BESTINTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2018
MIDDLE EAST WINNERS 2018 Nasser Al Nowais, Middle East’s Leading Travel Personality
INSIDE: WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2018 GRAND TOUR
Guests at this year’s Middle East Gala ceemony held in Ras Al Khaimah
Publisher Kevin Rolfe Editor Siddharth Thaker Designers Mike Gibas Mark Askam Editorial Team Ana Strack Christopher O’Toole Rebecca Cohen Phil Blizzard Photography Mark Hakansson Ben Roberts Anjjelo San Buenaventura Business Development Chris Frost Sion Rapson Gina Reynolds Mike Sawicki
Production team Rasha Akar Nadeem George Denis Halilaj Tracy Rolfe Content management Marfee Ybañez Laarni Mendoza Suguitan Heizel Amora Juvilyn Camello Virendra Singh Bhanu Roel Christian Yambao Ai Ling Foong Trishia Delas Alas Kaycee Melon Jel Varca Athena Davadilla Online George Cooke
Best In Travel is published by World Media and Events Ltd 2nd Floor, Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BD, United Kingdom T: +44 (0) 207 887 1410 E: advertising@bestintravelmagazine.com www.bestintravelmagazine.com The use of our Website and Digital Magazine are all subject to the following: All rights reserved. No part of www.bestintravelmagazine.com may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmied, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from world luxury daily. Whilst every effort has been made to check the information contained in this issue of world luxury daily magazine, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of world luxury daily publishing. Unless otherwise stated, the copyright of the individual contribution is that of the contributors. Every effort has been made to trace the copyright holders of images. We apologise in advance for any unintentional omissions and would be pleased to insert the appropriate acknowledgment in any subsequent publication.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDSMiddle east Gala CereMony 2018
INTRODUCING THE WINNERS
World travel awards (Wta) was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry.
this year’s Middle east event took place in ras al Khaimah – an up and coming emirate in the Uae – was hosted by tV anchor Katie Fielder.
today, the Wta brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners seing the benchmark to which all others aspire.
it was an honour to recognise the organisations that exemplify superior service, at the five-star Waldorf astoria on the night of 19 april.
each year, Wta covers the globe with a series of regional gala ceremonies staged to recognise and celebrate individual and collective success within each key geographical region.
Join us in congratulating the 2018 World travel awards Middle east winners – which we’ll be revealing in this issue – for their inspiring commitment to the travel, tourism and hospitality industry.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
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th
25 ANNI
MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY RAS AL KHAIMAH, UAE 19 APRIL 2018
EUROPE GALA CEREMONY ATHENS GREECE 30 JUNE 2018
GRAND FINAL GALA CEREMONY LISBON PORTUGAL 1 DECEMBER 2018
ASIA & AUSTRALASIA GALA CEREMONY HONG KONG 3 SEPTEMBER 2018
WORLD SPA AWARDS MALDIVES 27 OCTOBER 2018
LATIN A CEREMO GUAYAQU ECUADOR 15 SEPTEM
WO AWA LA M SPAIN 1-4 NOV
IVERSARY GRAND tOUR
AMERICA ONY UIL R BER 2018
ORLD GOLF ARDS MANGA CLUB N VEMBER 2018
CARIBBEAN & NORTH AMERICA GALA CEREMONY JAMAICA 22 SEPTEMBER 2018
AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN GALA CEREMONY DURBAN SOUTH AFRICA 6 OCTOBER 2018
WORLD SKI AWARDS KITZBÜHEL AUSTRIA 16-18 NOVEMBER 2018
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's Responsible touRisM awaRd
ABU DHABI Falcon Hospital opened on 3rd of october, 1999, the abu dhabi Falcon Hospital (adFH) is the first public falcon hospital in the united arab emirates. since then, it has become the largest falcon hospital world-wide with a well established loyal patient-base not only in the uae, but also in adjacent countries such as saudi arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and bahrain.
From being established as a purely veterinary facility, the abu dhabi Falcon Hospital has diversified its services in recent years. apart from Falcon and avian medicine, adFH additionally contains multiple other departments including pet Care Center, tourism, shaheen Conference Centre, laboratory and internships that provide comprehensive service offerings for a wide range of customers.
Moreover, the abu dhabi Falcon Hospital manages the abu dhabi animal shelter for adoptions of stray and abandoned cats and dogs.
the e-payment portal of adFH website facilitates online bookings and e-payments for pet boarding and clinical appointments, internships, tourist visits and conference bookings to enhance customer satisfaction.
www.falconhospital.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
uae's leading Hotel gRoup
accoR HOTELS accorHotels’ Middle east current portfolio is spread across 11 countries, including the uae, saudi arabia, egypt, Kuwait, bahrain, oman, Qatar, Jordan, egypt, lebanon and iran.
within the luxury portfolio, recent openings this year include Fairmont amman – which has introduced a new standard of exemplary hospitality to Jordan’s capital city – and the launch of swissôtel al ghurair & swissôtel living compromising 28 rooms and 192 apartments.
going forward Fairmont Riyadh business gate, the Mgallery doha Msheireb, Fairmont abu dhabi Marina Resort & Residences, the pullman doha west bay, the Mgallery old dubai and Majilis grand Mercure doha C Ring Road are all scheduled to open their doors later this year.
all told, a total of 2,287 rooms and 441 branded residences will join accorHotel’s luxe portfolio in 2018. www.accorhotels.group/en
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WORLD’S LEADING
HOTEL
LS &RESORTS Whether it is for business or purely for pleasure, World's Leading Hotels & Resorts has a daily selection of news, insights and exciting new destinations featuring the world’s very best and most luxurious properties.
www.worldsleadinghotelsandresorts.com
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
abu dHabi's leading tRavel agenCy
advanced TRAVEL AND TOURISM advanced travel and tourism is a sole proprietorship owned by a distinguished u.a.e – national, H.e.abdulla al Masaood. the Company was established in the year 1993, with a strong intention of providing professional and quality service to the travel community of abu dhabi and al ain.
the company was the ďŹ rst to join the bsp ticketing system in abu dhabi, by satisfying all the necessary regulation of the international airline transport association. they are also well equipped to release any kind of travel document of any airline to any destination across the world and have a good rapport with several international tour operators, health, leisure and adventure operators.
all told, advanced travel and tourism are able to oer concise information on airline and ground arrangement data, ensuring prompt processing of both your business and leisure requirements, providing assistance whenever necessary, planning your travel itinerary,
whether you need Hotel Reservation, Car Hire, travel insurance, Holiday packages or tours – all at competitive prices. www.advancedtravels.net
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading luxuRy ResoRt saudi aRabia's leading conFeRence & Wedding Hotel Middle east's leading luxuRy suites Hotel
al FaisaliaH RESORT & SPA set in durrat arriyadh, the Kingdom’s first gated residential neighbourhood in Riyadh, the unique al Faisaliah Resort & spa resides on 154,000 sqm of a lush green oasis enhanced by eco-friendly water features.
accommodation at al Faisaliah Resort & spa consists of 121 extensive guest-rooms, 31 luxurious suites and 10 stately private villas each with an outdoor swimming pool. guests can enjoy a wide array of culinary venues, a spectacular spa, several indoor and outdoor swimming pools, including a magniďŹ cent inďŹ nity-edge-pool and more.
Kingdom salman park and Riyadh golf Courses are a 15 minute drive from the property, while diriyah Historical City is only 25 minutes away and King Khalid airport a 20 minute drive from al Faisaliah Resort & spa. www.alfaisaliahresorts.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading leisuRe tRavel agenCy
al FaRis TRAVEL al Faris international travel & tourism agency is one of the leading companies accredited by iata international in saudi arabia.
it deals with companies of all sizes, governmental institutions and nongovernmental organisations. and provide solutions that suit customers’ needs and aspirations. www.alfaristours.com
Host - Katie FieldeR, MoHieddin HaMouda, geneRal ManageR - al FaRis gRoup, al FaRis tRavel
MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds, MoHieddin HaMouda, geneRal ManageR - al FaRis gRoup, al FaRis tRavel
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading Hotel dining & enteRtainMent expeRienCe
al HabtooR CITY three world-class hotels with unparalleled amenities grace al Habtoor City. world-famous international designers and architects have worked on the three 5-star hotels in the new neighbourhood, representing famous hospitality brands that inspire confidence and symbolise luxury living.
the st. Regis dubai – the city’s firstever st. Regis – draws inspiration from new york’s gilded age. influenced by the beaux-arts architecture of the original st. Regis new york, the hotel’s interiors take you back to the 18th century of classical design accentuated.
elsewhere the w dubai is a cosmopolitan intersection of art, design, fashion, music and cuisine. Characterised by an avant- garde design, the forward- thinking w brand offers 356 ultra-luxurious rooms and suites and extraordinary experiences in exclusive spaces.
then there’s the westin dubai, al Habtoor City whose refined interiors are distinguished by art deco-influenced motifs with environmentally sensitive colors and textures.
stir in three ultra-luxury residential towers, numerous retail and leisure stores on the boulevard, as well as the first marina promenade on the dubai water Canal and you have one of the emirate’s most exciting project www.alhabtoorcity.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading luxuRy Hospitality CoMpany
al KHozama with its strategy founded on a sharp vision of leadership, outstanding qualifications, and world-class planning, development, and management, al Khozama continues to expand its portfolio of exceptional properties and projects.
the company has become a reference for achievement in the Kingdom’s real estate industry – a benchmark for luxury, innovation, design, and commercial success. www.alkhozama.com
MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds witH MR Hussein Hatata, viCe pResident, aK Hotels & ResoRts
Katie FieldeR, MR Hussein Hatata, viCe pResident, aK Hotels & ResoRts, CHeRian CHaCKo, CoRpoRate diReCtoR oF MaRKeting, aK Hotels & ResoRts
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading boutiQue Hotel
al maHsReq BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Classic themes and arabian tradition meet at al Mashreq which is ideally situated on the intersection between ourouba street and prince turki Road, close to the city’s main shopping and business areas. each accommodation – choose from a stylish selection of rooms and suites – is sound-proofed and air-conditioned, and includes a minibar, flat-screen tv, and private bathroom.
beyond the bedrooms, relax in the tea lounge overlooking the gardens or opt for an invigorating massage in the spa. wander down the road from al Mashreq boutique Hotel to the Kingdom Centre shopping Mall.
then, discover more about this fascinating city’s history and visit the Riyadh Museum of History and archaeology followed by a trip to al Musmak Castle. www.almashreq.sa
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading Residential ResoRt Middle east's leading Residential ResoRt
al naKHla RESIDENTIAL RESORT
al nakhla is the newest and biggest western gated community in Riyadh. located near exit 8 with easy access from dammam and airport, al nakhla Residential Resort is near everything you need: read major shopping malls, international schools, business oďŹƒces and the main government facilities. www.alnakhla-sa.com
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A magazine to tantalise your senses, a place to think and be luxurious, published daily l , weekly ly l and monthly ly l . Luxury is much ly more than expensive things. It is about appreciation, the experience and time. Luxury is a state of mind and a life f sty fe t le choice. ty
LUXURY R REDEFINED. RY Luxury news, now available to explore daily, weekly & monthly
www.worldluxurymedia.com
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
united aRab eMiRates's leading Holiday CentRe dubai's leading tRavel agency
al Rais TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds, witH MoHaMMed JassiM al Rais, deputy Managing diReCtoR, al Rais touRs & Holidays
Host Katie FieldeR witH MoHaMMed JassiM al Rais, deputy Managing diReCtoR, al Rais touRs & Holidays
the mission of al Rais travel Management Company is not only to continue being one the leading travel, tourism and cargo company of choice in the uae market, but also to expand its horizons in the region providing premier service options and innovative solutions to all customers. www.alraisholidays.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Kuwait's leading tRavel agenCy
alsHamel tRavel incorporated in 1996, alshamel travel has built an impeccable reputation for exceptional service in four speciďŹ c travel markets: corporate, leisure, luxury and military & government.
alshamel travel built its reputation by providing superior service in the areas of corporate, leisure, luxury, and military & government travel. with more than 300 professionals from 21 dierent nationalities, the company takes pride in exceeding the expectations of its diverse client portfolio of Fortune 500 companies, local and international governments, and military organisations, along with thousands of individual travellers.
the company has grown from a single Kuwaiti oďŹƒce in 1996 to its current network across Kuwait, Qatar, bahrain, Jordan, Ksa, oman and the united arab emirates. each outlet oers a complete range of travel products and services, and they all are iataapproved passenger sales outlets, able to issue airline tickets instantly. this ensures speed and on-time delivery of travel documents.
www.alshamel.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
MaKKaH's leading Hotel in seRviCe exCellenCe
al sHoHada HOTEL
atie FieldeR, witH CHeRian CHaCKo, CoRpoRate diReCtoR oF MaRKeting, aK Hotels & ResoRts
within walking distance of the Holy al Masjid al Haram, al shohada Hotel oers luxurious rooms equipped with air conditioning, satellite tv and a well-lit work desk. every room also has a private marble bathroom.
Male guests can enjoy a personalised foot massage from an international masseur while Makkah's largest hotel lobby which can comfortably accommodate 200 guests - is the favoured meeting place for visiting friends and families. www.akmc-alshohadahotel.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading CoRpoRate tRavel CoMpany JoRdan's leading tRavel agency
al taHadi al tahadi travel group is a Jordanian private group of companies that provides integrated travel services, tourism and holidays. it represents international airlines and hotels agencies through specialised team supported by solid infrastructure and upgraded services beyond customers’ expectations. www.altahaditours.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading business tRavel agenCy saudi aRabia's leading tRavel management company
al tayyaR TRAVEL GROUP al tayyar strives for continued excellence in service, in order to deliver the best travel and tourism experience for their clients within the Kingdom of saudi arabia, the Mena region as well as international locations - creating unique lifetime experiences for all. www.altayyargroup.com/en
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading tRavel teCHnology pRovideR
amadeus amadeus is a technology company dedicated to the global travel industry. the organisation’s solutions help improve the business performance of travel agencies, corporations, airlines, airports, hotels, railways and more. www.amadeus.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
JoRdan's leading ConFeRenCe Hotel
amman ROTANA located in the central business, social and residential destination, amman’s new downtown, al abdali, amman Rotana offers business travellers and holiday makers alike the serenity and warmth of home as well as the splendour and modern extravagance that Rotana has become synonymous with.
only a 45-minute drive from Queen alia international airport, amman Rotana is the first tower hotel in Jordan offering 412 lavish rooms and suites, housed across 50 floors. all rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows offering remarkable views of the city.
guests can enjoy a dip in the temperature controlled pool that overlooks amman, work out at bodylines Fitness & wellness Club and then refuel at one of amman Rotana’s six dining venues.
Meanwhile the Monarch ballroom serves as a great place for business travellers to meet and greet clients. www.rotana.com /rotanahotelandresorts/jordan/ amman/ammanrotana
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading City Hotel
amWaJ ROTANA ideally located along dubai’s famous leisure and retail strip known as “the walk”, Jumeirah beach Residence (JbR), guests experience the height of comfort at amwaj Rotana and also benefit from the features around the vicinity: step forward Jumeirah beach, splashpad (a children's water park) and dubai aqua park - aka the world’s largest inflatable water park.
amwaj Rotana boasts the largest hotel rooms along JbR each with its own balcony facing the arabian gulf sea and palm Jumeirah. the hotel presents a portfolio of 301 tastefully furnished rooms and suites including the prestigious Club Rotana offering bespoke exclusive services for guests. Complimentary wi-Fi is also available throughout the hotel.
with five great dining concepts offering italian, american/ Japanese, british/american, international cuisine and a newly opened shisha lounge as well as live entertainment, happy hours, theme nights and more, guests can expect a fun-filled and exciting gastronomic experience. in addition, the hotel also offers a conference centre designed for companies looking for an outstanding meeting and conference venue.
Recreational activities on the hotel grounds include the bodylines Fitness and wellness Club that comprises two temperature-controlled adults' and kids' swimming pools, a fullyequipped gymnasium, Jacuzzi, steam rooms, sauna and a spa.
www.rotana.com/rotanahotel andresorts/unitedarabemirates/ dubai/amwajrotana?utm_source =google&utm_medium=local&ut m_campaign=google_local_amwaj _rotana_jbr
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
dubai's leading villa ResoRt middle east's leading villa ResoRt
ANANTARA tHe palm dubai anantara the palm dubai Resort offers travellers an urban escape in thai-inspired surrounds on the iconic palm Jumeirah. on arrival guests can retreat to 293 elegantly designed rooms and villas, including the only over water villas in the united arab emirates. For uninterrupted ocean views and access, book one of the 15 each pool villas boast private infinity pools and rich, earthy décor reflecting the
desert location. elsewhere the 18 over water villas let guests experience magnificent dubai sunsets from their deck or deep bathtub or get a glimpse of the aquatic underworld through glass floor panels. larger families or groups of friends are invited to stay in the enchanting anantara two bedroom beach pool villas, with 206 square metres of private space for holiday living.
beyond the bedrooms, guests can indulge in some quiet time by the 50-metre infinity pool or stroll along the sand just steps away on the private beach. if that sounds a tad too chilled, take a kayak out for some calming exercise on the still waters of palm Jumeirah, enjoy an invigorating exercise class in the Fitness studio or work up a sweat in the fully equipped gym.
lile ones aren’t neglected either: tuk-tuk Kids Club offers a whole host of activities to keep the kids happy while the Chill teens Club is the perfect spot for teenagers to enjoy a delightful game of foosball, air hockey and billiards, play station, or take part in special themed nights.
add in the world-renowned anantara spa and seven restaurants that allow guests to choose from fine dining or casual in a series of stunning seings infused with elements from the Middle east and asia, and it would be easy to stay cocooned in the resort. dubai-palm.anantara.com/
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading tRavel seRviCe pRovideR
aRabian company FOR TRAVELLERS SERVICES
arabian passenger services Company has been a leading name in the provision of integrated services in the ďŹ eld of travel and tourism for individuals and companies in the Kingdom of saudi arabia, since its inception in 1987.
aCts was established to provide the excellent services to individual and corporate clients for all travel related services. the company’s overriding aim is to give guests the ultimate travel experience. www.actstour.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading luxuRy Hotel apaRtMents
aRJaan BY ROTANA located in the heart of dubai Media City, arjaan by Rotana features Moorish style luxurious homecomforts with world-class hospitality services and is part of a multi-functional complex that includes an upscale office tower and a courtyard with a food court.
arjaan by Rotana is ideally located 15 km from dubai international Financial City and 25 km from dubai international airport and a few steps away from the dubai tram connecting you to other parts of the city. other aractions in the vicinity include the city’s major shopping malls, golf clubs, the famous JbR district and dubai Marina.
the property has 167 tastefully furnished suites with spacious private balconies overlooking the sea or the city. the one, two or three bedrooms suites are perfect for families seeking a relaxing getaway or enjoy your own private plunge pool in one of the 16 premium apartments. dining options include veranda pool-side snack bar and Cilantro Restaurant, which serves delectable buets for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
arjaan by Rotana also boasts six fully equipped meeting rooms with the latest audio-visual equipment and wireless connection that are set to suit everybody's business needs.
state-of-the-art bodylines Fitness & wellness Club, as well as a temperature controlled swimming pool for adults and children complete the line up of aî…&#x;ractions and amenities on oer at arjaan by Rotana. www.rotana.com/arjaanhotelapa rtments/unitedarabemirates/du bai/arjaanbyrotanadubaimediaci ty
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
dubai's leading Hotel middle east's leading Hotel
ARMANI HOTEL dubai Meet the armani Hotel dubai – the debut hotel from fashion designer giorgio armani.
situated within the iconic burj Khalifa, the property is within walking distance of the dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination.
armani Hotel dubai features 160 luxurious guest rooms and suites, seven innovative restaurants, exclusive retail outlets and the serene armani/spa.
Reflecting the pure elegance, simplicity and sophisticated comfort that define armani’s signature style, the hotel is the realisation of the designer’s longheld dream to bring his sophisticated style to life with the exceptional stay with armani experience defined by highest standards of service excellence.
www.armanihoteldubai.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
baHRain's leading Hotel
aRt ROTANA MANAMA aRt Rotana is located in amwaj islands, a group of man-made islands in the northeast region in bahrain and only few minutes’ drive from bahrain international airport.
aRt Rotana has 311 luxurious rooms and suites, all ocean front facing and a haven for families and individuals that appreciate the reďŹ ned qualities of life. the property provide guests with the cosiness and warmth of a home as well as the splendour of modern luxury.
david pRinCe, aRe viCe pResident, aRt Rotana, aMwaJ island, ManaMa
guests will be mesmerised on arrival with a refreshing blend of eight international outlets ranging from italian to asian cuisines. Make aRt Rotana the preferred venue of choice for your next conference as the hotel boasts state-of-the-art meetings and wedding facilities catering to your most specific requirements.
immerse in tropical splendour by enjoying all the exclusive benefits aRt Rotana’s beach Club has to offer with five-star amenities around every turn. guests can get active with various water sport and fitness activities or simply unwind at the spa.
www.rotana.com/ rotanahotelandresorts/bahrain/ manama/artrotana
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
dubai's leading seRviCed apaRtMents
ASCOTT PARK PLACE dubai asco park place dubai offers luxury residences in the iconic park place tower in downtown dubai.
with spacious and stylish design and a 40 metre rooop pool, these one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments with their floor to ceiling windows throughout offering stunning views across the city, are the epitome of city living.
Host Katie FieldeR witH tiM bootHe, gM, asCott paRK plaCe dubai
if it’s business that brings you to dubai, you’ll find the dubai international Convention & exhibition Centre and the dubai international Financial Centre just a short walk from the apartments. otherwise, you’ll find the dubai Mall nearby, along with the world trade Centre Metro station which will easily connect you to the rest of the city.
www.the-asco.com/en/unitedarab-emirates/dubai/ascopark-place-dubai
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WORLD’S LEADING
BOUTIQ
QUE HOTELS Whether it is for business or purely for pleasure, World's Leading Boutique Hotels has a daily selection of news, insights and exciting new destinations featuring the world’s very best and most luxurious boutique properties.
www.worldsleadingboutiquehotels.com
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading seRviCed apaRtMents
ASCOTT SARI JeddaH strategically located on sari Road, asco sari Jeddah offers studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments that come with a fullyequipped kitchen and separate living, work and dining areas. Many of the apartments, which are luxuriously furnished in a French provincial inspired theme, feature spacious outdoor terraces. guests can also take advantage of the residents' lounge, restaurant, business centre and swimming pool.
stars avenue Mall, one of Jeddah's most prominent and luxurious shopping centre is within easy walking distance while King abdulaziz international airport is only 15km away. www.the-asco.com/en/saudiarabia/jeddah/asco-sari-jeddah
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading ResoRt dubai's leading ResoRt
ATLANTIS tHe palm dubai
atlantis is a majestic 5 star dubai hotel situated on the palm, a manmade island that has captured the world’s imagination with its magnificent scale and ingenuity.
From the hotel architecture to the award-winning restaurants, lavish rooms that reflect the hotel’s unique nautical theme and mustvisit aquatic aractions, this is one of dubai’s luxury resorts that never ceases to amaze. www.atlantisthepalm.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi aRabia's leading touR opeRatoR saudi aRabia's leading tRavel agency
attaR tRavel saddik and Mohammed aar, two brothers from one of the oldest leading merchant families in saudi arabia, founded the saddik & Mohammed aar Company in 1940s. the company prides itself in being one of the first registered commercial companies in the Kingdom and a founding member of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce; thus helping to usher in a new era of prosperity and global enterprise for the nation of saudi arabia. in the early days, the company’s primary business was to provide services for the pilgrims travelling to the Holy Cities.
aar travel, the sister company of saddik & Mohammed aar Co. came in existence in the early 1980s, in accordance with iata regulations. From one travel office in Jeddah in 1952, aar travel has expanded to more than 42 offices throughout the entire Kingdom and also has established its international presence through a partnership with luhansa City Centre international (lCCi) the world leading travel management company with 600 offices in 77 countries.
yasseR saMi, CustoMeR seRviCe & Quality assuRanCe ManageR, attaR tRavel
MR aRuveetil alavi, Head oF sales & opeRations, attaR tRavel and MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds
with substantial local capabilities linked with specialist global expertise, aar travel is an expert in the delivery of travel solutions and services. its international clients include major multinational corporations, but the company is equally recognised for its ability to respond to the needs of smaller organisation.
aar travel has unrivalled knowledge in shaping the standards in travel services, and client care, and is honoured of being able to respond to the corporate needs irrespective of size through its cuing edge technology and professional human resources.
For over half a century aar travel has been perceived as the travel industry pioneers of saudi arabia. www.aartravel.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
baHRain's leading CaR Rental CoMpany
AVIS baHRain established in 1979, avis bahrain was ďŹ rst international Car Rental Company in the Kingdom of bahrain.
today, avis bahrain is one of the leading car rental company in bahrain with three locations throughout the Kingdom. www.avisbahrain.com
RuzbeH engineeR, deputy geneRal ManageR, avis baHRain, gowtHaM g, geneRal ManageR, avis baHRain
gowtHaM g, geneRal ManageR, avis baHRain, MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds, RuzbeH engineeR, deputy geneRal ManageR, avis baHRain
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
JoRdan's leading CaR Rental CoMpany
AVIS JoRdan avis was founded in 1946 as the ďŹ rst company to rent cars from airport locations. within seven years it had became the second largest rent a car company in the united states.
it is one of the world''s top brands for customer loyalty, ranked as the number one car rental company in the brand Keys Customer loyalty index for the past 10 years.
