November 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 INDIAN OCEAN A tourism favourite continues to widen its appeal

Focus On TURKEY Setting a course for success

NOVEMBER 2016

ISSUE 300

Destination ABU DHABI Adventure awaits visitors to the UAE capital

On Location EGYPT An ancient land proves ever resilient

HITTING THE NOTE An orchestra of tourism industry voices unite, conveying a message of confidence and optimism

ibar

The Rarest Pearl.

Timeless style, contemporary fashion. A life less ordinary.

The Pearl-Qatar, Doha

www.visitqatar.qa

CONTENTS > YOUR GUIDE 04

HOT OFF THE PRESS ore than likely, if you’re holding this

NEWS

November issue of TTG MENA in your hands, you’re at WTM London

08 12

INTERVIEW DESTINATION ABU DHABI

2016 – weaving in out of crowds of eager visitors, looking forward to catching up with old industry friends and of course, making new ones. Undoubtedly, this year’s WTM promises a host of influential speakers from companies such

ON LOCATION EGYPT

as Facebook, TUI, Twitter, TripAdvisor, AirBnB and much more. Aside from what WTM is promising this year

20 26 28

SPOTLIGHT INDIAN OCEAN FOCUS ON TURKEY AWARENESS SPAS

– what are we promising you in this exciting November issue? The weather might be drab fascinating industry insights ready to be read by

Turkey. Heading further east, we

you, our dedicated readers. Take a

explore the picturesque Indian

look at our Regional Round Up section to discover

Ocean and last but not least, we

the latest industry news from the MENA region.

delve head first into the world

On the sunny island of Cyprus – where we’re

32 46

REGIONAL ROUND UP PEOPLE ON THE MOVE SOCIAL HUB

4 November 2016

of spas.

based – tourism has been on the up this year, with record-breaking figures, and revealing much more about this in our main interview is Minister of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism for the Republic of Cyprus, Yiorgos Lakkotrypis.

A LETTER FROM...

and freezing in London, but our issue is alive with

And turning to the MENA region, we bring you fascinating features on Abu Dhabi, Egypt and

ttgmena.com

Natalie Hami TTG MENA Editor

NEWS

AN IDEAL BASE

SPREADING THE WORD

for 2017. We are just starting with hotels for the time being and after that we will ensure that our engine is accepted by the industry as it meets all the needed latest technology and best possible availability and rates. “We will be expanding by adding other travel services

orld Travel Marketing is looking forward to promoting its newly launched online booking engine – The globalbooking.com – at this Contracting officer, Theglobalbooking.com, Luna Qashu’ spoke exclusively to TTG: “As we are launching

culinary offering, there is

home base for exploring the

plenty to choose from. For

new Lower Manhattan, Four

those who need a working

Seasons Hotel New York

meal or a quiet night in, an

Downtown has recently

innovative new concept for

opened.

restaurant-style dining has

The new hotel – featuring

ease of doing business. “These core practices are fully supported and

our online booking engine, we are starting from the

disciplined by our pioneering technology and our

MENA region, Africa, Europe and the rest of the world

dedicated team of professionals.”

been conceived by executive

189 rooms and suites – is

chef Shaun Acosta, with

located in Tribeca , just

his 24/7 culinary team

steps from Wall Street, the

showcasing seasonal bests

World Trade Center and the

from local purveyors. Guests

stunning new Oculus.

can also try out the just-

Whether guests opt to

Qashu’ highlighted that the company’s core practices are focused on successfully connecting people around the world, loyalty to business partners, fair trading and

year’s WTM London.

Claiming to be the ideal

such as car rental, airlines, excursions and packages.”

opened CUT by Wolfgang

dine in their room or try out

Puck, located inside the

the property’s tantalising

property.

A WORLD OF CHOICES The Hyatt Place brand is

being developed by KAJ

making its debut in Malay-

Development.

sia in 2019, following an

Set to offer casual

announcement by Hyatt

hospitality and purpose-

Hotels Corporation that a

ful service in a smartly

Hyatt affiliate has entered

designed, contemporary

into a management agree-

environment, the 25-sto-

ment with Eosh Properties

rey Hyatt Place Melaka

SDN. BHN, an affiliate of

Gateway will feature views

KAJ Development.

of the Strait of Melaka,

Hyatt Place Melaka

and will be just a short

Gateway will be part of the

distance from contem-

Melaka Gateway, a mixed-

porary shopping district,

use project currently

Hatten Square. November 2016

ttgmena.com

NEWS EXHIBITION CALENDAR

DRIVING FORWARDS TTG: Tell our readers all about

to develop a key USP amongst

the company’s latest develop-

others. The car rental market

ments.

is a competitive one in the UAE and companies which can dem-

Dollar Rent-a-Car UAE will be

onstrate a better customer of-

attending WTM London for

fering will succeed now and in

the eighth consecutive year.

the future. The UAE continues

We continue to learn from our

to develop its attraction to a

international travellers and

worldwide audience by devel-

understand what they look for

oping one of the largest theme

in their car rental needs when

parks in the world [which has

they travel. We will also be com-

recently opened] as well as

municating our latest loyalty

key infrastructure and tourist

programme which is scheduled

attractions.

to be released in 2017 as well as

Speaking exclusively to TTG, head of sales and marketing, Dollar Rent-a-

discussing the latest news from

TTG: What is your main

our segment in the UAE.

strategy for 2017?

TTG: What trends have you

Our strategy remains simple:

witnessed during 2016?

to provide excellent cus-

Car, Dominic Hagerty reveals all on

NOVEMBER 2-5 World Travel Market London, the UK www.wtmlondon.com • • NOVEMBER 11-13 China International Travel Mart, Shanghai, China www.citm.com.cn/english/index.aspx NOVEMBER 13-15 MCE South Europe 2016, Rome, Italy www.europecongress.com • NOVEMBER 16-17 20th Hotel Technology Summit, Dubai, the UAE www.naseba.com • NOVEMBER 18-20 Philoxenia International Tourism Exhibition, Thessaloniki, Greece www.philoxenia.helexpo.gr NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 1 ibtm world, Barcelona, Spain www.ibtmworld.com

tomer service and continue

the UAE’s rental trends and how the

As a business, 2016 has been

to develop technology to help

company will be responding to them

a year for consolidation to im-

improve our overall business

prove on our services in order

efficiency.

2016

• •

TTG MENA will be available at these shows ttgmena luxury will be available at these shows

DEVELOPMENTS UNDERWAYÅ

NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

Marriott International continues its

Six Senses Hotels

Neil Jacobs said:

community, wellness,

expansion across the African continent with

Resorts Spas is de-

“This project is a

sustainability and

brand new signings of new properties in

buting in the US with

fascinating and excit-

design."

Cape Town, Nairobi, Cairo and Mauritius.

Six Senses New York,

ing contrast to the

slated to open in

typical Six Senses

a mixed-use devel-

2019.

locations where we

opment called The

operate resorts in

Eleventh – will offer

The announcement comes hot on the heels of Marriott's recently completed acquisition of Starwood Hotels and Resorts,

The 137-key luxury

The hotel – part of

with the transaction having increased

of the new Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive

hotel being devel-

settings with azure

Six Senses Spa New

Marriott's distribution in Africa.

Apartments Melrose Arch in Johannesburg,

oped by HFZ Capital

waters, UNESCO her-

York, set to provide a

announced last year and currently under

Group will be located

itage listings and lush

layered approach to

rooms and include AC by Marriott's brand

development. The AC Hotel Cape Town Waterfront

on 10 Avenue. The

rainforests.

wellness with treat-

entry into Africa. The Cape Town deals

will be located at the gateway to Cape Town's

site encompasses the

are in partnership with the Amdec Group,

waterfront, while Harbour Arch will be the site of

entire block between

York will have the

tuitive mix of science

Marriott's long term partner and owners

the 200-room Cape Town Marriott Hotel Foreshore

17 and 18 streets

same touch-points

and human aware-

and the 150-room Residence Inn by

in the heart of the

and DNA, with some

ness, where a high-

Marriott Cape Town Foreshore.

city’s vibrant Chelsea

creative adaptation

tech and high-touch

neighbourhood.

These new signings comprise over 1,100

Meanwhile, the Sheraton brand

Mauritius with Sheraton Mauritius

of course, but with

approach defines

no compromises on

service that is crafted

Hotels Resorts Spas,

our commitment to

around the individual.

St Felix Resort and The Residences at Sheraton Mauritius St Felix Resort. The first Element Hotels property signed in Egypt will be the largest Element Hotel in the Middle East and Africa: Element Cairo, slated for 2019, while, Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi, Hurlingham is the brand's second hotel in the city, and is expected to open in 2017.

6 November 2016

ments that are an in-

CEO, Six Senses

will make a landmark debut in

The Boston sports-themed restaurant, O’Learys has officially opened for business, marking TIME Hotels’ first O’Learys franchise in Dubai, following the launch of its debut outlet at Fujairah Mall in January 2016 – the company’s first ever nonhotel product. Vice president, UAE Football Association, Saeed Obaid Al Teneiji and deputy Head of Mission for the Swedish Embassy, Anette Nilsson Exner were among some of the first guests to enjoy the casual dining experience.

“Six Senses New

ttgmena.com

NEWS

HIGH DEMAND FOR ADVENTURE Speaking exclusively to TTG, sales and marketing manager – UAE and Oman, Cathay Pacific, Nikhil Kilpady granted insight into GCC business traveller trends picked up on by

DEBUT IN CAMBODIA’S CAPITAL

the airline

This year has presented a

market and we are expecting growth in this sector

Due to represent the first Hy-

and a rooftop swim-

Penh and Cambodia. As Phnom

number of challenges for the

moving forward.

att-branded hotel in Cambodia,

ming pool and bar.

Penh continues to become

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Adding to this, the

known as a destination for art,

GCC is no different. However,

Kong, we have witnessed a strong demand for travel-

has signed for a Hyatt Re-

hotel boasts the facili-

culture, tourism and business,

despite this, Cathay Pacific has

lers from the GCC travelling to Hong Kong and be-

gency-branded hotel in Phnom

ties to cater for wed-

we are confident that the glob-

retained its market share and

yond to Japan and China, especially in our business

Penh, which is expected to

dings, social banquets,

ally recognised Hyatt Regency

has continued to receive the

class. [These are] routes that we expect will con-

inaugurate in 2020.

exhibitions, meetings

brand will resonate with busi-

same demand for our business

tinue to grow through to 2017, not only due to the

and conferences.

ness and leisure travellers visit-

class on our Dubai flights as last

strengthening of trade between the two regions, but

will offer a total of 250 rooms

year. Additionally, there has

also as more and more leisure travellers are looking

as well as a selection of F&B

to bring the Hyatt Re-

president – Asia Pacific, Hyatt

been renewed optimism in the

for new destinations to travel to.

options, a fitness centre, a spa

gency brand to Phnom

Hotels Corporation, David Udell.

Servicing the region through our hub in Hong

global travel industry, and the

SUCCESS ON THE CARDS

oomsXML, the

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh

“We are delighted

ing the country,” said group

HOTEL CHECK I NASSIMA ROYAL HOTEL, DUBAI

was extremely excited about my first visit to the centrally located Nassima Royal Hotel in Dubai, as it’s a hotel

that I’ve had my eye on since its recent

By Helen Moss

rebranding. Following a long journey from Cyprus,

worldwide, B2B ho-

I arrived at the hotel late in the even-

tel booking portal

for travel agents and tour

ing and was greeted with a refreshing

operators, is anticipating

juice, warm smiles and friendly staff.

great success and numer-

Following a speedy check-in pro-

ous product enhancements

cess, I was taken to my room, which I

in the new year.

absolutely fell in love with. I especially

Speaking to TTG was

enjoyed the extra-large bathroom and

managing director, room-

the amazing views. With the blinds up

sXML, Prakash Bang:

on a clear day, I could see all the way to

“2017 will be another path-

the Palm!

breaking year for us. To

would like to keep under

I found everyone I interacted with at

date we have introduced 11

cover for now. Over and

the hotel extremely friendly, helpful and

unique features in room-

above, there will be ma-

always smiling – even when I asked for

sXML. Many of the features

jor enhancements to the

extra coffee in my room in preparation

are yet to be emulated

booking platform with in-

for my early morning starts.

by similar systems in the

novative search and filter

marketplace. And now, we

tools, improved hotel and

top bar which offers sweeping views all

will be introducing next

room level content, and

the way up Sheikh Zayed Road – some-

generation API with cutting

integrated CRM which

thing quite spectacular at night – and

edge features.”

will allow users to submit

also had the chance to order room ser-

Bang explained that

and track all their support

vice, which arrived quickly and

the new features include

queries directly from the

was delicious.

an under one second

roomsXML platform,” he

response and the ability

concluded to TTG.

I had the opportunity to visit the roof-

I would definitely stay at Nassima Royal Hotel again due to its great loca-

roomsXML will be pre-

tion (across the road from Dubai World

searches in a single

sent at this year’s World

Trade Centre) and its flawless hospital-

request.

Travel Market London in

ity offering.

to conduct multiple hotel

“There are a few more [features] which we

the Travel Technology section - TT525.

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.

8 November 2016

ttgmena.com

NEWS

AMBITIOUS ROAD AHEAD

FRESH VOYAGES

Exhibiting at this year’s WTM, chief operating officer, Jannah Hotels & Resorts, Martin Persson speaks exclusively to TTG about the company’s expansion plans

Looking forward to an exciting 2017, Celebrity Cruises has revealed its key focuses for the new year including its

TTG: Share with our readers your

Hotels & Resorts brand reach their operating

latest developments.

potential in every aspect. The group’s five-star hotel property, Jannah

first voyage in the Arabian Gulf. CEO, Travel Matrix (Middle East Representative for Celebrity Cruises), Lak-

Jannah Hotels & Resorts has three new

Burj Al Sarab features the fastest hotel Internet

shmi Durai told TTG: “Celebrity Cruises

exciting projects in the pipeline – Jan-

in the world at the speed of 1.2 GB per second

will be sailing in the Arabian Gulf for

nah Beach Resort, Ras Al Khaimah

offered for free in each of the hotel’s rooms and

the first time this winter and our focus

(2016); Jannah Residences City Center,

suites as well as in the public areas. Respond-

for the rest of the year is to promote

Abu Dhabi (2016) and Jannah Creek

ing to an in-depth market survey of the lack of

our first ever Gulf sailings. Celebrity

Dubai (2018).

quality residences in Abu Dhabi, the hotel of-

Constellation will be the first premium

fers short and long-term stays for guests. What

cruise ship to sail in the Gulf, home

TTG: What is the message you will

makes this offer unique is comfortable and has-

porting from Abu Dhabi.

be conveying to visitors at this

sle-free accommodation with five-star facilities;

year’s WTM?

a segment currently lacking in Abu Dhabi.

