World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony 2014

“THE OSCARS OF THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY” WALL STREET JOURNAL

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 4th May 2014 JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

worldtravelawards.com

Offering that something extra means guests will return again and again Your guests value TV5MONDE, so value your guests in return‌ National and International news, Films, Documentaries, Sport‌ and much more.

With TV5MONDE you can offer your guests the option of their favourite programmes and the pleasure of feeling right at home in your hotel.

Contact us: hotels@tv5monde.org

MIDDLE EAST CEREMONY 2014

2 0 14

President of World Travel Awards Thank you for joining us here in Dubai for the first World Travel Awards Gala Ceremony of 2014. Dubai represents the first stage of our annual Grand Tour, which will see the World Travel Awards team visit destinations on every continent in search of the very best of the travel, tourism and hospitality industry.

Over 9,000 nominees will come before the WTA voters over the course of the year, with only a handful being picked in each region. These select few will move forward to the World Travel Awards Grand Final at the end of the year, with the very best then taking home the global awards – the highest accolade in the industry.

Tonight we begin the process here in the Middle East at no less a venue than the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai.

This truly outstanding hotel was itself recognised as the World’s Leading New Hotel by World Travel Awards in 2013, reflecting the impact it has made on an already competitive hospitality scene here in the United Arab Emirates since opening in late 2012. With the partial opening of Tower Two earlier this year, the hotel has improved its offering once again and we at World Travel Awards cannot wait to see what Marriott has in store when the development is

completed toward the end of 2014.

This year is World Travel Awards’ 21st Grand Tour. Each year our locations, categories, nominees and, most importantly, the numbers of voting travel professionals increases exponentially, revealing the tremendous demand among the public for the recommendation a World Travel Award signifies. Other organisations have tried to copy World Travel Awards, but none has the experience, the gravitas, the organisation or the loyal following of nearly a quarter of a million travel, tourism and hospitality professionals worldwide who vote to choose those companies and organisations they feel deserve recognition for excellence of service and product. A World Travel Award is the result of hard work, innovation, dedication and passion.

The best of luck to all of our nominees tonight and thank you once again for supporting World Travel Awards, ‘the Oscars of the travel industry’.

Graham E. Cooke President & Founder World Travel Awards

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

3

W O R L D W I D E LO C AT I O N S

:

AFRICA

ASIA

EuROpE

L AT I N A M E R I C A

MIDDLE EAST

NORTh AMERICA

Taking Luxury to new heights.

Comprising two iconic towers, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai stands elevated above Dubai’s Business Bay on Sheikh Zayed Road, the heart of one of the most desirable locations in the city offering a spectrum of facilities for the most discerning travellers.

1,608 LUXURIOUS GUEST ROOMS 14 INCREDIBLE RESTAURANTS, BARS AND LOUNGES

SUBLIME SARAY SPA AND HEALTH CLUB OVER 8,000 SQM OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR EVENT SPACE Book your next stay now online on jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com or call +971 4 414 0000.

Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T +971 4 414 0000, F +971 4 414 0001 | jwmarquis.dubai@marriott.com | arabic.marriott.com

MIDDLE EAST CEREMONY 2014

2 0 14

Dear friends and colleagues It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you to the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai for the 21st anniversary of World Travel Awards. It is our honour to host the gala ceremony for these globally-recognised awards which are set to highlight the hallmark of excellence within the travel industry.

events (MICE) facilities which have allowed the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai to stand out from the ever growing hospitality landscape in Dubai and indeed the UAE. With the ability to host up to 1,000 people to eat, sleep and meet at any one time, events like these are a pleasure to host.

It seems perfectly apt that we gather here in Dubai, the fastest growing city in the world as it is these kinds of emerging destinations which are reshaping the travel industry as we know it – and the success of our hotel is testament to this.

On behalf of myself and the team at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai I would like to wish everyone the best of luck. I now invite you to sit back and relax and enjoy the ceremony.

Tonight’s ceremony located in the Dubai Ballroom, gives us the perfect chance to showcase just one part of the hotels meetings, incentives, conference and

Kind regards, Bill Keffer General Manager JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

5

World Travel Awards

“THE OSCARS OF THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY”

Proudly celebrating its 21st anniversary, World Travel Awards has grown into the most prestigious travel industry awards programme in the world.

World Travel Awards continues to build its reputation as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’ by seeking out and rewarding those organisations that have made the greatest contribution to the global travel and tourism industry.

Launched in 1993, the awards programme features the winners from six regional ceremonies progressing to the Grand Final at the end of the year.

Graham E. Cooke, Founder & President, World Travel Awards, says: “World Travel Awards is a unique benchmark for industry quality and business excellence in every region and sector.”

For the tourism trade, winning a World Travel Award is more than an award – it is an endorsement from the thousands of professionals from around the globe, as well as a gold seal to the public of travel excellence guaranteed.

Hollywood – New York – Las Vegas – Bahamas – London – Jamaica – Malaysia – St Lucia – Barbados Turks and Caicos – Abu Dhabi – Newcastle – Bangalore – Durban – Sydney – Shanghai – Orlando Poprad – Rio de Janeiro – Dubai – River Maya – Obidos – Johannesburg – Antalya – Delhi – Sharm El Sheikh – Bangkok – Qatar – Algarve – Singapore – Lima – Antigua – Nairobi – Quito – Athens

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

7

NO-ONE GOES FURTHER TO DELIVER

Wherever life takes you, Avis is here to make sure the journey is an enjoyable one. Proud supporters of the World Travel Awards 2014.

We have over 5000 locations across the globe and a wide range of premium vehicles always available – so whether it’s for business or pleasure, it’s got to be Avis.

avisworld.com

OAK SMOKED SCOTTISH SALMON Trilogy of fin leaves, marinated tomatoes, buratta cheese and field greens with Caesar dressing

SORBET

MENU WINE Sauvignon Blanc, Argento Malbec, Argento, Argentina

*VEGETARIAN OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Green apple, cranberry jelly & sparkling juice

ANGUS BEEF TENDERLOIN Braised short rib “hot pot potato” Young carrot velvet, asparagus, matsutake mushroom hash

PYRAMID Chocolate pyramid, soft banana cake, light salted caramel ice cream

AFTER DINNER Chocolate petit fours, mini macaroon, almond cookies

Official Water of the World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony 2014 VEEN is very proud to be the official water supplier to the World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony 2014

VEEN VELVET Smooth Still Water

VEEN EFFERVESCENT Gentle Sparkling Water

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

9

Proud Sponsor of World Travel Awards

Guest Editorial Breaking Travel News spotlight on:

MIDDLE EAST HOTELS

Some of the most awe-inspiring hotel projects on earth are presently under construction here in the Middle East. Here Breaking Travel News brings you the latest from a sector which has become a benchmark for the global industry.

Hotels in the Middle East & Africa region have seen a positive performance of late with the region recording an average 3.3 per cent increase in occupancy to 62 per cent in January 2014, according to figures from STR Global. At the same time hoteliers saw a 4.8 per cent increase in average daily room rates to US$187.15 while there was an 8.2 per cent increase in revenue

14

WWW.WORLDTRAVELAWARDS.COM

per available room to US$115.96. As Elizabeth Winkle, managing director of STR Global explained to Breaking Travel News: “The total region started 2014 off well. All three key performance metrics were positive, driven by performance in the Middle East. Oman and Saudi Arabia showed positive occupancy, while the United Arab Emirates continued to report positive rate growth.