Host Katie FieldeR witH saMi abu saMRa, Managing diReCtoR, avis JoRdan
avis Jordan has been providing excellent customer service to Jordanian citizens and visitors from all over the world for 40 years. the company currently operates 12offices throughout the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and maintains the largest fleet in Jordan.
avis Jordan’s fleet of cars ranges from sub-compact to luxury sedans, and includes vans, trucks, 4x4''s and buses. www.avis.com.jo
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2018
lebanon's leading CaR Rental CoMpany
AVIS lebanon one of the leading international car rental companies, avis started its operations in 1946 in the united states and rapidly expanded across the globe.
it was in 1962 that the company expanded to lebanon through a franchise agreement with Mr. Halim Kurban.
the company’s first office was opened in beirut. encouraged by its overwhelming success, Mr. Kurban’s vision was to expand the franchise throughout the country.as a testament to the company’s relentless programs of expansion, avis lebanon now boasts a network of nine branches, a fleet of over 1,300 vehicles and a team of more than 100 dedicated and professional employees.
avis offers a comprehensive range of services including daily, short term and long term rental, bus transportation and chauffeur drive services to cater for its customers’ diverse requirements. the company offers a vast range of vehicles and flexible options for every purpose and budget.
www.avis.com.lb/avis-lebanon
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ATHENS, GREECE 30 JUNE 2018
VENUE zappeion Magaron Hall Oen referred to as the cradle of Western civilisation, Athens is Europe’s oldest city and dates back 2,500 years. Since 2004, the Archaeological Promenade, a 2.5-mile long, pedestrian-only walkway skirts the foot of the Acropolis and links all the city’s major archaeological sites. This huge archaeological park has reconciled past and present, with the city’s cultural and social life once again taking place around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods. But visitors don’t come here just for the ancient monuments. Contemporary Athens boasts one of the most thriving nightlife in Europe, from the urbanchic bars around Monastiraki (at the foot of the Acropolis), to lounge-bars and fusion-food eateries of up-market Kolonaki. www.visitgreece.gr
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ATHENS Athens is the historical capital of Europe, with a long history, dating from the first selement in the Neolithic age. In the 5th century Bc (the “Golden Age of Pericles”) – the culmination of Athens’ long, fascinating history – the city’s values and civilization acquired a universal significance. Over the years, a multitude of conquerors occupied Athens, and erected unique, splendid monuments - a rare historical palimpsest. In 1834, it became the capital of the modern Greek state and in two centuries since it has become an aractive modern metropolis with unrivalled charm. A large part of the town’s historic centre has been converted into a 3-kilometre pedestrian zone (the largest in Europe), leading to the major archaeological sites (“archaeological park”), reconstructing – to a large degree – the ancient landscape.
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THINGS TO DO AcROPOLIS MUSEUM
PLAKA
Modern, up-to-date building on the foot of the Acropolis, housing important ancient Greek statues and much more.
Historic neighborhood located at the base of the hill topped by the Acropolis.
AcROPOLIS
EREcHTHEION
The most famous site in all of Athens, this large hill lies in the centre of the city and contains a cluster of ancient ruins.
PARTHENON The majestic ruins of an ancient Greek building, known for its dignified white marble columns and perfect sense of proportion.
TEMPLE OF HEPHAESTUS This ancient Greek temple, located on the Acropolis and dedicated to Hephaistos, god of the forge, is one of the few temples to be almost entirely preserved.
The second largest temple on the Acropolis has a complex and unique structure, including its famous Porch of the Caraytis with statues of six graceful maidens on the south side and a four-pillared porch with six Ionic columns on the north side.
MOUNT LYcABETTUS Walk or take the funicular tramway to the top of this hill for the best views of Athens.
HEROD ATTIcUS ODEON Second-century theater built into the hillside.
NATIONAL ARcHAEOLOGIcAL MUSEUM A truly wonderful museum that covers many eras of Greek history.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading deseRt ResoRt
bab al sHams DESERT RESORT & SPA located 45-minute drive from the city of dubai and from dubai international airport, the 5-star desert luxury ‘bab al shams Resort & spa’, suited in the heart of dubai desert, is the perfect destination for families, couples or simply desert lovers.
overlooking the natural desert, this award-winning resort offers 115 rooms and suites range from 47 m² to 68.4 m² with authentic arabic design and modern touches. www.babalshams.com
a wide selection of restaurant and lounges complete the guest dining experience throughout the stay, from ‘al Hadheerah desert’ restaurant with live entertainment, indian restaurant ’Masala’, traditional italian cuisine at ‘la dune’, an all-day dining international restaurant ‘al Forsan to ‘al sarab’ Rooop lounge, ‘ya Hala’ lobby lounge together with ‘al shurouq’ Rooop terrace and the pool bar.
an extensive leisure and outdoor activities await the guests including two outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pools, open 4x4 desert drive, desert fat biking, archery, camel riding, falconry together with various sports games, from volleyball and croquet to table tennis and boules.
with four treatment rooms and an indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, the award-winning ‘satori’ spa offers an urban oasis for spa goers to indulge and reenergise. Children between the age of 5 years – 12 years, will be entertained with fun activities with three different programs in the indoor “aladdin’s Kids Club’.
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2018
woRld’s leading
banana island ResoRt BY ANANTARA 25 minutes from the heart of Qatar’s vibrant capital, a luxury catamaran ferry crosses crystal clear water to reach a breathtaking island that feels a world away, while a private helicopter pad offers an exclusive arrival with a bird’s eye coastal view.
banana island Resort doha by anantara offers a unique sanctuary which respects local culture by offering an alcohol-free environment, with world class facilities and limitless activities providing relaxation and adventure, wellness and pure indulgence.
Hideaway in true arabian luxury with 141 rooms, suites, pool villas and over water villas seing the mood for romance and unforgeable holidays with family and friends.
with unrivalled facilities such as a surfing pool, cinema and a bowling alley as well as the bliss found in the anantara spa, the whole family will find a way to truly escape from the stresses and strains of everyday life.
www.doha.anantara.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
lebanon's leading tRavel agenCy
baRaKat TRAVEL AGENCY since 1990 barakat travel agency has been offering a wide selection of travel services with a continuous growth rate in the field to cope with the high and fast development and changes in the travel and tourism industry
barakat travel expanded from south lebanon to be one of the most progressive and leading travel management firm in the region. the main target of the agency is to provide for its customers the ultimate and complete travel solution.
From one office in ghazieh, barakat travel today has four branches (beirut Main office saida ghazieh and Massaileh). this development is a result of a marketing strategy focusing on new market segments and further targets.
the agency’s various departments offers different services that meet every traveller's requirements: think air tickets, train tickets, ferries tickets, cruises bookings, hotels bookings, transfers, meet and assist services, travel insurance,
customised packages for all kinds of tourism holidays (family vacations, honeymoons, adventures, religious, cultural, business, incentives, team building and others) www.barakat.travel
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2018
Middle east's leading business & leisuRe developMent pRoJeCt saudi aRabia's leading business & leisuRe Hotel saudi aRabia's leading FaMily & leisuRe destination Hotel
bay la sun HOTEL & MARINA embraced by the Red sea on the west and the City’s natural lagoon and mangrove to the east, bay la sun Hotel & Marina is an urban business and lifestyle destination designed to cater to the needs of the corporate and leisure traveler alike. as a business and social venue, the hotel enjoys an ideal location at the epicentre of the western Region, an
area experiencing tremendous economic growth and development and, within reach of Jeddah. the bay la sun Hotel & Marina is managed by al Khozama, an awardwinning Management Company with a deep-rooted sense of traditional saudi hospitality and a proven track record in providing an impeccable guest experience.
whether sampling our shared facilities, or enjoying the comfort and convenience of our fullyfurnished guest rooms, the entire hotel is characterised by a fresh and contemporary atmosphere to suit the modern guest. For corporate guests, bay la sun Hotel is equipped with first-class conferencing facilities including a spacious auditorium, an exclusive conference room and six private meeting rooms.
when it’s time to eat, bay la sun Hotel’s restaurant caters to a broad range of international tastes, combining the culinary experiences of five continents in one sumptuous seing.
the hotel walls, guests can enjoy bay la sun’s direct connection with the canal-front promenade and easy access to a range of activities including shopping, swimming and a selection of eating experiences. www.baylasunhotel.com
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2018
Middle east's leading CoRpoRate ResoRt
BEACH ROTANA abu dHabi this award-winning city resort boasts a central location that is directly connected to the shops, cinemas and services of abu dhabi Mall, and mere minutes from saadiyat island, the new Cbd and the Corniche. Meanwhile abu dhabi international airport is just a 30minute drive.
step into the luxurious 5-star beach Rotana abu dhabi, and savour the traditional arabian hospitality, luxury and comfort of 565 rooms, suites, and serviced apartments furnished to the highest standards and oering either waterside or city views.
MatHieu van alpHen, geneRal ManageR, beaCH Rotana, abu dHabi
Hungry? 12 unparalleled dining destinations await including Finz, a stunning seafood destination on the water. other dining options range from French-polynesian to indian, italian, german, and more.
enjoy the private beach club, complete with swimming pool, squash and tennis courts, water sports, kid’s club, and extensive gym. or ejuvenate boyd and mind with bespoke treatments in zen the spa, including the signature Rasul mud treatments and spa baths.
www.rotana.com/rotanahoteland resorts/unitedarabemirates/abu dhabi/beachrotana
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading CaR Rental CoMpany
budget SAUDI ARABIA
MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds witH anil MatHew abRaHaM, Regional ManageR, budget saudi aRabia
Founded in 1978 by Mr. abdulillah. a. zahid, budget saudi arabia provides transportation solutions in the Middle east, africa & south east asia while contributing to the saudi arabia economy through job creation.
From reservation to rental closing, budget saudi arabia delivers customer experience satisfaction at every step. www.budgetsaudi.com
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2018
uae's leading CaR Rental CoMpany
budget UAE budget Car & van Rental, uae, is a franchise of budget Rent a Car international, which has over 3,400 oďŹƒces worldwide and is represented in 128 countries.
budget Car & van Rental, uae, is owned by the highly respected uaebased liberty investment Company (liberty group), which is the holding company for a diversiďŹ ed group with extensive interests in the automobile trade and related businesses, travel & tourism, transportation, logistics, Real estate & its services and Management & Consultancy.
MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds witH CHenna Reddy, geneRal ManageR, budget
Host Katie FieldeR witH CHenna Reddy, geneRal ManageR, budget
budget Car & van Rental, uae, is an iso 9001 registered company, one of a small number who hold that certiďŹ cation within the uae vehicle rental industry. this certiďŹ cation covers service standards, as well as the budget workshop facility where vehicle maintenance and repairs are carried out.
the iso standards, combined with the service commitment of the entire budget team, ensure customers receive great value through superior service across all areas of the company. www.budget-uae.com
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2018
uae's leading Hotel middle east's leading all suite Hotel
BURJ AL ARAB JumeiRaH there are not enough superlatives in the world to adequately describe the burj al arab Jumeirah, an architectural marvel that has well and truly put dubai on the travel map.
the sail-shaped hotel was designed to become the icon of dubai; a hotel that reected the emirate’s past and its future as well as its bold ambition to become one of the most culturally diverse and dynamic cities in the world.
the all-suite hotel not only challenges the norms of hotel design but has also redefined the meaning of luxury hospitality in both dubai and beyond: burj al arab Jumeirah boasts the world’s highest colleague to suite ratio – with an impressive eight colleagues to each of the hotel’s 202 suites.
thismagnificent destination offers guests the finest service and experiences throughout right down to an optional chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce, helicopter trips from an iconic helipad, private beach access, luxury leisure on a breathtaking terrace with pools and cabanas as well as some of the world’s best dining venues.
what’s more burj al arab Jumeirah has become one of the world’s most photographed superstructures helped by the fact that a number of famous sports stars have performed stunts on the hotel’s helipad, which hovers 212m above the arabian gulf. www.jumeirah.com/en/hotelsresorts/dubai/burj-al-arab/
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading Hotel ResidenCes
BURJ RAFAL Hotel KempinsKi burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski blends the arabian values of hospitality and warmth with Kempinski management expertise and their remarkable european flair to bring you 349 rooms and suites with inspired, tasteful and stylish modern najdi architecture. a peaceful oasis amidst a dynamic city, the hotel offers a wide range of outstanding services.
these begin with an exquisite variety of dining experiences in exceptional restaurants, and go on to include exclusively distinguished lounges, a classic european spa, a barber shop, fitness centre and two separate swimming pools for men and women. www.kempinski.com/en/riyadh/bur j-rafal-hotel
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2018
lebanon's leading boutiQue Hotel
BYBLOS suR meR
exquisitely located at the edge of the sea, and at the most prominent spot of byblos Harbour, byblos sur Mer hotel provides privacy and serenity in a truly charming seing and offers its guests the comforts of a home at the heart of a legend.
20 rooms and 10 suites serve up magnificent views of the Mediterranean sea, the historic city and byblos port, while being equipped with every comfort and convenience that a 21st century traveller could desire.
spend the day enjoying a spot of snorkelling or soaking up the sun on byblos sur Mer’s private beach, before returning for a meal at one of the hotel's four dining spots. byblossurmer.com
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2018
Middle east's leading CRuise line
celebRity cRuises if you love modern luxury, outstanding service and a choice of inspirational global destinations to explore, a Celebrity cruise will be your perfect holiday. it’s the lile things that make all the difference – whether that’s Celebrity Cruise’s helpful staff greeting you by name or your favourite dessert appearing aer dinner.
if you’re planning an unforgeable holiday at sea, let us show you the Celebrity difference. www.celebritycruises.com
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading budget Hotel
CENTRO SHAHEEN BY Rotana Centro shaheen – a modern, stylish and affordable lifestyle business hotel – is the first property under Centro hotels by Rotana brand to open in Jeddah, saudi arabia.
Conveniently located on al Madina Road, the hotel is close to Haifaa Mall, and the major commercial centres, local/traditional markets, consulates and ministries, all walking distance away. Centro shaheen is in close proximity to al tahlia street, and only five minutes’ drive away to Jeddah Corniche.
with chic looks and slick delivery underlying its service oering, Centro is an inspired philosophy that sets an unparalleled benchmark for the traveller who appreciates style and sophistication but also value for money.
www.rotana.com/centrohotels/ kingdomofsaudiarabia/jeddah /centroshaheen
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2018
QataR's leading City Hotel
CITY CENTRE ROTANA doHa located in the heart of doha, just 30 minutes’ drive from the new Hamad in-ternational airport, this five star hotel is connected to City Center Mall and mere steps from the new doha exhibition and Conference Centre making it the perfect choice for both business and leisure travellers.
accommodation consists of 381 guest rooms, suites and apartments, all of which feature floor to ceiling windows boasting breathtaking views of the sea and city skyline.
on the 24th floor, you’ll find the iconic Club Rotana lounge which is a hotel within a hotel delivering an outstanding and personalised hospitality experience.
other amenities and facilities include seven distinctive dining venues, an extensive range of multi-functional meeting and event spaces, a fitness and wellness centre, swimming pool and outdoor terrace.
www.rotana.com/ rotanahotelandresorts/qatar/ doha/citycentrerotanadoha
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2018
Middle east's leading budget Hotel bRand
citymax HOTELS bold, vibrant and full of life, Citymax Hotels promise value for money with a desirable combination of business and leisure features.
a consistent delivery of comfort and convenience is brought to life with striking colours and contemporary design. efficient service is made engaging with warm, charismatic staff, empowered to put a smile on guests’ faces. surprising touches and aention to detail, ensure guests leave delighted and eager to return.
Hospitality blends with style across a spread of 1,300 rooms in Citymax Hotels in dubai and sharjah. to accommodate the growing population of international travellers, Citymax plans to extend its services to 20 hotels across the gulf Region.
www.citymaxhotels.com/en
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World Travel News brings you the very latest breaking news from the world of travel and tourism,
W O R L D
Working across a multitude of social media platforms, delivering content in an easily digestible image lead format in English, Arabic, Hindi, Chinese and Russian, we keep the world’s keen travellers and explorers supplied with all the information they need each and every day.
www.worldtravelnews.co
T R A V
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N E W S
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
FuJaiRaH's leading Hotel
city toWeR HOTEL located close to the Fujairah airport, this 4 star deluxe hotel features 230 well appointed, spacious rooms and suites.
all of the luxurious rooms boast either Hajjar mountain or ocean/airport views and feature flat-screen tvs and all the mod cons a twenty first century traveller could desire. Meanwhile the suites have a separate living room, equipped with a sofa and other modern furnishings.
guests can make use of the stateof-the-art gym to stay in shape, relax in the spa or enjoy ďŹ rst class cuisine in City tower Hotel, Fujairah’s various restaurants and bars.
outside of the hotel, lulu shopping Mall is only a 5-minute walk away while and sheikh Khalifa Mosque is a mere 2minute walk from the property. the public beach is also located within close proximity. www.fortunehotels.net/hotel/city-towerhotelfujairah/
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2018
sHaRJaH's leading Hotel
COPTHORNE HOTEL sHaRJaH located just 20 minutes away from both dubai & sharjah international air-ports, the four star Copthorne Hotel sharjah is a striking landmark on the Corniche Road, overlooking Khalid lagoon.
accommodation consists of 255 stylish guest rooms, many of which oer stunning views of Khalid lagoon.
guests can unwind in the worldclass o2 spa or treat their tastebuds in one of Copthorne Hotel sharjah’s three fabulous restaurants.
alternatively shop up a storm in sahara Mall, Mega Mall, and sharjah City Centre all of which are within easy reach of the hotel as are the sharjah aquarium, expo Centre sharjah, the new sharjah amphitheater and the city's myriad of museums.
www.millenniumhotels.com/en/ sharjah/copthorne-hotelsharjah/?cid=gplaces-copsharj
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2018
oMan's leading ResoRt
cRoWne plaza ResoRt SALALAH set among 42 acres of lush, landscaped gardens, Crowne plaza Resort salalah can be reached from salalah international airport via a courtesy shuî…&#x;le bus in just 25 minutes.
upon entering the gleaming lobby, friendly omani sta will show you to your room or suite - or point you towards the three interconnecting pools, tennis and squash courts or par-3 garden golf course.
when night falls, enjoy sumptuous themed buets with oud music on the white sand at dolphin beach Restaurant and disco nights at al luban night Club on weekends. other options include al-Khareef pub, a homely space serving draught beers, and darbat Restaurant where you can dine al fresco on the arabic-style terrace.
www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/ hotels/gb/en/salalah/sllss/ hoteldetail
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
baHRain's leading tRavel agenCy
dadabHai gRoup what started out as a single office in 1981 has now grown into one of the leading integrated travel organisations in the region. the trust customers place in dadabhai has seen the organisation grow into a regional network with seven branches and 15 implant locations in the Kingdom of bahrain, three branches in the united arab emirates at dubai & abu dhabi, four branches in the Kingdom of saudi arabia in al Khobar, Jubail, Jeddah, Riyadh and five gsa offices across the region.
For over 35 years, dadabhai travel consultants have consistently provided true value to clients through expert travel planning, timely response, and flexibility with a personal touch.
www.dadabhaitravel.ae
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Waldorf astoria ras al Khaimah A hidden haven in the peaceful Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is an ideal destination for an unforgettable getaway. The resort offers signature attentive service, nine stylish restaurants and lounges, and elegant accommodation with pristine views of the Arabian shoreline. http://www.virtualworldinternet.com/portfolio/waldorfastoria-ras-al-khaimah
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
uae's leading boutiQue Hotel
deseRt palm DUBAI an urban oasis set amidst a 160-acre polo estate with a naturally contemporary design welcoming guests in 38 spacious rooms, suites and villas.
a mere 20 minutes from dubai’s urban centre, find yourself in the lush serenity of desert palm, the perfect seing for an elegant hideaway.
From creative restaurants and bars showcasing culinary exhibitionism to indulgent journeys at samāna spa to a riding school and championship polo fields, the resort’s manicured surrounds give the world’s most elite travellers a haven to call home in dubai.
in essence, desert palm dubai represents a bold contrast to the conventional flamboyance of the city’s sky-scraping hotels. www.desertpalm.ae/home
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2018
iRaQ's leading business Hotel
divan ERBIL a towering addition to divan group’s collection of fine five star hotels, divan erbil brings innovative style and state-of–the-art luxury to erbil, iraq. as the most visually striking modern structure in erbil, and a local landmark, divan erbil incorporates the latest in leisure and business technology, luxury accommodations and amenities, redefining the business hotel from the ground up to its 24 floors.
innovative design elements and elegant décor make for a superior guest experience. expansive walls of glass are flooded with the abundant iraqi sun and afford dramatic views of the city and nearby park, both day and night. Rooms are spacious with a personal touch and feel to their elegant décor, creating a refined seing in which to relax, work, reflect upon the day, or simply enjoy the moment.
as a business hotel, divan erbil oers meeting room facilities designed to an international standard, featuring 10 meeting rooms ranging in size from 33 square meters to 900 square meters, providing ideal venues for a variety of events from an exclusive board meeting to larger corporate gatherings.
when it's time for great food, seek out season seasons Restaurant to enjoy an extensive buet al fresco on the outdoor terrace (which features fountains and gardens) or Qi21 for sensational sushi. saray lounge serves heavenly homemade pastries while Chopin and lagoon bar & terraceare two top spots for cocktails and pre- and postdinner drinks.
www.divan.com.tr/divan-erbil/tr
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2018
uae's leading tRavel agenCy
dnata tRavel dnata travel is a one-stop travel shop that offers a comprehensive range of travel solutions from travel insurance to memorable personalised holiday experiences. with over 50 years of experience, dnata is considered one of the finest travel agencies in dubai, uae, and is especially recognised for offering value-added products and service.
aMiR al zaRooni, Retail tRavel ManageR, dnata
think air tickets on over 100 international airlines, holiday packages, international car hire, cruise holidays, travel insurance worldwide, visa services, Hajj & umrah packages, aircra charters, Marhaba airport meet & greet, tours, excursions and safaris. www.dnata.com
stepHen allen, svp CoRpoRate tRavel Me&i - dnata tRavel
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Ras al KHaiMaH's leading Hotel
DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON Ras al KHaimaH a cosmopolitan base in 'the Rising emirate', the doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Ras al Khaimah oers stylish accommodations in the city centre business district. the property is within walking distance from shopping malls, and the Free trade zone.
enjoy the best views in the city on the hotel's rooî…šop, which features a sparkling swimming pool and live music at treetop bar.
JoHn Riad, geneRal ManageR, doubletRee by Hilton Ras al KHaiMaH
enjoy the best views in the city on the hotel's rooop, which features a sparkling swimming pool and live music at treetop bar. amenities at the doubletree by Hilton Hotel Ras al Khaimah cater for work and recreation: expect 24-hour facilities including a precor Fitness centre and a modern business centre. Relax at the hotel spa equipped with whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms.
guests can also take the complimentary shule to doubletree by Hilton Resort & spa Marjan island, just 30 minutes away, where extensive facilities include a kids’ club, water sports centre and 450-meter private beach.
hp://doubletree3.hilton.com/e n/hotels/uae/doubletree-byhilton-ras-al-khaimahRKtdtdi/index.html
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2018
Middle east's leading destination middle east's leading meetings & conFeRence destination
dubai as recently as two decades ago very few of us had heard of, yet alone been to, dubai. now the emirate is a permanent fixture on the winter sun scene thanks to its promise of guaranteed rays, without the need to fly halfway around the globe.
but there’s more to this ambitious arab emirate than merely sun and sand. scratch beneath the shiny surface and you’ll find another side to the ‘city of gold’. alongside iconic modern skyscrapers like the burj al arab (the seven star hotel shaped like the sail of a dhow) sit historical sites such as bastakia and the creek where you can watch abras and dhows (traditional arab sailing boats) weave their way across the water as they have done for centuries.
ascend the burj Khalifa — soaring 828 metres above dubai, the burj Khalifa – currently the world’s tallest building – represents a union of art, engineering and heritage.
shop till you drop — the Mall of the emirates (home to a ski slope complete with 6,000 tonnes of real snow) has long been the king of the castle, but is now been given a run for its money in the shape of the dubai Mall.