Jannah Hotels & Resorts prides itself

TTG: What new markets will you be

UAE and Oman. In addition, the luxury

on offering innovative and creative so-

focusing on?

liner will also be sailing longer round

According to Durai, Celebrity Con-

stellation, a 13-deck high vessel, will sail two nine-night cruises within the

lutions as a luxury five-star hotel opera-

trip itineraries from Abu Dhabi, follow-

tor. The company offers intelligent and

We are looking into expanding in the European

ing the ancient spice route to some of

efficient hotel management services,

market in 2017 with our first stop in Belgium. We

India’s most interesting cities including

which are focused on ensuring that

are also looking to establish more contacts in

Cochin, Mangalore, Goa and Mumbai,

properties managed under the Jannah

Russia, the UK and Germany in 2017.

before returning via Dubai and Muscat.

PERSONAL TOUCH Assisting hoteliers to create a mean-

“TripCase is a natural fit for our hotel-

ingful, personal connection with its

iers. As one of the most popular travel apps

guests, Sabre has integrated the

around, it gives hoteliers a highly effective

SynXis Central Reservations and

channel to engage with their guests in a way

TripCase, its mobile app.

that creates a differentiated experience and

With this integration, hoteliers can engage with guests via their mobile

increases brand loyalty.” Claiming to ‘empower’ hoteliers, reserva-

device before, during and after their

tions made through the Sabre GDS and the

arrival at the property. Thus, this

SynXis CRS will automatically flow into the

real-time personal communication

TripCase messaging channel, making it easy

will help hoteliers build their brand

for hoteliers to message travellers with con-

image, increase loyalty and drive in-

textually relevant and personalised mobile

cremental revenue. Vice president of

messages featuring unique offers, upgrades and offers for

marketing, Sabre

hotel amenities including

Hospitality Solutions,

spas and restaurants.

Sarah Kennedy said: “Our mission at Sabre Hospitality is to help hoteliers deliver true hospitality to their guests, exceeding expectations every time. To do that at scale requires best-in-class technology solutions. November 2016

ttgmena.com

INTERVIEW

CLIMBING THE RANKS Tourism, in order to manage all matters

gastronomy, sports training, weddings

related with the sector on a holistic basis.

and much more. Moreover, during recent years

TTG: Which markets are you working to

incentives for the renovation of hotels

attract? Is the MENA market important

and tourism establishments were

to Cyprus’ tourism economy?

offered, utilising European Structural Funds. Presently, a new incentives

The new long term strategy for Cyprus'

scheme is being prepared, targeting

tourism is expected, inter alia, to provide

activities and establishments that will

recommendations for sustaining mature

attract tourists during the shoulder

markets and attracting new and emerging

months. Funds for the operation of this

markets. This, of course, is in view of the

scheme will again be absorbed through

need to diversify the tourism sector’s

the EU.

market base, which at present is heavily dependent on the UK and Russian markets. Unsurprisingly, the MENA countries are

In a year of record-breaking tourism arrivals to Cyprus, Minister of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism for the Republic of Cyprus, Yiorgos Lakkotrypis speaks exclusively with Panayiotis Markides about the island’s new long term strategy to facilitate further growth

TTG: Please share Cyprus’ five year plan for tourism with our readers and how the Ministry is implementing this.

The Cyprus government is also working to improve air connectivity with current and new tourist markets.

amongst our main targets. They constitute

To this end, we encourage international

important and traditional markets for

airlines to provide new routes and direct

Cyprus, with whom we maintain very

and indirect connections to Cyprus.

close and friendly relations. We consider

In fact, the Ministry of Transport,

our geographic proximity a decisive

Communications and Works is currently

factor for attracting more tourists from

in the process of examining new

these countries and, as such, we are

applications from airlines interested in

constantly working to keep the available

expanding their operations in Cyprus, by

air connections at satisfactory levels.

setting up new companies registered in

Furthermore, the visa facilitation process is

our country.

also at the centre of our attention regarding our potential visitors from MENA countries.

TTG: What sectors of the industry are your primary focus?

TTG: What developments has the island seen in 2016 that will promote tourism

For the next few years we are focusing

and increase arrivals to the island?

our efforts on the enhancement of key sectors of our tourism industry, such as

From the outset, I should point out that

nautical, diving, golf, rural, religious, and

Cyprus’ economic and political stability

many more as we consider Cyprus to

constitute two of the main factors that

be an ideal destination for these forms

have helped the island increase its inflow of

of tourism due to its excellent climatic

tourists during the last few years.

conditions and the high quality of

Regarding developments in the tourism sector, the overall policy of the government

available and planned infrastructure. We are constantly facilitating

The Cyprus government is in the process of preparing a new long term strategy regarding

and the Cyprus Tourism Organization (CTO)

investments in large tourism projects,

Cyprus' tourism. To this end, the Ministry of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism, in

is focused today on managing well and

such as marina and golf developments,

collaboration with the presidency, awarded the project in December [2015], through an open

efficiently all available resources, for the

as well as the construction of Europe’s

tender, to an external consulting firm.

continuous improvement, diversification

first integrated casino resort, in order to

and promotion of our tourism product.

enrich our existing infrastructure.

The new strategy aims at improving the performance and revenue yield of the tourism sector by establishing a sustainable tourism model, improving the competitiveness of the

CTO has already prepared a two-year

To promote our tourism product,

industry, developing a diversified tourism product, establishing a strong tourism brand and

short term plan of action, for 2016 and

Cyprus implements a dynamic

addressing the issues of seasonality and connectivity.

2017, that aims to develop new activities

programme that is focused on

and special interests. New, specialised

showcasing our island internationally

for Cyprus, based on a cost-benefit assessment, in order to enhance the overall tourism

and thematic tourism opportunities

as an excellent destination for all

experience and to attract higher value-added tourism.

are constantly becoming available in

the aforementioned tourism sectors.

Cyprus, including nautical, diving, golf,

The programme includes, inter alia,

various government departments, as well as with the stakeholders of the private sector, and

rural, religious, cultural, well-being

participation in tourism fairs, production

that proposed actions will be prioritised in the form of action plans, with specific timelines.

and health tourism, conference and

of literature and the use of new

corporate incentives, cycling, wine routes,

technology.

More to the point, the strategy is expected to define the product/market segments

It is crucial to note that Cyprus’ new tourism strategy is being prepared in cooperation with

In this regard, the government is also planning the establishment of a Deputy Ministry for

10 November 2016

ttgmena.com

DESTINATION ABU DHABI

GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE A sense of determination fills the air in Abu Dhabi, as it works to offer those visiting its majestic lands a memorable experience. Tatiana Tsierkezou investigates the initiatives, trends and forecasts shaping the tourism industry

s time passes, the culture-fuelled capital of the UAE

and airline partners to attract new business into Abu Dhabi, and our

Indeed, this city, which stands out among its sister

business relationships are more valued than ever before,” she added.

emirates with its unique identity, has faced various challenges throughout 2016. But with the tenacious will and determination of the tourism industry, Abu Dhabi always prevails and the year has proven fruitful. Director of sales and marketing, Yas Viceroy, Paula Tannous exclusively told TTG: “This year is a year that has kept all of

This very sentiment is echoed among the movers and shakers of the city’s incredibly eclectic industry, and this is why various initiatives are already being put in place for 2017 to guarantee business and raise awareness. Outlining one such initiative was director of sales and marketing, Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel, Dulce Ortega: “We became a

us on our toes. Markets are changing from a socioeconomic

preferred partner of Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center and Cvent to

and political perspective and we have to adapt to that. We

ensure we go hand in hand with only trusted partners that have tested

constantly have to push the limits of how we think and operate and try to reinvent the offering we give to our guests both locally and from abroad.” With that in mind, Tannous explained that the travel and tourism industry works together to entice other markets of interest, that could very well bring forth great results and high revenue.

“We value the strength of working consistently with our travel

ever-works on its appeal to the contemporary traveller.

our facilities and that endorse us for our years of well-known expertise in hospitality, catering and events with top VIP functions and clientele in the region.” Meanwhile, Park Rotana forecasts a happy ending to 2016. The hotel’s general manager, Marc De Beer exclusively shared: “[The year] 2016 promises to end well, with occupancy figures still continuing to remain high and profitability strong. There are a few factors that affect

DESTINATION ABU DHABI the overall performance outlook – particularly

any other hotel and club in the world

looking for a combination of sophistication

tourism and hospitality sectors and helps

low oil prices and hotel supply market increase.

and we are the only officers club and

and innovation. Connectivity while travelling

us stay on the map for guests and visitors

However, we remain cautiously optimistic for

five-star hotel that has been fully open

is key; about 75 per cent of people travel

coming from various world destinations.”

the remainder of the year and expect things to

to the public, sharing its rich culture

with one or more mobile device and

pick up even more in 2017.”

and heritage as well as its awarded

this percentage is higher for younger

such as the expansion of Abu Dhabi

architectural structure simulating a

travellers.”

Airport’s midfield terminal, will open new

De Beer shared that Park Rotana will continue working closely with its distribution partners. “These of course include OTAs but

doors, allowing for a higher frequency of

falcon spreading its wings.” Meanwhile, highlighting that Abu

Other developments in particular,

WHAT’S NEW?

international flights and the handling of

also different third party channels that focus

Dhabi’s luxury tourism industry in

on providing other services like events, F&B,

particular is showing consistent

weddings and more. We are also very keen

growth was area director of sales and

Gaining prominence and an impeccable

Raha Beach Hotel, Rania Rahme touched

to move large parts of our communication

marketing, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi

reputation among global travellers with

upon another significant development:

budgets online, both through advertising as

Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl,

the help of the hard working Abu Dhabi

“The introduction of visa on arrival for

well as social media, a medium we see as

Janet Abrahams: “Abu Dhabi has been

Tourism and Culture Authority, Abu Dhabi

Chinese nationals in the UAE is a major

increasingly relevant,” he said, adding that

seeing a growth in total visitor numbers

has rapidly developed its portfolio, with

step, which will help gain volumes in terms

the hotel is also working on a large-scale

year-on-year for the luxury hotel

more cultural options, including the soon-

of arrivals from China,” she told TTG.

refurbishment project, with more to be

segment. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

to-open Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim

revealed at a later stage.

was ranked among the world’s favourite

museum on Saadiyat Island, events, hotels

Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl

landmarks to visit in the GCC in a list

and entertainment attractions.

elaborated on this: “This has made travel

As for the UAE capital’s stunning Anantara

30 million passengers a year. Director of sales and marketing, Al

Abrahams of Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi

properties, area general manager, Anantara

compiled by TripAdvisor earlier this

Hotels, Resorts and Spas – Abu Dhabi, Wael

year, and development projects such as

manager, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by

increasing visitors to Abu Dhabi. Growth

Soueid shared with TTG that although the

Yas Island and the Abu Dhabi Summer

Rotana, Eleni Tsolakou said: “The tourism

in Etihad Airways routes expands our

hotels welcome clientele from all over the

Festival have expanded the choice

and hospitality sectors in Abu Dhabi

global direct reach and makes us a more

world, the majority of business comes from

and range of activities for families and

are vastly booming and advancing at

accessible destination for short trips.”

residents, local Emiratis, Saudis and the GCC

visitors of all ages.”

a quick pace. [These projects facilitate

“Luxury tourism trends range from

Thrilled with these developments, general

easier for Chinese citizens and resulted in

the] positioning of the UAE capital as a

Impressing the world with its focus,

experiential travel, business travel

world-class cultural destination as well

strategies and projects, the UAE

Apart from that, we also attract quite a few

including MICE, large and small family

as a beacon for cultural experience and

capital will maintain its tourism

Europeans during the cooler months, with an

experiences, individual travel and must-

exchange. In return, this supports the

integrity for decades to come.

emphasis on Germans, French, Italians and

see visits,” Abrahams added.

in general. “These are the markets we are focusing on.

British. We continuously strive for growing

Expertly catering to all of these

awareness in these markets,” he declared.

segments and types of travellers, Abu

“[Throughout 2017] we will continue to

Dhabi offers a broad spread of safaris,

promote the diversity of our unique portfolio of

cruises, retail options, beaches and an

properties to both domestic and international

ever-growing calendar of festivals and

guests. We pride ourselves on creating

events, she explained.

signature experiences for each and every

However, experiential travel is not

single guest to create memories to last a

the only trend shaping the emirate’s

lifetime,” Soueid added.

tourism industry. Chief operating officer of the home-grown Jannah Hotels &

TOURISM CRAZE

Resorts, Martin Persson noted that with the rise of Millennial travellers, the industry is evolving to cater to this

With ‘memories’ being fundamental to modern-

group of people who are extremely

day travellers, TTG was eager to uncover what

tech-savvy, yearn for customised

is actually trending in terms of travel and

experiences and rely on social media.

tourism within the emirate. With this in mind,

“We see more hotel chains investing

TTG discovered that one particular recurring

in providing these experiences – for

word was, ‘experiential’.

example, Jannah Burj Al Sarab in

“There is an increase in demand for

Abu Dhabi offers the world’s fastest

experiential travel, with different groups

hotel Internet connection at 1.2GB per

looking for the perfect setting for a personal

second – that is 10 times faster than the

adventure, one they can participate in and

average connection speed offered by

leave with a memorable experience,” said

any hotel in the world,” he explained.