She added: “There is still instability in the region, but overall there are signs of improvement. Jordan is now showing some performance growth.”

Highlights among key markets in the region for January this year include double-digit occupancy increases in Amman, Jordan (up 19.2 per cent to 54.5 per cent), Doha, Qatar (up 17.1 per

cent to 75.1 percent), and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (up 12.8 per cent to 73.4 per cent). Also here in the UAE, Dubai achieved the only double-digit ADR growth, rising 12.8 per cent to US$308.64.

ON THE MAP Since World Travel Awards was last in town for its Middle East Gala Ceremony 2013 an array of new properties have also opened here in the region, including Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. Set amid lush landscaping, its 293 guest rooms and villas redefine urban beachfront accommodation and are designed with tasteful luxury and stunning lagoon and Palm views.

Exclusive clusters of only four to eight guest rooms maximise privacy and 130 of these rooms boast direct access to 10,000 square metres of lagoon pools.

The resort offers Anantara Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villas for families and friends in addition to the Middle East’s first Over Water Villas - with most featuring glass viewing panels that reveal underwater glimpses of the Arabian Sea. Lazy days can be enjoyed at Anantara’s 400 metre long private beach, as well as at three beautiful lagoon-inspired pools and a 50 metre shoreline infinity pool. Making the most of the exotic climate, a variety of water sports are on offer including kayaking, wake boarding and paddle boarding, as well as diving and snorkelling adventures. Two wellequipped gyms and two tennis courts extend the choice of energising leisure pursuits.

Also new to the scene is Tower Two right here at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai.

At present the second tower offers an additional 294 luxurious rooms, bringing the total room count to 1,098.

However, once fully operational by the end of 2014, Tower 2 will comprise of 804 suites and rooms, bringing the total available suites and rooms to 1,608.

Owned by Emirates Group, the world’s tallest hotel originally opened in November 2012 and was recognised as the World’s Leading New Hotel by the World Travel Awards last year. The suites and rooms of Tower 2 are contemporary and spacious, set to target the luxury business traveller and complemented by a new lounge which will build on the hotel’s current 14-strong portfolio of restaurants and lounges. The new offering will feature a 72nd floor two tier function space which will appeal to events planners worldwide thanks to its breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline.

Located in the heart of Business Bay, minutes from Dubai World Trade Centre, the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre and close to Dubai International Airport, the JW Marriott Marquis resides in a prime location and is iconic in the Business Bay skyline.

Let’s see who picks up the awards this evening!

breakingtravelnews.com editor@breakingtravelnews.com

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

15

Proud Sponsor of World Travel Awards

Guest Editorial Breaking Travel News spotlight on:

MIDDLE EAST AVIATION

With airlines in the Middle East rapidly becoming global champions, Breaking Travel News here brings you the latest from the industry leaders.

First up Etihad Airways – which was recognised as the World’s Leading Airline for the fifth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards Grand Final in Doha in 2013. Following the carrier’s prodigious growth Etihad announced the next step in its long-term business strategy earlier this year, with the creation of the Etihad Aviation Group. This new structure marks the transition from a single entity airline to a wider global aviation group.

The new Etihad Aviation Group structure, headed by James Hogan as group president and chief executive officer, distinguishes the functions relating purely to Etihad Airways and those required to interface with and support the growth and success of its subsidiaries, joint venture companies and equity partners.

18

WWW.WORLDTRAVELAWARDS.COM

Hogan said: “Ten years ago we started life as a small regional carrier, but with global ambitions. Since then we have grown to become one of the world’s leading passenger and cargo airlines, and have expanded and diversified our operations outside the core airline business laying the foundations to become one of the leading aviation and travel groups in the world.”

In addition to the core airline, the Etihad Aviation Group also includes a division to coordinate and manage Etihad’s investment in its equity airline partners, and a new role of chief operating officer equity partners will be created within the new structure to ensure an ongoing interface between the airline and its equity partners.

A further key element in the new structure is the establishment of the Hala Group, led by chief operating officer Hala Group, Peter Baumgartner, formerly chief commercial officer Etihad Airways.

The Hala Group has been formed recognising the airline’s commercial opportunities which have grown beyond air travel across a variety of travel and hospitality businesses. The Hala Group will bring businesses together to drive commercial value for Etihad Airways, for Abu Dhabi and for the airline’s equity alliance partners.

EMIRATES Over in Dubai, Emirates Airlines has confirmed it will sponsor the New York Cosmos for a further two years.

with the airline, not only in terms of custom-built comfort features across all of our cabins, but with the continued expansion of our young and modern fleet.”

Footballing superstar Pelé, who is honorary president of the club, was recently in the UAE to sign the deal.

Although Emirates’ shirt sponsorship only began in June 2013, the reformed New York Cosmos have become the airline’s most successful team in the past year, winning the Fall Championship and the Soccer Bowl in the US. “It would seem the Emirates’ magic has worked again,” said Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, the airline’s divisional senior vice president, commercial operations, centre. “The New York Cosmos’ progress is nothing short of meteoric and the extension of our sponsorship agreement enables this wonderful journey with Emirates to continue. As our cabin crew say ‘Welcome back on board.’ ” The New York Cosmos team, which was recently in Dubai for a training visit, were also welcomed to some of the city’s tourist attractions, including the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, as well as enjoying a desert adventure with Arabian Adventures, the destination management wing of the Emirates Group.

“Emirates has played a big part in the reboot of the New York Cosmos,” Pelé said. “It’s wonderful that they’ll play a key role in the team’s future too and that we remain part of the Emirates’ soccer family.”

Emirates Airline was last year recognised as offering the World’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme by the World Travel Awards.

QATAR AIRWAYS Not be outdone, Qatar Airways - which last year took the title of Middle East’s Leading Airline Lounge at World Travel Awards - recently announced it revealed details of its highly anticipated first A380-800, with the display of the new luxury First Class seats that will form part of the aircraft’s tri-class configuration. With a customised interior meeting the high demand specifications of Qatar Airways, the airline’s new A380s will undoubtedly be the talk of aviation enthusiasts and passengers alike when the first aircraft enters service this year, the first of 13 such aircraft on order.

In addition to the 13 A380 aircraft the airline currently has on order, Qatar Airways is also set this year to welcome the first of 80 A350 aircraft, the world’s newest aircraft, as Airbus’s launch customer. This forms part of Qatar Airways plans to significantly expand its fleet with 300 additional aircraft, worth more than US $50 billion, on order, including the Boeing 787 and 777X. Best of luck to all the nominees here at World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony 2014!

The new First Class A380 seat features a 90-inch seat pitch, transforming into a fully flat bed, together with an expansive choice of entertainment options displayed on individual 26-inch television screens.

Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “Operating on the Doha to London Heathrow route this cabin will offer a new level of comfort for passengers. We are committed to offering our customers the best possible experience when it comes to travelling

breakingtravelnews.com editor@breakingtravelnews.com

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

19

21ST YEAR ANNIVERSARY GRAND TOUR Middle East Gala Ceremony DUBAI, UAE 4 MAY 2014

Europe Gala Ceremony ATHENS, GREECE 2 AUGUST 2014

South & Central America Gala Ceremony

Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony GURGAON, NEW DELHI CAPITAL REGION, INDIA SEPTEMBER 2014

World Golf Awards

THE ALGARVE, PORTUGAL 15 NOVEMBER 2014

World Ski Awards

QUITO, ECUADOR 9 AUGUST 2014

KITZBÜHEL, AUSTRIA 21-23 NOVEMBER 2014

Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony

World Spa Awards

ABUJA, NIGERIA SEPTEMBER 2014

Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony

NOVEMBER 2014

Grand Final Gala Ceremony MOROCCO DECEMBER 2014

ANGUILLA OCTOBER 2014

JOIN US FOR THE CELEBRATIONS awards@worldtravelaward.com

worldtravelawards.com How would you like your hotel or resort to host the ‘Oscar’s’ of the travel industry?

Email us at sponsorship@worldtravelawards.com or call + 44 207 925 0000

“THE OSCARS OF THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY” WALL STREET JOURNAL

2 0 14 RECOGNISING, ACKNOWLEDGING AND REWARDING EXCELLENCE IN TRAVEL, TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY

WORLD’S TALLEST HOTEL ICONIC DESIGN Designed by the owner and Managing Director of Archgroup Consultants, Ashok Korgaonkar, the vision for the hotel was to reflect the soaring ambitions of Emirates airline, as well as the city of Dubai, by creating an iconic tall structure that serves as a new benchmark and reinforces the image of the city as the frontrunner in the international hospitality scene. The building structure is a contemporary version of the trunk of a date palm which is a true reflection of the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai’s Arabian heritage. In addition, the design ethos focused on functionality; the result being a world-class convention and business destination that is capable of hosting up to 1,000 people to eat, sleep and meet.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS DUBAI’S OFFERING The second tower of the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai officially opened in March 2014 offering an additional 294 luxurious rooms, bringing the total room count to 1,098 in quarter 1, 2014. Once fully operational by the end of 2014 Tower 2 will comprise of 804 suites and rooms, bringing the total available suites and rooms to 1,608.

Tower 1 and 2 are identical in design with contemporary and spacious suites and room designed to target the luxury business traveller. With the opening

22

WWW.WORLDTRAVELAWARDS.COM

The JW Marriott Marquis Dubai owned by the Emirates Group, is the world’s tallest hotel at a height of 355 metres, only 26 metres short of the Empire State Building, New York and officially opened in November 2012. Since then the hotel has celebrated unprecedented occupancy rates, won multiple internationally recognised awards across all areas of its business and has quickly become one of the most iconic destinations in the UAE. Whether guests are staying for business or for pleasure, the offering is extensive.

of the second tower the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai adds to its existing offering with a new lounge which will build on the hotel’s current 14-strong portfolio of restaurants and lounges. The second tower will also feature a 72nd floor two tier function space which will appeal to events planners worldwide thanks to its breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline.

CONNECTING GLOBAL BUSINESSES The second tower opening coincides with a pinnacle time in Dubai’s development due to the country’s growing prominence as a MICE destination on the world stage, supported by the recent Expo 2020. With 8,500 square metres’ of total meeting space and 33 breakout meeting rooms, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is the sole property in the region that can accommodate the type of large MICE groups that are on the ‘circuit’ in Europe and the US. The JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is located in the heart of Business Bay, minutes from Dubai World Trade Centre,

the Dubai Mall and close to Dubai International Airport; a prime location for both the business and leisure traveller.

LUXURY LIFESTYLE In addition to its extensive MICE facilities the hotel also boasts extensive leisure facilities including the stunning Saray Spa which spans 16,000 square foot and boasts 16 treatment rooms.

Treatment highlights include the Saray Signature Dead Sea Journey which uses Dead Sea Salts to rejuvenate the body and the Incense Road treatment which allows spa goers to experience the healing wonders of Frankincense and Lebanese Olibanum essential oil.

AUTHENTIC FOOD & BEVERAGE While staying at the hotel guests can enjoy exploring a myriad of taste sensations with 14 restaurants, bars and lounges including Michelin star Chef, Atul Kochhar’s Rang Mahal Indian restaurant, Nawwara, a chic restaurant and lounge serving refined Levantine cuisine and Prime 68, a new generation of steakhouse located on the 68th floor.

In addition, the hotel operates a tempting 24-hour bakery and café, La Farine, the authentic Tong Thai and Izakaya, a casual upbeat sushi destination. Kitchen 6 is the hotels all-day dining restaurant and finally Positano which brings the vitality of the Amalfi coast to Dubai at the hotel’s Italian restaurant.

MULTI-AWARD WINNING When it comes to awards, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai takes the lead having won a total of 17 international industry and media awards for a combination of outstanding restaurants and lounges, architecture and design, and innovative business and convention facilities. Key accolades include winning “Middle East’s Leading New Hotel” at World Travel Awards 2013, and progressing to the Grand Final 2013 where it was named “World’s Leading New Hotel”.

MORE INFORMATION For more information about JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai visit www.jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

23

OMAN AIR RECORDS STRONGEST YEAR SO FAR Oman Air has reported strong increases in revenues and passenger numbers, supported by growth in seat capacity, cargo operations and the number of passengers carried in 2013. Here we take a look at this fast growing airline.

Already seen as a fast rising star of the Middle Eastern aviation sector, Oman Air chairman, His Excellency Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi, recently revealed the carrier saw significant gains in 2013.

Oman Air increased its capacity to 14.9 billion available seat kilometres in 2013, enabling the airline to carry, with a total of 4,994,729, nearly 13 per cent more passengers than in 2012. In parallel, Oman Air’s cargo operation handled 119,785 tonnes of cargo in 2013, an increase of 15 per cent on 2012.

These results, together with those of all the airline’s other areas of operations, contributed to an increase in Oman Air’s total revenues in 2013 of ten per cent, compared to 2012, to a total of RO381,709,000.

His Excellency Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi commented: “Over the course of 2013 we have enhanced our focus on driving up quality standards, delivering

greater efficiencies, increasing the range of choices we offer, and preparing the way for our next stage of major expansion. Throughout these processes, we have adhered to two key principles which underpin every area of our work: to ensure that every customer enjoys the best possible passenger experience, and to continue our determined progress towards profitability.

“This year’s results show what holding those principles close can achieve.”

Outlining Oman Air’s achievements over the course of 2013, His Excellency said that the new Embraer E175 and Boeing B737 aircraft which were added to Oman Air’s fleet in 2012 had increased flexibility and capacity, enabling the carrier to increase frequencies to a range of destinations in India and Pakistan, as well as between Muscat and Salalah.

The aircraft also allowed the launch new services between Salalah and Jeddah, and between Muscat and Madinah.

The chairman also noted that the expansion of international services from Salalah, together with more frequencies between Oman’s second city and its capital, had been warmly welcomed by customers and had once again confirmed Salalah as a vital element within Oman Air’s network.