Marvel at the palm — the three palm-shaped artificial archipelago is referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, and is even visible from space. visit Jumeirah Mosque — this intricately detailed house of worship – twin minarets frame a large central dome – is dubai's most beautiful mosque.
beach life — dubai has brilliant beaches boasting sand whiter than a dentist’s chair, although most are owned by the city’s hotel and resorts. www.visitdubai.com
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2018
Middle east's leading touRist boaRd
DEPT OF touRism & commeRce maRKeting established in 1997, replacing the dubai Commerce and tourism promotion board that had been in operation since 1989, the department of tourism and
Commerce Marketing (dtCM) is comprised of a number of dierent entities and functions, which work together to plan, supervise, develop, and market dubai’s tourism industry.
the portfolio includes dubai Corporation for tourism and Commerce Marketing; dubai business events; dubai Festivals and Retail establishment. in addition to its headquarters in dubai, dtCM operates 20 oďŹƒces worldwide in new york (usa), london (the uK and ireland), paris (France and benelux), Frankfurt (germany), stockholm (scandinavia), Milan (italy), bern (switzerland and austria),
Moscow (the Russian Federation, Cis and baltic states), Johannesburg (south africa), Jeddah and Riyadh (saudi arabia), Mumbai (india), beijing, guangzhou, shanghai and Chengdu (China), Hong Kong (Far east), tokyo (Japan), sydney (australia), and sao paolo (brazil and latin america).
www.visitdubai.com/en/departm ent-of-tourism
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2018
Middle east's leading aiRpoRt
DUBAI inteRnational AIRPORT
Connecting 240 destinations across six continents through 90 airlines, dubai international airport (dxb) is the world’s number one international airport with annual traffic of 88.2 million passengers in 2017. dxb’s world-class facilities include the world’s first and largest purpose-built a380 facility Concourse a, which opened in 2013.
and the airport continues to invest, in order to deliver its us$7.8 billion 2020 expansion plan. this includes Concourse d, a state of the art facility for international airlines, the expansion of terminal 2, and the complete refurbishment of terminal 1.
www.dubaiairports.ae
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Middle east's leading sustainable touRisM initiative
DUBAI sustainable touRism initiative
dubai department of tourism and Commerce Marketing (dtCM) sustainable tourism initiative is on a mission to improve the sustainability of the tourism sector and contribute to the broader clean energy and sustainable development targets that dubai has set out to achieve.
dtCM has developed a sustainability strategy, roadmap and a holistic approach to ensure the continual development of sustainable tourism which will be implemented through the dst. hî…&#x;ps://dst.dubaitourism.ae/
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Middle east's leading exHibition & Convention CentRe
DUBAI WoRld tRade centRe located at the crossroads of europe, the Middle east, south-east asia and africa, dubai world trade Centre (dwtC) is recognised globally as the most sought aî…šer platform to develop business in the region and beyond.
since opening in 1979, dwtC has played a central role in the growth of the region’s international trade. with over 1.3 million square feet of covered exhibition space, it is the region’s largest purpose-built events complex, hosting over 500 events annually and welcoming over 3.3 million visitors.
dwtC serves as a multidimensional business catalyst, focusing on venues, exhibitions and event organising, and Real estate Management. the recent establishment of the new dubai world trade Centre authority as a Free zone entity has strengthened dwtC’s ability to deliver a logistically efficient, business-conducive regulatory
environment, offering global enterprises a uniquely flexible base from which to service new growth opportunities across continents. www.dwtc.com
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2018
Middle east's leading Hospitality developMent CoMpany
emaaR HOSPITALITY GROUP emaar Hospitality group is a whollyowned subsidiary of emaar properties pJsC, one of the world’s most valuable real estate development companies with proven competencies in property, shopping malls and retail as well as hospitality and leisure.
the group owns and manages a portfolio of hospitality assets and brands including address Hotels + Resorts, a premium luxury hotel and residences brand; vida Hotels and Resorts, an upscale lifestyle hotel and residences brand; and Rove Hotels, a contemporary midscale hotel and residences brand.
olivieR HaRnisCH, Ceo, eMaaR Hospitality gRoup
emaar Hospitality group is expanding its portfolio to international markets along with plans to introduce its brands in key gateway cities and tourist destinations in europe, Middle east and india.
emaar Hospitality group was created in 2007 and owns and manages a diversiďŹ ed portfolio of hospitality assets in addition to its hotel brands including serviced residences, golf retreats, a yacht club, a polo and equestrian club, and a comprehensive portfolio of lifestyle dining restaurants. www.emaar.com
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Middle east's leading aiRline middle east's leading aiRline bRand Middle east's leading Cabin CRew middle east's leading aiRpoRt lounge - business class
EMIRATES aiRline emirates airline is the world’s largest international airline, flying to 159 destinations in 85 countries.
emirates operates 269 aircra and is the world’s largest operator of the airbus a380 and boeing 777 family of aircra, with pending deliveries for an additional 262 aircra, worth more than usd$103 billion.
the airline’s luxurious amenities, regionally inspired gourmet cuisine, award-winning in-flight entertainment system – ice – and unmatched hospitality provided by its iconic multi-lingual Cabin Crew from over 130 nationalities have made emirates one of the world’s most recognised airline brands.
lile wonder then that emirates has received hundreds of international awards and accolades for excellence, including scooping five prestigious 2017 world travel awards. www.emirates.com
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H O T E L T R A V E L N E W S
Hotel Travel News helps guide you through the minefield of choice. We report each day on what’s new, what’s relaunched, and showcase the great and the good; from resorts to boutique properties and the advancment of AirBNB and its effect for us all
Working across a multitude of social media platforms, delivering content in an easily digestible image lead format, we engage with those that live and experience a luxury lifestyle each and every day.
www.hoteltravelnews.com
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2018
abu dHabi's leading ResoRt middle east's leading luxuRy Hotel Middle east's leading MiCe Hotel
emiRates PALACE built as an iconic landmark showcasing arabian culture and hospitality at its ďŹ nest, emirates palace has created an enviable niche in luxury hospitality, welcoming world leaders, celebrities, global business travellers and leisure guests.
From 394 luxurious rooms and suites to award-winning culinary cuisine, emirates palace is the deďŹ nition of an unrivalled and arabian fantasy.
located in the heart of abu dhabi, the capital of the united arab emirates and only 40 minutes from the airport, emirates palace is grand in both its design and myriad of oerings.
From a 1.3 km pristine beach, landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking a natural bay, emirates palace is perfect for a once-in-a lifetime holiday or for events and meetings that make a statement, with some of the city’s largest hotel conference centres and the latest technology.
an ethereal experience, this is truly one of the most inspiring hotels in abu dhabi. www.kempinski.com/en/abudha bi/emirates-palace
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iRaQ's leading Hotel
ERBIL Rotana Conveniently located 10 minutes away from erbil international airport in the midst of the fairground and business centres yet uniquely adjacent to the english and italian villages, lies erbil Rotana.
the hotel’s exceptional location gives an opportunity to explore touristic sites such as the historical “Citadel” and downtown bazaars, making erbil Rotana convenient for both business and leisure travellers.
the five-star hotel is designed in a vibrant modern style offering an impressive experience in its 201 contemporary and spacious rooms and suites overlooking the stunning skyline view of the breathtaking sami abdul Rahman park or the outdoor swimming pool that’s surrounded by natural greenery.
you’ll also find five international restaurants, seven state of the art fully equipped meeting & events venues with flexible seating plans to accommodate all requests.
sooth your cares away with the wide array of treatments at bodylines Fitness & wellness Club or work up a sweat in the fully equipped gymnasium featuring a separate male and female sauna and steam room.
www.rotana.com/rotanahoteland resorts/iraq/erbil/erbilrotana
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HONG KONG 3 SEPTEMBER 2018
VENUE Intercontinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong A few weeks, days or just hours are enough to get you hooked on the incredible city that is Hong Kong! Whether you’re a first timer, or already have a love-affair with our great city, this series of guides has something new for you: it’s a compilation of stories, recommendations and tips on Hong Kong from people in the know. Pick a topic that interests you—from incredible Chinese superstitions in “Traditions and Spirituality”, to funky art galleries in “Industrial Revolution”—and you’ll discover many exciting experiences and adventures. www.discoverhongkong.com/uk/index.jsp
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HONG KONG Global connection hub, autonomous country of china, former British possession, haunt of opium mongrels and pirates, Asia’s World city, and favorite visitor’s destination – Hong Kong is all this and more. Hong Kong Island itself, with its world-famous skyline, is the center of this archipelago set in the South china Sea, just off the mainland. It enjoys freedom from government interference unrivaled in china. Once a prize reluctantly given to British traders by the former chinese Emperor aer the first Opium War, Hong Kong was returned to the motherland in 1997, very much under its own terms.
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS ASIA & AUSTRALASIA GALA CEREMONY 2018
THINGS TO DO STAR FERRY
cHI LIN NUNNERY
Step back to the days of old and experience an era when third generation Star ferries were the major passenger connection between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula. Step aboard the fabulous double-decker ‘Shining Star’ ferry, a beautiful re-creation of a 1920s ferry. Relax and enjoy the magnificent view while sipping a cup of fine coffee in an on-vessel cafe or soak up the sun on the open decks while enjoying the cooling sea breezes.
One of the most beautiful and arrestingly built environments in Hong Kong, this large Buddhist complex, originally dating from the 1930s, was rebuilt completely of wood (and not a single nail) in the style of the Tang dynasty in 1998.
vIcTORIA PEAK (THE PEAK) Hong Kong’s number one tourist destination features the Peak Tower and the Peak Tram, the city’s oldest mode of public transport.
TIAN TAN BUDDHA (BIG BUDDHA) Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha, is a large bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, completed in 1993, and located at Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, in Hong Kong.
HONG KONG TRAMWAYS (DING DING) Since 1904, trams have been running from East to West of Hong Kong Island, and they remain the most economical mode of public transport in Hong Kong. Today, Hong Kong Tramways owns and operates a fleet of 163 tramcars, including 2 antique tramcars, carrying a daily average of 230,000 passengers. It is the world’s largest fleet of double-deck tramcars still in service.
NAN LIAN GARDEN Established in 1934 and renovated in Tang dynasty style (AD 618–907) in 1990, the Chi Lin Nunnery is a large temple complex of elegant wooden architecture, treasured Buddhist relics and soul-soothing lotus ponds. The complex also includes a series of temple halls, some of which contain gold, clay and wooden statues representing divinities such as the Sakyamuni Buddha and bodhisavas.
HONG KONG MUSEUM OF HISTORY Founded to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of China, the museum continually adds to its collection new items that are related to the history of Hong Kong and the territories of South China. Currently, its collection counts over 90,000 historical objects and materials. In the museum guests will see the unique collection of natural history, exclusive historical developments and materials, and a wide range of Hong Kong’s archaeological objects.
LANTAU ISLAND Buddhist architecture; fireworks over Sleeping Beauty’s castle; a long sandy beach; a mall of shopping outlets — Lantau Island has it all. Whatever your persuasion, Hong Kong’s largest outlying island brings solace to the soul, senses and shopping bags.
vIcTORIA HARBOUR The energetic Victoria Harbour is truly Hong Kong’s lifeline, and with its constant parade of vessels and breathtaking surrounding scenery, a harbour cruise is a must-do on any trip to Hong Kong. Step aboard for a journey into the true heart of Asia’s world city.
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND Get ready for non-stop Disney fun with all your favourite rides and characters! Extend the magic with a hotel stay to enjoy world-class hospitality and indulge in incredible meals by award-winning chefs. Don’t forget to pick up cool gis for your loved ones to share the magic of Hong Kong Disneyland!
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2018
Middle east's leading aiRline - FiRst Class middle east's leading aiRline inFligHt enteRtainment Middle east's leading aiRline website middle east's leading aiRpoRt lounge - FiRst class
etHiad AIRWAYS as an airline, etihad has come a long way in a short time – just like its home abu dhabi.
the airline was established by Royal (emiri) decree in July 2003 and is wholly owned by the government of abu dhabi with a mandate to operate safely, commercially and proďŹ tably.
etihad's guests are at the heart of everything it does. the airline is in a perfect geographical position and offers its guests a network of over 110 passenger and cargo destinations across six continents, with a young and environmentally friendly fleet of more than 120 aircra.
etihad is also one of five key business divisions of the etihad aviation group (eag). the diversified global aviation and travel group also includes etihad airways engineering, etihad airport services, Hala group and airline equity partners. www.etihad.com
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Middle east's leading aiRline RewaRds pRogRaMMe
etHiad GUEST ethan guest is ethiad’s awardwinning programme that rewards you with free flights, upgrades, gis and so much more.
upon joining, the uae’s national airline will give you 500 bonus miles on your first flight. you can also get up to 55,000 bonus miles when you take out an etihad guest payment card and earn up to 3 miles per us dollar spent.
yasseR al youseF, Managing diReCtoR etiHad guest, etiHad aiRways, Justin waRby, viCe pResident digital stRategy and innovation, etiHad aiRways
enjoy unique rewards, enhanced recognition and tier beneďŹ ts at every level. to discover more, visit www.etihadguest.com
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Middle east's leading aiRpoRt lounge - FiRst Class
etHiad AIRWAYS FIRST CLASS LOUNGE & SPA Ms linda Celestino, viCe pResident guest seRviCes, etiHad aiRways
ethiad airways’ First Class lounge & spa at abu dhabi international airport is not like other lounges: it’s your first opportunity to experience a different level of service and hospitality, comparable to that you would experience in a 5-star hotel, before stepping on board your flight.
enjoy a remarkable lounge experience with fine-dining prepared in-house by ethiad’s chefs, relax in the six senses spa where you can enjoy 15 and 25minute tension-releasing massages and balancing facials, work out in the Fitness Room or rest in the Relax and Recline Room.
www.etihad.com/engb/experienceetihad/lounges/first-classlounge
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2018
Middle east's leading CaR Rental CoMpany KuWait's leading caR Rental company
euRopcaR avoid the hassle of haggling for taxis on your next trip to the Middle east, by booking a europcar car rental instead. whether you need an economy car for a quick business trip or a roomy vehicle to accommodate the whole family, europcar has got your covered. www.europcar.com
Host Katie FieldeR witH olivieR bouCHeR, Middle-east sales ManageR, euRopCaR
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2018
Middle east's leading tRavel ManageMent CoMpany
Fcm TRAVEL SOLUTIONS FCM travel solutions is the agship corporate travel business of the publicly listed and globally iconic travel group Flight Centre travel group limited. Headquartered in brisbane, australia, the FCM travel solutions brand was launched to market in June 2004.
the decision to adopt the FCM travel solutions' name followed the consolidation of various businesses within Flight Centre travel group limited's highly successful corporate travel division, which commenced in 1993. From the mid to late 1990s, Flight Centre travel group limited aggressively grew its organic corporate businesses and at the same time made a number of strategic acquisitions to enhance the group's technology capabilities and strengthen its international market position.
gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds, MR CiaRan Kelly, geneRal ManageR, Middle east & aFRiCa netwoRK, FCM tRavel solutions
MR CiaRan Kelly, geneRal ManageR, Middle east & aFRiCa netwoRK, FCM tRavel solutions
by 2002 Flight Centre travel group limited's corporate division included seven dierent businesses, which in 2004 were consolidated to form FCM travel solutions. the reach of FCM's global network broadened signiďŹ cantly with the acquisition of major travel companies including sydney business travel (australia), internet travel group (australia), garber travel (usa), britannic travel (uK), american
international travel in Hong Kong, liberty (usa), Friends globe travels (india), China Comfort (China) and air services international (singapore). since 2004, FCM has continued to partner with leading local travel companies to expand the company's network, which currently extends to more than 90 countries.
today FCM travel solutions is a top 5 global travel management company managing the travel programs for some of the world’s leading corporate brands. their portfolio of clients includes a broad selection of multi-national, national, regional and local companies across every industry and specialisation. ww.fcm.travel
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2018
Middle east's leading tHeMe paRK
FeRRaRi WoRld ABU DHABI Ferrari world abu dhabi, the awardwinning and world’s first Ferraribranded theme park, opened its doors to fans in 2010. the park celebrates the spirit of the legendary marque, and is home to numerous thrill rides, family-friendly
aractions, state-of-the-art simulators, spectacular live shows, as well as popular seasonal events and festivities that bring together extraordinary performances from around the globe.
located on abu dhabi’s leading tourist destination yas island, and well recognised for its iconic red roof, Ferrari world abu dhabi welcomes guests to enjoy the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa, the triple recordbreaking rollercoaster, Flying aces and the newest addition to the park’s family of aractions, turbo track.
beyond a winning mix of rides and entertainment created for the entire family that include benno’s great Race, Karting academy, Junior training Camp, driving experience, Fiorano gt Challenge and many more, guests can also shop from a compelling selection of retail outlets that carry Ferraribranded merchandise and
accessories, as well as indulge in authentic italian-inspired dining from the park’s five restaurants.
www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com
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2018
Middle east's leading online tRavel agenCy
Flyin.com as the first and only ‘online travel agency’ in saudi arabia, Flyin.com exists to provide you with everything you need for exploring, planning and purchasing an entire trip.
Faisal al HoMaidHi, Ceo, Flyin.CoM
Flyin.com offers an integrated travel services and innovative solutions for those residing not on in saudi arabia, but across the Middle east and around the world.
the company has been created with a vision dedicated to providing exceptional travel experiences for its customers, making the journey with Flyin.com an exceptional experience.
through its direct access to the one of the widest networks of travel products and services, Flyin.com ensures you will always find something that fits who you are and how you want your trip to be.
all told, Flyin.com is the one-stopshop for the modern traveller. www.flyin.com
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2018
Middle east's leading low-Cost aiRline
Flynas established in 2007, flynas is the leading low-cost carrier of saudi arabia and has a fleet of 30 aircra, operating over 1000 scheduled flights every week. flynas offers flights to 17 destinations within saudi arabia and 53 international destinations.
Captain MansooR al HaRbi, Coo, Flynas, MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds
since its launch in 2007, flynas had successfully carried more than 32 million passengers from its bases of Riyadh, Jeddah, dammam and abha. flynas offers its guests value for money with low fares, on time flights and superior customer service.
the airline continues to grow and invest in its product with a recent agreement with airbus to purchase 120 new a320neo aircra at a list value of us$8.6 billion. www.flynas.com
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2018
JoRdan's leading Hotel
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL amman say hello to the Four seasons – a white-limestone landmark atop the highest of amman’s seven hills. with a central location on the 5th Circle, the property is just five minutes to the al sweifiyah residential area and the shmeisani
financial district – and a short drive to the lively shops and cafés of Rainbow street, or to King Faisal street in the heart of downtown.
www.fourseasons.com/amman
bright and airy, the oversized accommodations are decorated in contemporary residential style, enhanced by hilltop views of the prestigious abdoun residential area and the Jabal amman embassy district. spacious modern-deco bathrooms open to large dressing areas.
Facilities at the Four seasons amman include a variety of restaurants and lounges, an intimately scaled spa, ďŹ rst class ďŹ tness centre and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. in warmer months, unwind with a massage in a private cabana on the pool terrace.
the focal point for events at Four seasons Hotel amman is the palatial grand ballroom with its soaring ceilings, and rich marble and granite accents. other function venues include the Crown Room, and three traditionally appointed boardrooms. stellar Four seasons cuisine and service help ensure an unforgeî…&#x;able amman occasion.
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saudi aRabia's leading Hotel saudi aRabia's leading Wedding Hotel
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RiyadH at Kingdom centRe
Four seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre is a stylish business and leisure destination located high in the Kingdom tower, one of saudi arabia’s most spectacular properties. occupying the 30th-50th floors of the Kingdom Centre, Four seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre has 274 spacious guest rooms for your to choose from including 37 luxury suites. each room is light and airy and equally suited to work or relaxation.
standard amenities are plentiful and include a media hub, a distinct work area, wireless high-speed internet access, dual line phones, international; satellite television channels, an ipod docking station, a dvd player, a private bar and relaxing chaise longs for reading or enjoying the magnificent view of Riyadh.
Meanwhile spacious marble bathrooms boast deep soaking bathtubs, a glass enclosed shower and a wC with telephone in a separate alcove.
www.fourseasons.com/riyadh
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saudi aRabia's leading Hotel suite
tHe Kingdom suite
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RIYADH AT KINGDOM CENTRE
tapping into the saudi capital’s love of ultra-exclusivity, superior comfort, and eye-catching reinvention, Four seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre has undergone an extensive multimillion-dollar renovation over the past 18 months and revealed the jewel in its crown: the Kingdom suite.
guests will surely feel like royalty with all the wonderful features that the Kingdom suite has to offer such as a luxurious bedroom, a lavish bathroom, a dressing room, a makeup area, a walk in closet, a kitchen with a private access, a private elevator inside the suite, a private office, a living room, a dining room that can accommodate 10 persons and an 84" tv screen.
a butler service is also available when booking the Kingdom suite offering exclusive personalised services to expedite guest requests and ensure supe-rior levels of comfort and convenience. www.fourseasons.com/riyadh
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2018
Middle east's leading luxuRy ResoRt
FOUR SEASONS RESORT dubai at JumeiRaH beacH
this beachside resort is a traveller’s playground, with the waters of the arabian gulf on one side and dubai's iconic cityscape on the other.
dine alongside views of the burj Khalifa at sunset at the open-air Mercury lounge, join the Four seasons Resort dubai team on an adventure of a lifetime in the desert, or simply spend the aî…šernoon relaxing poolside in your private cabana. www.fourseasons.com/dubaijb
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influencers M A G A Z I N E
Influencer marketing is quickly becoming a major part of the social marketing strategies for many marketers and agencies a like. With digital marketing spend increasing every year, more and more dollars are being devoted to influencer marketing programs due to their potential for significant ROI yields with often less resources. The value of influencer marketing is undeniable and no matter the size, resources, or sophistication, of a marketer or agency, all should be considering integrating an influencer marketing strategy into their social plans, even if their just beginning. The prospect of being able to reach consumers, inside and outside your traditional audience, in engaging ways, and through trusted voices is value that can’t be found through many if any other forms of social media marketing. This could not be more evident in the beauty, cosmetics and spa market, brands are more than comfortable when it comes to sponsorship and generic advertising strategies, but the role of the beauty social influencer is now at a stage where this too must be considered vital for any brands marketing strategy.
www.theinfluencersmagazine.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
baHRain's leading seRviCed apaRtMents
FRaseR suites DIPLOMATIC AREA
located within the Cbd in bahrain’s capital city of Manama, Fraser suites diplomatic area, bahrain oers 114 one- and twobedroom gold-standard serviced residences to international travellers who are looking for fully-furnished apartments that come with modern conveniences and city skyline views.
the 30-storey building also meets the needs of busy executives and their families with comprehensive facilities, including an indoor pool, a Moroccan bath, a kids’ club and a business centre. diplomaticarea-bahrain. frasershospitality.com/en
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2018
QataR's leading seRviCed apaRtMents
FRaseR suites WEST BAY DOHA
nestled in the heart of doha, the 396-unit property aracts both long- and short-term stay executives as well as families relocating to doha. Fraser suites west bay, doha offers fully furnished serviced apartments combined with state-of-the-art guest amenities coupled with gold-standard services.
the property is well positioned to cater to travellers’ needs as it offers a selection of studios, one, two and three bedroom residences. all apartments are designed by italian interiors company, Molteni & C, and have separate living and dining areas, enhanced by modern and fully equipped kitchens.
westbay-doha. frasershospitality.com/en
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2018
lebanon's leading business Hotel
GEFINOR Rotana Centrally located in Hamra area, the five-star property is part of beirut’s rich tapestry. vibrant Rue Hamra is just moments away, while beirut’s banking and business sector, including biel – are nearby. Renowned medical centres – aubMC, CMC, najjar, trad – are right on the doorstep.
the hotel’s two entrances provide easy access to the vibrant areas around the property. the main entrance is open 24 hours and the residence entrance opens daily from 11am until 7pm.
sea view or cityscape? either way, all 161 rooms are charming and spacious. alternatively choose one of the stylishly furnished apartments and luxurious suites. of course, great stay needs great food. explore appetising cuisine at gefinor Rotana’s three restaurants or from the in-room dining facility.
gefinor Rotana have got your events covered too: 12 meeting spaces and a grand ballroom make the property the perfect venue.
then relax at the rooop temperature controlled aquarius pool all year long, stay fit at our bodylines Fitness & wellness Club or enjoy a relaxing therapeutic massage. www.rotana.com/rotanahoteland resorts/lebanon/beirut
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2018
abu dHabi's leading CHauFFeuR CoMpany dubai's leading cHauFFeuR company
geRman RENT A CAR german Rent a Car is a new pinnacle in the luxury limousine and car rental sector in abu dhabi and also al-ain and dubai.
since its inception in 2007, german Rent a Car has set a new deďŹ nition for luxury and service. they are empowered by a eet of the most luxurious automotive brands and a passion for excellence in service which have helped set the company apart from the competition.
at german Rent a Car, the approach is simple: oer the most luxurious product crowned with the highest service standards.
an array of brands including Rolls Royce, wiesmann, Ferrari, lamborghini, bentley, aston Martin, porsche, Range Rover, bMw, Mercedes, audi, toyota and Mitsubishi to name but a few, oers customers new experiences driving these esteemed brands.
the company is part of al-Jaber group and sister company of prestige Cars and prestige Mansory, two pioneering companies that oer the latest in tuned luxury car segment. www.germanrac.com
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2018
Middle east's leading new Hotel
gevoRa HOTEL welcome to the tallest hotel in the world. gevora Hotel, which is 357.8 metres high, takes the title from a local neighbour – the Jw Marrio Marquis, which is just a metre shorter.
it houses 528 rooms across its 75 floors and and includes a health club and jacuzzi as well as a spa on the top floor, a pool and five glitzy restaurants. www.gevorahotels.com
situated in the trade Centre area on sheikh zayed Road, the luxurious gevora is decked out in gold.
MaJid al attaR, Ceo, gevoRa Hotel
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2018
Middle east's leading ConFeRenCe Hotel dubai's leading conFeRence Hotel
gRand Hyatt DUBAI set within 37 acres of landscaped gardens, the grand Hyaî…&#x; enjoys a great location in the heart of historic dubai Creek not far from the airport.
the resort features a colossal 674 luxury hotel rooms & suites and 186 residential hotel apartments, most with views of the famous dubai skyline and creek.