Soueid, who also pin-pointed an ongoing

“Hotels are going smart by upgrading

increase in luxury travel, with families making

their technological offerings to provide

up a large segment of these travellers.

a smooth experience for guests in

“We are very fortunate with our diverse

addition to relevant content on social

offering, as we are able to cater to all of these

media channels as more and more

demands with our various resorts in the city,

people rely on recommendations from

desert and island,” he added.

trusted sources on social media before

Also noticing an increase in experiential travel, Ortega of Armed Forces Officers Club &

making a purchase,” Persson added. Reiterating this was general manager,

Hotel said: “Nowadays travellers are searching

Marriott Hotel Abu Dhabi and Marriott

for different destinations that can offer a

Executive Apartments Downtown Abu

unique experience. We are different from

Dhabi, David Lance: “I see more guests November 2016

ttgmena.com

DESTINATION ABU DHABI

DOUBLE LAUNCH IN THE CAPITAL

BOOSTING LINKS TO AFRICA

arriott Inter-

Dhabi boasts 315 spacious

national has

guest rooms. Guests can enjoy

celebrated the

a range of facilities including

opening of Marriott

the Saray Spa & Health Club of-

Executive Apartments

fering six individual treatment

Downtown Abu Dhabi

rooms, a fitness centre and a

and Marriott Hotel

rooftop swimming pool. The

Downtown Abu Dhabi.

Saray Spa is scheduled to open

Ideal for both busi-

later on in the year.

ness and family travel-

The property also houses

Forming new partnerships to expand its destination

lers, Marriott Executive

1,500m of flexible meeting

portfolio, Etihad Airways has formed a codeshare

Apartments Downtown

space, which includes 21 con-

agreement with South African low cost carrier, kulula.

Abu Dhabi is home to

ference rooms and the 522m2

64 fully serviced one-,

Grand Ballroom.

The news will bring forth further flight options for pas-

EVENTS SPECIALIST

ver-working to satisfy the demands of its valued clientele, Abu Dhabi’s Park Rotana recently cel-

ebrated the launch of Ground 1, an exclusive private venue which can expertly cater to bespoke events. Speaking exclusively to TTG was general manager, Park

sengers to key cities in South Africa including Cape Town,

two- and three-bedroom

Rotana, Marc De Beer: “Prior to [Ground 1’s] launch, we

Durban, George and East London via Johannesburg.

apartments. Guests

had for some time been seeing an increased demand from

The Abu Dhabi-based airline will place its EY code on

opting to stay at the

guests for customisation and flexibility in event manage-

kulula’s scheduled flights between Johannesburg and the

aparthotel will enjoy

ment; and thus we decided to develop a new concept

aforementioned coastal cities.

five-star hotel services

venue that would be able to better deliver on that.”

CEO, Etihad Airways, Peter Baumgartner enthused: “This codeshare agreement demonstrates Etihad Airways’

and facilities.

De Beer additionally shared that the property has wel-

Meanwhile, expected

comed a new executive chef, Thijs Van Rhoon.

growing ambitions to strengthen our operations across

to be popular among

“Bringing with him a wealth of hospitality experience in

Africa. Through the agreement, kulula will give inbound

business, leisure and

international markets including China and Ukraine, we are

passengers direct access from Johannesburg to four key

MICE guests, Marriott

excited to see him shake things up with new menus and

destinations along South Africa’s renowned coastline.”

Hotel Downtown Abu

exciting concepts,” he told TTG.

14 November 2016

POSITIVE CHANGE Director of sales and marketing, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Archana Kawatra exclusively speaks of tourism trends and changes within Abu Dhabi

TTG: What trends are you noticing in

TTG: How have you seen the luxury

the UAE capital’s tourism?

tourism industry in the GCC evolve over the recent year?

Recent events in Turkey and Europe have persuaded the GCC travellers to

Changing attitudes and the require-

book staycations in the Middle East.

ment for more experiential, cultural

We see that the number of local guests

and sight-seeing tours, rather than the

who prefer to stay at luxury hotels is in-

previously strong preference for shop-

creasing, however, we have to sacrifice

ping, are challenges that the MICE, hos-

the ADR due to high competition in the

pitality and travel sectors in the GCC

market. The impact of low oil prices at

are facing.

the beginning of the year influenced the

Furthermore, security plays an im-

global economy and tourism industry in

portant role as travellers should always

general.

feel secure while discovering a new

Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche is flexible

city. Luxury travellers are also seek-

with its rates and is focused on main-

ing value for money. Nevertheless, the

taining high service standards. Our goal

GCC luxury sector has been growing by

is to create loyal guests who will return

five per cent on a yearly basis and still

to us in the future.

looks positive.

ttgmena.com

DESTINATION ABU DHABI

UPGRADES TO IMPRESS

EMBRACING YOUNGSTERS

Hilton Al Ain has updated its Hiltonia gym, which is now

Director of sales and marketing, Yas Viceroy

fully equipped with modern fitness equipment by Precor.

Abu Dhabi, Paula Tannous exclusively shares

Guests using the facility will also be able to experience the ultimate workout with the added help of professional

how the five-star resort is catering to the needs of its younger guests

personal trainers, while the hotel’s wellness areas have also been carefully refreshed. An era of change for the property, Hilton Al Ain now

We have recently opened the doors to our fantastic Gener-

sports a renovated pool deck and a fully refurbished

ation V Kid’s Zone. This is a

terrace at Paco’s Bar.

dedicated 335m2 area for our

“Being the first hotel in Al Ain has always made Hilton

BRITISH TOURIST MAGNET

youngest guests. We have

Al Ain a unique community destination for the city,”

designed it with exploration

noted general manager, Hilton Al Ain, Jacques Claudel.

in mind to make sure we give

Following great demand from British tourists during the

He shared that a refurbishment of the hotel’s guest

an unforgettable experience

summer of 2016, Danat Hotels & Resorts is working to

rooms, lobby and business centre is also in the pipeline.

that will ignite curiosity and

enhance its products to further entice the UK market.

loyalty to Viceroy.

Developments include the upgrading of 100 rooms at

Generation V complements

Dhafra Beach Hotel, which is also adding another hundred

our growing family focus. We

where we have a special

rooms to its inventory, while Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort is

have a vast amount of rooms

tent set up in the room for

adding 24 chalets to its portfolio which are expected to be

that interconnect and offer

the youngest ones, offer a

completed by end of this year, as well as three restaurants

family style accommodation.

milk and cookie turn-down

and health club facilities.

We have customised the

service, provide dedicated

In other news, Danat Residence has opened Al Multaqa

check-in experience, which

kids’ menus in the restau-

Cafe, and Oryx Hotel has announced the opening of FADO

encourages mini travellers

rants and then there’s the

Irish Pub and Restaurant, a US-based Irish pub, later on in

to interact. We also offer the

ultimate rooftop pool

the year. Adding to this, the lobby of Oryx Hotel has been

Camp Viceroy experience

experience.

fully renovated.

November 2016

ttgmena.com

ibar

ON LOCATION EGYPT

ANCIENT CHARM Egypt has long enjoyed a prime position as a leading tourism hotspot on a global scale, and now, buoyed by optimism, resilience and an unmatched product, the industry is continuing on a path of progress. Emily Millett writes tterly unique in a region where

place, as general manager, Golden Tulip Flamenco Cairo, Oscar

over-development often risks

Lancken commented: “The majority of tourists to Egypt now

working closely with its tour operator

replacing authenticity, Egypt will

come from Central and Eastern Europe. In Cairo we now have a

partners for the eminent return of the

always have unmatched appeal

good volume of Gulf State clients. For these clients we offer the

European flights according to Labban, who

as a tourism destination. And despite the

Zamalek area at competitive rates and excellent service and value.

added: “This is a momentous time for Egypt

challenges being thrown at the country

We have a good number of regular clients and every year we gain

as we focus on longer-term investments

recently, the industry remains positive,

new guests. For the Quseir and Red Sea hotels we have the central

and the development of tourism in our

upbeat and optimistic about a return to

European guests as our main source of guests.”

beloved country. Especially since decline

glory and expectations for further growth in the future. Indeed, Egypt’s staying power as a

Ready for the influx of new guests from Central and Eastern

amongst old and new markets. “Over the years Baron Hotels & Resorts has been widely serving a great variety of markets with different nationalities, providing them with top luxury service,”

Sheikh and Hurghada, caused partially by

refreshing its rooms and public areas.

the high airline prices, is pushing the trend towards Cairo and Alexandria.”

The majority of tourists to Egypt now come from Central and Eastern Europe.

said vice president, Baron Hotels and Resorts, Sherif Shahein. “And obviously

in demand in destinations like Sharm El

Europe and the Gulf, Flamenco Cairo has recently finalised

tourism hot spot can be seen in the destination’s continued popularity

Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh is

DIVERSIFYING MARKETS In an optimistic twist of fate, Egypt’s challenges have seen a larger number of travellers from the MENA region entering the country as Labban said:

Travel and tourism professionals in Egypt remain optimistic that

“The demographics coming from the Gulf

there are many tourists from different

the traditional markets will return, with a number of European

States have changed and Egypt must be

countries who show their sincere interest

destinations restarting flights to the North African country.

prepared to welcome a larger share of the

in what we are offering, such as the Gulf,

“Tourism from Europe to Egypt is poised to gain pace again,”

Germany, the UK, Austria, Italy, Holland,

said general manager, Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh, Mohammad

are familiar with the country, many have

Belgium and Luxemburg.”

Labban. “Italy restarted its operations with 11 direct flights to

their homes here, and have attended

Arab market. Most of the Arab tourists

And although some of the traditional

Egypt's Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh, as did 30 flights from

colleges here and so are more comfortable

feeder markets to Egypt have decreased

Ukraine and two flights from Belgium. In addition, Germany now

than tourists from other countries. Such

of late, new visitors are arriving in their

operates two flights weekly.

significant opportunities come to boost

18 November 2016

ttgmena.com

ON LOCATION EGYPT occupancy in several destinations like Marsa Alam. “The region is a promising touristic area owing to its huge resources, such as expansive diving areas with stunning coral reefs, and therefore faces many future opportunities for expansion by offering global travellers a diversity of options.”

PROUD OPENING Mövenpick Hotels and Re-

feature 200 rooms in-

400 guests.

cluding a Presidential

“The expansion will make

Suite and six Nile View

the hotel an enviable destina-

Suites with expansive

tion for meetings and con-

terraces.

ventions as well as weddings

Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh is focusing on the expanding

sorts is set to open an exten-

Meeting and event

and social events,” said vice

Gulf and Arab market by offering constant promotions, marketing

sion at the Mövenpick Resort

spaces will include one

president, sales and market-

campaigns and tailor made services to fit their tastes.

Aswan early in 2017.

grand ballroom with

ing – Africa, Mövenpick Ho-

the capacity to hold

tels and Resorts, Teri Friesen.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has also seen an upward trajectory

The new product is due to

in domestic and regional tourism recently, as the group’s vice president of sales and marketing for Africa, Teri Friesen, commented: “We have also seen a tremendous increase in demand from new source markets such as Jordan, Kuwait, the GCC, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, China and Japan. Our guests from Jordan, Kuwait, the GCC and the KSA tend to be families enjoying holiday time together. Travellers from these markets find the proximity to be convenient as well as a shared cultural understanding.” In response to the needs of the domestic market Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts in Egypt is shifting some of its focus from the leisure segment, towards the business, meetings and events sector, while maintaining diversity in its dining and entertainment offerings, which, according to Friesen, is important to the domestic travellers. “We have also seen positive growth in the wedding segment and of

COMPLETING FINAL TOUCHES

the hotel is developed on 650,000m². Amer Group has already conducted a trial run at the property, which yielded

Leading Egyptian development company Amer

positive responses.

course we also enjoy the loyalty of expat couples and families living in

Group is set to open Porto Sharm Hotel in Sharm El

Upon completion of the pro-

Egypt who see that Mövenpick offers a variety of resorts and locations

Sheikh in December this year, following the comple-

ject, plans are in process to

so they can take short weekend breaks or longer escapes to several

tion of some final touches, according to director,

open discussions with inter-

different destinations,” said Friesen.

investor relations, Amer Group, Riad Refaat.

national hospitality compa-

Located in the Nabq area of Sharm El Sheikh,

nies to manage the property.

Alongside this increase in the domestic market, Egypt is also seeing an interesting boost to its luxury segment as Shahein of Baron Hotels and Resorts, explained: “The overwhelming trend in Egyptian tourism nowadays is directed at the position of Egypt as one of the most luxurious benchmark destinations in the world, with a spotlight on the magnificent, attractive touristic spots under the trendy campaign #thisisegypt.” Ensuring its luxury product is up-to-date, Baron Hotel Cairo has been undergoing some improvements including a new extension. The hotel has been totally upgraded to a boutique style business hotel and now includes a swimming pool, more rooms, restaurants, meeting rooms and outlets. The increased demand in luxury travel to Egypt has prompted companies such as Crocodile Egypt Travel to branch out and enhance their services. “We're working on penetrating the market of aviation chartering and brokerage as demand for aviation services is still witnessing a slight increase in the region,” said general manager, Crocodile Egypt Travel, Ehab Malek. “Providing services for VIPs and high profile principals is also a unique area for which we are now providing.”

MONUMENTAL PRESERVATION While Egypt’s stunning coastline is helping the destination stay popular, the country’s unmatched history and unique monuments also serve as a constant pull for tourists. Commenting on the need to preserve this area of the industry, Malek told

TTG: “Destination management agencies should submit proposals to the Egyptian government, to manage Egyptian touristic sites in order that they run efficiently as in any other developed nation.” Aware of the draw that its antiquities hold amongst a global travelling public, Egypt is focusing attention on further enhancing this product as former Minister of Antiquities, Zahi Hawass said: “We are currently scanning the Valley of the Kings to look for the missing tombs. We are using very sophisticated techniques, with modern machines that show us what is under the ground. We hope to find the tombs of Ramesses VIII and Thutmoses II as well as the queens of dynasty XXVIII. There is a need for the preservation of the monuments.” Playing to its strengths, Egypt continues to overcome the challenges placed in its path, drawing diversified crowds and witnessing increases in new markets. November 2016

ttgmena.com

SPOTLIGHT INDIAN OCEAN

STUNNING

BACKDROP Firmly established as a tourism favourite, the Indian Ocean region continues to enhance its product and widen its appeal to new target audiences. By Emily Millett

Indian Ocean are looking at ways they can improve their services for these guests. Serene Pavilions in Sri Lanka are looking to F&B to satisfy the needs of MENA guests as the group’s sales and marketing manager, Emily Schofield commented: “We are witnessing a large increase in Middle Eastern guests in the July to September period. Serene Pavilions’ lush gardens and ability to serve food at any time of the day or night entices Middle Eastern travellers to visit during and after the Ramadan period.”

WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS The idyllic peaceful nature and stunning landscapes of the Indian Ocean have seen the region become increasingly popular amongst the weddings and honeymoon markets, leading hotels to launch initiatives to cater to the sector. “We are in the process of launching a honeymoon offer which will combine both Aman properties in Sri Lanka: Amangalla with its stately charm and

ts stunning natural landscapes and unique geographical beauty has made the Indian

with heritage in every architectural and decorative detail, and Amanwella,

Ocean one of the most popular mainstays on the travel destination to-do-list. And

our tranquil beach hideaway set on a peaceful cove on Sri Lanka’s Southern

although once thought of as a more aspirational luxury region, the area is now

coast,” said sales manager, Amangalla and Amanwella, Harshana De Alwis. The Indian Ocean is revelling in the current global trend for ‘Destination

opening up to more affordable travel. “There is a deeper and more constant tone of voice talking about value- for-money,”

Weddings’, where wedding parties travel abroad for their nuptials, with

said CEO and curator, Small Maldives Island Company and general manager, Amilla

resorts such as Loama Maamigili responding with dedicated team members

Fushi and Finolhu, Mark Hehir. “Guests want to know the total ‘end’ price, therefore,

for the niche. “The Indian Ocean is generally perceived as an ideal destination for couples

requests for all-inclusive is entering the mainstream of five-star luxury resorts.” And with the region becoming more affordable and thus more accessible to a wider

with its magnificent beaches which provide a romantic setting for them. One

network of feeder markets, the destinations are seeing an increase in investment and

trend that we are noticing is destination weddings,” said executive director,

development of the tourism product.

Loama Resort Maldives at Maamigili, Eric Chin. “Loama Maamigili features a picturesque and extraordinary venue for

“The Indian Ocean destinations are becoming increasingly competitive, especially with the growth in bed nights through the opening of new resorts,” commented general

couples to celebrate the most precious moment of their lives and we have

manager, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, David Stepetic. “The Maldives has seen an increase in

a dedicated wedding planner to take care of each and every request of the

overall arrivals; the mid-range all-inclusive properties seem to have capitalised the most.

couple, making their union a smooth and hassle-free one. Within this backdrop,

The economic climate has been a key driver with guests seeking value for money."

many a union have been sealed and celebrated; both in an intimate manner and in a mass fashion, creating a memory that lasts a lifetime,” he added. Combining the current trend for authentic local experiences, with the

NEW MARKETS

increasing propensity for destination weddings, Sun Aqua Pasikudah has plans to offer the wedding guests unique options next year.

The increase in arrivals to the Indian Ocean has also meant the advent of new feeder

“2017 is going to be a very interesting year for Sun Aqua since we’re

markets including an influx in Middle Eastern guests as vice president, sales and marketing, Aitken Spence Hotels, Althaf Mohamed Ali told TTG: “We have observed that

focusing more on destination weddings,” said sales manager, Sun Aqua

the in-bound market segment is moving away from its dependency on the traditional

Pasikudah, Sanka Devpriya Wijeyakulasuriya. “We specialise in high end luxury

European markets and receiving encouraging growth from the Middle East, Far East,

weddings in this exotic destination with customised Perahera processions with

South East and South Asian market. The increased air connectivity and the increase in

decorated elephants, dancers, fire dancers, drummers and stilt walkers. Then

the disposable income of the Asian middle-class is contributing to this shift.”

we have traditional clothing ceremonies where the bride and groom get to dress up just like the old kings and queens of Sri Lanka during their wedding.”

Focusing on these emerging markets through enhanced brand exposure, Aitken Spence Hotels is also improving its product for these newcomers, with a refurbishment scheduled at all Adaaran Resorts and a new premium all-inclusive resort, Heritance

The Indian Ocean is not only enhancing its appeal within the traditional

Aarah which is set to launch in December 2017.

markets, it is now also expanding its horizons to embrace new trends

With this increase in guests from the MENA region, hotels and resorts across the

20 November 2015

which are currently influencing the industry. ttgmena.com

ibar

SPOTLIGHT INDIAN OCEAN

PRODUCT ENHANCEMENTS entara Hotels & Resorts has seen a host of new

Eyeing the growth in the

city of Colombo. Located

product enhancements and developments across

tourism industry, ONYX Hos-

on a beautiful beach-

its Indian Ocean properties.

pitality Group has plans to

front site, the property

increase its footprint across

will have 172 ocean view

Spa Maldives and Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Mal-

Sri Lanka, with the construc-

rooms and suites.

dives, Voytek Klasicki told TTG: “We recently completed

tion of Amari Galle Sri Lanka

Area general manager, Centara Grand Island Resort &

BAREFOOT LUXURY Home to the largest

“It will also present an

the renovation of our guest rooms. Additionally, we are

progressing on schedule, and

extensive multi-tiered

working on renovating our restaurant outlet as well.”

the resort set to open in early

pool deck with direct

2017.

beach access, Amari’s sig-

According to Klasicki, the year 2017 will see the company continuously move upwards in the industry, ensuring

Starwood Hotels & Re-

INCREASED FOOTPRINT

guest satisfaction and improving repeat business.

“This opening will mark the

nature Breeze Spa, two

introduction of ONYX Hos-

restaurants, a stunning

sorts is opening the new

overwater villa in the

pitality Group’s Amari brand

rooftop bar, extensive

St. Regis Maldives Vom-

Maldives, The St. Regis

seen some enhancements with a new signature Thai Res-

to Sri Lanka, and we are con-

banquet facilities and a

muli Resort this month.

Maldives also offers a per-

taurant, Suan Bua opening in September, adding another

fident that this property will

fitness centre,” said Dell.

The GCC market is a

sonal e-butler service and

dining option for guests and outside visitors.

follow the success of our two

Meanwhile, Centara Ceysands Resort and Spa has also

key source market for the

a luxury airport transfer

OZO hotels, which are thriv-

Maldives, with a total of

from Malé International.

ing in the country,” said vice

The address features 33

president and area general

region visiting in 2015 - the

on-land villas and 44 over-

manager, ONYX Hospitality

KSA sent 15,749 visitors to

water villas with private

Group, Sri Lanka, Simon Dell.

the Maldives in 2015, while

pools; an integrated rec-

“Our latest project, Amari

7,322 visitors were from

reational area; a dive and

Galle is located in the south-

the UAE and 4,492 visitors

water sports centre; six

western coastal region of Sri

were from Kuwait, accord-

distinct F&B venues; and a

Lanka, approximately 90 min-

ing to tourism statistics.

spa and fitness centre.

utes away from the capital

41,976 tourists from the

ibar

22 November 2016

ttgmena.com

FOCUS ON TURKEY

RISING CONFIDENCE Setting a course for tourism success, Turkey is united in conveying an assuring message for the future, as Natalie Hami discovers

EXPLORING FAR AND WIDE

urkey’s tourism prowess has always

“After incidents that affected the entire world; we

hinged on a number of key factors; its

believe Turkey timely and fully invested in the right

ideal location between the continents

security measures and has now once again positioned

Despite the fact that Turkey has recently regained the much-valued

of Europe and Asia, its multi-faceted

itself as a safe, stable and desirable destination that

Russian market, due to an easing of sanctions and lifting of the travel

tourism product enabling visitors to indulge in

offers amazing services and opportunities for any

ban, the loss was so devastating that it compelled the destination’s travel

experiences from luxury shopping to adventure

traveller.”

and tourism stakeholders to seek out new markets and strategies to keep

and wellness, and most importantly, its safety and stability. However, due to a number of events in the

Hirt added that Middle Eastern travellers were less hesitant in visiting Turkey, compared to Westerners who were more guarded.

such as F&B. He said: “In key markets like the Americas, the UK and

GETTING THE MESSAGE ACROSS

Given the tenacity of the destination’s

Meanwhile, Papillon Hotels Resort and Spa has been taking to social media in order to convey the message

tourism industry, it comes as no surprise then

to the travel and tourism industry, according to its

that Turkey’s tourism stakeholders are keen

social media/online booking officer, Baris Becerik.

not only to lure back visitors, but to reassure them of Turkey’s safety.

German-speaking countries, luxury travellers are global explorers. So in the medium and long term they will continue to travel and follow their

tourism industry; seeking new ways to entice certain markets back to Turkey.

According to Radtke, when some markets are down, the hotel can compensate with other markets, as well as focusing on various segments

recent summer months, the destination now finds itself slowly yet steadily recovering its

ahead of the game.

“This year, in our social media channels the priority was to show all our potential visitors that Turkey is a

passions. And they are among the first tourists to start returning now that we see the rhythm of our country returning.” “[We can also] take advantage of our location on the Bosphorus for local and international events such as weddings and high-calibre business meetings,” Radtke added. Set in the stylish Besiktas area, Raffles Istanbul will also be honing in on

safe country as it always has been. In order to achieve

the lucrative wedding and events sector, according to Hirt. “Turkey also

exclusively shared with TTG how Turkey’s

this, we uploaded several pictures and live videos to

happens to be a great wedding destination for many countries such as

tourism stakeholders are coping with the issue

be able to show the reality,” he said, adding that they

India, Azerbaijan, Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We will not limit

of security.

answered hundreds of messages and emails regarding

our sales efforts to room sales, but complement them with client events

Turkey’s political situation.

and trade shows focused on social/ceremonial catering.”

Director, Blue Phoenix Travel, Ufuk Gokdeniz

“Security is the most essential thing in tourism and in the past few months Turkey lost

The power of social media was also harnessed by

Meanwhile, at Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah, sales and marketing director,

that for a while, however, things are becoming

five-star luxury property Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Ilgaz Sasmaz told TTG that the hotel will be targeting the Russian, CIS,

normal again and we, the tourism workers have

in Istanbul. The property’s general manager, Ralph

Middle Eastern and Iranian markets. “We are attending international

started to announce that to our contacts. This

Radtke – who is also regional director of Kempinski

fairs where we can meet lots of corporate contacts and agencies. We are

crisis reminded us that we are strong together.”

Residences in Turkey – emphasised the significance

having face-to-face interaction with these stakeholders and this is creating

of these particular channels in changing people’s

a chance for us to promote both the destination and the hotel in a more

perception of Turkey.

concrete way.”

He further explained that along with the destination’s hotels Blue Phoenix Travel has been creating special reasonably priced packages for the various regions of Turkey.

“Social media is an extremely important

Focusing heavily on the freshly regained Russian market, Hirt of Raffles

communication tool to share the beauty of our hotel,

Istanbul noted: “In 2017, we expect exciting developments in leisure travel

Istanbul and Turkey, and we have a dedicated strategy.

from Russia; meaning our hotel is intensifying its direct sales efforts to

secure again and letting the travel industry and

Social and digital channels allow us to market not just

Moscow, St. Petersburg and other select cities.” He added that the hotel

guests know about it.”

the hotel, but also the destination itself.”

has already witnessed an increase in guests from Russia.

“Our strategy is showing that our country is

General manager, Raffles Istanbul, Christian

He added: “We have had an excellent reaction from

Hirt also spoke with optimism to TTG regarding

our local and international guests on how highlighting

Focused on making a tourism comeback, Turkey is strategising for a

Turkey’s ability to protect its tourists, noting:

the great destination is helping to educate travellers."

future of prosperity.

26 November 2016

ttgmena.com

FOCUS ON TURKEY

TAKING FLIGHT

TTG: Tell us all about your latest

TTG: How is Pegasus enhancing its links with the

and most exciting developments.

Middle East?

In July 2016 we made history with

As a regional low-cost airline, the Middle East is one of

the delivery of the first of our 100

our most important growth markets. The region has

Airbus A320neo order from 2012

increasingly looked to Turkey as a favourite travel and

which was the largest order of air-

business destination and we’re delighted to announce

craft in Turkish civil aviation history

54.7 per cent growth in guest traffic in the first half of

at the time. We became the first air-

2016 on our Middle East routes compared to the same

line in the world to receive delivery

period last year. We currently fly to Amman, Bahrain,

of the more environmentally friendly

Baghdad, Beirut, Dubai, Erbil, Hurghada, Kuwait, Qa-

CFM Leap-1A powered A320neo. This

tar, Sharm El Sheikh and Tehran in the region, and

marks the launch of an exciting new

have just launched routes to Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, and

era for us where we will be imple-

will continue to launch more destinations as fast as

menting our next stage of growth

we can obtain traffic rights.

as a leading and pioneering global player and low-cost airline. Our new

TTG: What new routes has Pegasus

planes set a new benchmark in flight

recently opened?

comfort, seamlessness, value and ease as we operate Turkey’s young-

We recently added Sulaymaniyah, Iraq and Kashgar,

est and one of Europe’s youngest

China to our network and earlier this year launched our

fleets with 77 aircraft with an aver-

route to Amman,Jordan. We also entered a codeshare

age age of 5.5 years.

partnership with the Saudi low cost airline flynas add-

We look forward to continued

Speaking exclusively to TTG, sales director, Pegasus, Emre Pekesen elaborates on the low cost carrier's upcoming plans to diversity its services

ing Jeddah and Riyadh to our network. These develop-

growth in 2017 as we expand to more

ments see us further expand our regional influence and

destinations, reach more guests and

our leading low cost positioning. We are continuing our

further diversify our low cost offer-

steady growth in the region with a network that cur-

ing with a wider range of products

rently includes 102 destinations in 40 countries across

and services.

Europe, Middle East, Russia, North Africa and Asia.

