, up 17 per cent on

LINKING TWO STATES

the corresponding period of last year. The airline’s average seat load factor during the first three months of 2016 Air Arabia has reported strong financial results

stood at an impressive 81 per cent.

for the first quarter of 2016, exceeding analyst

Chairman, Air Arabia, Sheikh

expectations as the Middle East’s first and largest

Abdullah Bin Mohamed Al Thani said:

low cost carrier.

“Air Arabia has made an excellent

Air Arabia reported a net profit of $31 million

start to 2016, maintaining the

for the three months ending March 31, 2016, 34

momentum we established last year

per cent higher than the corresponding 2015

and attracting new customers to

figure of $23 million. In the same period, the

our brand.”

ITALY AND IRAN PARTNER FOR RAIL LINE

According to assistant undersecretary

(MPW), the project is set

for road engineering, Ministry of Public

to provide new strategic

Works, Kuwait, Ahmad Al Hassan, the new

highway routes to facilitate

Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah causeway

planned development to

taly’s state railway company, FS Italiane

progress. Both noted the mutual

linking Doha and Kuwait City is 34 per cent

the north of Kuwait City.

Group (FS) has collaborated with Iran’s

efforts of FS and the Iranian Railway

Ministry of Roads & Urban Development to

(RAI) in ensuring that current projects

complete. Speaking about the project’s completion

Comprising a sea bridge called the Main Causeway,

build the first high-speed rail line in Iran.

progressed as best as possible. FS has presented a technical-

date, Al Hassan said the causeway is on

it starts from Shuwaikh

target for completion in 1,462 days.

port and the free trade

section of railway will stretch for 100km

economic proposal for the creation

zone, passing through

between Qom and Arak, with the contract

of the Qom-Arak line, and RAI is set

causeway is one of the largest infrastructure

Kuwait Bay to the west,

being worth $1.1 billion.

to also notify FS of any technical

projects to be constructed in the GCC region,

then through to Um Al

CEO, FS Italiane, Renato Mazzoncini and

with an estimated construction value of

Namel islands to Doha,

Iran’s Deputy Roads & Urban Development

approximately $3 billion.

then links with the Doha

Minister, Asghar Fakhrieh Kashan both

Expressway.

signed a Joint Declaration, focusing on the

submit a bid for the organisation of 13

cooperation and recognising its excellent

training courses for RAI staff.

The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah

Owned by Kuwait Ministry of Public Works

38 September 2016

Set to begin work in February 2017, the

ttgmena.com

specifications for a future TehranHamedan line. The Italian Railway was also set to

ibar

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

pointed Henk Meyknecht as its senior vice president, regional operations for the Middle East and Africa. A Dutch national, Meyknecht brings more than 30 years of industry experience with him. He has worked extensively in the Middle East having spent time in Kuwait, Bahrain, and with Kempinski in Jordan.

Pranav Vohra has joined Hyatt Regency Dubai as director of sales and marketing. Vohra joins the property from his role as director of sales for both Grand Hyatt Dubai and Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights. He completed his education in hospitality management at the University of Huddersfield, UK as well as marketing, revenue and strategy studies at Cornell, Singapore.

COUNTRY DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Saleh Farajat has assumed the role of country director of sales and marketing for Jordan Marriott Hotels. He assumes his new role with over 17 years of experience spanning the Middle East and the US. Farajat joined the Marriott family in 2009 and worked his way up the career ladder. Prior to his new position, he joined the North East region area sales team based in New York City.

BINU VARGHESE

MILLENNIUM AIRPORT HOTEL DUBAI

Kempinski Hotels has ap-

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING

JORDAN MARRIOTT HOTELS

KEMPINSKI HOTELS

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, REGIONAL OPERATIONS MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA

SALEH FARAJAT

PRANAV VOHRA

HYATT REGENCY DUBAI

HENK MEYKNECHT

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Looking to further develop its growing portfolio of international, regional and national accounts, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai has appointed Binu Varghese as the new director of sales for the property. He comes with a wealth of experience within the industry, having spent the last 19 years working with international hotel brands in the UAE, Africa and India.

If you have recently been promoted or appointed key staff, please visit our website...

been welcomed as the new human resource manager at Nour Arjaan by Rotana Fujairah. In her new role, Bicaldo will be responsible for handling the HR operations for all colleagues at Nour Arjaan and will be expected to align the hotel’s HR strategy with the overall business strategy for upcoming business challenges.

Nuno Neves has taken over as cluster general manager at Park Inn Muscat and Park Inn Duqm. A Portuguese national, Neves boasts over 22 years of experience in the hospitality industry, during which he has worked in Italy, France, Malta, Spain, Morrocco, Tunisia and Portugal, having worked with international hoteliers such as Starwood, Hilton and Carlson Rezidor.