FatHi KHogaly, geneRal ManageR, gRand Hyatt dubai
with 13 restaurants to choose from showcasing international cuisines ranging from asian, italian and american to Middle eastern, you won’t have to venture far to experience excellent food.
and don’t worry about your waistline: the grand Hya dubai is home to four swimming pools and a jogging track as well as ahasees spa & Fitness Club.
if you're in dubai on business, there’s a 24 hour business centre to get your work done. the grand Hya dubai also features over 8,000 square meters of event space, featuring 2two ballrooms, 22 live kitchens, 14 meeting rooms & several outdoor venues to host events. hps://dubai.grand.hya.com/ en/hotel/home.html
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2018
abu dHabi's leading City Hotel
GRAND MILLENNIUM al WaHda Conveniently located in the heart of the uae capital, abu dhabi, the grand Millennium al wahda compromises 830 rooms, suites and apartments, a spa and fitness club and an array of restaurants and bars complimented by impeccable service. Connected to one of the city’s most favourite shopping destinations, al wahda Mall, the hotel is within easy reach to all the city has to offer: from
the international airport to the beautiful white sandy beaches to the iconic louvre abu dhabi, sheikh zayed Mosque and abu dhabi national exhibition Centre. all told, this property truly has something for every traveller.
hps://www.millenniumhotels.com /en/abu-dhabi/grand-millenniumal-wahda
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2018
JoRdan's leading business Hotel
GRAND MILLENNIUM amman located at the gateway to Jordan, the grand Millennium amman oers 5-star luxury at an unbeatable location.
From the heart of amman's commercial centre, you'll ďŹ nd shopping centres, art galleries, and entertainment spots all within walking distance.
MR KevoRK deldelian, geneRal ManageR, tHe H Hotel dubai and alexandeR susKi, diReCtoR oF sales & MaRKeting, gRand MillenniuM aMMan
grand Millennium amman’s 176 guest rooms provide for a restful stay, and come complete with a range of luxurious amenities.
elsewhere the hotel’s array of restaurants offer great cuisine and great views, while the sky spa & Health Club boasts a variety of treatments to help you unwind. www.millenniumhotels.com/en/a mman
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2018
uae's leading luxuRy City Hotel
GRAND MILLENNIUM dubai experience 5-star luxury at the heart of new dubai. located between Mall of emirates and ibn bauta shopping mall, grand Millennium dubai offers 337 spacious and comfortable guest rooms making it the perfect base for any traveller.
dubai internet City, dubai Media City, dubai Knowledge village and championship golf courses are all just a short drive away while Metro is merely a short walk away, ensuring it is easy to explore and enjoy the 'shopping capital of the Middle east'.
on site there’s a rooop swimming pool serving up panoramic city views, a health club, and award-winning restaurants. business travellers will also appreciate the grand Millennium dubai’s seven fantastic meeting rooms and state-of-the-art business centre.
www.millenniumhotels.com/en/ dubai/grand-millenniumdubai/#home
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2018
JoRdan's leading business Hotel
GRAND MILLENNIUM muscat a tribute to the rich, cultural, heritage and time honoured values of oman, the grand Millennium Muscat Hotel is located in the heart of the city, close to the airport and is seamlessly connected to the Muscat grand Mall.
grand Millennium Muscat’s 296 rooms and suites, and 32 spacious apartments, are all luxuriously appointed with everything a 21st century traveller could desire.
indulge your senses at zanta spa or, if you’re in town for business, grand Millennium Muscat’s range of meeting rooms and executive lounge with panoramic views of the city, will ensure a productive time.
www.millenniumhotels.com/en/a mman
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www.worldluxurytraveller.co
Live the dream.
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2018
dubai's leading business Hotel middle east's leading business Hotel
gRosvenoR House DUBAI a luxuRy ColleCtion Hotel grosvenor House and its two iconic 45-storey towers, tower one and tower two, redeďŹ nes the world of luxury.
the hotel features 750 spacious, contemporary guest rooms, suites, and apartments with signature luxury Collection beds, large windows with spectacular views of the Marina, complimentary wi-Fi and aî…&#x;entive on-call butler service.
RaJa zeidan, Hotel ManageR, gRosvenoR House, a luxuRy ColleCtion Hotel, dubai
the area’s first true social destination and the heartbeat of dubai Marina, grosvenor House is located just minutes from the beach, golf clubs, malls, dubai internet City, Media City and more, offering an exceptional seing for business, leisure and exploration.
www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com
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2018
iRaQ's leading CaR Rental CoMpany
gulFstaR gulfstar provides leased vehicles and maintenance services that can be rapidly configured and mobilised to meet a wide variety of customer needs. the company’s modern fleet of vehicles includes name-brand sedans, pickup trucks, sport utility vehicles, buses, vans and special all purpose vehicles.
gulfstar can also supply heavy equipment such as cranes, trucks, trailers and head units. the company takes its commitment to safety very seriously and, as such, ensure that all of its drivers are fully trained - defensive driving courses come as standard. www.gulfstariq.com
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2018
Middle east's leading MiCe ResoRt
HabtooR GRAND RESORT Habtoor grand Resort, autograph Collection – a Marrio luxury lifestyle hotel with a 5 star rating – is ideally located on dubai's Jumeirah beach, ad-jacent to the dubai Marina and a short walk from some of the area's most popular aractions.
the hotel’s immaculately designed 446 rooms and suites boast 5-star amenities, including deluxe bedding, large flat-screen tvs, and stunning re-sort garden or sea views with many rooms also offering private balconies.
elsewhere there’s a spa featuring five treatment rooms, a fitness centre, tennis & squash courts, kid’s club, private beach and three outdoor swim-ming pools including a children's pool with water slides. an impressive array of 15 dining options is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. the hotel also offers extensive and elegant indoor and outdoor venue spaces, for those planning events in dubai.
another unique key feature about the Habtoor grand Resort is the travellers lounge. this luxurious common area offers guests whose travel arrange-ments do not coincide with the daily check in and out procedures, an opportunity to relax and unwind before being further assisted.
www.marrio.com/hotels/travel /dxbhg-habtoor-grand-resortautograph-collection/
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading destination ManageMent CoMpany
Haya TOUR Founded in 2009, Haya tour is a licensed tour operator located in Riyadh, the capital of saudi arabia. Haya’s vision is to introduce visitors to the many wonders of saudi arabia; to guide them and locals who have yet to explore its vastness.
the company strives to oer high quality tourism services to locals, expats and visitors at competitive prices. www.hayatour.com
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2018
Middle east's leading business CaR Rental CoMpany oman's leading caR Rental company yeMen's leading CaR Rental CoMpany
HeRtz while you can find Hertz at over 8,000 locations around the world, you will also find Hertz across the Middle east. Rent with Hertz in oman and yemen and you’ll be supported by the world’s leading car rental company with over 90 years of technical innovation and leading quality vehicles. www.hertz.com/rentacar
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2018
al ain's leading Hotel
HILTON al ain set in exotic landscaped gardens, Hilton al ain offers a peaceful location in the heart of a vibrant city. From the three swimming pools and tennis courts, to the stylish rooms and selection of dining venues, you’ll feel a world away from everything.
However exciting aractions are just minutes away, including al ain’s magnificent sand dunes and the nearby unesCo world Heritage sites. both dubai and abu dhabi international airports are just 80 minutes from the hotel. www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/uae /hilton-al-ain-aanHitW/index.html
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2018
uae's leading beaCH ResoRt
HILTON al HamRa beacH & golF ResoRt MR MaRino gHeRaRdi, geneRal ManageR, Hilton al HaMRa beaCH & golF ResoRt
take in breathtaking views of the arabian gulf and the Hajjar Mountains as you tee off on the 18-hole championship golf course of Hilton al Hamra golf & beach Resort. then relax in one of six outstanding restaurants and bars, including the original trader vic’s Mai tai lounge.
surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, this impressive Ras al Khaimah resort offers easy access to al Hamra Marina, shopping malls and numerous leisure facilities and is just an hour's drive from dubai. hp://www3.hilton.com/en/ hotels/uae/hilton-al-hamrabeach-and-golf-resort-RKtaHHi
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading HeRitage Hotel
HOTEL al KHozama al Khozama is arabic for “sweet desert flower,” a fiing description for one of the most renowned and enchanting hotels in Riyadh. Here, guests enjoy relaxing ambiance, gracious service and extensive facilities that range from indoor and outdoor pools to a state-of-the-art fitness center and four distinctive restaurants and lounges.
Convenient for business and holiday travelers, Hotel al Khozama is 19 miles from King Khaled international airport and moments from Riyadh’s new diplomatic Quarter. Referred to as the dQ, this district is one of the greenest areas of Riyadh with palmtree-lined parks and plazas as well as foreign diplomatic missions, ministries, government offices, shopping and business centers. as a renowned hotel, our guests also enjoy complimentary internet throughout the hotel premises with a chargeable premium option available.
each of the hotel’s 175 guestrooms and 12 luxury suites has been appointed with every amenity the modern traveler may require. Hotel al Khozama features an exceptional selection of restaurants in Riyadh, offering superb cuisine and exceptional service in a range of vibrant seings. each dining experience is designed to be a culinary journey.
Hotel al Khozama inspires productive meetings and conferences in the heart of Riyadh, saudi arabia.
www.alkhozamahotels.com/en/ default.html
the Hotel al Khozama showcases a contemporary meeting venue, with room for up to 50 guests with all required amenities such as wireless microphones and headsets, lCd projector and wiFi.
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GUAYAQUIL ECUADOR 15 SEPTEMBER 2018
The most visited city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is bursting with energy and optimism. Thanks to a massive regeneration project of public squares, parks and urban areas, the city is evolving into one of Latin America’s most talked-about tourism destinations. The waterfront Malecón "Simón Bolivar" is a magnificent riverfront town square, which defines Guayaquil identity, and serves as the hub of its thriving cultural and gastronomy scene. Aractions range from historical monuments, artisan markets and botanical gardens to a new ferris wheel and several museums. The harbour and promenade of Puerto Santa Ana is the latest addition to the waterfront. Just across the river, set in mangroves, caiman, monkeys and parakeets can be observed in the Parque Histórico. Guayaquil, which is located on the western bank of the Guayas River, also serves as the perfect gateway for both the Pacific Ocean beaches and the Galapagos Islands. www.guayaquil.travel
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GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR Founded in the 1530s, Ecuador's largest city and main port is the top access point for Galapagos cruises and home to a bustling import-export business. Tourism is on the rise as well, thanks to a new international airport and urban renewal projects along the River Guayas promenade and in the historic neighborhood of Las PeĂąas. The 465-step climb to the top of Santa Ana Hill provides sweeping views and a chance to stand on the site of the city's birthplace.
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THINGS TO DO PARquE HiSToRico GuAyAquiL
EL FARo dE GuAyAquiL
It includes eight hectares divided in three zones: Wild Life, Traditions and Urban - architectural, where the nature, rural and urban aspects are brought together in one concept: encouraging the environment preservation, rescue and promotion of our customs.
Walking up the 440 steps to the lighthouse was truly a delight. The view from inside the lighthouse was breathtaking!
MALEcon 2000 Stretching for several miles along the Rio Guayas, this lively boardwalk is well-patrolled day and night and features small food stands, other eateries and a blend of historic and modern buildings.
LAS PEnAS The Malecón ends in the north at the picturesque barrio of Las Peñas, itself at the foot of Cerro Santa Ana. There’s lile more to it than a short, dead-end road – Numa Pompilio Llona – paved with uneven, century-old cobblestones, but the colourful wooden houses here make this one of the preiest corners of Guayaquil. Many of the houses have been beautifully restored, but part of the area’s charm derives from the flaking paint and gentle disrepair of those that haven’t.
cERRo SAnTA AnA Like the ugly duckling to swan tale, this once poor area was transformed into a prime tourist araction – a 465-foot stairway flanked by colorful houses, eateries, gi shops and galleries.
PARquE dE LAS iGuAnAS Seminario Park is also known as the Iguana Park, since dozens of iguanas live in its ornate gardens. According to the tourists they give a prehistoric and natural ambiance to the Park. The reptiles that measure up to 1 metre in length are the main araction of the Park and mingle amiably among the people.
HAciEndA LA dAnESA Hacienda La Danesa (accommodation available) is a traditional dairy and cacao farm with over 145 years of rich heritage and history, located about an hour drive from Guayaquil, Ecuador. Family-owned and managed by the third generation Olsen family, the farm offers a unique selection of tailor-made activities for guests, including horseback riding trails, hands-on artisan chocolate making and other hacienda-related programs. La Danesa offers an intimate and authentic experience for those who would like to spend the night.
LA PERLA With 187 feet high, it’s the first giant ferris wheel in Ecuador and the biggest in South America. Enjoy a new view of the city and the landscapes that surround it inside a complex with all the facilities.
cAPTAin MoRGAn’S PiRATE SHiP A tour through the Guayas River on board of a pirate ship in which several renowned locations of our city are visited, like: Santa Ana Port, Las Peñas Neighborhood, Malecon 2000, Santay Island, Caraguay Market (south of the city), among others. Under the pirate theme, the boat with a capacity for 160 people and an exclusive zone for 60 people, also offers family tours, events like the famous “Pirate Parties”, which last an hour and include shows and free drinks.
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2018
Middle east's leading touRist attRaCtion
img WORLDS OF ADVENTURE experience 1.5 million sq - or 28 football fields - of unparalleled fun at iMg worlds of adventure, one of dubai's newest theme parks. state-of-the-art rides bring all your favourite Marvel and Cartoon network characters to life, in five themed zones.
with the likes of the avengers and the powerpuff girls to the life-size dinosaurs in the lost valley, iMg worlds of adventure is one of dubai’s largest and most exciting theme parks.
lennaRd FRanCious otto, Ceo, iMg woRlds oF adventuRe
lile ones can enjoy multisensory adventures with ben 10, gumball, the powerpuff girls and lazytown. Meanwhile, older visitors can become superheroes for the day as they immerse themselves in action with spiderMan, the Hulk, iron Man, thor and the avengers.
on top of that, the lost valley – a dinosaur adventure zone – will send shivers down your spine as you interact with life-size dinosaurs that might seem a lile too real. For a fright of a different kind, you’ll be clamouring for the exits at the Haunted Hotel as you try to hold your nerve.
there are also plenty of places to dine and shop, plus you can find wheelchairs and strollers for hire. with non-stop entertainment from live stage shows to movies to rides, iMg worlds of adventure is a full day of excitement for adventure seekers of all ages. www.imgworlds.com
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2018
abu dHabi's leading Hotel
inteRcontinent abu dHabi with its private beach and marina, the interContinental abu dhabi hotel is an oasis of luxury near the Corniche and world-class shopping malls.
Host an event in a grand ballroom, on a terrace with sea views or in a beachfront garden with space for 700.
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Relax at the health club with inviting pools and admire marina yachts from your spacious room.
www.ihg.com/intercontinental/h otels/gb/en/abudhabi/auhha/hoteldetail
dine on brazilian Churrascaria in Chamas restaurant, find old-world refinement at belgian Café or enjoy fresh seafood at Fishmarket.
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2018
JoRdan's leading beaCH ResoRt
inteRcontinent aqaba perfect for Red sea holidays and business, this 5-star aqaba resort boasts a private white-sand beach lapped by turquoise waters, luxury guest-rooms with balconies overlooking a lagoon-style pool, chic restaurants and a full-service spa. explore this magical region with the help of intercontinental aqaba’s concierge who can arrange Red sea snorkelling and diving, as well as day trips to petra.
Meanwhile downtown aqaba is a short stroll away, and King Hussein airport can be reached in 15 minutes. www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hot els/us/en/aqaba/aqjha
tal
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2018
QataR's leading business Hotel
inteRcontinent doHa set in the west bay area, you can expect fine views of the gulf and access to the hotel’s pristine beach – doha's longest private beach. Rooms are spacious and furnished in contemporary schemes while a fine selection of restaurants and some of doha’s beer aer dark options will persuade most guests to stay on site.
should you wish to explore further afield, the hotel’s prime location is just minutes from downtown doha with its major government and corporate offices, the doha exhibition and Convention Centre, City Center Mall, and doha golf Club. www.ihg.com/intercontinental/ hotels/gb/en/doha
tal
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2018
lebanon's leading Hotel
inteRcontinent pHoenicia beiRut
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the grand hotel of the Middle east, phoenicia is within walking distance to a host of art, shopping, dining and entertainment spaces. overlooking the Mediterranean, next to trendy zaitunay bay and beirut’s famous corniche, it is only 10 minutes from the airport.
Close by, beirut souks and downtown are a hive of characterful bars, cafes and restaurants.
www.ihg.com/intercontinental/ hotels/gb/en/beirut/beyha
exquisite cuisine, designer boutiques and contemporary art collections are complemented with superior sta, aî…&#x;ending to your every need.
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2018
Middle east's leading FaMily ResoRt
Ja Jebel ali BEACH HOTEL
experience award-winning excellence at Ja Jebel ali beach Hotel, featuring rooms and suites overlooking the gulf shores, with a private marina and lush hotel gardens.
one of the best uae resorts, this 5 star dubai property is sure to dazzle with its palm-lined beach, decadent spa, two swimming pools, several restaurants and bars, sporting facilities and children’s entertainment clubs. www.jaresortshotels.com/en/ dubai/ja-jebel-ali-beach-hotel
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2018
uae's leading seRviCed apaRtMents dubai's leading Hotel apaRtments Middle east's leading seRviCed apaRtMents
JA OASIS beacH toWeR Ja oasis beach tower is a luxury beach hotel apartment, with 180 serviced, self-catering apartments all in an elegant beachfront property right on the JbR walk.
premium quality and contemporary appeal characterise this stately beach hotel apartment complex, providing an unrivalled standard of living however long you stay.
stunning views over the palm Jumeirah and dubai Marina, restaurants, a swimming pool deck and access to the Ja Jebel ali golf Resort complete the picture. www.jaresortshotels.com/en/du bai/ja-oasis-beach-tower
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7,520,065,232
GLOBAL POPULATION
3,686,032,678
TOTAL INTERNET USERS
2,789,582,541
ACTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA USERS
A CONNECTED PLANET
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2018
abu dHabi's leading Hotel ResidenCes uae's leading Hotel Residences
JANNAH buRJ al saRab Jannah burj al sarab boasts the world's fastest hotel internet at 1.2gb per second.
work, play, sleep and spa are the foundations behind the innovative design of each room and suite.
the 5-star hotel is a hub that oers business, shopping, cultural and beach experiences in the central business district of abu dhabi.
www.jannah.ae/hotels/jannah-burjal-sarab
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2018
Ras al KHaiMaH's leading Hotel villas
JANNAH RESORT & VILLAS Ras al KHaimaH Jannah Resort & villas Ras al Khaimah is united arab emirates’ scenic, tranquil oasis in the northernmost emirates. From the scenery of mountains, deserts,
mangroves, water sports and white sandy beaches it promises to be the place of off-road adventure and magnificent views for relaxation.
neHMe iMad daRwiCHe, Ceo, JannaH Hotels & ResoRts
the brand’s ďŹ rst-ever luxury property in the emirate, Jannah Resort & villas Ras al Khaimah provides the most conducive spot for a rustic break from the city life - a leisure destination for both locals and tourists.
the property is ideally located in al Mina, Ras al Khaimah, 45minute drive from dubai international airport and three hours from abu dhabi and features 19 three bedroom sea view villas, one four bedroom beach front villa and 100 cosy apartments.
Jannah Resort & villas applies contemporary interiors in soothing colours, and oers garden views from the villas and marina views from the apartments. www.jannah.ae/hotels/jannahresort-villas-ras-al-khaimah
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2018
Middle east's leading luxuRy Halal Hotel bRand
JannaH Jannah Hotels & Resorts was born and raised in the liwa desert of the united arab emirates. Founded on the spirit of the noble bedouin hospitality and pioneered with an infrastructure that is innovative, creative and dynamic, Jannah Hotels & Resorts has blossomed into the hotel management company of choice.
offering leading proprietary technology and evolutionary programs, the company offers intelligent and efficient hotel management services, that are focused on ensuring properties managed under the Jannah Hotels and Resorts brand reach their operating potential in every aspect. www.jannah.ae
neHMe iMad daRwiCHe, Ceo, JannaH Hotels & ResoRts
MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds, neHMe iMad daRwiCHe, Ceo, JannaH Hotels & ResoRts
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2018
Middle east's leading adventuRe touRist attRaCtion
Jebel Jais FLIGHT Ras al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais – the highest mountain in the uae, is home to the world’s longest zipline, a bucket list araction for the uae and the world.
the zip line has propelled the uae’s most northern emirate into the major leagues of global adventure tourism and cemented Jebel Jais as the region’s leading active adventure tourism destination.
thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies can travel at speeds of up to 120kph to 150kph at a height of 1,680m above sea level on top of Jebel Jais mountain. the experience sees participants fied with a special harness for the adventure, with the longest flight itself taking approximately two to three minutes.
once completed, guests will finish the bucket list flight on a suspended landing platform where they will be transferred to a second line to complete their journey back to the ground. www.toroverdeuae.com
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2018
Middle east's leading luxuRy Hotel bRand
JumeiRaH Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts are regarded as among the most luxurious and innovative in the Middle east the company was founded in 1997 with the aim to become a hospitality industry leader through establishing a world class portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts.
building on this success, in 2004 Jumeirah group became a member of dubai Holding - a collection of leading dubai-based businesses and projects - in line with a new phase of growth and development for the group. www.jumeirah.com
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2018
abu dHabi's leading ConFeRenCe Hotel
JumeiRaH AT ETHIAD TOWERS Rising majestically from its beachside seing, Jumeirah at etihad towers' dramatic sculptural form and spectacular design set a new standard for luxury hotels in abu dhabi. the complex is made up of five towers – three residential towers, one office tower, and the Jumeirah at etihad towers hotel.
this multi-award winning luxury hotel in abu dhabi features a number of unique venues for social events, outstanding conference and meeting facilities, and 382 elegant rooms and suites, which afford some of the most stunning views of the arabian gulf.
whether you prefer to spend your time cooling off in one of the three swimming pools, strolling along the glorious private beach, treating yourself to some of the best retail therapy to be found in the Middle east, or being pampered in the talise spa, you'll find the service is second to none. each of the 199 inspirationally designed, fully serviced residences is lavishly appointed, offering the height of elegant
living. From intimate studios to expansive three bedroom options, you can choose exactly the right accommodation to suit your needs. shop at the world-renowned avenue at etihad towers and sample the dizzying choice of international cuisines, fine beverages and imaginative
cocktails available at the Jumeirah at etihad towers restaurants and bars. Make use of exceptional leisure facilities and activities and hold a successful social event, meeting or conference at any of our unique venues. www.jumeirah.com/en/hotelsresorts/abu-dhabi/jumeirahetihad-towers
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2018
Middle east's leading FaMily & MiCe Hotel
JumeiRaH BEACH HOTEL DUBAI Jumeirah beach Hotel is a luxury family beach resort that seeks to redefine the holiday experience, offering a host of family activities, leisure facilities and dining options to delight and inspire guests.
with a striking wave-like design, Jumeirah beach Hotel is one of dubai’s most stunning and instantly recognisable structures with blue plated glass that artfully reflects the waves of the ocean.
all of the 618 rooms, suites and villas are luxuriously furnished and provide spectacular views of the arabian gulf. Choose from the widest array of leisure facilities including diving and watersport experiences, entertainment for the children at the Kids Club, complimentary and unlimited access to wild wadi waterpark, tennis and squash, six swimming pools, a climbing wall and private beach access.
Factor in 21 restaurants and bars, a mix of casual and fine dining options, and you’ll find everything you’re looking for at Jumeirah beach Hotel in dubai. www.jumeirah.com/en/hotelsresorts/dubai/jumeirah-beachhotel/
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2018
Kuwait's leading business Hotel
JumeiRaH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA indulge your senses at this stunning beach hotel in Kuwait which offers 316 rooms and suites, 80 serviced apartments and 12 villas, all fied to a high standard.
guests can take a dip in the open-air swimming pool then relax under the sun on Messilah beach or at the tranquil talise spa.
inside the resort you'll ďŹ nd seven restaurants and stylish lounges serving a range of refreshments from your favourite international dishes to traditional arabian cuisine.
Families are more than welcome at Jumeirah Messilah beach Hotel & spa, where you will ďŹ nd sinbad's Kids' Clubs and play areas to keep the children entertained.
the hotel features extensive conference and banqueting facilities, making it an ideal venue for an important business meeting or event.
www.jumeirah.com/en/hotelsresorts/kuwait/jumeirahmessilah-beach-hotel-and-spa/
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2018
baHRain's leading ResoRt
JumeiRaH ROYAL SARAY BAHRAIN Jumeirah Royal saray sits confidently on a private beach on Manama’s new seef district, majestically surrounded by the arabian sea. the inspiration for Jumeirah Royal saray was drawn from relentless world travels, handpicking and curating the best materials and statement pieces, making the resort a work of art in its own right.
a bahraini summer house full of bespoke details, this resort has a confident and bold demeanour. it is a space to be seen, to watch, to experience, to enjoy. there is an undeniable coastal feel. the 174 guest-rooms pay homage to the bahraini pearls; with nacars, silvers, shimmer and ocean blue tones coming together beautifully.
10 luxurious summer houses and four Royal Residences provide this new destination with an exclusive feel, like guest houses to a grand manor created to entertain family, friends and dignitaries. For those socialising, Jumeirah Royal saray proposes an upscale and trendy restaurant vibe. Contemporary menus and mixed drinks are another ‘don’t miss’ at the resort.
guests can expect world-class coffee made bybaristas flown in from Colombia and the finest pastry selection craed by the executive pastry Chef.
www.jumeirah.com/en/hotelsresorts/bahrain/jumeirah-royalsaray
Host your guests at the summer houses, explore streets full of traditional and artisan cras or watch the sunset over the palm trees on the private beach.