November 2016

ttgmena.com

AWARENESS SPAS Gallery, Kanruethai Roongruang said: “Spa-goers these days are more inclined towards authentic experiences which allow them to fully immerse in cultures and wellness rituals originating from the location to which they travelled. At Banyan Tree Spa, we place great importance on preserving these time-honoured traditions passed down from generations.” Roongruang added that Banyan Tree has created spa packages harnessing the timeless wellness recipes from Thailand, India, China and Indonesia in order to meet this demand. Moving westwards to the island of Cyprus in the warm Mediterranean sea, and more specifically to the mountain village of

TOTAL WELLNESS

Kalopanayiotis; general manager, Casale Panayiotis, Andreas Papayiannis highlighted to

TTG the boutique property’s USP: “The trends that we have noticed since we launched the Myrianthousa Spa last year is that guests are looking for unique experiences such as our ‘Midnight Spa Journey’ [allowing guests to] have the spa exclusively to themselves for four hours

The spa industry has taken immense strides in recent years, evolving to suit the needs of its 21st century clientele, as Panayiotis Markides reports

including spa facilities, treatments and a candle lit dinner or the ‘Spa Ritual for Two’ whereby the couple have treatments at the same time and then an hour-long soak in the private outdoor hot tub with mineral sulphur spring waters." Papayiannis added: “We are the only Mountain Spa Resort in Cyprus offering a village

Personalisation is highly valued in a spa experience.

n a world where stress has become a part of most people’s daily lives, and where the most dedicated professionals need to unplug, travelling the length of the earth for a more tailored spa experience is becoming ever-popular. Director of spa and wellness, Six Senses Zighy Bay, Rosalin Lau told TTG: “Spa trends have been evolving over the years,

experience in luxurious settings and our $5.6 million project, Myrianthousa Spa, is an icon for the whole of Cyprus using APVITA products.” He elaborated that the products make use of ingredients sourced from Greece and Cyprus. Travelling further north within the Mediterranean, the newly opened Canyon

from just a simple massage to the current trend of total wellbeing, whether it be spa, fitness, yoga, meditation, reiki or

Ranch Kaplankaya in Turkey is also capitalising

holistic treatments – a unique combination tailored especially

on its location’s history of healing powers. A

treatments backed by science and proven by respectable

to our guests’ needs in order for them to de-stress. Spa menus

spokesperson from Canyon Ranch explained that

professionals and experts in the medical and wellness field. To

reflect this ongoing trend through the offerings.”

visitors are looking for authentic experiences

relaxation and overall wellness of both the body and mind.” According to Lau, spa-goers seek more results-driven

that reflect the environment of the spa

this end, Lau said that Six Senses has collaborated with doctors

Director of wellness and spa projects, MSpa International, the

and wellness professionals to develop a wellness approach that

spa management arm for Minor Hotels Group, Vanessa Stoessel

location. The spokesperson informed TTG that

addresses some of the most common issues people face in their

agreed: “Personalisation is highly valued in a spa experience.”

the Bodrum region ‘has also been a centre of

ultra-stressed lives.

She added that MSpa has a Bespoke Spa Experience which

healing since ancient times’, adding that Canyon

Elaborating on the importance the spa industry plays in

allows guests to guide the treatment delivery by explaining how

Ranch’s global consumer needed to be taken

today’s travel, group director of business development, Sun

they would like the therapists to fill the 90-minute appointment.

into account when launching the brand in an

Siyam Resorts, Evgenia Boyankova remarked: “The spa today

In response to spa-goers’ changing demands, spa manager,

international space.

is a deciding factor in choosing a holiday resort. Clients are

Anantara Spa Eastern Mangroves, Daniella Swanepoel

looking for a total spa experience, a journey of experiencing

elucidated to TTG: “Spa-goers are often very informed and

total relaxation, together with body rejuvenation spread over

therefore we have to be on our toes ensuring we are up to date

International, Ebrahim Malekzadeh told TTG: “We

the duration of the holiday.”

with the latest spa trends.” She added that to cater to this,

like to use the layout, function and aesthetics

Anantara Spa offers guests ‘spa on arrival’.

of a space and also factor in the overall

With spa-goers becoming more and more discerning, and the spa industry becoming more competitive to attract and retain

Swanepoel explained the convenience of this offer: “As leisure

Agreeing that the destination’s market must be well-understood, CEO and founder, esadore

offering and target audience to make each

guests, TTG spoke to stakeholders to find out how they remain

travel becomes shortened, frequent long weekends versus one

spa aesthetically pleasing but functional. This

ahead of the curve.

long holiday - it’s important to expedite relaxation, and spa

ensures that operation is smooth and seamless,

treatments on arrival do just that.”

and revenue-making a priority. For example, is

CUSTOMISED APPROACH

the spa situated in a beach resort and catering

PURE EXPERIENCE

to leisure travellers or is it in a business hotel frequented by corporate travellers?"

A major trend across the wellness sector is being able to provide spa-goers with a treatment that can be tailored to their

Being able to provide bespoke treatments to guests may have

unique needs.

become a given in the ever-growing spa world, but spa providers

As consumers demand more from spa

still need to distinguish themselves through offering unique,

providers, stakeholders in the spa sector are

authentic experiences.

working as hard as possible to ensure that

This personalised service has become engrained into the DNA and philosophy of each spa, as spa manager, Navasana Spa, Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort, Sophie Lagane illustrated: “Navasana Spa is all about a personalised approach to your

Speaking to TTG exclusively about spa trends, vice president and executive director – global operations, Banyan Tree Spa &

28 November 2016

ttgmena.com

spa-goers enjoy a peaceful and relaxing experience.

AWARENESS SPAS

FIVE-STAR RENOVATION “The spa at Four Seasons has

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas recently introduced its fully renovated Forbes Five

long been a sanctuary for hotel

Star Spa following a $1 million project.

guests, local residents and Las

A respite from the bustling Las Vegas

Grand Nikko Bali has announced the launch of the new Ocean Breeze treatment room at its Mandara Spa. The treatment room, situated within a beachfront garden, boasts floor-to-ceiling glass windows and overlooks the resort’s pools and the Indian Ocean. It is an ambient space where guests can unwind, lie back and feel deeply relaxed. Besides the newly launched Ocean Breeze treatment room, Mandara Spa also boasts eight semi-open Balinese spa villas in a tropical garden environment by the pool. Each villa has been inspired by the rich artistry of Bali’s cultural heritage and the destination's natural beauty.

Vegas visitors alike,” commented

Strip, the spa is located inside the non-gam-

general manager, Four Seasons

ing, non-smoking Four Seasons Hotel Las

Hotel Las Vegas, Mark Hellrung. “This easily accessible space fea-

Vegas on the hotel’s lobby level. It features 12 treatment rooms, including two oversized

tures a fresh, sophisticated design

couples’ suites and an expanded co-ed

paired with the intuitive service

Zen Lounge.

that is the hallmark of the Four

Guests can indulge in an array of person-

Seasons brand.”

alised treatments and services, featuring

The spa offers its guests new

one of the industry’s leading eco-friendly

signature services including: Four

product lines such as Naturopathica,

Seasons Ultimate; Cupping Therapy

Phytomer, Pure Fiji and Ajne.

and Essence of the Seasons.

TREATING THE SOUL

Dusit International, Morakot Suchutimanon. “For example, Devarana Spa, Bangkok will be offering a specialty treatment called ‘Seven Shrines Wish Ritual’. The name refers to one of the most popular activities for Thai and Asian tourists in Bangkok, which is to worship the seven significant Hindu God’s shrines in the heart of

SPECIALISED METHODS

Bangkok. It is believed that visiting all in a day will lead to good luck and prosperity. Before

verlooking Gabala

making the traditional

Moreover, the resort offers a 6,000m spa 2

lake in Azerbaijan, the

fully dedicated to medical check-ups and state-

respect, we recommend

five-star Chenot Pal-

of-the-art diagnostics that enable specialised

that our guests cleanse

ace Health Wellness Resort

medical professionals to assess a guest’s cur-

their bodies and minds

has recently opened its doors

rent wellness status, including a Human Perfor-

in order to be ready for

to guests, offering holistic de-

mance Department with a top class metabolic

toxes using health and well-

laboratory for metabolic optimising, a cryo

ith the aim of attracting both tourists and

ness specialist Henri Chenot’s

chamber at -110 C for whole-body cryotherapy

local guests, Dusit International’s Devarana

that the Seven Shrines

methods.

and a sports lab for fitness screening. Antigrav-

Spa is set to launch brand new treatments for

Wish ritual includes

this sacred activity.”

Suchutimanon added

The hotel has a total of

ity technologies and normobaric hypoxic (oxy-

its four locations in Thailand at the

Jasmine and Ylang

72 keys and three spacious

gen reduced) training for physical wellness are

end of 2016.

Ylang body exfoliate

villas with private spas that

also available.

will provide guests with

General manager, Chenot Palace Wellness Re-

“Our spa tries to differentiate between the two by

with frankincense

offering unique treatments that incorporate unique

essence and is followed

panoramic views of the No-

sort, Lorenzo Amaglio enthused: “Gabala itself

ingredients and techniques whilst also keeping in mind

by the Thai Sen Sib

hur Lake and the Caucasian

is a leisure destination, surrounded by amazing

local accents and the lifestyles of our customers in each

Massage and the Mind

Mountains.

forests, lakes and mountains.”

location,” remarked Devarana Spa manager, corporate,

Calming Massage.

30 November 2016

ttgmena.com

One Bedroom Beach Pool Villa Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

Two Bedroom Garden View Pool Villa Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

One Bedroom Cliff Pool Villa Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Dining By Design Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Two Bedroom Garden Pool Villa Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

ANANTARA UNVEILS TWO NEW RESORTS. Introducing two new luxury properties in the Sultanate of Oman with the opening of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort and Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara. A rare jewel in the rocky contours of the vast Saiq Plateau on Oman’s fabled Green Mountain, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort makes its mark as the highest five star resort in the Middle East and amongst the highest in the world. In this extraordinary and breathtaking mountain destination, Anantara’s distinctive natural luxury and warm Arabian hospitality offers guests an exhilarating escape featuring 115 guestrooms including 33 cliff and garden pool villas, six dining outlets and a range of bespoke outdoor adventure activities. On the shores of the Arabian Sea in southern Oman, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is the first pool villa resort to open in the Dhofar region providing the perfect gateway to explore nearby UNESCO archaeological and heritage sites in the remarkable land of frankincense. Offering 136 guest rooms including 88 one and two-bedroom pool villas, Anantara Al Baleed offers superior luxury and privacy overlooking sandy white beaches and a stunning freshwater lagoon. Anantara also brings the first hamman to Salalah as part of the resort’s spa and wellness program. Both prestigious resorts offer indigenous experiences for guests seeking authentic luxury in settings of dramatic natural beauty. LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

CAMBODIA



CHINA



INDONESIA



MALDIVES



MOZAMBIQUE



OMAN



QATAR



SRI LANKA



THAILAND



UNITED ARAB EMIRATES



VIETNAM



ZAMBIA

REGIONAL ROUND UP BAHRAIN & CYPRUS

RECORDBREAKING FIGURES Looking to the future with immense

of arrivals. Referring to tourism

optimism in its tour-

revenue, Demetriadou

ism industry, Cyprus

commented that dur-

Tourism Organisa-

ing the first six months

tion (CTO) recently

of 2016 there was an

revealed the latest

increase of 13.7 per

record-breaking fig-

cent, compared to the

ures for the island.

same period last year.

“Our forecast is that

Meanwhile, CTO has

for the first time we’re

also launched a new

going to surpass three

round of Short Escapes

million arrivals,” said

– Great Experiences,

acting director general,

running from October

CTO, Annita Demetria-

to June 2017.

dou, who added that

“The programme

arrivals have currently

contributes to the

reached 2.2 million.

bolstering of domestic

Demetriadou further

PREMIUM SERVICES 10 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel scooped Bahrain’s Leading Business Hotel 2016 at the recent World Travel Awards Middle East gala ceremony, which took place at The St. Regis Dubai. The award was presented to the property’s general manager, Thomas Flindt and director of marketing, Cristalyn Pastrana. Sheraton Bahrain Hotel has won this award for the last four consecutive years, since 2013.

contract also includes long-term TotalCare service support. In addition, Gulf Air also has the option to purchase the same engine to power six further Boeing 787-9s. The

same time encouraging

was a 19.2 per cent in-

Cypriots to discover

crease in arrivals over

new corners

the first eight months

and products of Cy-

of 2016 compared

prus,” said Demetria-

to the same period

dou. She added that

last year. January

aircraft all form part

will be promoting a variety of its services

of Gulf Air's recently

this year.

announced wide-

According to a spokesperson from the Bahraini

body aircraft orders,

airline, the carrier will be promoting its products

geared towards

and services, Arabian hospitality, premium services

facilitating long term

and premium cabin, as well as Gulf Air premium

expansion capabili-

lounges in Bahrain and Heathrow airports.

ties for the airline's

“We will continue to focus on our products and services, promoting the most popular destinations and our strong regional network,” said the spokes-

future network requirement. Gulf Air will be part of the Bahrain

person.

tourism, while at the

highlighted that there

ooking forward to a fruitful WTM, Gulf Air

Meanwhile, Gulf Air has awarded Rolls-Royce a $900m contract for Trent 1000 engines to power

pavilion ME700, at WTM London.

the new phase offers

OCEAN SIDE CHANGES

STRATEGIC EXPANSION

to August 2016 were

package holidays for

With Cyprus’ tourism industry on the up this year,

In line with its 2015 -2018 strategy to promote

considered the best

the weekend, at attrac-

managing director, St Raphael Resort and Marina,

the Kingdom of Bahrain as a wedding

months ever in terms

tive prices.

Limassol, Farah Shammas spoke to TTG about all the

destination and further attract tourists from

exciting changes afoot at the luxury Resort.

the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and India, the

“This year has seen many exciting changes and tweaks

For the first time we’re going to surpass three million arrivals.

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority

to our already award winning Ultra All-Inclusive concept.

(BTEA) recently hosted four workshops aimed

We have introduced outdoor themed dining this year

at training tourism professionals.

in our poolside Splash restaurant which was extremely popular and fully booked weekly,” she said.