At present, Oman Air is engaged in a range of diverse activities, including scheduled airline services, air charter services, ground handling, cargo handling, aircraft catering services, hospitality and duty free business.

Since Oman Air’s foundation 20 years ago, these activities have grown significantly and, as such, may be better managed as independent businesses with dedicated management focus. It is therefore intended that these businesses should be spun off into separate legal entities which will enhance efficiencies and effectiveness.

The plan will be implemented in a gradual and sustainable manner, and will begin with the ground handling and cargo handling businesses. His Excellency further emphasised that even as separate entities, these businesses will continue to operate within a group, so that they could take advantage of the synergies among themselves and with the core Oman Air business. Final decisions and related timescales will be announced following consultations with the government of Oman.

Oman Air took the title of Middle East’s Leading Airline – Economy Class in 2013. Tonight the carrier defends that title, while it is also in the running for Middle East’s Leading Airline 2014.

Keep an eye on the stage to see who comes out on top!

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

27

Recognised as a leader... in helping businesses save more on corporate travel.

With access to a global network spanning more than 85 countries, FCm Travel Solutions Middle East draws on its global reach and local teams to deliver outstanding results for clients.

Our focus is on negotiating the right deals for clients and providing personal service through small, dedicated teams rather than call centres.

This award-winning approach to travel management enables us to deliver better travel ideas and greater savings for companies around the world.

www.fcm.travel Better travel ideas. Greater savings.

Middle East Nominees 2014 MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRLINE Emirates Etihad Airways Kuwait Airways MEA - Middle East Airlines Oman Air Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Saudia

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRLINE REWARDS PROGRAMME Emirates - Skywards Etihad Guest Gulf Air’s Falconflyer programme Oman Air - Sinbad Qatar Airways - Privilege Club Royal Jordanian - Royal Plus Saudia - Alfursan

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT Hilton Fujairah Resort, UAE Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa, UAE Jebel Ali Golf Resort, Dubai, UAE Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah, UAE Rixos Bab Al Bahr, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BOUTIQUE HOTEL Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel, Saudi Arabia Arumaila Boutique Hotel, Doha, Qatar Desert Palm Dubai, UAE Qasr Al Sharq, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, Saudi Arabia The Address Montgomerie Dubai, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRLINE WEBSITE Emirates Etihad Airways Gulf Air Qatar Airways Saudia

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING ALL SUITE HOTEL Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE BurJuman Arjaan by Rotana Dubai, UAE Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha, Qatar

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRLINE - ECONOMY CLASS Emirates Etihad Airways Kuwait Airways MEA - Middle East Airlines Oman Air Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Saudia

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRPORT Abu Dhabi International Airport, UAE Bahrain Muharraq International Airport Doha International Airport, Qatar Dubai International Airport Kuwait International Airport

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BEACH DESTINATION AlQurm beach, Oman Jumeirah beach, Dubai, UAE Katara beach, Doha, Qatar Messila beach, Kuwait Saadiyat beach, Abu Dhabi, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BUDGET HOTEL BRAND Citymax Hotels Courtyard by Marriott Four Points by Sheraton Holiday Inn Ibis Hotels Ramada Hotels

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRLINE - FIRST CLASS Emirates Etihad Airways Oman Air Qatar Airways Saudia

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRPORT HOTEL Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Dubai, UAE Doha Marriott Hotel, Qatar Dubai International Hotel, UAE Le Meridien Dubai, UAE Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRLINE - BUSINESS CLASS Emirates Etihad Airways Oman Air Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Saudia

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING AIRLINE LOUNGE Abu Dhabi - Etihad Airways Bahrain Falcon Gold Lounge, Gulf Air Emirates (Dubai) Qatar Airways Premium Terminal, Doha

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BEACH RESORT Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, UAE Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi, UAE Jebel Ali Golf Resort, Dubai, UAE Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai, UAE Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE One&Only The Palm, Dubai, UAE Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman The Chedi Muscat, Oman The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BUSINESS CAR RENTAL COMPANY Avis Budget Europcar Hertz Sixt Thrifty MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Al Bustan Rotana - Dubai, UAE Amman Marriott Hotel, Jordan Armani Hotel Dubai, UAE Dusit Thani Dubai, UAE Grosvenor House Dubai, UAE InterContinental Dubai Festival City, UAE Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai, UAE JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai, UAE The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Qatar W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

31

adv er ti

ip

business

ersh

lead

g o a ls

ide a s

marketing

ef fic team iency worthink big k

vat

communica tion csolution rea tiv p ro c e s s e

pt

e

b r a in s to r m

inno

sing

conce

Operate at Your Optimum

Contact Us @ Al Miraj Center,Bd Abdlmoumen Casablanca. Tel: +212 (0) 522 86 5120 - Fax: +212 (0) 522 86 5114

PROUD PARTNER OF THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS GRAND FINAL CEREMONY

The word Innovate comes from the Latin innovãtus meaning “ to renew, alter or create”

Innovate is a boutique Advertising Agency that believes Quality is more important than Quantity.

We provide personalized communication solutions to a limited Quantity of Quality organizations looking to enhance brand equity and position themselves for business growth.

Our capabilities include Advertising, Branding, Promotions, Audio Visual Production, Market Research, Strategic Marketing advice and Event Management.

We @ innovate can assist you to choose the best media that can help your brand achieve a maximum impact using, digital, direct response, print, television, social networking and branded content.

marketing solutions

2 0 14

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL BRAND Hilton Hotels & Resorts InterContinental Hotels & Resorts Millennium & Copthorne Rotana Hotels Starwood Hotels & Resorts MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BUSINESS TRAVEL AGENCY dnata Kanoo Travel Omeir Travel Agency, UAE Regency Travel & Tours, Qatar Safar Travel & Tourism MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING BUSINESS TRAVEL DESTINATION Abu Dhabi, UAE Amman, Jordan Beirut, Lebanon Doha, Qatar Dubai, UAE Kuwait City, Kuwait Manama, Bahrain Muscat, Oman Riyadh, Saudi Arabia MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CABIN CREW Emirates Etihad Airways Kuwait Airways MEA - Middle East Airlines Oman Air Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CAR RENTAL COMPANY Avis Budget Europcar Hertz Sixt