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2018
Middle east's leading ResoRt ResidenCes
JumeiRaH ZABEEL SARAY ROYAL RESIDENCES Clustered around a magnificent lagoon pool and set amidst lush tropical gardens, the 38 exclusive Royal Residences feature the finest sources, including turkish marble, rich dark wood and exterior ceramics from the ancient town of iznik in western anatolia.
soak up stunning views of the arabian gulf from a five-bedroom beach villas, which leads on to a private beach.
look out at a spectacular lagoonstyle pool amongst tropical landscaping from the fourbedroom lagoon villas, or bask in the stunning dĂŠcor and furnishings of the seafront villas. www.jumeirah.com/en/hotelsresorts/dubai/jumeirah-zabeelsaray-royal-residences/
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W O R L D
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Despite economic woes, the sale of luxury watches continues. At World Luxury Watch News, we review the new models, cover the big showcase events and look at the market for both old and new timepieces.
www.worldwatchnews.com
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading exeCutive Club lounge
JW maRRiott MARQUIS HOTEL DUBAI immerse yourself in the 5-star sophistication of Jw Marrioî…&#x; Marquis Hotel dubai.
located within two iconic towers in business bay on sheikh zayed Road, this hotel provides everything you need for a truly special stay in the united arab emirates.
MoHanad aMeR, diReCtoR oF FRont oFFiCe opeRations, Jw MaRRiott MaRQuis Hotel dubai
Find a restful oasis in your meticulously appointed accommodation, which features plush bedding, modern technology and a marble bathroom. Many of the rooms and suites also provide views of the water or of the dubai skyline. enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool or a workout in the fitness centre, followed a treatment at saRay spa and a meal in one of the Jw
Marrio Marquis Hotel’s restaurants which serve everything from indian classics to flavourful steaks. if you're hosting a meeting or event, the hotel offers 80,000square-feet of flexible space and the ability to accommodate 1,500 seated guests.
those hoping to explore the area will be thrilled with the property’s convenient location near dubai Mall, the burj Khalifa and the dubai opera. www.marrio.co.uk/hotels/ travel/dxbjw-jw-marriomarquis-hotel-dubai
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2018
Middle east's leading Hotel ResidenCes
KempinsKi Hotel and Residences PALM JUMEIRAH
located on the palm, one of dubai's most sought-aer areas, a stay at Kempinski Hotel and Residences palm Jumeirah means being immersed in luxury.
hangouts that dazzling dubai has to offer. as a base to explore what makes dubai so special, Kempinski Hotel and Residences palm Jumeirah is a perfect choice.
alternatively, rejuvenate yourself at the Cinq Mondes spa aer an exciting event at one of Kempinski Hotel and Residences palm Jumeirah’s 10 meeting venues.
Check into one of 244 luxurious suites, villas and penthouses, and escape from the bustling city streets into a place of complete, five-star relaxation before heading back to enjoy the best aractions, activities and
to make the most of your stay, dine at one of the four restaurants and bars , relax on the private beach or take a stroll in the expansive, five-acre gardens.
www.kempinski.com/en/dubai/ palm-jumeirah
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2018
Middle east's leading leisuRe Hotel dubai's leading sHopping mall Hotel
KempinsKi MALL OF THE EMIRATES located on the palm, one of dubai's most sought-aer areas, a stay at Kempinski Hotel and Residences palm Jumeirah means being immersed in luxury.
Check into one of 244 luxurious suites, villas and penthouses, and escape from the bustling city streets into a place of complete, five-star relaxation before heading back to enjoy the best aractions, activities and hangouts that dazzling dubai has to offer. as a base to explore what makes dubai so special, Kempinski Hotel and Residences palm Jumeirah is a perfect choice.
to make the most of your stay, dine at one of the four restaurants and bars , relax on the private beach or take a stroll in the expansive, ďŹ ve-acre gardens.
alternatively, rejuvenate yourself at the Cinq Mondes spa aer an exciting event at one of Kempinski Hotel and Residences palm Jumeirah’s 10 meeting venues. www.kempinski.com/en/dubai/ palm-jumeirah
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2018
oMan's leading tRavel agenCy
Kingdom TRAVEL & TOURISM Kingdom travel & tourism is an authorised iata agent which ensures the best ticketing services to its customers all the time.
in addition Kingdom travel & tourism is a very reliable destination Management Company (dMC) in the sultanate of oman. Many tour operators and travel agents choose the company to be their handling agent and to book their clientele accommodation.
Host Katie FieldeR, aMal sinad witH sales exeCutive, KingdoM tRavel & touRisM, aliya albalusHi, sales exeCutive, KingdoM tRavel & touRisM
Kingdom travel & tourism’s vision is to make a sustainable profitable growth through superior customer service, innovation, quality and commitment – and its mission is to be one of the leading travel and tourism related service providers in oman. www.kingdom.hi-oman.com
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2018
qataR's leading Hotel QataR's leading Hotel dining & enteRtainMent expeRienCe
LA CIGALE HOTEL qataR the lobby at la Cigale Hotel is a sleek, dark wood and marble aair with quirky accents such as large silver lounges, sweeping sheets of louvred dis-tressed glass and Murano chandeliers.
the exquisite details continue in the art deco style suites and rooms, which oer arresting views of this oil-rich city).
elsewhere la Cigale boasts several standout dining spots including di Capri and le Cigalon.
Factor in a fantastic location - la Cigale is situated just 15 minutes from the airport, 10 from the beach and close to the Museum of islamic art, restau-rants and designer malls - and you’ve got a great base from which to ex-plore Qatar’s capital. www.lacigalehotel.com
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2018
lebanon's leading ResoRt
le Royal Hotel BEIRUT le Royal Hotel beirut boasts stunning views of the Mediterranean, and features an adjacent watergate aqua park for use during warm months.
the restaurants range from ďŹ ne dining at the titanic to authentic lebanese at shahrayar, and oer live weekend entertainment and exciting culinary choices.
business guests will enjoy the business office, wireless internet access and a club floor with private lounge.
www.leroyal.com/en/ouRHotels/beirut
Recommended nearby aractions include the bustling downtown, the Jeita groo and the ancient byblos. nearby ski resorts, malls, historic churches and eco-tourism adventures are also part of the allure.
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2018
Middle east's leading beaCH ResoRt
LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN BEACH RESORT & SPA dubai overlooking the pristine waters of the arabian gulf and set in 19 acres of landscaped gardens, the recently refurbished le Royal Meridien
beach Resort & spa is the perfect choice for a beach, city or a family holiday in dubai.
HaRisH gopalKRisHnan, Hotel ManageR, le Royal MéRidien beaCH ResoRt & spa
the resort is located in Jumeirah and is at the beginning of the cosmopolitan Jumeirah beach Residence (JbR walk) - dubai’s only beachfront promenade of luxury shops, restaurants and cafes overlooking the clear blue waters of the sea.
aractive to all travellers, including young families, the resort offers spectacular facilities with 504 luxurious rooms and suites with stunning views of the sea or dubai Marina, three swimming pools, a splash pool and a kids pool, direct beach access, a range of recreational activities, water sports, a state of the art fitness centre and daily children’s events at the Kids Club.
le Royal Meridien beach Resort & spa also hosts an array of international restaurants and bars serving a wide variety of tastes from pan-asia to Mexico, leaving you spoilt for choice. www.leroyalmeridien-dubai.com
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2018
dubai's leading City business Hotel
m Hotel doWntoWn BY MILLENNIUM Commanding superior views from the upper oors of a mixed-use building, the M Hotel downtown by Millennium welcomes you with comfort and convenience in the heart of the city.
only 10km away from dubai international airport (dxb), the hotel oers an easy access to the commercial areas of the city such as business bay district, dubai international Financial Centre and dubai world trade Centre.
unni KRisHnan, Revenue ManageR, M Hotel downtown by MillenniuM, HesHaM yousseF, diReCtoR oF sales & MaRKeting, M Hotel downtown by MillenniuM
a short walk will take you to dubai Mall, a world-class shopping destination, and the striking landmarks of burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world and the newly-built dubai water Canal.
beautifully appointed rooms, exible meeting facilities and pleasing amenities, make the hotel an ideal base for business and leisure travellers.
with its sensational nightclubs (live dubai), stylish lounge (lighthous terrace bar & lounge), well-equipped ďŹ tness centre and spa facilities (tosa spa), the hotel is the perfect choice for a downtown destination. www.millenniumhotels.com/en/d ubai/m-hotel-downtown
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Travelling by private jet is a truly remarkable luxury experience. World Private Jet News looks at the operators, aircraft, cabin and plan designs, and of course the future of this luxury travel segement.
www.worldjetnews.com
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading Hotel apaRtMents
maJlis gRand meRcuRe RESIDENCE whether in abu dhabi for business or pleasure, enjoy the five-star prestige and comfort of a residence at Majlis grand Mercure abu dhabi hotel. From studios to executive suites, all 198 rooms provide fullyequipped kitchens, free wiFi, and lCd high-definition tvs.
the 24-hour concierge aends to your every need, and room service is available around the clock. treat yourself to Mediterranean and arabic delicacies at the rooop restaurant, or an authentic French café experience at la brioche.
For beach lovers, our white sands and clear waters are the ultimate luxury. Majlis grand Mercure abu dhabi is located in the heart of an exciting and cosmopolitan city. take a guided tour of the spectacular sheikh zayed grand Mosque, one of the world's largest, or explore the sand dunes of the ancient desert in a 4x4 or atop a camel. visit the awe-
inspiring emirates palace along the Corniche, where the abu dhabi Film Festival and classical concerts aî…&#x;ract internationally acclaimed artists. www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel9704-majlis-grand-mercureresidence-abu-dhabi
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading ResoRt
maKaRem ANNAKHEEL VILLAGE Makarem annakheel village is a luxury resort operated by Makarem Hospitality group, a member of saudi Hotels and Resorts company.
the village is conveniently located in north obhur, only 20 minutes from downtown Jeddah and 15 minutes from King abdul aziz international airport.
Hassan aHdab, pResident oF Hotel opeRations, MaKaReM Hotels, MR touFiC taMiM, viCe pResident sales & MaRKeting - Middle east & soutH asia, MoĚˆvenpiCK Hotels & ResoRts
Makarem annakheel village consists of 112 luxury villas, 21 apartments and a hotel containing 43 rooms and suites - all elegantly furnished to the highest standards.
there’s also facilities for fine and casual dining, meeting rooms, a beach, a kids’ water park, recreational facilities, water sports, marina area, a fitness club for men and women, laundry services and more. www.makarem.sa/en/hotels/ma karem-annakheel-village
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading Hotel gRoup
maKaRem HOTELS
MR touFiC taMiM, CoRpoRate diReCtoR oF sales, Hotel opeRations, MaKaReM Hotels, Hassan aHdab, pResident oF Hotel opeRations, MaKaReM Hotels
the warm welcome and upscale amenities aren’t the only reasons Makarem is the perfect choice. it’s the passion and dedication that the saudi based hospitality group brings to serving and fulfilling every one of its guests needs and aspirations.
comprehensive hospitality and keen spiritual assistance. pray, live, work, each journey is unique, and Makarem is dedicated to serving them all. ww.makarem.sa
whether you come for umrah, Ramadan, Hajj, family, or business, Makarem Hotels deliver
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2018
saudi aRabia's leading business & ConFeRenCe Hotel
maKaRem RIYADH AIRPORT HOTEL Makarem Riyadh airport Hotel is a five-star hotel run by Makarem Hotels. located near to King Khalid international airport in Riyadh and away from the noise of the city. the hotel consists of 248 rooms and suites, equipped with air conditioning, 32 inch lCd tvs, irons and ironing boards, a mini fridge,
separate bathroom, international telephone lines and high speed internet. guest can dine at one of three first class restaurants – here’s looking at lobby lounge, al diwan restaurant and panoramic restaurant – or order room service.
MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & F pResident oF Hotel opeRations,
business travellers will appreciate the dierent sizes banquet halls, which can accommodate up-to 750 people, and the state of the art business centre.
FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds, Hassan aHdab, , duR Hospitality CoMpany
Meanwhile leisure travellers will love the Recreation Centre which boasts a swimming pool, gymnasium, jacuzzi, steam bath, massage, billiard table, table tennis, tennis court and volleyball court.
the also enjoys an enviable location being within easy access of tourist sites such as aljanadriah Heritage village and thumamah park land. www.makarem.sa/en/hotels/ma karem-riyadh-hotel
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2018
MaKKaH's leading Hotel
MAKKAH millennium Hotel Makkah Millennium Hotel is the closest hotel to holy Haram situated in prime central location, directly over the Haram piazza the most sacred Masjd in the world.
Reaching the property is easy, with King abdul aziz international airport just one hour away by car.
this luxury hotel in Makkah, near the Haram, offers seven panoramic elevators and five elegant restaurants.
www.millenniumhotels.com/en/ makkah/makkah-millenniumhotel
Main Makkah aractions are at your doorstep including the Kaaba, with other important islamic holy sites less than five miles away.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading Hotel gRoup
maRRiott inteRnational Marrio international began operations in the Middle east in 1980 with the opening of the Riyadh Marrio Hotel in saudi arabia. over the past couple of years, the company has grown in the Middle east and africa region, entering new markets, and introducing new
brands, such as protea Hotels in 2014 and autograph Collection in 2015. today, the region has over 245 properties in operation, and another 180+ properties in the pipeline. www.marrio.com
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Over 30 dedicated travel and tourism channels covering the world’s most popular tourism destinations and subject areas
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From Africa, airlines, Dubai, China and cruise, to Europe, luxury, safari, ski and spa, World TV covers the globe. Each channel is curated by a dedicated editorial team featuring hundreds of the latest and most popular travel and tourism video content. To advertise on World TV, or create your own rich and engaging content for your own dedicated World TV Channel, call us on +44 (0) 20 7925 0000 or email info@worldtv.group. www.worldtv.group
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading aiRpoRt Hotel
millennium AIRPORT HOTEL DUBAI Millennium airport Hotel dubai is a contemporary lifestyle destination for those who desire to be at the centre of dubai's pulsating business and cultural scene.
Conveniently located near the dubai international airport – just five minutes drive away from terminal 1 & 3 – the hotel is also within close proximity to the city's major central business district, historical sites, tourist spots, shopping centres and entertainment hubs.
binu vaRgHese, diReCtoR oF sales and MaRKeting, MillenniuM aiRpoRt Hotel dubai
Millennium airport Hotel dubai features 341 spacious guestrooms including the superior & deluxe Rooms, Family Rooms, Club suites and executive deluxe suites – all equipped with outstanding amenities.
on site are a distinctive choice of restaurants and bars, a newly opened and spacious al garhoud ballroom with 6448 sq of space, five meeting rooms and two boardrooms with high-end facilities and a range of leisure options including a superb large outdoors swimming pool and a fully equipped fitness centre.
www.millenniumhotels.com/en/ dubai/millennium-airport-hoteldubai
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2018
oMan's leading Hotel ResidenCes
millennium EXECUTIVE APARTMENTS MUSCAT Centrally located in the al Khuwair area, and close to the Ministries district, Millennium executive apartments Muscat is a part of tilal Complex - Muscat's new mix use development for Retail, upscale dining, luxurious living and Hi-tech oďŹƒces.
MR CHady Kanaan, , MillenniuM
additionally, these luxurious apartments in Muscat are located within walking distance of the avenues Mall, with more than 205 retail outlets and a 20,000 sqm hypermarket.
the 115 spacious apartments have all you need for a restful stay, including wi-Fi, an open plan lounge and dining room, and master bedroom ensuite. Millennium executive apartments Muscat’s german-designed kitchens are also eďŹƒcient and elegant, and come with a full range of utensils.
business travellers will also appreciate the multifunctional meeting rooms and state-of-theart facilities. www.millenniumhotels.com/en/ muscat/millennium-executiveapartments-muscat
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2018
Kuwait's leading ConFeRenCe Hotel
millennium HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTRE KUWAIT Just 10 minutes away from the progressive Kuwait City, the luxurious 5-star Millennium Hotel & Convention Centre Kuwait stands
tall in the salmiya area that’s adjacent to the financial and business district.
basseM alHaJJ, ClusteR diReCtoR oF sales & MaRKeting witH aHMed seRaFi, geneRal ManageR, MillenniuM Hotel & Convention CentRe Kuwait
all 295 well-appointed guest rooms and suites in this 18-storey hotel offer superb views of the city. with 21 different function rooms including a stunning ballroom and more than 6,000sqm of conference space, the hotel boasts one of the largest convention centres in the country. For downtime, you can enjoy the extensive facilities such as a health club with technogym
equipment, an outdoor swimming pool, a table tennis room, and a beauty salon. when it’s time to explore the city, the revolving observation deck atop the iconic 187m-tall Kuwait towers beckons.
visit the region’s largest aquarium or catch an iMax film along the coast at the scientific Centre, aend an open-air concert for arabic music, enjoy a night dive, or shop to your heart’s content. www.millenniumhotels.com/en/ kuwait-city/millennium-hoteland-convention-centre-kuwait/
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2018
Middle east's leading business Hotel bRand
millennium HOTELS & RESORTS Millennium Hotels and Resorts is hotel company that treats the guest as family, with a unique range of global properties across asia pacific, europe, north america and, of course, the Middle east. with a global portfolio of more than 120 hotels, Millennium’s hotels are never cookie-cuer, but always fresh, surprising and tailored to their location.
Millennium Hotels and Resorts seamlessly blend asian hospitality with western comfort. properties under the group are placed into one of the three collections. each collection has its own distinct personality, character and clearly defined hotel brands within it; tailored to suit different types of guests.
MR KevoRK deldelian, geneRal ManageR, tHe H Hotel dubai, Host - Katie FieldeR, MR alexandeR susKi, diReCtoR oF sales & MaRKeting, MillenniuM Hotels & ResoRt
MillenniuM suCCess at woRld tRavel awaRds Middle east CeReMony
leng’s ColleCtion unique hotels with powerfully distinct personalities – from historic properties to trendy urban escapes.
MillenniuM ColleCtion the global travellers’ choice in gateway cities. the Millennium Collection hotels are created with timeless.
M ColleCtion these hotels are lively, full of colours, joyful and a fantastic platforms to help our guest to unleash their sense of creativity!
CoptHoRne ColleCtion Comfortable hotels at a comfortable price. the Copthorne Collection hotels are firmly established as a true global brand.
www.millenniumhotels.com
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2018
united aRab eMiRates's leading City Hotel
millennium PLAZA HOTEL DUBAI Facing dubai international Financial Centre, Millennium plaza Hotel dubai is perfectly positioned in the heart of the city. the dubai international Convention and exhibition Centre, dubai Mall, and world trade Centre are all close by, and direct access to emirates towers Metro station makes it a breeze to travel out.
this 65-storey tower oers 398 spacious guest rooms, with stunning views overlooking zabeel palace and Jumeirah beach.
MR neMo aCiMoviC, geneRal ManageR, MillenniuM plaza Hotel dubai, MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRd
business travellers will appreciate the state-of-the-art business Centre and 10 modern meeting and conference facilities.
www.millenniumhotels.com/en/ dubai/millennium-plaza-hoteldubai
the Millennium plaza dubai is an alcohol-free property, however guests can enjoy excellent leisure facilities, including a fantastic health club and spa, club lounge and a children's pool with views of the arabian sea.
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Book hote at the low possible p
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading CRuise poRt
mina RasHid DUBAI Mina Rashid, located on the southern coast of the arabian gulf, is a multi-purpose port equipped to handle both cargo & passenger operations.
the port’s central location in the heart of dubai makes it very aractive for traditional traders and tourists alike. it is the only port in the Middle east to receive the prestigious iso-9002 accreditation and the security Certificate of excellence by international Maritime security (iMs).
taRiQ bin KHaliFa, CoMMeRCial diReCtoR, Mina RasHid, MR gRaHaM CooKe, pResident & FoundeR, woRld tRavel awaRds, ayMan al sHeHHi, ManageR - opeRations, Mina RasHid
Mina Rashid Cruise terminal is spread across 2 million sqm and is currently equipped to handle 7 mega cruise vessels / 25,000 passengers simultaneously. dp world’s third cruise terminal, Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise terminal at Mina Rashid in dubai was inaugurated in 2014. it is the world’s largest single, covered cruise facility capable of handling 14,000 cruise passengers a day.
the ongoing expansion plans will enable Mina Rashid to include a world class recreational area to reflect dubai’s strong cultural heritage, further strengthening dubai’s position as the leading regional cruise hub and integrating the Mina Rashid waterfront back into the local community.
www.dpworld.ae
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2018
lebanon's leading luxuRy Hotel
mÜvenpicK Hotel BEIRUT located directly on the Mediterranean sea and only 10 minutes from the airport, this upscale 292-bedroom hotel oers all you would expect from a 5-star beach resort.
the restaurants create authentic lebanese and international cuisine while the range of bars, including the famous chill-out bar square, is perfect for relaxing with drinks in the evening.
with 11 multi-purpose functional meeting rooms and outdoor venues, the 5-star beirut hotel oers meeting and banqueting spaces for many purposes and tastes.
the hotel also boasts vast recreational facilities including a Kids Club and the essential spa & Health Club. www.movenpick.com/en
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2018
JoRdan's leading ResoRt
mövenpicK ResoRt & spa TALA BAY AQABA Relax on a private beach, dive in the Red sea and unwind with a spa treatment - all while staying at the luxury Mövenpick Resort & spa tala bay aqaba.
this award-winning resort combines contemporary decor and first-class facilities in a stunning beachfront location just 15 minutes from aqaba’s city centre and 25 minutes from King Hussein international airport.
enjoy complimentary wiFi and views of the Red sea, mountains, gardens or pools from the 306 rooms, family rooms and suites. all of the hotel rooms have private terraces or balconies, so you can unwind at leisure with a drink from the complimentary minibar. Fresh seafood, authentic italian cuisine, informal poolside dining and sea view lounges are just some of the highlights at hotel’s eight restaurants and bars.
elsewhere lavish events, receptions and conferences can be hosted in the ballroom, meeting room and beautiful outdoor venues. in addition to a 150 metre-long private beach and several swimming pools, there’s also a dive centre, kids’ club and a variety of water sports.
alternatively refresh in the sauna, relax in zara spa tala bay or explore the desert and historic sites nearby. www.movenpick.com/en/middleeast/jordan/aqaba/resortaqaba-tala-bay
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading newtouRisM developMent pRoJeCt
muscat inteRnational aiRpoRt OMAN MoaMan al busaidi, geneRal ManageR oF iCt, MusCat inteRnational aiRpoRt, abdullaH al busaidi, Head oF Media, MusCat inteRnational aiRpoRt
oman’s new Muscat international airport officially opened on tuesday 20 March 2018. the new airport has the capacity to operate 40 flights per hour with 86 checkin counters, 40 gates, and 29 aircra stands with jetbridges, as well as a new control tower
the airport will undergo further upgrades in three consecutive phases which aims to boost the number of passengers from 12 million to 24, 36 and 48 million passengers respectively. www.omanairports.co.om
out of 10 carousels for bag handling, eight will be used for international flights.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
oMan's leading new Hotel
MYSK BY sHaza al mouJ
the flagship hotel of Mysk by shaza is a contemporary and trendy theatre of life.
splash into delectable dining, comfortable rooms and friendly service.
the seing overlooks the vibrant marina of al Mouj in Muscat. it’s a curtain call of ever-evolving arabian culture and design features inspired by the maritime seing ebb and flow. the vibrant and cheerful ambiance takes centre stage.
Meet, reconnect and dive into a memorable stay. www.myskhotels.com/hotels/al moujmuscat/
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2018
Middle east's leading tRavel peRsonality
nasseR AL NOWAIS cHaiRman oF tHe boaRd oF diRectoRs, Rotana Hotel management coRpoRation nasser al nowais, Chairman of the board of directors at Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, was the worthy winner of the Middle east’s lead-ing travel personality title at the world travel awards Middle east gala Ceremony 2018.
Having studied economics at new york university and founded the abu dhabi national Hotels Company, he now leads one of the most dynamic hospitality companies in the region.
MR nasseR al nowais, CHaiRMan, Rotana Hotels
in addition to his work in hospitality, al nowais has held prestigious roles in banking, insurance, aviation and investment, and has previously worked as an under-secretary at the ministry of ďŹ nance and industry in the united arab emirates’ government.
Having founded the ďŹ rst arab hotel chain in the Middle east, his work has directly contributed to the revival of the tourism industry in abu dhabi. through the company al nowais has contributed to many of the social activ-ities and charity initiatives in the arab world, such as his ongoing contribu-tions to the emirates Foundation.
today, the chain of hotel he leads has become the fastest growing in the Middle east, thanks to its outstanding administrative structures which have allowed it to gain a reputation for excellence.