Conducted by international experts, the workshops were held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, with the main aim being to position

We have introduced outdoor themed dining this year. Shammas added that the property’s animation team has been keeping guest spirits high, with new games and

Bahrain internationally as a leading destination. It focused on various topics related to the wedding management industry including creating a successful business plan, organising unique events, as well as promoting Bahrain as a luxurious wedding destination. “Our main aim is to promote Bahrain as a

entertainment programmes over the summer and this

leading wedding destination which will directly

coming winter.

impact the national economy,” said advisor,

Referring to the message that St Raphael will be conveying at this year’s WTM, Shammas commented that visitors can look out for ‘new areas, renovation and new concepts soon’. Meanwhile, questioned about which markets the

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, Ali Follad. The workshop was open to industry-related employees and entrepreneurs including fivestar hotels, bridal and fashion designers,

property will be targeting for 2017, Shammas noted: “We

wedding planners, retailers, events and

are always looking and are open to new markets, as well

entertainment companies, jewellery designers

as appreciating and showing support to our traditional

and travel agencies.

markets. Our strategy is as always to improve in all aspects of our business."

32 November 2015

ttgmena.com

REGIONAL ROUND UP IRAN

UNITING AN INDUSTRY

RISING TO THE TOP

rom February 7-8,

with the aim of discussing

Rising in popularity as

shared that the country’s Lut

2017, the very

the industry.

a tourist destination,

desert was recently added to

Iran’s tourism industry is

the UNESCO World Heritage

first Iran Hotel &

Throughout the duration

Tourism Investment

of the event, industry

ever developing and re-

list as Iran’s first ever natural

Conference (IHTIC) is

experts will shed light on

shaping itself to accom-

attraction.

scheduled to take place at

the opportunities available

the Parsian Evin Hotel in

in the region, share their

Tehran, Iran.

experience on conducting

TEHRAN REVISITED

modate visitors’ needs. Speaking to TTG about

“This is a great opportunity for us as a tour operator to

this was marketing

introduce this natural attrac-

manager, Iran Doostan

tion as a destination for ad-

designed to attract an

underline how they have

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has recently resumed flights

Tours, Saeed Azam:

venture travellers,” he said.

international audience of

overcome development and

to Iran’s capital city, Tehran.

“One of the great devel-

Throughout 2016 IDT wit-

senior figures involved in

operational challenges that

opments was the start of

nessed a significant increase

the country’s hotel and

they have faced.

electronic visa process-

in requests for adventure tours to Iran.

IHTIC has been

tourism development,

IHTIC will take place at the Parsian Evin Hotel in Tehran.

business in the country and

Under the 2025 Tourism

KLM previously offered flights to the destination from July 1991 until April 2013. Operated by a Boeing 777-200, four weekly flights are

ing for travellers to Iran.

Vision plan, Iran is expecting

now offered by the airline between Schiphol and Tehran,

Iran Doostan Tours (IDT)

to boost tourist arrivals

supplementing the Paris-Tehran service operated by Air

was elected by Iran Min-

from 4.8 million in 2014

France since April 16, 2016.

istry of Foreign Affairs

to 10 million by 2019. The

President and CEO, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Pieter

Tourism Organisation of

Elbers commented on the good news: “KLM has further

Iran aims to attract 20

strengthened its network with a new destination – the 14

online service to detect

million foreign tourists

to be added this year. This confirms that our strategy is

the problems and errors,

annually by 2025, and it is

starting to bear fruit. On the one hand we are improving

to resolve any issues.”

anticipated that by 2025,

our efficiency and productivity, while on the other we are

the country will receive $30

investing in growth.”

as an expert and reliable tour operator to use this th

Updating TTG on other developments, Azam

billion from tourism income.

November 2016

ttgmena.com

REGIONAL ROUND UP KSA

STAR OPENS IN JEDDAH

NEW YEAR LAUNCH

SPREADING THE WORD Elaf Group has been aggressively promoting the KSA's tour-

iana Hotels and Resorts is gearing up to launch

ism portfolio through marketing tours in Istanbul, Turkey;

the brand new Aiana Makkah.

Cairo, Egypt; Casablanca, Morocco; and Jakarta, Indonesia. Throughout the initiative, tempting tour packages and

The new hotel is scheduled to open its doors to

cultural attractions within the KSA were brought to light, as

the public in Q1 of 2017.

well as the impressive offering for religious travellers.

The property will be home to 611 hotel rooms and will

CEO, Elaf Group, Ziyad Bin Mahfouz commented: “We con-

expertly cater to the needs of families and groups visiting the Holy City of Makkah for religious purposes and

tinue to innovate with our service offerings for our guests

pilgrimages.

such as extended and all-inclusive packages for all our hotels in Saudi Arabia, to facilitate and guarantee a comfortable stay, so that they can explore other parts of the country

Great care has been taken to provide travellers with adequate amenities.

before or after their Hajj or Umrah performance.” taurants, including all-day

Hotel City Star Jeddah

dining outlet Al Deira, Al

to the country’s GDP from 5.4 per cent to 5.7 per cent by

recently opened its doors to

Moltaqa Café and Al Zohoor

2020. The public sector aims to boost business and the

the public in Saudi Arabia.

Garden located next to the

number of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to 20 million by 2030.

The freshly opened property is home to eight flexible

rooftop pool. In an ideal location, Möven-

meeting rooms, an elegant

pick Hotel City Star Jeddah

ing director and CEO, Aiana Hotels and Resorts, Amruda

Palladian-style ballroom

stands in close proximity to

Nair: “Great care has been taken to provide travellers

equipped to hold up to 600

Al Harthy Exhibition Centre

with adequate amenities, efficient and friendly service

guests, the Al Maha Health

and Mall of Arabia, and is a

as well as varied cuisine featuring signature dishes from

Club & Spa and a rooftop

mere 15-minute drive from

the Middle East, Indian sub-continent, Far East and

swimming pool. Guests can

King Abdulaziz International

North Africa.”

make the most of three res-

Airport.

Speaking about the property exclusively was manag-

Saudi tourism is expected to increase its contribution

The 22-key Mövenpick

DEBUT OF A BRAND

IMPORTANCE OF SAUDISATION Having only opened its doors in June of this year, Conrad Makkah is pulling out all the stops to ensure that Saudisation forms a fundamental part of its ethos. The luxurious hotel has already employed an impressive number

Our strategy has always been focused on attracting highly-educated Saudi nationals.

of highly-qualified Saudi nationals in all departments, but is on a mission to heighten this number, in line with the government’s

Following the entry of Starwood’s techorientated Aloft brand in Saudi Arabia (with the launch of Aloft Riyadh), complex director of marketing, Aloft Hotels Saudi Arabia, Shankar Sivanander spoke to TTG regarding expansion in the destination. “I’m happy to say we’ve opened up the first of two Aloft Hotels in Saudi Arabia. Travellers who have visited Aloft London Excel or Aloft Liverpool will know that the brand offers a stylish and

Saudi is investing heavily which will really shake up tourism in the area.

Conrad Makkah is therefore offering a two-year training programme to talented Saudi graduates to fast track them to management positions under Hilton’s Mudeer Al Mustaqbal (Manager of the Future) programme, which is offered at all 11 Hilton properties in the country.

modern destination.”

The programme will train the

Referring to the brand’s future objectives, Sivanander explained that the focus is to grow

Vision 2030.

[travellers] what they want.”

to invest in the national workforce of the Kingdom. Our strategy has always been focused on attracting highly-

participants in F&B, front office

educated Saudi nationals and empowering them with

and housekeeping departments,

the necessary skills and expertise to pursue a successful career in hospitality.”

the brand with the launch of Aloft Dhahran by

Speaking of trends in Saudi

the end of the year in the Eastern Province of

Arabia’s tourism industry, Si-

while working within the hotel’s

Saudi Arabia. “We’re pleased to meet with the

vanander said: “With oil prices

main operational areas.

local expat community to offer them something

as they are, Saudi is investing

designed to their needs,” he added. “Saudi Ara-

heavily in technology and special

kah, Ismail Sirry said: “There is a

versity, an online learning platform offering participants

bia offers more than you would know and Aloft

projects which will really shake up

great opportunity for the private

more than five million hours of training through 2,500

Hotels is expanding in the Kingdom to offer

tourism in the area.”

sector of the hospitality industry

courses in various formats.

34 November 2015

General manager, Conrad Mak-

ttgmena.com

During the Manager of the Future programme, participants will be granted access to Hilton Worldwide Uni-

REGIONAL ROUND UP KUWAIT & LEVANT

CITY LUXURY xhibiting at the Lebanon stand at WTM London, Kempinski Summerland Hotel and Resort Beirut has recently opened its doors welcoming guests to its luxury beach front

FRESH LOOK AWAITS GUESTS

Royal Tulip Achrafieh, part of the Louvre Hotels Group,

This hotel will surely amaze travellers.

location. “Set directly on the

PERSONALISED SERVICE has opened its doors to welcome its first guests. The luxury boutique, located in the heart of Lebanon’s capital Beirut, is the first five-star hotel in Lebanon under Louvre Hotels Group. Royal Tulip Achrafieh offers 76 spacious rooms and suites for both business and leisure guests. Facilities include an all-day dining restaurant, a café lounge, a

city centre.

rooftop lounge, meeting rooms and a fitness centre.

Given that the hotel

General manager, Royal Tulip Achrafieh, Nicolas

has only recently opened,

Revamping its facilities in a bid to boost the hotel’s

Anghelopoulos said: “We look forward to having our guests

extensive resort facilities,

Bourachi explained to TTG

image, Ramada Beirut Downtown has recently finished an

experience the luxurious, and personalised service at Royal

this hotel will surely amaze

that 2017 will be the first

entire renovation giving the lobby, restaurant and its bar

Tulip Achrafieh that will make their stay a memorable one.

all travellers visiting Beirut

full year of operation, thus

and dining lounge a brand new look, according to general

The hotel is here to cater to local and international guests,

for leisure,” the Resort’s

drumming up business

manager, Yasmine Eid Maalouf.

and is also the perfect place for the Lebanese diaspora.”

director of sales and

ranging from leisure,

marketing, Maha Bourachi

to corporate and MICE

renovated. We have also opened two new terraces, giving

explained to TTG.

is crucial. Referring to

guests access to relaxation from breakfast, lunch and

markets that the property

dinner or simply a drink."

Mediterranean Sea with

“The message [is] that

“In addition, the rooms have been entirely semi-

Looking to the future Maalouf noted that 2017 will be a

now luxury travellers to

will be targeting, Bourachi

Beirut can enjoy a beautiful

commented: “A new market

luxury resort in the heart

we are targeting will be the

of Beirut,” she added. The

Brazilian market with over

on training while offering a great product and benefits to

hotel is strategically located

six million Lebanese expats

our guests," Maalouf concluded.

a 15-minute drive from the

residing there.”

ANCIENT GEM

promising year albeit difficult due to competition. “In terms of services, we will certainly keep on focusing

will be discussing key developments for 2017. The delegation will also

RAISING THE BAR

“Throughout 2016 we have been focusing on attracting new guests from Europe, the Far East and Turkey,” said

be available to discuss the

Petek, adding that Jumeirah Messilah

importance of UK tourism

Beach Hotel & Spa continues to be a

to Jordan and the impact

favourite destination for families from

the ongoing unrest in the

Kuwait and the GCC countries. This be-

Middle East has had on

ing a customer base that the property

tourism in the destination.

has been keen to strengthen. Regarding plans to appeal to visitors

The delegation will also discuss the success of

from Europe, the Far East and Turkey,

a high impact six month

Petek stated that the hotel has devel-

marketing campaign which

oped initiatives to cater to the demands

ran this year, investment

of these markets.

Recently celebrating the centenary since the arrival

in the UK market and the

of Lawrence of Arabia to Jordan for the first time,

recent discovery of an

director, Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), Abdul Razzag

enormous new monument

Arabiyyat revealed the destination’s optimistic outlook.

in Petra.”

“We have also increased the exposure of the hotel as the preferred destination in Kuwait through innovative and General manager, Jumeirah

customer-centric approaches. Accord-

Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa,

ingly, we continue to attract more

city of Petra’ still has secrets to unveil with the

Kuwait, Hakan Petek, commented

guests from these key feeder markets

discovery of an enormous new monument within the

exclusively to TTG about how the

while constantly raising the bar of excel-

ancient Nabataean city. The splendour and mystery

luxury property will be turning its

lence in our overall guest experience,"

of Jordan remains just as relevant today as it did

attention to new source markets.

he concluded.

“In June of this year it was revealed that the ‘lost

100 years ago,” said Arabiyyat adding that JTB is preparing to welcome The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) which has chosen Jordan as the setting for its 2016 overseas conference. Referring to arrivals to Jordan, Arabiyyat noted that despite a challenging period visitor figures are up by five per cent. Meanwhile, as an exhibitor at this year’s WTM, Arabiyyat commented on the tourism board’s plans for the prestigious show. “At this year’s WTM, the Jordan Tourism Board

The splendour and mystery of Jordan remains just as relevant today as it did 100 years ago. November 2015

Al Manshar Rotana is in the process of adding ballrooms and an Italian restaurant. According to the property’s general manager, Imad Zaboura, by 2017, the hotel will have a mall next to it with an array of high end outlets, further upping the hotel’s appeal.

ttgmena.com

REGIONAL ROUND UP NORTH AFRICA

ENTICING GCC GUESTS

JOINING THE ELITE ar Ahlam in Morocco

Hotels of the World,

Over the summer 2016

Director, Mazagan Beach

has joined the Small

Daniel Luddington said:

season Morocco’s Maza-

and Golf Resort, Scott

Luxury Hotels of the

“Dar Ahlam perfectly

gan Beach and Golf Re-

Lundahl stated: “Maza-

World (SLH), a collection of

encompasses all that

sort witnessed impres-

gan Beach and Golf Re-

independently-owned hotels

SLH prides itself on – an

sive growth in GCC visitor

sort was able to attract

spanning the globe.

extremely unique hotel in a

numbers.

a large segment of Gulf

Throughout the sea-

visitors this summer be-

son the resort offered

cause of our efforts. We

various entertainment

were helped by increased

offerings and activities,

flights by Gulf carriers

discounts on rooms and

which led to revitalisation

suites, and free transport

of air traffic from the

to and from Casablanca

Gulf countries to Casa-

International Airport.

blanca airport.”

My vision was to create a place of unforgettable beauty.