Middle East Nominees 2014 MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CHAUFFEUR COMPANY Al Farrad Car Rental Company APEX Le Tour Dubai Mystique Luxury Car Transportation Prime Limousine Time & Motion Executive Services MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CITY HOTEL Al Bustan Rotana - Dubai, UAE Four Seasons Hotel Doha, Qatar InterContinental Dubai - Festival City, UAE Raffles Dubai, UAE The Address Downtown Dubai, UAE The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Qatar MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CONFERENCE HOTEL Al Bustan Rotana Dubai, UAE Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE Grand Hyatt Dubai, UAE Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai, UAE JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE Millenium Abu Dhabi, UAE Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Qatar The Address Dubai Marina, UAE The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, UAE The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CORPORATE RESORT Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi, UAE Grand Hyatt Dubai, UAE Hilton Habtoor Grand hotel, Lebanon InterContinental Abu Dhabi, UAE Park Hyatt Dubai, UAE Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Qatar MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CRUISE LINE Cunard Line Royal Caribbean International Silversea Cruises The World MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING CRUISE PORT Doha Port, Qatar Jeddah Islamic Port, Saudi Arabia Khalifa Bin Salman Port, Bahrain Mina Rashid, Dubai Port of Aqaba, Jordan Port Sultan Qaboos, Muscat, Oman MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING DESERT RESORT Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, UAE Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tilal Liwa Hotel, Abu Dhabi, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING DESERT SPA RESORT Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Golden Tulip Khatt Springs Resort & Spa, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING DESTINATION Abu Dhabi, UAE Bahrain Dubai, UAE Oman Qatar Saudi Arabia MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING EXHIBITION & CONVENTION CENTRE Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre - ADNEC Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC) Dubai World Trade Centre Qatar National Convention Centre MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING FAMILY RESORT Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa Al Aqah Beach, UAE Jebel Ali Golf Resort, Dubai, UAE Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah, UAE Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba, Jordan

E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

39

BUDGET AND GO BECAUSE…

LIFE’S OUT THERE WE ARE PROUD SUPPORTERS OF THE Wherever you’re going, we’re here to help you enjoy the ride. We’ve got 1000s of locations worldwide and we’ll get you on the road for less – the rest is up to you…

budget-arabia.com

WORLD TRAVEL AWA RDS 2014

Middle East Nominees 2014

2 0 14

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING FEMALE SPA Al Faisaliah Spa by Espa at Al Faisaliah Suites, A Rosewood Hotel, Saudi Arabia Armada Spa, Dubai, UAE Evania Ladies Spa at Park Hyatt Jeddah, Marina Club & Spa, Saudi Arabia Spa at Luthan Hotel and Spa, Saudi Arabia MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING HOSPITALITY DEVELOPMENT COMPANY Al Khozama Management Company (AKMC) Emaar Hospitality Group IFA Hotels & Resorts Katara Hospitality Kingdom Hotel Investments Nakheel MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING HOTEL Al Faisaliah Hotel, Saudi Arabia Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Armani Hotel Dubai, UAE Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai, UAE JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE The Chedi Muscat, Oman The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING HOTEL BRAND Dusit International Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Hilton Hotels & Resorts InterContinental Hotels & Resorts

Jumeirah Kempinski Hotels & Resorts Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts Marriott Hotels & Resorts Rotana Hotels Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Mirage Dubai, UAE Signature Spa Suite Fountain, The Address Downtown Dubai, UAE The Royal Bridge Suite, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING HOTEL DINING & ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi, UAE Grand Hyatt Dubai, UAE Grand Hyatt Muscat, Oman Hyatt Regency Dubai, UAE La Cigale Hotel, Qatar The Fairmont Dubai, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING LEISURE HOTEL Hilton Salalah, Oman JW Marriott Hotel Kuwait City Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Dubai Le Royal Hotels & Resorts Amman Le Royal Hotels & Resorts Beirut Raffles Dubai

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING HOTEL RESIDENCES Grand Hyatt Doha Residences, Qatar Grosvenor House Dubai, UAE Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha, Qatar W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING HOTEL SUITE Palace Suite at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE Penthouse Suite at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE Presidential Suite, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, UAE Royal Etihad Suite at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE Royal Suite at Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE Royal Suite at Grosvenor House Dubai, UAE Royal Suite, Four Seasons Hotel Doha, Qatar Royal Suite, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai, UAE Royal Suite, One&Only Royal

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING LIFESTYLE HOTEL Armani Hotel Dubai, UAE Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE La Cigale Hotel, Qatar The Address Dubai Mall, UAE W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING LIFESTYLE RESORT Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, UAE Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Four Seasons Hotel Doha Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING LOW-COST AIRLINE Air Arabia Felix Airways flydubai flynas Jazeera Airways

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING LUXURY CITY HOTEL Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Oman Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel, Saudi Arabia Armani Hotel Dubai, UAE Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE Four Seasons Hotel Doha, Qatar JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE The Oberoi, Dubai, UAE The St. Regis Doha, Qatar MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING LUXURY HOTEL Armani Hotel Dubai Burj Al Arab Emirates Palace One&Only The Palm, Dubai Raffles Makkah Palace Rosewood Corniche, Saudi Arabia The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING LUXURY HOTEL APARTMENTS Arjaan by Rotana Dubai Media City, UAE BurJuman Arjaan by Rotana Dubai, UAE Oasis Beach Tower, Dubai, UAE Park Arjaan by Rotana Abu Dhabi, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING MEETINGS & CONFERENCE DESTINATION Abu Dhabi, UAE Doha, Qatar Dubai, UAE

E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

41

TTN, published by Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group is the leading and oldest established (31 years) travel and tourism trade publication in the Middle East with a wide distribution among travel agents, hoteliers and airlines and those who shape the industry in our region. Each month we feature general, hotel, aviation and technology news as well as dedicated features on trade shows such as Arabian Travel Market and World Travel Market, regional and international destinations, and different sectors of the

n

industry from sports tourism to medical tourism etc. We aim to take a close look at what is on offer in each sector and also present figures on how the sectors are growing with opinion from experts and analysts.

TTN is published in both printed and online editions and an email newsletter is dispatched monthly to subscribers, providing a significantly increased readership profile.

Our features include: n Aviation n Car Hire n Cruising n Eco Tourism Events n Hotels n Tourism Boards n Ramadan Specials Luxury Travel n Medical Tourism n MICE & Business Travel n Shopping Tourism n Spa Holidays n Summer Offers n Trade Exhibitions UAE: HILAL AL KHALEEJ Tel: +971 4 4200 483 Fax: +971 4 4200 176 Email: kim.thomson@tradearabia.ae fiona@tradearabia.ae

A component of www.tradearabia.com

UK: CRESCENT PUBLISHING LTD Tel: +44 208 943 3630 Fax: +44 208 943 3701 Email: NHorne@crescentpublishing.co.uk

HEAD OFFICE: AL HILAL PUBLISHING & MARKETING GROUP Tel: +973 1729 3131, Fax: +973 1729 3400 Email: kim.thomson@tradearabia.ae

Middle East Nominees 2014

2 0 14

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING MICE HOTEL Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE La Cigale Hotel, Qatar Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING NEW HOTEL Conrad Dubai Dubai Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Rosewood Abu Dhabi The Domain Bahrain The Oberoi, Dubai The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Vida Downtown Dubai Warwick Hotel Dubai MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING NEW RESORT Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, UAE DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait Marjan Island Resort & Spa, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, UAE The Ajman Palace, Ajman, UAE Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, UAE Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING PRIVATE JET CHARTER Air Charter International Al Jaber Aviation - AJA ExecuJet NasJet Royal Jet

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING RESORT Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, UAE Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE Hilton Fujairah Resort, Fujairah Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman The Chedi Muscat, Oman The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, UAE The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING RESORT RESIDENCES Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai, UAE Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE Mövenpick Resort and Residence Aqaba, Jordan The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, UAE The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING SERVICED APARTMENT BRAND Frasers Hospitality JA Resort & Hotels Oakwood The Ascott Limited MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING SERVICED APARTMENTS Ascott Doha, Qatar Ascott Park Place Dubai, UAE Fraser Suites Doha Fraser Suites Seef, Bahrain Oasis Beach Tower, Dubai, UAE Somerset West Bay Doha, Qatar