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2018
Middle east's leading CHauFFeuR CoMpany middle east's leading touR opeRatoR uae's leading business tRavel agenCy uae's leading destination management company uae's leading touR opeRatoR abu dHabi's leading business tRavel agency
niRvana tRavel established in 2007, nirvana travel has proved to be a pioneer in the uae market.
the team at nirvana travel understand that their clients are busy individuals and, as such, are capable of organising the most cost eective trips in a timely manner.
saMiR MoRsi, deputy Ceo and sultan bou daRgHaM, CFo, niRvana tRavel & touRisM
nirvana travel’s aention to detail, personal service and understanding of our client’s requirements ensure a smooth journey from beginning to end.
the company specialises in a wide range of high quality corporate services for multinational and national clients. with a proven track record of stability, dependability and experience, they constantly growing our extensive portfolio of services.
boom line? whether you are looking for business or leisure, nirvana travel is able to grant all your requests. www.ntravel.ae
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JAMAICA 22 SEPTEMBER 2018
Wherever you go in this enchanted paradise, you will find natural beauty so stunning, it will take your breath away. And people so genuinely friendly and hospitable, it will warm your heart. Jamaica is home to a magnificent landscape of rolling mountains lined by endless white-sand-beaches, covered by lush foliage and crisscrossed by streaming rivers and cascading waterfalls. Jamaica is a wonderland of allure and stunning, natural beauty. From scenic cliffs and majestic waterfalls to pristine lagoons and bubbling hot springs, the region boasts plenty of things to do amid a diverse terrain. Relax on a river ra ride along the Martha Brae or zip down a canopy at full speed over ancient sugar mill ruins – whatever your fancy, Jamaica offers tours and excursions that satisfy the whims of the most adventurous or the most laidback traveler. www.visitjamaica.com
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS CARIBBEAN & NORTH AMERICA GALA CEREMONY 2018
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JAMAICA cOME ON AND FIND YOUR HOLIDAY RHYTHM We’re the island of happy days, vivid nights and dreams that come true. Paradise in Jamaica can be whatever you want it to be – lose yourself in the adventure and take it all in. Get back to nature in the magic of our rainforests, which seem to be as alive as any of the tropical animals that live there. Take your loved ones to hike the Blue Mountains and look at the world through new eyes. Meet our friendly people, try our food and watch the sunset over the caribbean Sea to the sound of slow reggae rhythms and good times. Join us, in the Home of All Right.
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS CARIBBEAN & NORTH AMERICA GALA CEREMONY 2018
THINGS TO DO BLUE HOLE (OcHO RIOS) Come experience a lile thrill and adventure, geing to see breathtaking views, and doing optional jumps on the way down, through a Jamaican jungle! The river is refreshing, and the views are once in a lifetime, it is a experience you won't regret, or soon forget!
SEvEN MILE BEAcH (NEGRIL) Pirates once haunted this seven-mile stretch of golden sand beach, now ruled by pleasure-seeking beach bums and sun-worshipers. This iconic stretch of paradise is a perfect example of a quintessential tropical seing.
DUNN’S RIvER FALLS AND PARK (OcHO RIOS) The famous Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica’s national treasures. This major tourist araction is the perfect environment for fun and relaxation for the entire family, with many a delightful new discovery to be made around every corner.
NEGRIL cLIFFS (NEGRIL) Located on Negril’s West End, these dramatic and soaring ‘Thunderball.’ Situated away from the large beach resorts, this stunning area of high cliffs, sea caves and clear deep turquoise waters is famous as a location for professional cliff diving.
YS FALLS (SANTA cRUz) YS Falls boasts a magnificent seven-tiered cascading waterfall and an expansive wading pool fed by underground springs. You can take in the spectacular views on an exciting canopy ride which careens you
down the alley high above the falls, or enjoy the beautiful surroundings on a river tube ride. adventure waits for you in the jungle! This stunning location, just off the Black River, is lined with plenty of picnic areas for pleasant aernoon lunches al fresco.
BLOODY BAY (NEGRIL) On the West coast of this laid back island lies Bloody Bay. The heart and soul of the Negril, Bloody Bay plays host to a ribbon of white sands and lapping azure waters, as well as all sorts of beach activities.
RAINFOREST ADvENTURES JAMAIcA (OcHO RIOS) A must on the list of places to explore and activities to enjoy in Jamaica, the eco-friendly Mystic Mountain, 2010 Tourism Excellence award-winner for Ocho Rios aractions, is an unforgeable rainforest adventure for everyone in your family.
ROSE HALL GREAT HOUSE (ROSE HALL) The greatest of Jamaican great houses, the Rose Hall Great House has a story with all the elements of an engaging novel. Built in 1770 by John Palmer and his wife, it eventually became the residence of their grandnephew, John Rose Palmer.
BLUE MOUNTAINS (KINGSTON) Want a wild outdoor adventure that’ll leave you breathless, exhilarated and home in time for supper? Then push your way through the dense tropical forest of the Blue Mountains for an aernoon that will feast your eyes and work your quads.
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W O R
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L U X U R Y
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Envy, Lust, Desire. You can do all this and more on World Luxury News. Each day we cover the most amazing and outlandish luxury goods, services and properties. Come along and see the plethora of all that’s great in the luxury world; the must-haves if only we could all aord it.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading airline –Business Class Middle east's leading airline – econoMy class
oMan AIR Oman air is the flagship carrier of the sultanate of Oman and an Official 4 star airline (skytrax 2011). Founded in 1993, Oman’s flagship carrier has since witnessed massive growth and has played a major role in making Muscat an important traffic hub in the Middle east, supporting the commercial, industrial and tourism sectors.
Currently Oman air’s fleet consists of seven Boeing 787 dreamliners, six airbus 330-300s, four airbus 330200s, five Boeing 737-900s, 21 Boeing 737-800, four embraer 175s and two 737 MaX. More aircra will join the fleet in the coming days. By 2022, Oman air’s total fleet size is expected to be around 66.
the Official 4 star airline’s outstanding aircra interiors include its First Class Mini suite, which provides each of the six First Class passengers with direct aisle access and converts to the longest lie-flat seat in the skies. the a330’s outstanding Business Class seats each provide direct
aisle access, ample storage space and the latest technological amenities. economy Class seats offer adjustable head and leg rests, together with generous leg and elbow room. state of the art in-flight entertainment systems feature individ-ual seatback screens, audio and video on
demand and live satellite tV. in addition, Oman air has pioneered both mobile telephony and internet con-nectivity on board its flights and this is available in all three classes www.omanair.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
uae's leading resOrt
one&only ROYAL MIRAGE, DUBAI the One&Only royal Mirage is a romantic beachfront resort set amongst 60 acres of landscaped gardens and made up of three properties – the regal arabian Court, the Moorish-style Palace and the intimate residence & spa.
arabian Court is designed in the spirit of the Orient, with a rich landscape of courtyards and fountains. the large, luxurious rooms face Palm island Bay and also oer a balcony or terrace. three distinctive restaurants are available to all guests.
Meanwhile the Palace is located along the beachfront. rooms here are colourful in design with arabic touches and face out towards the ocean and offer a balcony or terrace. the residence & spa is perfect for guests looking for an intimate experience, with its own private
reception, two exclusive restaurants, secluded gardens, pools and a private beach. located in the elegant courtyard is the world-class One&Only spa, offering an array of first class treatments. the resort offers three temperature controlled swimming
pools, a water sports centre, tennis courts, KidsOnly Club (complimentary for 4-11 year olds) and a choice of eight dining venues over the three distinctive properties. www.oneandonlyresorts.com/on e-and-only-royal-mirage-dubai
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's MOst rOMantiC resOrt
one&only ThE PALM, DUBAI Perched prominently on the treeshaped Palm island archipelago, One&Only the Palm – one of the few truly low-rise hotels in dubai – has been built in a Moorish-andalusian style. the property consists of the threestorey Manor House, six individual low-rise mansion houses and has four private, beach-fronted villas boasting every home comfort you
can think of, including luxury marble bathrooms and a private balcony or garden patio. How you spend your days is up to you. laze in one of the six private poolside cabanas, with lavish daybeds and relaxing music, splash about to your heart’s content in the 850 sqm swimming pool or indulge in water sports galore at sister hotel the One&Only royal Mirage.
golfers can play a round or two on the award winning courses, or you can choose to be pampered and spoilt at the spa which oers rejuvenating treatments in nine private suites, surrounding a central courtyard and private spa pool.
dining too is a delight with three fabulous restaurants to choose from, all under the expert guidance of three Michelin star chef Yannick allÊno. Zest is the signature restaurant featuring expansive oor-to-ceiling windows while staY showcases Oriental and Middle eastern
cuisines. alternatively try 101 dining lounge & Bar for al fresco dining, with sweeping panoramic views of the arabian gulf and new dubai skyline beyond. www.oneandonlyresorts.com/on e-and-only-the-palm-dubai
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
uae's leading desert saFari COMPanY dubai's leading destination ManageMent coMpany
orient TOURs established in 1982 in sharjah, uae, by H.e. sheikh Faisal al Qassemi, Orient tours is known as the market leader in oering a high quality product with personalised, exible and individual service.
the Company specialises in bringing groups and individuals from europe, Japan, americas, asia and australia into dubai, united arab emirates and the sultanate of Oman.
HOst Katie Fielder, sHeiKH Faisal Bin KHalid al QasiMi, President, Orient grOuP, Mr asiM arsHad, CHieF eXeCutiVe OFFiCer, Orient tOurs
in both united arab emirates and the sultanate of Oman, the company oers a variety of carefully planned tour programs, innovative desert safari trips, overland tours between dubai and Muscat, tailor-made round trips & study trips, adventurous expeditions, exploring sea-safaris,
relaxing dinner-cruises, individual y & drive programs, and corporate events and launches.
www.orient-tours-uae.com
a separate Cruise ship department provides complete services for cruise ship handling in the united arab emirates and in the sultanate of Oman.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
uae's leading traVel ManageMent COMPanY dubai's leading travel ManageMent coMpany
orient TRAvEL Orient travel & tourism agency was established in 1963 by late sheikh Khalid Bin sultan al Qasimi who was a man with a vision in the travel and tourism industry – he was the first Head of Civil aviation, sharjah and also had the distinction of establishing the first flying school in sharjah.
today Orient travel today employs over 350 travel and tour professionals making them one of the largest travel Management Companies in the region. Orient travel’s conviction in our ability to deliver is manifested in the meteoric performance of the company over the last four decades, guided by the rich, cross-organisational competence of the management.
HOst Katie Fielder, Mr asiM arsHad, CHieF eXeCutiVe OFFiCer, Orient traVel, sHeiKH Faisal Bin KHalid al QasiMi, President, Orient traVel
Mr asiM arsHad, CHieF eXeCutiVe OFFiCer, Orient traVel, Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, sHeiKH Faisal Bin KHalid al QasiMi, President, Orient traVel
the company is divided into seven divisions – retail, Corporate division, Holidays, umrah, Otta Cargo, Orient tours (inbound – destination Management) and Orient transport.
With experienced and trained consultants in 20+ strategically located retail offices from abu dhabi to Fujairah, each branch is supported individually by a dedicated team of marketing and retail professionals optimising service and accessibility.
www.orient-tours-uae.com
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See the figures updated daily and live links to the big social media influencers, e.g. Richard Branson:
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Visit worldin worldinfluencers.social
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See the influencer’s influ social media engagement across all networks and their overall total and ranking globally!
sp Click the specific links to take you direct to each of the influencer’s social networks
Explore the biggest celebrity influencers on social media http://worldinfluencers.social
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
saudi araBia's leading luXurY HOtel Villa
palacio vIvIEnDA TURkI AL AwAL nestled within a 10000 sqm gated area, Vivienda turki al awal has 25 luxury villas awaiting you, alongside a state-of-the-art gym and private restaurant.
However the standout villa has to be Palacio.
designed to inspire comfort and relaxation, Palacio is the ultimate upgrade of Home with its convivial interior, custom furnishing and spacious rooms. the epitome of luxury, the villa boasts one king-size bedroom, one queen-size bedroom, a maid’s room and bathroom, plus a private swimming pool and private terrace.
With so much on oer, you may never want to leave. www.vivienda.com.sa/en/turkial-awal/villas/29/palacio
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
aBu dHaBi's leading serViCed aPartMents
park arjaan BY ROTAnA ABU DhABI situated within the Park Complex, consisting of Park rotana, the residences by rotana and an oďŹƒces building occupied by twofour54 abu dhabi media zone, Park arjaan by rotana is a mere ďŹ ve minutes drive
to sheikh Zayed grand Mosque and adneC. Furthermore Park arjaan by rotana abu dhabi is only 15 minutes away from abu dhabi international airport and Yas island.
Park arjaan by rotana abu dhabi offers an impressive experience in every one of its 172 contemporary and spacious suites. Homey and convenient, all suites are fully furnished and serviced.
award-winning restaurants, teatro and Cooper’s. the hotel’s 2,326 sqm. of banquet and meeting facilities are available to host functions of any size and type.
On business or leisure, you will find five different venues ready to suit your taste including the
Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club offers peace and tranquility with 6 treatment rooms, sauna
and a steam room where you can rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with energising treatments tailored to suit your needs. www.rotana.com/arjaanhotelapa rtments/unitedarabemirates/ab udhabi/parkarjaanbyrotana
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
uae's leading Business HOtel
park rotana ABU DhABI situated within the Park Complex, which consists of Park arjaan by rotana, the residences by rotana and an oďŹƒces building occupied by twofour54 abu dhabi media zone, Park rotana is a 5 star hotel in abu
dhabi and is a mere 5 minutes drive to sheikh Zayed grand Mosque and adneC. the hotel is also near abu dhabi international airport and Yas island, which are just 20 minutes away.
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, Mr raBiH MelHeM, general Manager, Media rOtana
the hotel is designed in a vibrant modern style offering an impressive experience in its 318 contemporary and spacious rooms and suites overlooking the Khalifa Park or sheikh Zayed bridge. Warm, modern and well-lit, all rooms feature a sofa lounge and walk-in showers. some rooms also offer a separate work desk and living area.
For business or leisure, you will find five different venues ready to suit your taste, including the award-winning restaurants, teatro and Cooper’s. the hotel’s 2,326 sqm. of banquet and meeting facilities are available to host a range of functions.
Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club offers peace and tranquility with 6 treatment rooms, sauna and a steam room. there you can rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with energising treatments tailored to suit your needs. www.rotana.com/rotanahoteland resorts/unitedarabemirates/abu dhabi/parkrotana
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
iran's leading HOtel
parsian azadi Hotel TEhRAn
situated near the Milad tower at the foot of the alborz Mountains in north tehran, the Parsian azadi Hotel tehran offers guests fine views over the iranian capital and the majestic mountains to the north.
accommodation compromises 475 spacious rooms and suites spread between 25 floors. all rooms are fully air-conditioned and are kied to with Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities and a mini-fridge.
Formerly a Hya, the Parsian azadi has hosted many heads of state and visiting dignitaries.
guests have a choice of four restaurants, in addition to a coffee shop.
elsewhere the hotel’s Health Club has a gym, sauna, steam-room, Jacuzzi, and indoor swimmingpool (separate hours for men and women). www.azaditehran.pih.ir
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DUBAI INFLUENCERS A CONNECTED PLANET
http://worldsocialmedia.directory/category/ dubai-influencer/
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading desert saFari COMPanY
platinuM hERITAGE Platinum Heritage puts authenticity above all else. as such, the company ensures that its safaris embrace the culture, history, and environment of the uae.
simply put, Platinum Heritage brings emirati culture to life with vibrant camps, traditional dancers, and authentic cuisine. From falcon trainers to locally sourced materials, their goal is to recreate the desert nomad lifestyle down to the ďŹ nest detail.
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, adaM MCeWan, grOuP CeO, PlatinuM Heritage
History maers; that’s why their land rovers are the same ones used in the 1950s, restored to their former glory. it’s also why Platinum Heritage have employed the help of emirati scholars in order to be as accurate as
possible with their recreation. Keeping the environment intact is a top priority. the company always practice sustainability and make great efforts to never disrupt the local flora and fauna.
in short, Platinum Heritage cares about delivering the best experience possible. www.platinum-heritage.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
OMan's leading HOtel suite
PREsIDEnTIAL sUITE AT al bustan palace, a ritz-carlton Hotel
located on the hotel’s eighth floor, this spectacular twobedroom presiden-tial boasts a living room with wood floors, dining room for 10, kitchenee, study and private balconies with sweeping views over the sea of Oman and the majestic Hajjar Mountains.
services include private butler, unpacking, wardrobe organising and much more.
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ oman/al-bustan
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
JOrdan's leading HOtel suite
PREsIDEnTIAL sUITE at intercontinenta jordan
al at interContinental Jordan you will live the experience of luxury and comfort that you deserve. this 5 star hotel is located at one of the city’s seven hills in the heart of amman within walking distance of the old city centre, and 40 minutes drive from Queen alia international airport.
interContinental Jordan has 440 elegant rooms and suites, the standout being the Presidential suite.
hî…&#x;ps://www.ihg.com/intercontin ental/hotels/gb/en/amman/am mha/hoteldetail
stay in a 100 sqm luxuriously designed comfortable suite with the panoramic views of amman, and ultimate amenities.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Qatar's leading HOtel suite
PREsIDEnTIAL sUITE at tHe st. regis doHa located on the penthouse floor of the st. regis doha, the 720-squaremeter or 7,750-square-foot, twostory Presidential suite instantly enthralls with a majestic marble-
floored majilis and expansive windows featuring inspiring arabian gulf views that extend throughout the suite and onto a private rooop terrace.
the adjacent grand living room extends the opulence with abstract modern art, contemporary custom furnishings and state-of-the-art technology. these elevated amenities also expand to the adjacent study area, private office and separate 12-person dining room complemented by the kitchen, pantry area and fully stocked bar.
down the hallway either two or three bedrooms house signature st. regis King beds. large walk-in closets, meanwhile, lead to ensuite richly paerned marble bathrooms that present deep soaking tubs with inspiring views of the arabian gulf. adjoining ornately etched glass doors open to reveal a separate rainforest shower or WC with bidet, while
two marble basin sinks and exclusive remède spa bath amenities add to the experience. a guest bathroom with a bidet is located off the living room, and a maid’s room underscores the suite’s superior conveniences. www.discoverstarwoodsuites.co m/en/property/3080?matrix=1
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SOUTH AFRICA DURBAN | 6 OcTOBER 2018
VENUE The Durban International convention centre Known for its melting pot of cultures, beautiful coastlines, Big-5 Game experiences and spectacular mountain ranges, South Africa has become a major tourist destination on the African continent. Durban, the economic hub of the province, and one of the oďŹƒcial New7Wonders Cities, captures the heart of its visitors with its buzzing, vibrant atmosphere and warm hospitality. Aî…&#x;ractions in and around the city include the impressive Moses Mabhida Stadium, uShaka Marine World, a variety of cultural markets and museums, upmarket shopping centers and world-class golf courses, all of which combine to make Durban a must-visit destination. www.southafrica.net
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN GALA CEREMONY 2018
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DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA The Indian and colonial influences in this South African beach city can’t be missed, and the blend of cultures and architecture makes Durban unique in South Africa. Durban’s Golden Mile is a destination for surfers, families and fisherman, due to its blend of natural beauty and modern resort. Major-city aractions abound, making this a good destination for families and couples alike. With its sunny beaches and fascinating Afro-Indian culture, Durban is becoming a don’tmiss stop in South Africa. Take an hour flight from Johannesburg or a two-hour trip from cape Town to explore this historic city in the Kwazulu-Natal province.
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN GALA CEREMONY 2018
THINGS TO DO ExPERIENcE INDIAN cULTURE
DIScOvER zULU cULTURE
More Indians reside in Durban than any other country outside India itself. Early immigrants worked on sugar cane farms in current-day KwaZulu-Natal, and many women still wear sarees, the national dress of India, and Indian cuisine is popular. Try a samosa (a savory fried pastry filled with spiced vegetables or meat) or bunny chow (a hollow, halfloaf of bread with curry).
Take in a Zulu experience to learn more about the culture of South Africa’s largest ethnic group (some 10 million Zulus live here). At Shakaland and PheZulu Safari Park, both located in the magnificient Valley of a 1000 Hills, you can walk through beehive huts (replicas of Zulu homesteads), sip traditional beer, watch tribal dances and participate in traditional ceremonies. Journey about 40 miles west of Durban to see Isithumba Adventure Park, an authentic, rural Zulu village. While you’re there, join a tour and experience more Zulu customs, go horseback riding, or see the sights on a 4x4 excursion.
cRUISE THE GOLDEN MILE Durban's Golden Mile, a 3.7 mile stretch of sandy beach, invites surfers and swimmers to enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Vendors sell assorted cras along the shore, and you can find many beautiful swimming pools along the esplanade. Hop into a rickshaw and ride along the beach; later, dine and dance at a beachside restaurant, trendy club or luxury hotel.
SEE MARINE LIFE AND MORE At the end of the Golden Mile, look for uShaka Marine World, a 40-acre theme park. There are five main sections to explore: a snorkeling lagoon, an interactive animal show area, a shark cage diving area, a water park with slides and a reptile exhibit. Save time to pick up a snack or shop for ethnic clothing, surfing gear or souvenirs at Village Walk.
SHOP AND DINE FROM DAWN TO DARK Look for fine dining, shopping and entertainment along Durban’s Florida Road, considered one of the city's top spots for nightlife. Sidewalk cafes open in the early morning hours, and locals and tourists browse the galleries, boutique shops, and eateries until they close late in the evening. But don't leave yet. That's when the trendy bars and clubs start buzzing.
DIvE INTO HISTORY Follow the Inanda Heritage Route, where you can take a deep dive into some of the city’s most important historical sites. You’ll find Mahatma Gandhi’s house and International Printing Press and Museum in his Phoenix Selement, a communal living society. Stop by Ohlange Institute to see the place where Nelson Mandela cast his vote for democracy. Continue to beautiful Inanda Dam to make a day of it.
PLAY AT MOSES MABHIDA STADIUM Like London’s Big Ben or the Parthenon in Greece, Moses Mabhida Stadium, with its distinctive arch, is an iconic landmark. This 85,00-seat stadium hosted the 2010 World Cup and is a venue for the Essence Festival Durban and many sporting events. Try one of its six signature activities, which include the Adventure Walk, a 500-step climb to the top of the arch, and the Big Rush - Big Swing, a 722-foot free fall adventure. If you’re not that daring, enjoy a Segway Gliding Tour or ride the stadium SkyCar for breathtaking views.
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
uae's leading Meetings & COnFerenCe HOtel dubai's leading city Hotel
Hotel pullMan dubai CREEk CITY CEnTRE
Modern sophistication awaits 10 minutes away from dubai international airport at the Pullman dubai Creek City Centre hotel. 317 elegantly appointed rooms provide relaxation and entertainment with free WiFi and a wide-screen lCd satellite tV.
Order room service around the clock, or treat yourself to an interactive dining experience at the inviting Medley restaurant.
www.pullmanhotels.com/gb/hot el-2022-pullman-dubai-creekcity-centre/index.shtml
Meanwhile the blue mosaic-tiled swimming pool and azure rooî…šop bar are perfect spots to lounge facing stunning views of Old dubai's skyline.
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2018
duBai's leading HOtel residenCes
Hotel pullMan dubai CREEk CITY CEnTRE REsIDEnCEs
Feel right at home at the Pullman dubai Creek City Centre residences. in a sleek and sophisticated atmosphere, 133 rooms feature fully-equipped kitchens with king size beds and balconies.
the adjoining deira City Centre shopping centre offers unparalleled shopping, and the amenities of the Pullman dubai deira City Centre hotel offer fitness, beauty, spa and pool venues.
www.pullmanhotels.com/gb/hot el-3537-pullman-dubai-creekcity-centreresidences/index.shtml
shopping/delivery/pantry restocking services save you time so you can enjoy all that dubai has to offer.
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See the figures updated daily and live links to social media, for e.g. Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah:
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Qatar's leading destinatiOn ManageMent COMPanY
Qatar InTERnATIOnAL ADvEnTUREs
established in 1999, Qatar international adventures welcomes you to enjoy a dream vacation in Qatar. Qatar international adventures oers fantastic local and inbound tour packages in one of the fastest developing countries in the middle east, plus a host of
services and packages to provide you with not only relaxation and recreational activities but also the chance to gain an insight into the spices and diversity of arab culture, hospitality and history.
conditioned coaches and o road vehicles and a focus on safety and security, Qatar international adventure can tailor make any journey from their ďŹ xed schedule to suit your needs.
Providing a professional service, variety of tours, innovative events, and brand new air
www.qia-qatar.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading traVel erP teCHnOlOgY PrOVider
QtecH sOfTwARE HOst Katie Fielder, riMa sHetH, CHieF OPerating OFFiCer, QteCH sOFtWare, ParesH PariHar, CeO & Managing direCtOr, QteCH sOFtWare
riMa sHetH, CHieF OPerating OFFiCer, QteCH sOFtWare, Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, ParesH PariHar, CeO & Managing direCtOr, QteCH sOFtWare
the team at Qtech soware is made up of travel technology professionals from multiple fields.
Over the past decade, Qtech soware has provided various clients in the travel business with leading edge soware solutions, mobile apps and responsive booking solutions for travel. the
company augments their core services with support and aer sales service to help you grow. www.qtechsoware.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading adVenture tOurisM destinatiOn
ras al kHaiMaH tucked away away at the northern tip of the uae lies the country’s most underrated emirate, ras al Khaimah. raK, as it is affectionately known, abounds in archaeological sites, historical structures and natural beauty – from mountains to deserts and pristine white-sand beaches.
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, HaitHaM Mattar, Managing direCtOr, ras al KHaiMaH tOurisM deVelOPMent autHOritY
HaitHaM Mattar, Managing direCtOr, ras al KHaiMaH tOurisM deVelOPMent autHOritY, HOst - Katie Fielder
the emirate is also fast becoming known as a leading adventure destination thanks to the arrival of the world’s longest zip-line. Called the “Jebel Jais Flight”, the zip-line soars for a mile and threequarters (2.8km) above the
canyons and ridges of the united arab emirates’ highest mountain, some 650 yards (600m) further than the previous world record holder in Puerto rico. www.en.rasalkhaimah.ae
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World TV Group specialises in bring you the most vivid, informational and engaging video content on the web. T ke a look at our portfolio of 30+ video channels. Ta Discover, r watch and share originally-created videos. r, World TV group is a forum for people to connect, inform and inspire others across the globe.
ras al khaimah www.rasalkhaimah.tv
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Qatar's leading Car rental COMPanY
regency fLEETs
a leading vehicle rental and leasing company in Qatar, regency Fleets is known for its superior quality vehicles, reliable services and dedicated customer care offered by highly qualified and experienced professionals.
the company’s fleet includes over 1200 impeccably maintained passenger cars, commercial vehicles and coaches ranging from luxury to economical. they also have a state-of-the-art automobile workshop, regency
Car Care, and a 24/7 roadside vehicle repair and towing service, regency roadside recovery, to offer you the best post rental/leasing services. www.regencyfleets.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Qatar's leading traVel agenCY Middle east's leading travel agency
regency TRAvEL & TOURs
Founded in 1987, regency travel & tours is a leading iata travel agency in Qatar staed with 368 highly-trained multilingual professionals.
regency travel & tours is a fullyowned subsidiary of one of Qatar's largest companies: the prestigious regency group.