DELICIOUS DEVELOPMENT

Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech has updated its F&B portfolio with Ling Ling, a Cantonese restaurant and bar designed by Parisian duo Gilles & Bossier. The hotel’s general manager, Mark Bradford enthused: “It’s a great addition to the culinary offerings that we have here, such as the Moroccan restaurant Mes’Lalla, the casual Pool Garden and the chic Le Salon Berbère.”

The hotel, which sits on

stunning setting, five-star

The new outlet is located in the West wing of the lobby

the edge of the Moroccan

personalised service and

and boasts a capacious outdoor terrace which overlooks

desert in Ouarzazate, is

exceptional dining. ”

the gardens, lounge and bar. The menu was carefully

a 19th century Kasbah. It

Meanwhile owner, Dar

underwent an extensive

Ahlam, Thierry Teyssier

renovation project in 2002,

noted: “My vision for Dar

which transformed it into

Ahlam was to create a place

made popular in the East, where food accompanies the

one of the country’s most

of unforgettable beauty, a

drinks and not the other way around. With drinking, dining

exclusive addresses.

slice of untouched nature,

and dancing at the forefront, Ling Ling bends the Hakkasan

Vice president of

exclusive experiences and

DNA to create a restaurant and bar experience that reflects

cuisine to savour.”

and complements its surroundings,” explained Bradford.

development, Small Luxury

36 November 2016

ttgmena.com

curated by executive head chef Tong Chee Hwee, who has recreated Cantonese dishes that are ideal for sharing. “Ling Ling draws inspiration from the izakaya concept

REGIONAL ROUND UP OMAN & PALESTINE

FRUITFUL WINTER AHEAD

CLEAR VISION

we have a clear vision, achievable objectives and a set

EXPLORING AN HISTORIC LAND

A trusted entity in Oman’s hospitality portfolio, InterConti-

With a plan ‘To Become

of values to which all

In a bid to entice visitors

communities to expand local

nental Muscat is in gear for the winter season.

the Best’, CEO, Oman

our employees are

to Palestine, director,

projects and attract visitors

Air, Paul Gregorowitsch

committed."

Siraj Center, Michel

to take in more of Palestine’s

Awad spoke exclusively

sights.

The hotel’s director of sales, Youssef Alonzo exclusively spoke to TTG: “We are expecting more leisure and business

recently delivered a

guests towards the end of the year due to the business

key report on the flag

described how Oman

to TTG about how this

season and cooler weather.”

carrier’s progress and

Air’s network has

unique organisation has

aims to provide visitors with

expansion strategy.

grown in parallel with

been introducing a num-

insights into the history

“I am pleased to

its fleet expansion.

ber of new programmes

and the human experience

Oman in particular is anticipating the inauguration of

report that Oman Air

Recent destinations

and destinations.

of Palestine, in a way that

the brand new Crowne Plaza Muscat Oman Conference

has achieved important

to be added to its

& Exhibitions Center in Q2 of 2017.

progress over the last

network include

years, Siraj Center has

With InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) ever-working on developing its portfolio in the GCC, Alonzo shared that

Gregorowitsch

“Over the last two

Awad explained that Siraj

benefits both the visitor and the local community.

two years and I am

Manila, Jakarta,

seen a 79 per cent

in the GCC in 2016-2017. The main 'trend' is to discover the

optimistic about the

Singapore, Goa, Dhaka

increase in customers,

a collection of religious,

untapped beauty and culture that Oman and the GCC has.

company’s future.

and Mashhad, and

allowing us to create

historical and natural sites

With the invaluable

Guangzhou in China,

entirely new programmes

in and around many of the

support of Oman Air’s

to be launched in

and expand existing ones.

famous cities in the region.

Board of Directors,

December.

We have added many

Our tours include beautiful

new destinations and

cities such as Nablus, Hebron,

variety to our weekly

Bethlehem, Janin, Jerusalem

walks, including sunset

and Jericho.”

“There are several hotels planned to open in Oman and

People want to discover areas that are not known to them."

and stargazing walks,”

HIGH-END AUTHENTICITY

“Visitors will experience

Referring to trends, Awad

said Awad, adding that in

commented on witnessing

these new destinations

an increase in historical and

the organisation has

political tourism in the region,

teamed up with new

as opposed to religious.

A YEAR OF MILESTONES Attending this year’s WTM London, Director General of Tourism Promotion, Oman Ministry of Tourism, Salim Adi Al Mamari shares all with TTG

ith plenty of natu-

Each room features its

living and dining area, and a

At WTM London we will want to demonstrate that

ing our stand with a number

ral beauty to lure

own indigenous luxuries

14.2m swimming pool with a

Oman is a fabulous and authentic, year-round des-

of partners including hotels,

in visitors, Oman

from custom made Omani

Jacuzzi and rain shower.

tination steeped in culture. Oman offers stunning

ground handlers and the

has recently welcomed

furniture to Amouage bath

landscapes and plenty to do from outdoor adventure

Oman Airports Management

another luxury property:

amenities evoking the re-

Oman’s many cultural sights,

activities, spa and wellness and cultural attractions

Company. There will be some

Anantara Al Jabal Al

gion’s priceless fragrances.

according to Darwin, the ho-

such as the Opera House and the National Museum

traditional Omani hospitality on

Akhdar Resort.

The 33 Pool Villas each

tel has been working closely

of Oman.

offer so please do come by and

boast their own tempera-

with a local guide to map out

opening, the property’s

ture-controlled swimming

the surrounding landscape

rugged dramatic landscapes and wadis; the cooler

general manager, Darren

pool, separate living area

and identify new hiking trails,

more temperate climate of Salalah in the south and

Darwin told TTG: “We have

and personal villa host, with

allowing guests to go off the

the spectacular coastline with its natural inlets and

spent considerable time en-

several featuring their own

beaten track and discover

secluded beaches, there is something for everyone.

suring we develop a unique

entrance and garage, ideal

ancient villages, secret under-

The natural attractions coupled with high-class

and luxurious property and

for those that are looking

ground lakes and much more.

luxury resorts, desert camps and smaller mid-range

have worked hard to en-

for ultimate privacy. The

“We can also arrange for

accommodation means that Oman can cater to holi-

sure everything is in place

three-bedroom Royal Moun-

personalised trips to the

daymakers looking for a truly authentic, quality, Mid-

for a strong opening, from

tain Villa is considered the

nearby heritage sites such

dle Eastern experience.

marketing and PR efforts to

epitome of luxury, with a

as Niza and Birkat Al-Mouz,"

international sales trips.”

two-car garage, spacious

Darwin added.

Referring to the recent

Enabling guests to enjoy

November 2016

With the natural playgrounds of Nizwa boasting

At WTM, Oman Ministry of Tourism will be in the

speak to us and our partners.

Oman is a fabulous and authentic, year-round destination

Middle East region on stand ME600. We will be sharttgmena.com

REGIONAL ROUND UP QATAR InterContinental Doha is

CONNECTING DOHA AND WINDHOEK

currently undergoing huge enhancements that are guaranteed to push the property to the forefront of Qatar’s hospi-

Qatar Airways has officially

Chief executive, Qatar

launched flights to the capital of

Airways Group, HE Akbar

Namibia, Windhoek.

Al Baker enthused: “We

in our expansion plans. Meanwhile,

tality game. According to area director of sales and marketing – Qatar,

are delighted to extend

Naobeb of Namibia

Kuwait and Bahrain, InterCon-

our network within Africa

Tourism Board

tinental Doha, Janet Turner,

greeted by CEO, Namibia Tourism

by adding the premium

added: “The new

the hotel is adding 120 new

Board, Digu Naobeb and Qatar’s

leisure and business

flight route provides

club rooms and suites to its fa-

Ambassador to South Africa, HE

destination of Windhoek

the opportunity to

cilities as well as an extensive

Salem Abdullah Sultan Al Jaber.

to our route map. Africa

promote Namibia

club lounge, 90 beachfront

Representing the Qatari carri-

remains one of our key

as a business and

residential units which com-

In light of the special occasion, a VIP delegation from Doha was

er’s 23 route to Africa, Windhoek

target areas for growth

leisure destination

prise one-, two- and three-bed-

flights will be offered four times a

and we have identified

amongst Qatar Air-

room apartments and villas,

week and will be served by a Boe-

Namibia as an important

ways’ wide network

and a luxurious high-tech Spa

African nation to include

of travellers."

InterContinental.

ing 787 Dreamliner.

Meanwhile, Turner shared that InterContinental Doha is also upping its F&B game. “With the recently refur-

Turner explained to TTG that every enhancement has been carefully crafted to ensure that the property remains

and Mykonos Greek Restau-

the only destination in Qatar which provides a unique mix

rant, the soon to open largest

of facilities for both business and leisure travellers. “The InterContinental Doha is an iconic destination

oma Mexican Restaurant and

with new world-class facilities. We are the market leader in

the Lava Bar, our F&B offering

Doha for business and leisure travel,” she concluded.

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

According to Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), from January until the end of September 2016, Qatar registered a

haring all with TTG,

total of 2.18 million visitors, with GCC guests topping the

revenue manager,

that he anticipates

nationality list.

Saraya Corniche

heightened demand

During this period an increase in arrivals of eight per cent

has something to meet the needs of all diners.”

bished Coral All Day Dining

Belgian Café coupled with Pal-

POSITIVE RESULTS

ENHANCEMENTS TO AN ICON

Tambis expressed

HOSPITALITY PROWESS Having recently acquired the Leading City Hotel Award for Qatar at the World

Hotel, Bryan Tambis

due to the exciting

and 17 per cent was brought forth by KSA and UAE tourists

explained that the five-star

new projects that are

Travel Awards,

respectively, compared to the corresponding period in 2015.

property is stabilising in the

coming to fruition

Mövenpick Hotel West

Visits from Bahraini and Kuwaiti nationals also jumped by

market during Q4 of 2016

in Qatar and the

Bay Doha has a clear-

three per cent and two per cent respectively.

following a challenging first

successful efforts

cut 2017 strategy for

three quarters of the year.

of Qatar Tourism

success. Hotel general

Authority.

manager, Ghada Sadek

Overall, year-to-date arrivals from the GCC region increased by seven per cent compared to the corresponding period last year.

“Doing our homework helped us to manage our

“Being the host of the 2022 FIFA World

Qatar registered a total of 2.18 million visitors.

We are strengthening our corporate sales.

Visitors entering the country on the Qatar-Oman tourist

speaks to TTG

cup, Qatar has plenty of projects [in the pipeline], including

Mövenpick Hotel

ForKnife restaurant and Lime

five-star and luxury

West Bay Doha will

Tree Lobby Lounge, with more

hotel openings.

continue with its cur-

information to be announced

We are therefore

rent strategy, which

very soon.

strengthening our

is offering a full ex-

corporate sales

perience to families

creating itself as a fusion des-

to make sure that

looking for leisure

tination – fit for both business

Qatar will continue to focus on

occupancy and ADR during

we have strong

and business people

and leisure, specifically after

from the US also increased by five per cent between

high and low periods.

visibility in the

on the go. Our offers

the launch of the ‘48 Hour Stay

January and September 2016, compared to 2015.

Ultimately we achieved

market as well as

vary and are suitable

Over’ programme, Eid al Fitr fes-

visa increased by two per cent year-to-date, while visitors

better REVPar compared

strong, competitive

for both segments,

tivities, the Qatar Summer Festi-

taking place in September, the State witnessed a heightened

to our competition. We are

strategies to market

giving them flexible

val and other activities put forth

frequency of GCC visitors with the number of Saudi visitors

anticipating that during Q4

our property in order

options.

to attract [international] guests.

alone reaching over 100,000.

of 2016 we will be better

for us get our market

compared to last year.”

share,” he concluded.

With the popular, week-long Eid celebrations in Qatar

QTA is anticipating further modest increases in arrivals due to the recent launch of the cruise season.

38 November 2016

ttgmena.com

One of our goals

The county will also continue to

is to also expand

focus on hosting sports events

our F&B offerings in

and competitions.

REGIONAL ROUND UP QATAR

PRESTIGIOUS ADDRESS

IMPRESSIVE F&B oasting an array of impressive F&B outlets

Aiana Hotels & Resorts

including the unique Hakkasan restaurant,

will soon be introducing

Gordon Ramsay Mediterranean, Astor Grill, Opal

Aiana Suites and Resi-

by Gordon Ramsay, and much more, The St. Regis

dences, Doha, expected

Doha will be launching, in an addition to the above, three

to welcome guests in

new concepts in the last quarter of 2016.

Q2 of 2017. “[This] is a 180-key

It will also be introducing a revamped menu at Astor

THE GLAM FACTOR

Grill featuring dry aged meat, a selection of prime cuts

serviced apartment,

including Australian T-bone and Wagyu Tomahawk, and

Further upping the

sleek, stylish interiors and

located in the prestigious

American Ribeye.

luxury property’s glam-

dramatic chandeliers. Guests

our factor, Shangri-La

will enjoy unrivalled

West Bay district in

Further upping its culinary offering, the luxury

Doha,” said CEO, Aiana

property has recently debuted The Raw Bar. In an

Doha is set to unveil the

vistas of Doha and the

Hotels & Resorts,

intimate dining setting, with only 11 seats available, The

Shanghai Club in the

Arabian Gulf.

Amruda Nair, adding

Raw Bar offers a menu of sushi, sashimi and seafood

coming months, accord-

that it currently has nine

including oysters and caviar, with a greater emphasis on

ing to the hotel’s direc-

the combination of a chic

properties in its portfolio.

fresh, raw food.

tor of sales and market-

restaurant and hip lounge

ing, Figen Caglar.

and bar offers the city a

Nair also elaborated

And rounding off the list of new concepts will be

Caglar elaborated that

on the growth of Aiana,

Oyster Bay and Bar Live which will be presenting

noting: “Our vision is

Cuban rhythms. With a new Cuban band playing crowd-

quickly become the new

to evolve as a global

favourites and signature music styles including rhumba,

lifestyle destination in

hospitality brand and

Afro-Cuban jazz, salsa, soukous as well as Spanish fusion

the city,” said Caglar.

establish a presence

genres, guests can look forward to relaxing at the beach

The club is located

across key geographies

side bar, with lounge music, authentic Cuban treats and

on the top two levels

great selection of artistically-

in the Middle East, India

refreshing drinks by the pool.

of the hotel and has

inspired beverages, buzzing

been furnished with

DJs and live acts.

and Asia Pacific.”