40 September 2016

GENERAL MANAGER

Rabih Zein has been named Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah's new general manager. Zein was previously the cluster general manager of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm and Park Inn by Radisson Muscat in Oman. In his new position, Zein will oversee the hotel operations, develop the team and implement leading product and service standards.

ttgmena.com

SEEMA PANDE

AL HABTOOR CITY HOTELS

Charmagne Bicaldo has

CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER

RABIH ZEIN

RADISSON BLU RESORT, SHARJAH

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER

NUNO NEVES

PARK INN HOTELS IN OMAN

NOUR ARJAAN BY ROTANA FUJAIRAH

CHARMAGNE BICALDO

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR, COMPLEX

Starwood Hotels & Resorts has confirmed Seema Pande as Al Habtoor City Hotels’ new commercial director, complex. In her role, Pande will oversee The St. Regis Dubai, W Dubai – Al Habtoor City and The Westin Dubai, Al Habtoor City. She brings more than 20 years of experience in the UAE’s hospitality industry to the position.

PICTURE PERFECT SYDNEY AIRPORT hosts a special event to unveil a commemorative plaque and officially name the Nigel Love Bridge, a new bridge at the airport, named after one of Australia’s greatest aviation pioneers.

EGYPTIAN TOURIST AUTHORITY unveils on its website a guide to what travellers can experience when exploring the Red Sea.

MILLENNIUM RESORT MUSSANAH reveals a group of artistically rendered sea turtles as its new mascots in honour of the Sultanate’s rich maritime heritage. The bodies and shells of the mascots have been covered in expressive artwork painted by Leila Allagui, a French-Tunisian virtuoso painter and the resort’s in-house team.

THE DUBAI MALL debuts its exciting children’s entertainment facility, the Giant Ball Pit.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE commissions renowned Chinese artist Tan Ping to design the artwork to be featured on the hull of its soon to- be-unveiled Breakaway-Plus class vessel Norwegian Joy, scheduled for release in the summer of 2017.

OUTRIGGER KONOTTA MALDIVES RESORT celebrates its first anniversary by inviting travel industry professionals to the resort for a weekend of activities.

Picture perfect 42 September 2016

A visual tour of recent events in the region ttgmena.com

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SOCIAL HUB

Our Team

SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS: WELCOMING A SEASON OF EVENTS Following a nice and relaxing summer, the event and exhibition season is again in full swing! TTG caught up with some of the most must-attend shows to see what they have been tweeting about in the run up to their launch date.

GENERAL MANAGER Chris Christou CChristou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803003

The Leisure Show @LeisureShow Hear from KASI at #LeisureShow on 19-Sept at the Dubai World Trade Centre on ’Broga: Yoga for me’.

EDITOR Natalie Hami NHami@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803022 MEDIA REPORTER Panayiotis Markides PMarkides@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803024 DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR Tatiana Tsierkezou TTsierkezou@ttgmena.com D: +35724803021 CREATIVE DIRECTOR Edward Beales E-COMMERCE MANAGER Panayiotis Philippou PPhilippou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803008

IMEX @IMEX_Group Hack to the basics Meet Pablos Holman, an #MPIkeynote speaker at #IMEX16

E-COMMERCE EXECUTIVE Marina Drakou Mdrakou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803077 ACCOUNT MANAGERS Helen Moss Hmoss@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803074 Marianne Shokry MShokry@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803012 Elaine Hockley EHockley@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803011 CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Costas Miaoulis CMiaoulis@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803002 ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE Vasilis Eracleous VEracleous@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803026 CREDIT CONTROL Stala Antoniades SAntoniades@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803015 HEADQUARTERS Nietzsche Street, Ria Court 9, 1ST Floor 6028 Larnaca, Cyprus Tel: +357-24 803000 Fax: +357-24 803060 Email: INFO@ttgmena.com Website: www.ttgmena.com THAILAND REPRESENTATIVE Public Major Media Ltd, Janya Limmanee Janya.Limmanee@publicitas.com Tel: 662 651 9273 JAPAN REPRESENTATIVE Pacific Business Inc, Hiroko Kujime Kujime-pbi@gol.com Tel: 81 33661 6138 TTG Worldwide Titles* TTG Middle East & North Africa operates under a licence from TTG Media Limited in the UK

TTG Middle East & North Africa is a member of the TTG network of media alongside: TTG UK and Ireland, TTG Russia and CIS, TTG Nordic, TTG Czech Republic, TTG Italia, TTG Asia, TTG China TTG India * For information on these publications, please contact us at: INFO@ttgmena.com TTG MENA is part of the CADS Group

ibtmchina @cibtm Meet with buyers outside of appointment times at one of our exciting networking events.

WTM London @WTM_London Social media superstar @jeremyjauncey to talk at #WTMLDN

WTMResponsibleTouris @WTM_WRTD This year World Responsible Tourism Day is held on TUESDAY 8 NOVEMBER at #WTMLDN

ILTM Luxury Travel @ILTM_events We are delighted Nine Worlds Iceland are joining us for ILTM Americas this year. See you in September! #ILTM

TOP 5