Owned by Mr. ibrahim al -asmakh, regency group’s interests include it, construction, real estate, luxury hotels, travel and tourism, hospitality. ww.regencyholidays.com
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BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading rail BOOKing sOlutiOns PrOVider
rezopia
anurag MisHra, regiOnal Manager - Middle east, reZOPia, Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards
rezopia is the ďŹ rst cloud-based end-to-end travel reservations, contracts, operations and distribution management system for travel providers.
rezopia is the next generation cloud-based travel Management Platform for travel providers. it is a complete end-to-end travel reservation, back-oďŹƒce, packaging and distribution system enabling travel providers
to scale revenues, reduce costs and beî…&#x;er serve customers via the web, social networks, mobile devices and traditional call centres. www.rezopia.com
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2018
Middle east's leading all-inClusiVe resOrt
rixos bab al baHr RAs AL khAIMAh situated on the pristine white sands of ras al Khaimah’s tranquil Marjan island, rixos Bab al Bahr offers a beautiful beach, stylish rooms,
upmarket restaurants, stunning views, and all the amenities you would expect from a five star beach resort in the Middle east.
However what really sets rixos Bab al Bahr apart is the allinclusive concept of this ras al Khaimah hotel. Make no mistake: this is a resort with a dierence. at rixos Bab al
Bahr, guests can indulge in a variety of restaurants at no additional cost. With few exceptions, everything is included from the kaleidoscope of cuisine in seven Heights and the delicious selection of unlimited beverages
in see & sea, Mojito lounge and inferno, to the diverse choice of entertainment and nightlife, kids clubs, spa, sports, and recreational activities. www.babalbahr.rixos.com
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Discover Ras Al Khaimah
www.discoverrasalkhaimah.co
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading landMarK HOtel
rixos preMiuM DUBAI With panoramic room views overlooking the beach and the world’s largest Ferris Wheel, the dubai eye, this 35 - storey lifestyle hotel welcomes its guests from all around the world to stay at this exotic heaven where the pulse of the city can be best felt.
the hotel is within close proximity to popular shopping destinations such as the Walk, dubai Marina Mall, Mall of the emirates and the city’s buzzing highway, sheikh Zayed road. the impeccable Crystal tower design is an architectural landmark transforming the cityscape of JBr.
rixos Premium dubai offers 443 stylish rooms and suites with direct access to the beach as well as a total of nine restaurants and bars. all these venues have been carefully designed with the fastpaced business entrepreneurs in mind and are fied with ultramodern, tech-savvy equipment.
the hotel includes a state-of-theart fitness centre, rixgym with floor-to-ceiling views of the arabian gulf, as well as natureland spa known for its signature turkish Hammam. For a complete fashionable stay, enjoy a luxury shopping experience inhouse at the high-end boutiques
rodeo drive, Via rodeo and Ocean drive. www.premiumdubai.rixos.com
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2018
Middle east's leading liFestYle resOrt
rixos tHe palM DUBAI
situated on the fronds of Palm Jumeirah’s east crescent, rixos the Palm dubai is the uae’s first luxury multi-concept resort. the resort boasts the city’s most spectacular location offering panoramic views of the azure waters of the arabian gulf, dubai's iconic skyscrapers, the
gliering skyline of dubai Marina and the remarkable lagoons and architecture of Palm Jumeirah itself. With a choice between ultra-allinclusive, bed and breakfast or half board packages, guests will be captivated by the well-adorned
rooms and luxury suites, dining experiences, a turkish-inspired spa, meetings and events facilities, kids’ club and the pristine private beach. www.thepalmdubai.rixos.com
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2018
saudi araBia's leading Business HOtel
riyadH palace hOTEL riyadh Palace Hotel represents a mix of national traditions and values imbued with services of high international standards. Over the past 30 years, riyadh Palace Hotel has been a place where local and international businessmen stay and gather for meetings and conferences.
riyadh Palace Hotel is situated in the Ministries area – Haiy al Wazarat in al Murabba, right in the centre of several Key Ministries. guests could have easy access to important government ministries-offices, banks, downtown, business district, malls and other aractions.
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, Hassan aHdaB, President OF HOtel OPeratiOns, dur HOsPitalitY COMPanY
Just recently the hotel underwent a complete renovation and refurbishment of its conference halls, business centre, guest oors and health club, adding a modern touch to the monumental and historical hotel.
Your "Palace" allows you to receive your guests at one of riyadh's most spacious hotel lobbies where local celebrities and executives meet to conduct business or leisure activities.
guest rooms are spacious, comfortable and well lit with natural light and otherwise. safe and secure rooms, together with the entire hotel, are the hallmark of this beautiful and serene hotel. ww.riyadhpalacehotel.com
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2018
Middle east's leading Business traVel destinatiOn
riyadH sAUDI ARABIA
riyadh (meaning 'garden') is the Kingdom of saudi arabia’s political, financial and administrative capital and one of the wealthiest cities in the world.
the city of riyadh is both a modern metropolis and a historical and cultural treasure: soaring, sparkling, stunning modern towers, shiny 4Wds and super sized shopping malls are juxtaposed alongside shimmering golden sand dunes, souks and friendly locals deeply rooted in saudi traditions.
Factor in fine hotels and restaurants and some excellent sights and you’ve got a great business destination. www.scth.gov.sa
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2018
Middle east's leading HOtel BOOKing sOlutiOns PrOVider
ROOMsxMl sOLUTIOns LTD
a B2B accommodation wholesale distributor, roomsXMl solutions ltd is designed exclusively for travel companies globally. roomsXMl is a single feed to approximately 92,000 unique properties across thousands of destinations around the world, offering real time access.
the company has direct contracting offices and dedicated business units strategically located across the globe. its local reach combined with global buying power enables the company to establish a fruitful relationship with properties that not only adds to the unique product offering and rate
competitiveness but also helps in geing availability during peak seasons. and because it solely focuses in offering accommodation, it can do so cost-effectively. www.roomsxml.com
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2018
saudi araBia's leading CitY HOtel
rosH rayHaan BY ROTAnA located in the heart of riyadh city, the 5-star rosh rayhaan by rotana is the second property to open in saudi arabia under rayhaan Hotels & resorts by rotana brand. With its contemporary design, the hotel offers 236 splendid rooms and suites spread over eight floors, ranging from classic rooms to royal suites, in addition to the Club rotana rooms that specifically meet the needs of a business traveller.
Conveniently located on the popular Olaya street, rosh rayhaan by rotana is surrounded by shopping districts and is only a short 20-minute drive from riyadh international airport. in addition to its proximity to Kingdom Centre, the second tallest skyscraper in the country and the world’s third tallest building with a hole, the hotel is adjacent to the vibrant ‘tahlia’ street famed for its array of restaurants and major shops.
HOst Katie Fielder, Mr MOHaMad HaJ Hassan, area ViCe President, saudi araBia, iraQ and sudan, rOtana HOtels
the hotel offers distinctive restaurants and lounges, each with its own unique style; ensuring guests enjoy an exquisite dining experience without ever needing to step outside the property. With its multifunctional venues inclusive of 11 meeting rooms and a spacious ballroom, rosh rayhaan by rotana is fully equipped to host the surge
of events within the Kingdom whether lavish weddings or major conferences and exhibitions. For those looking to stay fit while on vacation or a business visit, the hotel’s Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club offers a full range of cardiovascular equipment and a free weight training area as well as
sessions with a personal trainer upon request. additionally, guests may relax and rejuvenate with the available expert massage therapists, sauna and steam rooms. www.rotana.com/rayhaanhotelan dresorts/kingdomofsaudiarabia/ riyadh/roshrayhaanbyrotana
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2018
Middle east's leading HOtel Brand
rotana hOTELs rotana Hotel Management Corporation (rotana) was founded in 1992, by a partnership between two visionary thinkers, nasser al nowais and selim el Zyr. Operating as rotana, it opened its ďŹ rst property, the Beach rotana abu dhabi in 1993 and is today one of the leading hotel management companies within the Middle east, africa, south asia and eastern europe.
rotana is a company oering the best of both worlds. a unique understanding of the culture and communities of the Middle east combined with the collective expertise of an executive team contributing to years of international experience in the service industry.
Mr guY HutCHinsOn, CHieF OPerating OFFiCer, rOtana HOtels, Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, Mr guY HutCHinsOn, CHieF OPerating OFFiCer, rOtana HOtels, Mr OMer KaddOuri, President & CeO, rOtana HOtels
rotana's aggressive expansion plans are seeing the company grow from two properties in 1993 to a total of 100 by 2020.
rotana currently operates 60 properties across 13 countries in the Middle east, africa and turkey, and is gearing up to open nine new properties before the end of 2018, adding a further 2,315 keys to the company’s existing inventory of 16,161 rooms.
rotana's plans for expansion include the opening of 18 hotels in the united arab emirates, the Kingdom of saudi arabia, Oman and iraq in the next two years. www.rotana.com
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2018
Middle east's leading PriVate Jet CHarter
royal jet
royal Jet is an award-winning international luxury flight services provider headquartered in abu dhabi, the capital of the united arab emirates (uae). it is jointly owned by abu dhabi aviation and the Presidential Flight authority or PFa, the royal flight service.
every aircra in royal Jet’s fleet has been handpicked to suit a variety of bespoke needs. With eight Boeing Business Jets (BBJs), royal Jet is the world's largest independent BBJ operator. its fleet also includes two mid-range global 5000 to ensure that every travel requirement is impeccably catered for.
www.royaljetgroup.com
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2018
aBu dHaBi's leading luXurY HOtel Villa
royal pavilion villas BY QAsR AL sARAB set against the dramatic landscape of the empty Quarter – the world’s largest stretch of uninterrupted sand desert, the exclusive collection of royal Pavilion Villas, is the epitome of luxury, offering stays of understated sophistication and arabian elegance.
With a landscape, best described as mystical and from story books, explore the wonder of the majestic desert dunes by camel, experience the adrenalin rush of dune bashing by 4x4 or awaken early morning for a sunrise desert walk and learn how to make the valley beneath come alive with the sounds of the dunes singing.
B
take time to truly relax. soak in a sublime rose scented bath to your favourite melodies or oat in your private pool admiring the views. the choice is yours. decadent arabian dÊcor, rich fabrics and local artefacts have a sense of place in this secluded
fortress palace and play homage to one of the world’s ancient cultures, where luxury blends with landscape. the royal Pavilion Villas is the epitome of luxury in abu dhabi. Personalised resort excursions complement dining experiences
created to delight the most adventurous palates and discerning tastes. elsewhere the anantara spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation and revitalisation, that embodies ancient spa rituals. www.royal-pavilion.anantara.com
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2018
leBanOn's leading HOtel suite
ROYAL sUITE AT Four seasons Hotel beirut the royal suite, the largest and most prestigious luxury suite at Four seasons Hotel Beirut, is located on the 25th floor – the hotel’s top level, fostering a unique sense of exclusivity and serenity.
With magnificent interiors and furnishings this one-of-a-kind signature suite also offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean sea from its 67m2 furnished terrace.
HOst Katie Fielder WitH saMi aBu saMra, Managing direCtOr, aVis JOrdan
Perfect for entertaining, the royal suite has a private dining room, which seats 10 people and has a separate entrance to facilitate inroom dining service. a separate bathroom complements the visitors’ area.
Meanwhile the oversized bedroom has a walk-in closet, dressing room and an elegant, marble and granite bathroom, complete with a double vanity, walk-in rain shower, whirlpool, sauna and steam room.
the distinguishing feature of this suite is that it can be conďŹ gured as a two-bedroom suite with the addition of a connecting room. ww.fourseasons.com/beirut
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2018
Middle east's leading HOtel suite uae's leading Hotel suite aBu dHaBi's leading HOtel suite
ROYAL sUITE AT st. regis saadiya island resort ABU DhABI a regal retreat in the centre of the renowned Beach district of saadiyat, the 2,100-square-meter or 22,604-square-foot royal suite sits just steps from the island’s iconic landmarks and cerulean sea.
stretching over the top two floors of the resort, the expansive suite reflects its majestic location with earth tones and marine-infused décor featuring oceanic elements, including white sand, seashells and ancient sea-worn stones.
yat
soothing shades of blue and captivating artwork complement the bespoke details and marble oors. at the same time, they act as a seamless extension to expansive windows, which overlook a deck with plunge pool and bar, a furnished terrace and the turquoise sea beyond. indoors, the grand staircase, illuminated by a cascading chandelier, leads to the living room.
a private cinema seats up to six guests while a pool table oers additional entertainment. guests can also gather in the dining room, which introduces a dramatic chandelier and dining table.
the master bathroom takes opulence a step further, as marble oors feature custom mosaics and a double shower complements a freestanding oval bathtub.
Floor-to-ceiling glass doors reveal beach views while a walk-in closet with dressing area ensures ample storage space.
www.stregissuites.com/property /st-regis-saadiyat-island-resortabu-dhabi/#royal-suite
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LISBON, PORTUGAL 1 DECEMBER 2018
Discover Lisbon, a historical city full of stories to tell, where the sun shines 290 days a year and the temperature rarely drops below 15oC. A city where you feel safe wandering around day or night, where the cuisine is dedicated to creating over a thousand ways to cook the beloved bacalhau (salted cod), and where you’ll find hotels and restaurants to suit every taste, budget and requirement. Discover Lisbon, a city full of authenticity where old customs and ancient history intermix with cultural entertainment and hi-tech innovation. Lisbon is ageless, but it loves company, as you’ll find out if you meet someone and ask them to explain, with lots of gestures and repetition, where the best place is to listen to Fado. Aer all, Lisbon is famous for its hospitality and the family-like way it welcomes visitors. www.visitlisboa.com
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS GRAND FINAL GALA CEREMONY 2018
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LISBON, PORTUGAL Seven cinematic hillsides overlooking the Rio Tejo cradle Lisbon's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals – a captivating recipe craed over centuries.
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THINGS TO DO BEYOND BAcALHAU: LISBON FOR FOODIES Dining in Lisbon is far more dynamic than navigating countless preparations of Portugal's beloved bacalhau (dried and salted cod fish; 365 recipes and counting!). While bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with onions, eggs and potatoes; a Bairro Alto original) is never far, Lisbon's strategic seaside position on Europe's doorstep means a bounty of fresh seafood (octopus, tuna, monkfish, shrimp, sardines, clams, snails) rules the city's kitchens, from Michelin-starred restaurants to gourmet-food markets to countless corner tascas (taverns). Top-grade Alentejan beef beckons with juicy steaks and gourmet burgers; and you'll find everything from tantalising Indian curries to authentic Moroccan couscous in-between.
LAST cALL LISBON! The absence of open-container laws and cheap booze means Lisbon loves a night on the town! Don't be fooled by Bairro's Alto's sleepy daytime feel – by night, these narrow cobbled lanes transform into one of Europe's most raucous drinking addresses. Student dives, traditional fado houses, upscale wine bars and LGBT hotspots merrily coexist among the muddled mess. In Cais do Sodré, 'Pink Street' and environs are home to some of the city's classic nightclubs and best cocktail bars, while trendier megaclubs stretch along the waterfront from Santos to Santa Apolónia. Last call? Sunrise!
defined as before or aer the earthquake – and the Pombaline architecture that defined post-quake Lisbon reconstruction counts as some of the first seismically protected constructions in Europe.
MIRADOURO MANIA: ScENIc cITY vIEWS Lisbon's trademark seven hills are peppered across the cityscape like loy guardians of colour and history. Capped by a collection of terraces known as miradouros (viewpoints), a must-see web of no-filter-necessary views over Lisbon, the Tejo and beyond is formed. Our favourite miradouros – Portas do Sol, São Pedro de Alcântara, da Graça, da Nossa Senhora do Monte, Santa Luzia and, of course, Castelo de São Jorge – all offer stunning spots to get your bearings and while away aernoons overs bicas (espresso), elegant glasses of Touriga Nacional or refreshing pitchers of sangria, while rubbernecking the city's stupendous horizons.
THE GREAT LISBON EARTHqUAKE You couldn't blame your average lisboêta for thinking of the apocalypse when the ground gave way just before 10am on 1 November, 1755. What followed was up to eight astonishing minutes of city-shaering shaking spread across three tremors, followed 40 minutes later by a massive, city-engulfing tsunami, culminating in a weeklong firestorm that incinerated what lile was initially spared. Lisbon was decimated. Today, the modern city is shaped by that cataclysmic day – nearly everything is
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2018
BaHrain's leading HOtel suite
ROYAL sUITE AT tHe ritzcarlton, baHrain
in a hotel that is already home to several suites, you might questions the need for one more. However a stay at the royal suite should put that thought to rest.
the royal suite at the ritzCarlton, Bahrain Hotel & spa features large rooms, ďŹ ne artwork, an expansive dining area and luxury suite accommodations for three boasting breathtaking views of the garden, pool, resort and sea.
someone has done their homework here and it shows. gold star. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ middle-east/bahrain/roomssuites/royal-suite
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L U X U R Y
T R A V E L
N
N E W S
Travel in a more refined and graceful way. Spoil yourself; you know you deserve it! Luxury Travel News highlights the very best of travel, where to stay, when to go, and how to get there.
luxurytravelnews.co
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
Middle east's leading luXurY HOtel Villa
royal villa AT kEMPInskI hOTEL & REsIDEnCEs PALM JUMEIRAh looking to experience true decadence on your next visit to dubai? Consider a stay in the royal
Five-Bedroom Palace Villa at Kempinski Hotel and residences Palm Jumeirah.
HOst Katie Fielder, daisY dingeMans, residenCe Manager, KeMPinsKi HOtel & residenCes PalM JuMeiraH
Featuring a living room, games room, five bedrooms, dining room and 8 bathrooms, there is no chance of being short on space in this palace villa. What is more, you will find that you have access to your own private area within the palm gardens, featuring your own rooop pool and Jacuzzi - ideal for relaxation aer a busy day in dubai.
Pair all of this space with the elegance of the Kempinski’s european furnishings and décor, lCd tVs and Bose sound systems, and you’ll enjoy every moment you spend here.
www.kempinski.com/en/dubai/p alm-jumeirah/rooms-andsuites/penthouses/royal-5bedroom-palace-villa/
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2018
Middle east's leading BeaCH destinatiOn Middle east's leading tourisM developMent project
saadiyat island ABU DhABI saadiyat – the flagship development project of the tourism development and investment Company (tdiC) – is a multi-faceted destination, which features a wide range of luxurybased experiences, including hospitality, leisure and retail.
located just 500m o the coast of abu dhabi, this 27 square kilometre island was planned and created around an environmentally-sensitive philosophy and low-density master plan. as a result, saadiyat's developments have
been built around natural beauty, cultural experiences, architectural splendours and vast business potential. the main districts in the island are saadiyat Cultural district, saadiyat Beach district and saadiyat Marina district.
saadiyat can be reached in a ďŹ veminute drive from downtown abu dhabi, 20 minutes from abu dhabi international airport and an hour's drive from dubai. www.saadiyat.ae
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2018
OMan's leading BeaCH resOrt
salalaH ROTAnA REsORT set along the shores of the indian Ocean, salalah rotana resort is a scenic 35km drive from salalah airport. the 5-star waterfront resort's 422 splendid rooms and suites are beautifully built at the ocean front,
around lagoons, water features and manmade canals for an unforgeî…&#x;able experience. in-room furnishings including beds, tables and sofas have been integrated into the main walls with arabesque geometric designs constructed using traditional techniques.
take a culinary journey in any of the four dining venues or check out the conference area which features four fully equipped and exible meeting rooms with the latest audio-visual equipment and the stunning al Hajar Ballroom, making salalah rotana resort the ideal destination for leisure and business travellers.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, guests can keep ďŹ t at Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club, take a dip in the swimming pool or relax and rejuvenate at Zen the spa at rotana.
www.rotana.com/rotanahoteland resorts/oman/salalah/salalahrot anaresort
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2018
duBai's leading Business traVel agenCY
satguru TRAvEL & TOURIsM
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, anil CHandirani, general Manager, satguru traVel & tOurisM
Founded in rwanda in 1989, satguru travel – the first travel service provider in ivory Coast togo, Burundi and niger – now has branches in more than 60 countries worldwide.
the secret of satguru’s success is the service given to its clients. all its branches are open from 8am to 8pm and the company can be contacted via moblie phone 24/24 7/7.
www.satgurutravel.com
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2018
saudi araBia's leading luXurY HOtel Medina's leading luxury Hotel
sHaza al Madina set just outside the haram, shaza al Madina Hotel combines sophistication and location in effortless style. Featuring rich, original arabic art and design work, the rooms at shaza al Madina create an exquisite and spiritual atmosphere for leisure or religious visits alike. each guest room features custom egyptian lanterns,
which fill the spacious rooms with warm, glowing light. the hotel offers two incredible restaurant options, serving a variety of traditional fare, southeast asian cuisine, and innovative fusion dining. guests are also encouraged to sample fine teas and watch the stars appear throughout the arabian sky.
there’s also a Kids Club and Wellness Centre which should keep both children and their parents happy.
Positioned in the heart of Medina, shaza al Madina enjoys a prime location just a few steps away from one of islam’s holiest sites. From this hotel, guests can walk to reach the al Masjid al nabawi al sharif, which contains one of the oldest mosques in the world.
www.makkah.shazahotels.com/en
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2018
YeMen's leading HOtel
sHeba Hotel YEMEn
a 5 star business hotel with 187 modern upmarket rooms located in the heart of the city.
sheba Hotel is also home to two restaurants - take a bow Bilquis, a coee shop, and the golden Oasis, an exclusive Mediterranean restaurant with live music - a pastry shop, three banquet halls and two board rooms
www.shebahotel.com
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worldinfluencers.s
social
A social media guide to all the leading social media influencers worldwide http://worldinfluencers.social
BEST IN TRAVEL
2018
BaHrain's leading Business HOtel
shERATOn BAhRAIn Hotel a cherished landmark in Manama, the sheraton Bahrain Hotel has hosted royal dignitaries, heads of state and key regional conferences since the 1980s.
the hotel features 256 wellappointed guest rooms and suites with the signature sheraton sweet sleeper Beds, free WiFi and comfortable work spaces.
strategically located in the commercial and diplomatic heart of the city and just seven kilometres from Bahrain international airport, the hotel is also easily accessible.
Meanwhile the sheraton Club lounge is the ideal place to indulge in alongside a like-minded community of social travellers.
the regular sheraton social Hour offers the perfect seing at al nada lounge to connect with friends, family and colleagues over a delightful selection of wines. then, it’s time to gather over a memorable meal at golestan or soie, the city’s most authentic Persian and Chinese
restaurants. alternatively, enjoy a hearty international buffet at al safir, the sheraton’s all-day dining destination. sheraton Bahrain also offers nine excellent meeting spaces to suit the needs of up to 600 guests. With high-tech equipment,
aentive service and parking for up to 200 cars, the sheraton is the ideal gathering place for memorable meetings, receptions, cocktails, personal milestones and weddings in the prestigious heart of the city. www.sheratonbahrain.com
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2018
Qatar's leading COnFerenCe HOtel
shERATOn GRAnD DOhA resort & convention Hotel
situated on the shores of West Bay and the sparkling blue waters of the arabian gulf, the landmark five star sheraton grand doha has been restored to its former glory, preserving its authenticity while cuing-edge amenities and facilities cater to today's international traveller.
designed like an aztec pyramid, the hotel cuts a memorable shape in the city skyline and is home to numerous restaurants, bars and lounges including acclaimed italian, la Veranda, and irish Harp – doha’s popular irish pub.
Corporate visitors will appreciate the hotel’s vast conference facilities, while the 24 hour fitness centre, outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, squash and badminton courts and private beach will lure leisure travellers. www.sheratongranddoha.com
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2018
KuWait's leading HOtel
shERATOn kUwAIT a luxury collection Hotel
nestled in Kuwait's bustling commercial and financial centre, the iconic sheraton Kuwait, a luxury Collection Hotel, is optimally located and has developed an authentic style and affluence, blending heritage and culture with modern cosmopolitan decor.
the hotel is infused with an atmosphere of arabian opulence and elegance, and has redefined the language of luxury hospitality excellence in the city.
guests benefit from exclusive benefits and complimentary amenities such as shared airport transfer from Kuwait intl airport, daily breakfast at al Hambra, high-speed internet and more. www.sheratonkuwait.com
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2018
OMan's leading HOtel
shERATOn OMAn Hotel Built in 1985 and completely renovated in 2016, the sheraton Oman Hotel has been synonymous with 5-star hospitality for over 3 decades and is a Muscat landmark. located on top of ruwi, the financial and business district of Muscat, the hotel is the tallest building in the city and has long been a part of the social fabric of the local community.
the property has 230 modern, spacious rooms, outfied with the sheraton brand’s signature amenities and services. these include 38 sheraton Club rooms, with access to the sheraton Club lounge, offering complimentary wi-fi, daily breakfast, a premium selection of beverages and hors d’oeuvres.
elsewhere the sheraton Oman’s 27 suites showcase interiors with a distinctive touch of Omani culture and a panoramic view of the al Hajar mountain range. in-house dining facilities include all-day dining Courtyard and the asado south american steakhouse.