November 2016

ttgmena.com

“We believe [it] will

trendy glamorous new venue to dine, play and be seen. Shanghai Club will feature Cantonese cuisine and creative fusion bar food, a

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REGIONAL ROUND UP UAE

SATISFYING EXPECTATIONS

AIMING TO CAPTURE POTENTIAL and associates while deliv-

keting for the two hotels, Khaled Al-Idrissi. Referring to trends within the GCC’s luxury tourism industry, he shared: “There is a market diversification that continues to take place as we see more niche markets being introduced. This is well supProviding unparalleled

ported by the logistics

levels of luxury, Fairmont

strategy of airlines in

Ajman and Fairmont Fu-

the UAE.”

jairah Beach Resort are

Al-Idrissi further ex-

anticipating a satisfactory

plained that Eastern Eu-

end of the year.

ropean and Scandinavian

There is a market diversification that continues to take place as we see more niche markets being introduced.

ering the best value to our customers and widening our brand appeal.” Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah will also be shedding light on its enhanced F&B offering throughout the duration of the show, as well as its amenities for children. Looking ahead, Zein Attending this year’s

explaining that this year the

explained that the hotel’s

edition of WTM Lon-

hotel’s focus has shifted to

strategy for next year will

don, general man-

capturing new markets and

be to work towards Shar-

ager, Radisson Blu

maximising its returns via

jah Tourism Vision 2021,

Resort, Sharjah, Ra-

the show.

which aims to bring in 10

markets continue to be

bih Zein outlined the

“Strong marketing ini-

seems to be stable from a

part and parcel of the lei- that due to aggressive expan-

property’s goals and

tiatives, a powerful central

revenue perspective and

sure segment growth of

sion in the country, it is key that

expectations.

reservation system, stra-

we should be in-line with

the properties.

existing hotels stay relevant

“The rest of the year

“Our strategy for

million guests to the emirate. “To accomplish this vi-

tegic brand affiliations

sion, we are tapping into

WTM is to exploit

and innovative loyalty

new markets such as

place] in terms of fore-

lenges faced in the hospi- spective if they are to avoid ero-

the existing business

programmes are all geared

China, India, Oman, Scandi-

cast,” explained cluster

tality industry nowadays, sion of their market share and

opportunities avail-

to maximising revenue and

navia and East Europe,”

director of sales and mar-

he highlighted to TTG

able,” he told TTG,

profitability for our owners

he concluded.

the expectation [that’s in

With regards to chal-

REVAMP FOR EXCELLENCE

ubai’s Amwaj

Total Resistance eXercise

Rotana has

System – a specialised form

been working to

of suspension training, SkiErg

refine its product. The property’s gen-

from a product and service per-

revenue generation.

YEAR OF CHANGE With exciting developments

WORKING TOWARDS THE VISION

in the works for

machines – simulating the

Emaar Hospitality

sport of Nordic skiing, Assault AirBikes – which deploy air

Group, the

Boosting the city’s hospitality port-

Deere exclusively

resistance for both upper and

company’s chief

folio and supporting Dubai’s Vision

shared that among the

lower body conditioning, as

operating officer,

2020, Khalidia Palace Hotel, Dubai

developments is the up-

well as Battle Ropes – utilised

Chris Newman

by Mourouj Gloria is set to open its

grade of all televisions

for both strength and endur-

shares all

doors in the fourth quarter of 2018.

in guest rooms, while

ance workouts.”

with TTG

eral manager, Mark

by the close of the year,

Amwaj Rotana has also re-

Commenting on the city’s significance was general manager, Kha-

the property will have

furbished two of its

completed its new kids'

signature restaurants, Rosso

Our primary focus at present is

opened Dubai Opera, the

Iqbal: “Dubai is a promising region

club, making the prop-

and Benihana.

the opening of The Address Hotel

city’s first purpose built,

known worldwide for its never-

erty more attractive to

+ Resort’s first property in seven

multi-format perform-

ending developments. The vision

family travellers.

years, The Address Boulevard

ing arts theatre and the

of Dubai to achieve its 20 million

lidia Hotel Apartments, Mohammed

Dubai, later this year. It will be the

definitive destination

visitor target by 2020 is an energy

made some significant

second tallest in Downtown Dubai

for quality entertain-

booster. This boost has enabled us

changes to our gym-

and is positioned as a city life-

ment productions and

to launch our new and exciting $5.4

nasium and added new

style resort, inspired by European

performances, located in

million project, Khalidia Palace Ho-

equipment such as a

finesse and elegance while dem-

Downtown Dubai.

tel, Dubai by Mourouj Gloria.”

“We have also

onstrating old world, understated elegance and luxury.

Earlier this year, we

The new project, to be located

launched ‘U By Emaar’,

in the Deira area of Dubai, will be

delivering a unique, cus-

home to 311 rooms, a world-class

properties under Rove Hotels, our

tomer-focused rewards

spa, a ballroom for large functions

new contemporary midscale hotel

programme that brings

and events,and innovative technol-

and residences brand for the

added value for guests

ogy to cater to the needs of Millen-

nomadic traveller.

across a breadth of

nials, plus much more.

We are also set to open new

Furthermore, we are the Official Hotel Partner of the newly

42 November 2016

Emaar’s hotels, restaurants and attractions.

ttgmena.com

REGIONAL ROUND UP UAE

SUSTAINED POPULARITY

PORTFOLIO BOOST

LUCRATIVE MARKETS

rea general man-

key messages promoted

its 182 rooms in order to be

ager, Gloria Hotels

at WTM this year together

able to better target clien-

& Resorts, Freddy

with promotions in the

tele and better cater to

Farid shared with TTG all

corporate, leisure and

their needs.

that the hotel company

MICE segments. “Without

is promoting at the World

giving too much away we

categories now, we can

Travel Market London 2016

will have a ‘fingers in all

individualise and customise

this year.

pies’ approach for 2017, so

the room allocation as per

“As we have more room

“We are pleased to an-

a very strong business mix

the guest’s preference and

nounce the opening of our

in corporate, leisure, MICE,

offer them more variance,”

A third Ajman property is set to join Ramada Hotel &

brand new 156 guest bed-

government and confer-

he said.

Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman, accord-

room hotel in Downtown

ence and events business,”

ing to cluster general manager for both hotels, Iftikhar

Abu Dhabi which is a great

he told TTG, adding that

Hamdani.

boost to the Gloria Hotels

the company focuses on

Seeking to enhance its

promoting the rapidly grow-

Schukowski also remarked that the property will be

& Apartments’ portfolio,”

all global markets for busi-

guest experience, Kem-

ing emirate of Ajman as an

ture 179 rooms and various facilities including an execu-

he shared, adding that

ness but that it naturally

pinski Hotel Ajman

alternative to Dubai and Abu

tive lounge on the top floor, two restaurants, a swimming

Gloria Hotel in Dubai has

attracts more business

revealed the various up-

Dhabi. Referring to markets,

pool, gym and spa as well as a health club.

re-launched its refurbished

from the surrounding GCC,

grades that the property

Schukowsi commented to

La Terrasse Restaurant.

due to its family friendly

has undergone, which are

TTG that the Ajman hotel

concept.

to be promoted during

has witnessed an uptick in

WTM London.

Russian visitors in 2016:

Located on Ajman Corniche, the 17-storey hotel will fea-

Hamdani noted that the hotel is being opened to meet the increasing number of tourist arrivals to the emirate. In terms of demand, the new property is not expected

Farid commented to

TTG that Gloria Hotels &

Gloria Hotels & Resorts

to dilute Ajman’s occupancy. “Our hotels are expecting

Resorts’ hotel develop-

will be on the Dubai Tour-

full occupancy for the remainder of 2016 and the first

ment programme in Saudi

ism pavilion at World

manager, Kai Schukowski

ferred places, reflected in

quarter of 2017,” Hamdani informed TTG. “We are essen-

Arabia, Dubai and Abu

Travel Market London,

informed TTG that the

the 60 per cent loyalty rate

tially enjoying high occupancy throughout the year.”

Dhabi will be one of the

stand ME200.

hotel has recategorised

from the Russian market.”

44 November 2016

The property’s general

“The UAE is one of the pre-

SPOTLIGHT ON AJMAN Director of tourism development and marketing department, Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD), Yamina Aoucher shares exclusively with

TTG how the emirate is promoting itself

TTG: Share with our readers any exciting news and developments. Attracting international visitors is of paramount importance to Ajman Tourism Development

in selected strong markets in

Department. Guests can explore the manifold

the GCC, India and China by

developments in Ajman’s tourism industry, start-

taking advantage of its ef-

ing with the new destination brand AJMAN, the

fective internal and external

new website ajman.travel, the new and stunning

relationships, ensuring it has

world-class course in Al Zorah Golf Club and the

the sufficient and substantial

Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, a luxury eco-

capabilities to support its

destination resort which is set to open at the

future mission and strategic

beginning of 2017.

initiatives, especially for 2017.

TTG: What will be your main strategy

TTG: Where will visitors be

for 2017? Will you be focusing on any

able to find you at WTM?

new markets? We will be located in Hall S4, Our top priority is to increase the number of

stand ME550. Our stand

visitors in 2017 through local, regional and in-

will showcase the new brand

ternational promotions. Ajman Tourism will also

for the first time in the UK

enhance cooperation with major tour operators

market.

ttgmena.com

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

embraced Craig Bruce as general manager. Bruce will direct and oversee the hotels' management and operation, with the aim of strengthening their position in the market. He will also spearhead their commercial growth. Throughout his career he has worked in South Africa, the UK, Botswana and the UAE.

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana has welcomed Schalk van der Merwe on board as director of human resources. In his new role, van der Merwe will lead and develop HR strategy and programmes, including design and implementation of organisational development programmes, orientation and training programmes, corporate policies and procedures, benefit plans, client service strategies and more.

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT MANAGER Simon Azizi has joined the Salalah Rotana Resort team as executive assistant manager. Having been part of the Rotana family for 13 years, Azizi has previously held managerial positions within the company’s hotels in Beirut, Khartoum and Erbil. Prior to his new position, he served as director of food and beverage at Erbil Rotana, Iraq.

GOKUL RAMAN

MILLENNIUM PLAZA HOTEL DUBAI

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi have

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

SALALAH ROTANA RESORT

Yas Island Rotana and Centro

KHALIDIYA PALACE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA

YAS ISLAND ROTANA AND CENTRO YAS ISLAND ABU DHABI

GENERAL MANAGER

SIMON AZIZI

SCHALK VAN DER MERWE

CRAIG BRUCE

FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANAGER Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai has welcomed Gokul Raman as food and beverage manager. An Indian national, Raman will manage all F&B operations and will work to deliver excellent culinary experiences to hotel guests. Using his 21 years of industry experience, he will plan and manage all F&B areas, employees and finance, and will work to boost hotel sales through customer satisfaction and employee engagement.

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

an Indian national, has been appointed as the new cluster director of sales for Park Inn by Radisson Muscat and Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm. Gurumurthiah, who has been a member of the Rezidor family since May 2007, will lead and improve all aspects of the sales and marketing communications department for both properties.

CEO

Russell Loughland, a sea-

François Bouteiller has

soned hotelier, has been

been announced as the CEO

appointed as the director of

of SalamAir, Oman’s first

sales and marketing for Al

budget airline.

Faisaliah Hotel and Hotel Al

With over three decades of

Khozama.

experience, Bouteiller will

He will work on further devel-

spearhead the airline’s highly

oping the domestic and inter-

anticipated launch this year,

national sales and marketing strategy for Al Faisaliah Hotel, Al Faisaliah Suites and Hotel Al Khozama. His appointment is expected to strengthen Al Faisaliah’s commercial initiatives.

46 November 2016

managing its operational and business strategies. He previously served as the CEO of Saudi Arabia’s flynas. He additionally co-founded and led FlyBaboo, a regional airline in Europe.

ttgmena.com

WYNDHAM HOTEL GROUP

Prashanth Gurumurthiah,

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING

SALAMAIR

CLUSTER DIRECTOR OF SALES

PHILIPPE BIJAOUI

FRANCOIS BOUTEILLER

RUSSELL LOUGHLAND

AL FAISALIAH HOTEL AND HOTEL AL KHOZAMA

PARK INN BY RADISSON MUSCAT AND PARK INN BY RADISSON HOTEL & RESIDENCE DUQM

PRASHANTH GURUMURTHIAH

CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER – EMEA Wyndham Hotel Group has appointed Philippe Bijaoui as chief development officer for Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa. Bijaoui will oversee the company’s expansion across the region, introducing additional brands to established markets and building on the 73 countries where the group is present. He recently served as the vice president – development Europe for IHG.

SOCIAL HUB

Our Team

SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS: PROMOTING YOUR COUNTRY The MENA region’s tourism authorities are ever striving to shine the spotlight on the various attractions and adventures that their countries have to offer travellers. TTG investigated their very latest Tweets to see what they are promoting.

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

DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR Tatiana Tsierkezou TTsierkezou@ttgmena.com D: +35724803021 MEDIA REPORTER Panayiotis Markides PMarkides@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803024

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Edward Beales

Experience Oman @ExperienceOman Jebel Harim… a place only for those who dare to explore! #BeautyHasAnAddress #ExperienceOman #Oman

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

Jordan Tourism Board @VisitJordan Just a few hikers enjoying the Wadi Al Hassa trail on a beautiful Jordanian morning. #GoJordan

VisitCyprus @visitcyprus Discover #Lefkara village!! #Village #NaturalBeauty #VisitCyprus

EDITOR Natalie Hami NHami@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803022

Visit Dubai @visitdubai If you’re looking for a dose of Vitamin Sea, a chartered boat trip @xclusiveyachts is just what the doctor ordered!

Visit Abu Dhabi @VisitAbuDhabi What's your favourite colour? @YasViceroy there are over 5,000 diamond shaped glass panels that change colour.

Visit Bahrain @visit_bahrain Manama always shines with a superb view during day & night. Enjoy a peaceful walk at Al Ghous Corniche #inBahrain #VisitBahrain

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