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING SPA Al Faisaliah Spa at Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel, Saudi Arabia Anantara Spa at Emirates Palace One&Only Spa at One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai, UAE Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay, Oman Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Talise Spa at Burj Al Arab The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Riyadh MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING SPA DESIGN Al Faisaliah Spa by Espa at Al Faisaliah Suites, A Rosewood Hotel, Saudi Arabia Anantara Spa at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village & Spa, Qatar Talise Spa at Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING SPA RESORT Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE Armani Hotel Dubai, UAE InterContinental Mountain Resort & Spa Mzaar, Lebanon Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai, UAE Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE One&Only The Palm, Dubai, UAE The Chedi Muscat, Oman The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, UAE

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING SPORTS RESORT Aspire Zone, Qatar Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE Jebel Ali Golf Resort, Dubai, UAE Meydan, Dubai, UAE Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR Arabian Adventures dnata Emirates Holidays Regency Travel & Tours, Qatar Zahara Tours MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PROJECT Katara Cultural Village, Qatar King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), Saudi Arabia Nakheel, Dubai, UAE Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE Sowwah Square, Abu Dhabi, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING TOURIST ATTRACTION Aquaventure, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi, UAE Katara Cultural Village, Qatar Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Ski Dubai, UAE Wild Wadi Waterpark, Dubai, UAE Yas Waterworld, Abu Dhabi, UAE

E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

43

intuitive

Š 2014 Marriott International, Inc.

At the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai we believe true luxury comes from creating exceptional experiences.

Thoughtfully designed around the needs of today’s modern traveller, our spaces and services achieve the perfect balance of effortless style and modern functionality. 1,608 luxurious guest rooms incorporate state-of-the-art technology and an inspiring collection of 14 restaurants and lounges invite to experience life’s simple pleasures in authentic flavors. Enjoy the relaxing realm of quiet luxury, which is Saray Spa. Tucked away behind ornately carved doors, the Saray Spa is the ideal space for relaxation and renewal.

Discover the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai - a destination with distinctive character and ambience JW Marriott® Marquis Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay PO Box 121000 Dubai, United Arab Emirates T: +971 4 414 0000, F: +971 4 414 0001 jwmarquis.dubai@marriott.com jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com

Disconnect from business, not from the rest of the world.

For reservation: T. +971 4 294 1222 - E. h2022@accor.com - www.pullmanhotels.com/2022 J O I N O U R G L O B A L L O YA L T Y P RO G R A M AT ACCO R H OT E L S . CO M

Middle East Nominees 2014

2 0 14

MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING TOURIST BOARD Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, UAE Bahrain Tourism Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing Government of Dubai, UAE Jordan Tourism Board Oman Qatar Tourism Authority Sharjah Tourism Authority, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Al Rais Holidays Alshamel Travel dnata Regency Travel & Tours, Qatar MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY Al Futtaim Travel, UAE dnata FCm Travel Solutions Kanoo Travel Regency Travel & Tours, Qatar MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING TRAVEL TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER Amadeus EmQuest Galileo by Travelport Illusions Online ISA ISO Travel Solutions MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING VILLA Al Rimal Deluxe Pool Villa at Banyan Tree Al Wadi Anantara Luxury Pool Villa at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort Beach Royal Residences at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Garden Villa at One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Royal Villa at Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah

Royal Villa at Sharq Village & Spa, Qatar Spa Pool Villa Suite Beachfront at Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman The Anantara Over Water Villa at Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, UAE MIDDLE EAST’S LEADING VILLA RESORT Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, UAE Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi, UAE Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach, UAE Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, UAE Malakiya Villas, Dubai, UAE Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman MIDDLE EAST’S MOST ROMANTIC RESORT Desert Palm Dubai, UAE One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai, UAE One&Only The Palm, Dubai, UAE Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, UAE Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman The Chedi Muscat, Oman MIDDLE EAST’S RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARD Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority National Ferries Company BAHRAIN’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Gulf Hotel Bahrain and Gulf Convention Centre Moevenpick Hotel Bahrain Sheraton Bahrain Hotel The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa

BAHRAIN’S LEADING HOTEL Golden Tulip Bahrain Gulf Hotel Bahrain and Gulf Convention Centre Sheraton Bahrain Hotel The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa BAHRAIN’S LEADING SERVICED APARTMENTS Fraser Suites Seef, Bahrain Gulf Executive Residence Marriott Executive Apartments Manama, Bahrain Somerset Al Fateh Bahrain BAHRAIN’S LEADING SPA RESORT Al Areen Palace & Spa Hotel Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa BAHRAIN’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Al Fanar Travel Al Kobaisi Travel Algosaibi Travel House of Travel Kanoo Travel IRAN’S LEADING HOTEL Abassi Hotel Dariush Grand Hotel Laleh Hotel Tehran Homa Hotel IRAQ’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Cristal Grand Ishtar Hotel Divan Erbil Erbil Rotana Hotel Hotel Grand Swiss Tangram Hotel Erbil

IRAQ’S LEADING HOTEL Cristal Grand Ishtar Hotel Divan Erbil Erbil Rotana Hotel Hotel Grand Swiss JORDAN’S LEADING BEACH RESORT InterContinental Aqaba Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea Radisson Blu Tala Bay Resort, Aqaba The Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea JORDAN’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Amman Marriott Hotel Crowne Plaza Amman Four Seasons Hotel Amman Grand Hyatt Amman InterContinental Amman Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea Millennium Hotel Amman JORDAN’S LEADING HOTEL Le Royal Hotels & Resorts, Amman Amman Marriott Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton Aqaba Four Seasons Hotel Amman InterContinental Amman Kempinski Hotel Amman Le Méridien Amman JORDAN’S LEADING RESORT InterContinental Aqaba Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba Movenpick Resort and Residence aqaba Sheraton Amman Al Nabil Hotel & Towers E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

47

Middle East Nominees 2014

2 0 14

JORDAN’S LEADING SPA RESORT Evason Ma’In Hot Springs Four Seasons Hotel Amman Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea The Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea JORDAN’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Al Hani Travel & Tourism Holiday Travel & Tourism Jordan UNIGLOBE Dahlan Tours and Travel KUWAIT’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Al Manshar Rotana Hotel Crowne Plaza Kuwait Hilton Kuwait Resort Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa JW Marriott Hotel Kuwait City, Kuwait Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait Sheraton Kuwait Hotel & Towers KUWAIT’S LEADING CONFERENCE HOTEL Hotel Missoni Kuwait JW Marriott Hotel Kuwait City Mövenpick Kuwait Sheraton Kuwait Hotel & Towers The Regency Kuwait KUWAIT’S LEADING HOTEL Al Manshar Rotana Hotel Hilton Kuwait Resort Hotel Missoni Kuwait JW Marriott Hotel Kuwait City Le Royal Hotel Le Royal Tower Kuwait Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre Kuwait Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait Sheraton Kuwait Hotel & Towers