Meanwhile it’s enviable location – just half an hour away from Muscat international airport with easy access to the Old town, the Murah souk, the Fish Market and the national Museum of Oman – helps make it the perfect base from which to explore Oman’s charming capital.
www.sheratonoman.com
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2018
duBai's leading HOtel suite
sIR wInsTOn ChURChILL sUITE at tHe st. regis dubai
the sir Winston Churchill suite at the st. regis dubai is a truly worldly experience. located on the highest oors, and featuring delightful landscaped garden views, the three-bedroom sir Winston Churchill suite oers a vast living room with a formal 12-
seater dining area, an elegant study, a lounge area, a majestic inroom staircase that connects to the rooî…šop plunge pool and a generously sized majlis that is ideal for meetings.
double vanity bathrooms, while the master bedroom, which sets a new standard for opulence, is connected to a generously sized bathroom where a sumptuous bathtub takes centre stage.
two bedrooms, one king bed and one twin bed, have their own
www.stregisdubai.com/rooms/ch urchill-suite
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WORLD SPA AWARDS 27 OCTOBER 2018
WORLD SPA AWARDS 2018
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KitzbüheL AUStRiA 16-18 NOvEmBER 2018
WORLD SKi AWARDS KitzbüheL 2018
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WORLD GOLF AWARDS La maNga CLuB, SpaiN | 1-4 NOvEmBER 2018
WORLD GOLF AWARDS 2018
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2018
Middle east's leading destinatiOn ManageMent COMPanY
sntta EMIR TOURs a leading destination Management Company (dMC), sntta emir tours is focused on providing an array of distinct experiences for travellers to the uae and Oman.
sandeeP Bandari, Manager, sntta eMir tOurs, Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, asiM WaHeed, seniOr Manager - gsa & retail, sntta eMir tOurs
Headquartered in dubai, sntta emir tours has over the years carved a niche for itself with clients from around the world, with a focus on quality, reliability, knowledge and experience.
there are dedicated verticals for Fit Operations, groups, Meetings & Conferences, incentives, Charters, series, Cruises and golf tours.
www.snî…&#x;aemirtours.com/index.p hp/en/
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World TV Group specialises in bring you the most vivid, informational and engaging video content on the web. T ke a look at our portfolio of 30+ video channels. Ta Discover, r watch and share originally-created videos. r, World TV group is a forum for people to connect, inform and inspire others across the globe.
luxury villa www.luxuryvillatv.com
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2018
Middle east's leading green HOtel Middle east's leading tHeMed resort
sOfITEL DUBAI tHe palM resort & spa
set on dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah, this Polynesian resort beckons with 360 deluxe rooms and 182 serviced apartments, from Classic rooms with to expansive Beach Villas with private pools and roof terraces and butler service.
When night falls, dine in a different part of the world every evening with eight restaurants and seven bars and lounges. a ballroom hosts celebrations, while inspired Meetings concierges offer creative incentive stays.
all told, sofitel brings a 5-star French touch to dubai hospitality for the entire family. www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-6541sofitel-dubai-the-palm-resortspa/index.shtml
spend fun-filled days playing tennis or doing water sports off the private beach or relax with a massage.
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2018
Middle east's leading B2B traVel PrOVider
tbo hOLIDAYs
anKusH niJHaWan, Md, niJHaWan grOuP & CO-FOunder & CeO, tBO HOlidaYs, V.K BalaJi, general Manager, tBO HOlidaYs, Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, gauraV BHatnagar, Managing direCtOr, tBO HOlidaYs
tboholidays.com is a B2B travel portal that allows travel agents to book over 330,000 hotels worldwide in real time. Backed by cuî…&#x;ing edge technology and
superior customer support, tboholidays.com is your one stop shop for all holiday booking requirements.
tboholidays.com
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2018
Middle east's leading serViCed aPartMent Brand saudi arabia's leading serviced apartMent brand
tHe ascott LIMITED the asco limited is a singapore brand which has grown to be the world's largest international serviced residence owner-operator. it has about 22,000 operating serviced residence units in key cities of asia Pacific, europe and the gulf region, as well as over 8,000 units which are under development.
the company operates three brands - asco, Citadines and somerset. its portfolio spans over 70 cities across more than 20 countries, 15 of which are new cities in asco's portfolio where its serviced residences are being developed.
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, Mr VinCent MiCCOlis, COuntrY general Manager, Middle east & turKeY, tHe asCOtt liMited
asco, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Capitaland limited, is headquartered in singapore. it pioneered asia Pacific's first international-class serviced residence with the opening of the asco singapore in 1984.
in 2006, it established the world's first Pan-asian serviced residence real estate investment trust, asco residence trust. today, the company boasts a 28-year industry track record and awardwinning serviced residence brands that enjoy recognition worldwide.
www.theasco.com/en/index.html
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2018
JOrdan's leading serViCed aPartMents
tHe boulevard arjaan BY ROTAnA located in the heart of amman, the Boulevard arjaan by rotana is an outstanding community within the Boulevard, exclusively developed for the admirers of an ideal lifestyle destination.
the Boulevard arjaan by rotana is the place that provides hotel apartments’ guests with a centralised, pedestrian, and wheelchair friendly environment in a safe and dynamic location with only a 45minute drive from Queen alia international airport.
391 luxurious apartments showcase modern interior designs and lavish furniture that reflect the 5-star hospitality in which rotana promises its guests a home away from home experience ranging from studios to four bedroom penthouses.
dining options include two signature restaurants, Café italia and Café Margaux, with stylish outdoor terraces overlooking the Boulevard’s pedestrian spine. Facilities include three state-ofthe-art meeting rooms designed to fulfil your business needs, and a business centre to comprehend your goal.
Other highlights include two rooop swimming pools overlooking abdali and the vibrant capital, as well as access to Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club to help you stay focused and energised. www.rotana.com/arjaanhotelapa rtments/jordan/amman/theboul evardarjaanbyrotana
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2018
Middle east's leading neW resOrt
tHe bulgari REsORT & REsIDEnCEs DUBAI situated on the exclusive, manmade Jumeira Bay, an island carved into the shape of a seahorse and adjoined by a 300m bridge to central dubai coastline, this sunny property is a true ‘urban oasis’, for visitors and residents alike.
designed entirely by antonio Cierio Patricia Viel, the renowned italian architectural firm that has created all the Bvlgari Hotels & resorts, the 158,000 square-metre property is a first-of-its-kind development for Bvlgari, both in scale and magnitude.
Charming with a Mediterranean village feel, the complex features the resort, six residential buildings with 173 sea facing apartments, 15 private mansions, and Bvlgari’s first-ever Marina and Yacht Club. the Bvlgari resort dubai offers a full range of amenities, such as the gourmet il ristorante – niko
romito, the il Café open all day, il Bar with its iconic oval-shaped freestanding bar and la spiaggia the most exclusive beach Club with private beach and a unique mosaicdesign outdoor swimming pool. guests can also enjoy the 1,700 square-metre spa with hammam, indoor pool, fitness centre, beauty salon with a traditional barbershop
and hairdresser. to add relish to the guest’s stay, the complex comprises a private Marina featuring 50 boat berths and the first world’s Bvlgari Yacht Club with peerless views over the sea. www.bulgarihotels.com/en_us/d ubai
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2018
uae's leading FaMilY resOrt
tHe cove ROTAnA REsORT, RAs AL khAIMAh the Cove rotana resort - rotana’s first property in the emirate of ras al Khaimah - is where traditional charm embraces the uniqueness of the arabian culture.
the spectacular resort is located on an idyllic water inlet on the ras al Khaimah beachfront overlooking the arabian gulf with 600 m of pristine beach.
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, tiMur ilgaZ, general Manager, tHe COVe rOtana resOrt
spread through the resort are 204 rooms and 78 one, two and three bedroom villas that are ideally designed to accommodate families or a group of friends. With a nubian touch in their design, the rooms and villas are well-craed and aesthetically designed to offer comforts that you would expect of a 5-star resort.
enjoy a culinary experience by dining in one of the Cove rotana’s six outlets: Cinnamon all day dining restaurant, Basilico Mediterranean restaurant, Breeze lobby lounge, Breakers Beach Bar & lounge, laguna Bay Bar and sunset Pool Bar.
then keep fit and relax at Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club with 7 elegantly designed massage rooms, full equipped gym, 600 meters beach, 2 infinity swimming pools, kids pool and Flippers Kids Club. www.rotana.com/rotanahoteland resorts/unitedarabemirates/ras alkhaimah/thecoverotanaresort
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2018
Middle east's leading sPOrts resOrt
tHe Meydan Hotel, DUBAI shaped in the form of a wave in motion, the Meydan Hotel is designed for urban elegance. Within 15 minutes of the airport and close to the heart of the city, this hotel combines contemporary luxury
with exceptional dining options, an outstanding infinity pool, a tennis academy and world-class golfing range – all next to the world-famous Meydan horse-racing track.
the Meydan Hotel has been designed from the ground up to offer guests a memorable contemporary urban luxury experience with a hint of equestrian class. the hotel experience is refined by the interplay of light, airy spaces and green expanses.
seven restaurants offer a variety of gourmet cuisines in seings ranging from casual to fine dining, while a rooop infinity pool redefines relaxation. the hotel’s massive terraces look out onto the iconic Meydan horse racetrack, which hosts the world’s richest race – the dubai World Cup – every year.
Meanwhile, sports enthusiasts benefit from the Meydan tennis academy and playing courts, while golf enthusiasts will love the troon-managed 9- hole golfing range, the track, Meydan golf. themeydanhotel.com/home
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2018
aJMan's leading luXurY resOrt Middle east's leading luxury villa resort
tHe oberoi BEACh REsORT, AL ZORAh Occupying a prime location, nearby the mangrove forests, is the Oberoi Beach resort, al Zorah. this unique, luxury destination in ajman boasts a sophisticated design caressed by the gentle sea breeze and in harmony with nature.
the Oberoi Beach resort, al Zorah has spacious rooms and suites with private terraces, while the villas have private, temperature controlled pools. in the hotel's chic indoor and al fresco restaurants, guests can enjoy the ďŹ nest, nutritional, international cuisine while taking in panoramic ocean vistas.
With floor to ceiling windows, indoor and outdoor seating areas, and a carefully selected collection of literature, the chic, modern library is a wonderful seing to relax and unwind beside views of the nearby olive trees and ocean.
Meanwhile the Oberoi spa in al Zorah offers Western, eastern and signature Oberoi massage therapies, hammams and ayurveda. there’s also a children's activity area, a sand box and shallow swimming pools for toddlers and young children.
We offer indoor and outdoor recreational activities to refresh the mind and re-energise the body, as well as modern conveniences and intuitive service. www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-inal-zorah-ajman/
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2018
duBai's leading luXurY CitY HOtel Middle east's leading luxury city Hotel
tHe oberoi DUBAI this contemporary luxury hotel in dubai offers uninterrupted views of the iconic Burj Khalifa from its prime location, being just minutes from both dubai Mall and dubai international Financial Centre.
ariM BiZid, general Manager, tHe OBerOi, duBai
the 252 spacious, luxurious and elegantly appointed rooms and suites convey a warm and welcoming ambience. timber floors, rich fabrics, hand-tued rugs and specially commissioned artwork further accentuate the elegance of the rooms.
On the food front, guests can choose between all day dining space, nine7One, highly acclaimed speciality indian restaurant, ananta, the chic lobby lounge or elegant lobby bar.
elsewhere the Oberoi spa in dubai oers Western, Balinese, thai and ayurveda inspired treatments. there’s also have a 24-hour gymnasium and a temperature-controlled 25 metre long swimming pool.
www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-indubai
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2018
Medina's leading HOtel
tHe oberoi MADInA the Oberoi, Madina enjoys an unrivalled position being just steps away from al Masjid al nabawi al sharief (the Prophet's Mosque) whose green dome marks the final resting place of the Prophet Mohammed.
the hotel is equipped with a large number of spacious and efficient lis on each floor, so that geing to the mosque is effortless. all rooms and suites, have spacious, well equipped bathrooms and offer complimentary high speed internet for up to four devices. there’s also a number of interconnecting room options for groups travelling together.
those looking for a luxury dining restaurant in Madina will find their appetites more than satisfied by the range of fine international and arabic cuisines served at the Oberoi, Madina. From 24-hour dining at al ansar to indian fine dining at al andalous, Japanese delicacies and a unique english tea house experience, our masterchefs guarantee an authentic dining experience.
the Oberoi, Madina is also the only luxury hotel in Madina with a health club, massage and steam rooms (for men only). additionally, the Oberoi, Madina boasts the largest banquet halls in Madina which can accommodate up to 1,000 guests. they have separate entrances for male and female guests, as well as a stage and an elevated gallery for bridal couples.
all told, with incomparable views, an unsurpassed location and dedicated, personalised service, the Oberoi, Madina guarantees an unforgeable stay in this historical, holy city. www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-inmadina
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2018
KuWait's leading luXurY HOtel
tHe regency hOTEL kUwAIT
situated on a private beach on the arabian gulf sea coast in Kuwait, this luxurious 5-star resort offers 203 elegant rooms including 51 suites with italian furniture and marble bathrooms, many boasting a private balcony or terrace offering panoramic garden or sea views.
the regency is well known for its white marble lobby with a 22 meter tall glass atrium overlooking the landscaped gardens and the beach and its extensive conference and banqueting facilities which total over 8,000 square metres.
Other highlights include two private beaches, five pools (with one of each reserved for ladies) and array of first class dining options. www.theregencykuwait.com
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2018
Middle east's leading BOutiQue resOrt
ThE RITZCARLTOn ras al kHaiMaH al HaMra beacH
edging the arabian gulf, the ritzCarlton ras al Khaimah, al Hamra Beach oers sumptuous seclusion along shimmering azure waters and pristine white sands. Privacy is assured in luxury beachfront pool villas, appointed with 5-star hotel amenities.
distinctive dining and oceaninspired wellness experiences further enhance this breathtaking coastal haven, where fresh discoveries become lifelong memories.
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ uae/al-hamra-beach
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Middle east's leading luXurY desert resOrt
ThE RITZCARLTOn ras al kHaiMaH al Wadi desert
Just outside the ever-growing metropolis of dubai, the tranquility and adventure of the desert awaits. set within the sanctuary of Wadi Khadeja, the ritz-Carlton ras al Khaimah, al Wadi desert oers a
luxury resort experience inspired by nature, culture and tradition. luxurious pool villas borrow from Bedouin architecture, dining features local dishes and desert views and resort activities include falconry shows unique to the uae.
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ uae/al-wadi-desert
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2018
saudi araBia's leading COnFerenCe HOtel
ThE RITZCARLTOn riyadH
lush with 600-year-old olive trees, landscaped gardens and swaying palms, the ritz-Carlton, riyadh is one of those saudi arabia luxury hotels that completely envelopes its discerning guests in majestic surroundings and discreet, aî…&#x;entive service.
discover an elegant oasis where spacious suites, a world-class spa, a stunning indoor pool, lavish wedding and event spaces and exceptional dining options provide the most unforgeî…&#x;able memories.
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ saudi-arabia
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2018
Qatar's leading resOrt
ThE sT. REGIs doHa steeped in Middle eastern mystique, the st. regis doha presents majestic interiors styled in modern opulence overlooking the arabian gulf’s tranquil blue sea. all around are the towering sand dunes and ancient architecture that make up the picturesque landscape of the region.
the hotel features 336 rooms and 58 suites – each affording soothing views of the arabian gulf. all second-floor rooms and suites feature a terrace to enjoy the breeze from the sea. the interior is a seductive blend of timeless style and Middle eastern inspiration and each light-filled space features exceptional furnishings.
two presidential suites spanning across two floors offer the ultimate experience with 180degree sea and city views, a private elevator, a majestic staircase leading to the bedrooms, bespoke furniture, and more.
at the st. regis doha, Butler service ensures the highest levels of bespoke service for every guest. Continuing a century-old tradition of refined service, guests staying at the st. regis doha are provided with their own butler for the duration of their stay.
the hotel also offers epicureans the largest dining selection in the city with 12 restaurants and lounges. additionally, guests can enjoy remède spa facilities including 18 spacious treatment rooms as well as a hydro pool and steam room. www.stregisdoha.com
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2018
duBai's leading luXurY HOtel
ThE sT. REGIs dubai
located on the arterial sheikh Zayed road, the hotel’s interiors are influenced by the city’s beauxarts architecture of the original st. regis in new York, and accentuated by bespoke elements such as the grand staircase and carefully selected artworks doed across the hotel.
Part of al Habtoor City, dubai’s first-ever integrated urban resort, the hotel sits alongside two other hotels, three high-rise residential towers, as well as a las Vegasstyle theatre that are collectively located on the banks of the breathtaking dubai Water Canal.
www.stregisdubai.com
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2018
aBu dHaBi's leading BeaCH resOrt
ThE sT. REGIs saadiyat island resort, abu dHabi
the award-winning st. regis saadiyat island resort is the city’s true beachfront leisure address located just 20 minutes from abu dhabi international airport and 10 minutes from the city’s bustling downtown. the hotel has 377 tastefully designed room and suites, all
benefiing from butler service and overlooking either the beautiful beach or the saadiyat Beach golf Club. Visit the fantastic Fitness Centre, play in the pools, and make the most of the resort’s iridium spa, spa services, and Massage treatments. Or simply grab your
beach bag and step straight onto nine kilometres of sparkling sand. When hunger pangs kick in, dine at the Manhaan lounge, 55&5th, sontaya, the drawing room, Olea, or turquoise. www.stregissaadiyatisland.com
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Middle east's leading Business & COnFerenCe HOtel
tHe Westin dubai AL hABTOOR CITY serenity stands 41-storey tall, with the Westin dubai al Habtoor City. ideally resting along the iconic sheikh Zayed road and on the banks of dubai Water Canal, the hotel offers you a vibrant stay, with every aspect of your visit transformed into a revitalising experience.
as the newest and grandest Westin in the region, every detail – from your peaceful guest-room to the five delicious restaurants with cuisines from around the world – is designed to ensure an enlivening stay.
energise in the Heavenly spa by Westin with 20 treatment rooms, ham-mam and dedicated male and female wet decks or ďŹ nd peace in the dedi-cated yoga studio.
Host your important event or celebration in one of the Westin’s 16 meeting rooms or the al Joud Ballroom, which can accommodate everything from small meetings to grand galas.
entertainment for all ages abounds, with the nearlycompleted 1,400 seat dragone theatre within walking distance and the beloved Westin Family Kids Club on premises. www.westindubaialhabtoorcity.com
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2018
Qatar's leading luXurY HOtel Villa
3-bedrooM anantara over Water villa BAnAnA IsLAnD REsORT, DOhA
get away from the daily grind and relax in true arabian luxury in one Banana island resort doha by anantara’s 141 rooms, suites, pool villas and over water villas. the standout is the three Bedroom anantara Over Water Villa. stretching over the water, the three Bedroom Over Water Villas reveal views of azure sea and romantic sunsets from your private deck and every room.
slip into the soothing pace of paradise as you float in your personal pool and bask on loungers. take a break to relax on the cushy daybed, or enjoy a snack in the shade. retreat to air conditioned comfort, resting in the living room and dining together, luxuriating in rich arabian décor and a host of elite amenities.
Making the prospect of a family holiday even more alluring, a separate en-suite bedroom allows you to invite your friends or nannies to look aer your children. www.doha.anantara.com
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2018
OMan's leading luXurY HOtel Villa
3-bedrooM royal Mountain villa
AnAnTARA AL JABAL AL AkhDAR REsORT
Call Oman’s largest luxury villa your exclusive mountain abode. unparalleled in space and prestige, this one-of-a-kind twostorey villa bestows everything you would expect, and more. Parking for two cars and a private entrance presents a ViP arrival. dri from refreshing pool dips
and Jacuzzi indulgence to board game play time and quiet moments lounging.
nanny. tailored excursions and private parties are taken care of by your Villa Host.
dine together on the patio or in your Majlis, with a sweeping canyon backdrop. ample room for extended family and groups includes separate quarters for a
www.anantara.com/en/jabalakhdar/rooms/accommodation/t hree-bedroom-royal-mountainvilla
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2018
saudi araBia's leading neW residenCes
vieWs hOTEL & REsIDEnCEs
Mr graHaM COOKe, President & FOunder, WOrld traVel aWards, raMZi sOlH, CeO COMMeriCial deVelOPMent, eMaar tHe eCOnOMiC CitY
Craî…šed to echo the panoramic vistas it enjoys of the red sea, Views Hotel & residences brings together the warmth of home and the luxuries of tailor-made services and amenities unlike any other in the city.
www.viewsresidences.com
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2018
duBai's leading luXurY HOtel Villa
villa layali AT DEsERT PALM
devised by award-winning designer, isabelle Miaja, and surrounded by lush grass, this exclusive three-bedroom presidential villa is a walled sanctuary capturing the beauty and simplicity of the arabian landscape.
this villa is centred around an open-air courtyard with a large swimming pool and water features, perfect for private sunbathing or outdoor entertaining.
www.desertpalm.ae
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2018
Qatar's leading HOtel residenCes Qatar's leading liFestyle Hotel
W DOhA hOTEL & REsIDEnCEs
enviably located in the West Bay of doha, W doha Hotel & residences has your insider access to the hoest shopping, buzzing nightlife and the best culinary experiences in doha.
a modern sanctuary above the city, peering out over the blue arabian gulf, the W’s signature style and vivid interiors set the scene for unforgeable days and nights.
step into style in any of the 442 guest rooms and suites at W doha Hotel & residences and, whatever your need, just ask Whatever/Whenever® to make it happen. www.whoteldoha.com
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2018
Middle east's leading liFestYle HOtel united arab eMirates's leading liFestyle Hotel duBai's leading liFestYle HOtel
W DUBAI AL hABTOOR CITY W dubai - al Habtoor City is where style visionaries and cultural connoisseurs converge to redefine what’s new on the global stage.
revel in level upon level of sensational elements – be it the 356 guest rooms and suites which transform sweet dreams into reality, epicurean pleasures or sophisticated socialising.
For momentous occasions, more than 1,000 square meters of function space can be configured to project maximum impact.
But first, zoom up to the Welcome desk on the 30th floor, where you’ll check in to panoramic views of shimmering skyline.
With the W’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service and W insider with the scoop and access on the city’s top spots and hidden gems, W dubai is the pulse of next generation fashion, music and design. www.wdubaialhabtoorcity.com
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2018
ras al KHaiMaH's leading resOrt
WaldorF astoria RAs AL khAIMAh
inspired by the arabian palaces of old, the Waldorf astoria ras al Khaimah will cause even the most jaded traveller’s jaw to drop. the resort offers signature aentive service, nine stylish restaurants and lounges, and elegant accommodation with pristine views of the arabian shoreline.
located a mere 45 minutes from dubai international airport, this charming beachfront resort is surrounded by deserts, mountains and sea, making it a landmark destination for travellers. located adjacent to an 18-hole championship golf course and with an award-winning spa, Waldorf astoria ras al Khaimah
promises a relaxing getaway and unforgeable experiences. hp://waldorfastoria3.hilton.co m/en/hotels/uae/waldorfastoria-ras-al-khaimahrktWaWa/index.html
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2018
Middle east's leading Marina resOrt
yas viceroy ABU DhABI
an architectural triumph acting as the centerpiece of Yas island, Yas Viceroy abu dhabi hovers over land and water and spans the Yas Marina Circuit, the favoured racetrack for Formula 1™ legends. eleven dining and lounge venues showcase cuisine from all corners of the globe, including lavish
Mediterranean choices, housemade italian pasta, southeast asian specialties, poolside bites and Japanese teppan, created from the freshest ingredients daily. www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.co m/en/abudhabi
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2018
Middle east's leading Water ParK
yas WaterWorld
the only emirati-themed waterpark in the world, Yas Waterworld is inspired by the uae’s rich heritage of pearl diving through its unique story of ‘the legend of the lost Pearl’.
the uae’s first mega waterpark is home to more than 40 exhilarating rides, slides and aractions – five of which can be found nowhere else in the world. With rides and experiences on offer to thrill both the young and
the young at heart, the waterpark plays host to liwa loop – a highintensity looping waterslide, as well as the globe’s first interactive water and laser rollercoaster, Bandit Bomber. www.yaswaterworld.com
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2018
aBu dHaBi's leading Villa resOrt
zaya nurai island ABU DhABI situated in the pristine waters of the arabian gulf to the east of the coast of abu dhabi city, Zaya nurai island is just a 10 minute boat ride from abu dhabi’s saadiyat island and conveniently accessible from all major travel ports in the uae.
inspired by the arabic word ‘nur’ meaning ‘light’ – Zaya nurai island is a unique, boutique private island resort with a 32-bed, all-villa hotel and five food and dining outlets, together with 23 private residences and water villas.
the hotel’s individual 260 square metre all-suite villas are onebedroom beachfront retreats, which blend into the landscape with uninterrupted arabian gulf views. each villa has its own pool in 130 square metres of private outdoor space, the latest in-room amenities, in-villa dining and a dedicated butler service, all within
a seing reflecting the tranquillity of an exclusive island environment. there are a variety of dining options, all of which serve local, authentic produce, and where possible, sustainably sourced from the island’s own kitchen garden supporting a fresh-food-
to-fork philosophy. dining reservations – essential for non-residents – include complimentary boat transfer to and from the island. www.zayanuraiisland.com
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