KUWAIT’S LEADING LUXURY HOTEL Hotel Missoni Kuwait JW Marriott Hotel Kuwait City Le Royal Hotel The Regency Kuwait KUWAIT’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Al Mulla Travel Bureau Alshamel Travel Barakat Travel Boodai Aviation Jumbo Travels TVS Travels LEBANON’S LEADING BOUTIQUE HOTEL 35 Rooms Byblo Sur Mer Hotel Albergo LEBANON’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Amman Marriott Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Beirut Gefinor Rotana Hotel InterContinental Le Vendôme Beirut InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut Le Royal Hotels & Resorts Beirut LEBANON’S LEADING HOTEL Four Seasons Hotel Beirut InterContinental Le Vendôme Beirut InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut Le Gray, Beirut Le Royal Hotels & Resorts Beirut LEBANON’S LEADING RESORT InterContinental Mountain Resort & Spa Mzaar Le Royal Hotels & Resorts Beirut Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut

LEBANON’S LEADING SPA RESORT Four Seasons Hotel Beirut InterContinental Mzaar Mountain Resort & Spa Le Royal Hotels & Resorts Beirut Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut The Grand Hills Hotel & Spa LEBANON’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Barakat Travel Kurban Travel Nakhal Tania Travel OMAN’S LEADING BEACH RESORT Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Millennium Resort Mussanah Six Senses Zighy Bay The Chedi Muscat OMAN’S LEADING HOTEL Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Crowne Plaza Resort SALALAH Grand Hyatt Muscat Hilton Salalah InterContinental Muscat OMAN’S LEADING RESORT Crowne Plaza Resort SALALAH InterContinental Al Bustan Palace Muscat Six Senses Zighy Bay The Chedi Muscat OMAN’S LEADING SPA RESORT Al Nahda Resort & Spa Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort, Oman Six Senses Zighy Bay The Chedi Muscat

OMAN’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Bahwan Travels Kingdom Travel & Tourism Marmul Travel & Tours QATAR’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Doha Marriott Hotel InterContinental Doha La Cigale Hotel Movenpick Tower & Suites, Doha Oryx Rotana, Doha Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel The Ritz-Carlton Doha QATAR’S LEADING CONFERENCE HOTEL Grand Hyatt Doha InterContinental Doha La Cigale Hotel Sharq Village and Spa Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel The St. Regis Doha W Hotel Doha Wyndham Grand Regency Doha QATAR’S LEADING HOTEL Doha Marriott Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Doha InterContinental Doha La Cigale Hotel Movenpick Tower & Suites, Doha The Ritz-Carlton Doha The St. Regis Doha W Hotel Doha Wyndham Grand Regency Doha

E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

51

Local & Regional & International PR Services

Consumer + B2B strategies & Newsletters & Speech Writing/blogs & Crisis Management

Now Online...

ftnnews com

:PUJL

F CUS

Travel News

English

English

English & Russian

English & Turkish

www.smpublication.com

English & Turkish

Middle East Nominees 2014

2 0 14

QATAR’S LEADING HOTEL DINING & ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE Doha Marriott Hotel Hilton Doha La Cigale Hotel Oryx Rotana - Doha Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel The Ritz-Carlton, Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences QATAR’S LEADING HOTEL RESIDENCES Grand Hyatt Doha Residences Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences QATAR’S LEADING HOTEL SUITE Al Bidaa Royal Suite at La Cigale Hotel Extreme Wow Suite at W Doha Hotel & Residences Presidential Suite at The St. Regis Doha Royal Suite at Four Seasons Hotel Doha QATAR’S LEADING LIFESTYLE HOTEL La Cigale Hotel The Ritz-Carlton, Doha The St. Regis Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences QATAR’S LEADING RESORT Four Seasons Hotel Doha InterContinental Doha Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel The Ritz-Carlton Doha The St. Regis Doha

QATAR’S LEADING SERVICED APARTMENTS Ascott Doha Fraser Suites Doha Marriott Executive Apartments Doha, City Center Somerset West Bay Doha

SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING CAR RENTAL COMPANY Budget Rent a Car Europcar Hertz Saudi Arab Car Rentals Sixt

QATAR’S LEADING SPA RESORT Four Seasons Hotel Doha Grand Heritage Doha Hotel Sharq Village & Spa, Doha The Ritz-Carlton Doha The St. Regis Doha W Hotel Doha

SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING CONFERENCE HOTEL Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre InterContinental Jeddah Riyadh Palace Hotel Sheraton Dammam Hotel & Towers The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh

QATAR’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Al Bin Ali Al Sulaiman Travels Darwish Travel Company Mannai Air Travel Regency Travel & Tours SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING BOUTIQUE HOTEL Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel Mena Hotel Riyadh Qasr Al Sharq, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre Hotel Al Khozama, A Rosewood Hotel InterContinental Dar Al Hijra Madinah InterContinental Jeddah Jeddah Marriott Hotel Qasr Al Sharq Rosewood Corniche The Oberoi Madina The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh

SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING DESTINATION HOTEL Bay La Sun Hotel & Marina, managed by Al Khozama Park Hyatt Jeddah, Marina Club & Spa SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING HOSPITALITY COMPANY Al Khozama Management Company Coral Hotels & Resorts Fairmont Raffles Hotels International Hilton Hotels The Ritz-Carlton SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING HOTEL Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel Casablanca Hotel - Jeddah Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre Hotel Al Khozama, A Rosewood Hotel InterContinental Abha InterContinental Dar Al Tawhid Makkah InterContinental Jeddah

Jeddah Marriott Hotel Le Méridien Al Khobar Riyadh Marriott Hotel Rosewood Corniche The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING HOTEL SUITE Grand Royal Suite at The Oberoi Madina Oasis Suite at Al Faisaliah Suites, A Rosewood Hotel Royal Suite at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre Royal Suite at Rosewood Corniche Royal Suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING RESORT InterContinental Abha Mövenpick Resort Al Nawras Island Jeddah Park Hyatt Jeddah, Marina Club & Spa Qasr Al Sharq SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING FEMALE SPA Al Faisaliah Spa by Espa at Al Faisaliah Suites, A Rosewood Hotel Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre Spa at Luthan Hotel and Spa Spa at Park Hyatt Jeddah, Marina Club & Spa Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Attar Travel dnata Travel Zahid Travel Group Zamil Travel

E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

53

When it comes to LOCATION, we mean BUSINESS.

Business or leisure, bright city lights or relaxing resort, conference or weekend getaway, Millennium & Copthorne hotels are ideally located across the Middle East.

Enjoy a truly rewarding experience with us, where outstanding service, comfort and an unsurpassed range of dining and leisure facilities ensure a memorable stay whatever the location.

MILLENNIUM • COPTHORNE

www.millenniumhotels.com UA E

|

QATA R

|

JORDAN

|

OMAN

|

K U WA I T

|

IRAQ

COMPARABLE OFFER YOUR GUESTS THE BEST IN INTERNATIONAL NEWS AND INSIGHT The International New York Times delivers the finest journalism from a global network of bureaus and editing hubs to provide a truly international perspective your guests can rely on and enjoy.

OVER 3,000 HOTELS ALREADY OFFER THE INTERNATIONAL NEW YORK TIMES TO THEIR GUESTS. TO JOIN THEM AND GET A CUSTOMIZED PRINT AND DIGITAL OFFER, CONTACT US TODAY. PATRICE MONTI Vice President, International Circulation +33 (0)1 41 43 93 56 pmonti@nytimes.com

LIVE YOUR DREAMS Ever dreamed of a five-star luxury suite which opens onto a stunning beach and blends in effortlessly with the sea? Ever imagined playing alongside trainers from Chelsea Football Club or the stars of tennis, rugby, cricket and golf? How about dinner courtesy of the most famous Michelin-starred chefs? This is Forte Village’s constellation.

And you are the real stars. fortevillage.com + 39 070 9218820 holiday@fortevillage.com

Your online visibility starts with eTN.Travel

“ eTN Voice of The Travel Industry”

Is your press release reaching it’s target?

With eTN’s advantage you will! See your press release published on eTurboNews, reaching 235,000 travel industry professionals.

Our forimmediaterelease.net reaches 17,000 journalist and media outlets in travel-tourism.

Now with our partnership with CNN and Google News we offer even more exposure to you.

www.etn.travel

2 0 14

SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY Al Tayyar Group Attar Travel dnata Travel, KSA Elaf Travel & Tourism Company Kanoo Travel UAE’S LEADING BEACH RESORT Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, Abu Dhabi Dhafra Beach Hotel, Abu Dhabi Fairmont The Palm, Dubai The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai UAE’S LEADING BOUTIQUE HOTEL 72 Hotel by Hues Desert Palm Dubai Hues Boutique Hotel Le Méridien Fairway The Address Montgomerie Dubai UAE’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites, Dubai Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi Grosvenor House Dubai InterContinental Abu Dhabi Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche The Address Downtown Dubai

Middle East Nominees 2014 UAE’S LEADING BUSINESS TRAVEL AGENCY Airlink International U.A.E dnata Kanoo Travel Omeir Travel Agency Orient Travel SNTTA - Sharjah National Travel & Tourist Agency UAE’S LEADING CAR RENTAL COMPANY Budget Rent a Car Dollar Europcar Hertz Thrifty UAE’S LEADING CITY HOTEL Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana, Dubai Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi Grand Millennium Dubai Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown UAE’S LEADING DESERT RESORT Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras AlKhaimah Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi UAE’S LEADING FAMILY RESORT Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa Al Aqah Beach Jebel Ali Golf Resort, Dubai Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

UAE’S LEADING HOTEL Armani Hotel Dubai Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers, Abu Dhabi Burj Al Arab, Dubai Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi Grosvenor House Dubai Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai JW Marriott Marquis Dubai One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai UAE’S LEADING HOTEL RESIDENCES Grosvenor House Dubai Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Residences Jumeirah World Trade Centre Residences Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah UAE’S LEADING LUXURY CITY HOTEL Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana, Dubai Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi Hilton Sharjah Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek UAE’S LEADING NEW HOTEL Dubai Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf Marjan Island Resort & Spa, Ras Al Khaimah Rosewood Abu Dhabi Warwick Hotel Dubai

Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai The Ritz-Carlton Dubai The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi UAE’S LEADING SERVICED APARTMENTS Al Ghurair Arjaan by Rotana Ascott Park Place Dubai Eastern Mangrove Suites by Jannah Fraser Suites Dubai Oasis Beach Tower Park Arjaan by Rotana Abu Dhabi UAE’S LEADING SPA RESORT Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai Jebel Ali Golf Resort, Dubai Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai One&Only The Palm, Dubai The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi UAE’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau Al Futtaim Travel Al Rais Holidays dnata Omeir Travel Agency Orient Travel Safar Travel & Tourism Salem Travel Agency, Abu Dhabi

UAE’S LEADING RESORT Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

E&OE

63

2 0 14

UAE’S LEADING TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau Al Futtaim Travel ATS Travel dnata Kanoo Travel Omeir Travel Agency Orient Travel YEMEN’S LEADING HOTEL Al Saeed Hotel Taiz Gold Mohur Hotel & Resort Mercure Sanaa Al Saeed Mövenpick Hotel Sana’a YEMEN’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Arabian Horizons Travel & Tourism Bazara Travel & Tourism Universal Yemen ABU DHABI’S LEADING BEACH RESORT Beach Rotana Emirates Palace Hilton Abu Dhabi InterContinental Abu Dhabi Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Beach Rotana Fairmont Bab Al Bahr InterContinental Abu Dhabi Le Meridien Abu Dhabi Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi Millennium Abu Dhabi Park Rotana Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

ABU DHABI’S LEADING BUSINESS TRAVEL AGENCY Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau Bin Moosa Travel Omeir Travel Agency Safar Travel & Tourism ABU DHABI’S LEADING CHAUFFEUR COMPANY Ahdab International Luxury Transport German Rent A Car Prime Limousine Sixt Limousine Service ABU DHABI’S LEADING CONFERENCE HOTEL Beach Rotana Emirates Palace Fairmont Bab Al Bahr InterContinental Abu Dhabi Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Millennium Abu Dhabi Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI’S LEADING HOTEL Beach Rotana Emirates Palace Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Hilton Abu Dhabi InterContinental Abu Dhabi Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI’S LEADING HOTEL SUITE Palace Suite at Emirates Palace Presidential Suite at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Royal Etihad Suite at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Royal Suite at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

E&OE

66

WWW.WORLDTRAVELAWARDS.COM

ABU DHABI’S LEADING LUXURY CITY HOTEL Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hilton Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI’S LEADING RESORT Beach Rotana Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara Emirates Palace Hilton Abu Dhabi Le Meridien Abu Dhabi Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI’S LEADING SERVICED APARTMENTS Grand Millennium Al Wahda Park Arjaan by Rotana Abu Dhabi Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri ABU DHABI’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau Advanced Travel and Tourism dnata Omeir Travel Agency Salem Travel Agency AL AIN’S LEADING HOTEL Al Ain Rotana Hilton Al Ain Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet DUBAI’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Armani Hotel Dubai Atlantis The Palm Grosvenor House Dubai

Hilton Dubai Creek Jumeirah Emirates Towers JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Madinat Jumeirah Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Raffles Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai The Fairmont Dubai DUBAI’S LEADING CHAUFFEUR COMPANY Excellence Limo Dubai German Rent A Car Grand Express Luxury Rental Midway Luxury Car Rental Mystique Luxury Car Transportation Sixt Limousine Service DUBAI’S LEADING CITY BUSINESS HOTEL InterContinental Dubai - Festival City Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai The H Hotel Dubai The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown DUBAI’S LEADING CITY HOTEL Amwaj Rotana Dusit Thani Dubai Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel Raffles Dubai Sheraton Dubai Creek Taj Palace Hotel Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai DUBAI’S LEADING CITY HOTEL & APARTMENTS Al Ghurair Arjaan by Rotana Grosvenor House Dubai Media Rotana Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai

Middle East Nominees 2014 DUBAI’S LEADING CONFERENCE HOTEL Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah Grand Hyatt Dubai InterContinental Dubai - Festival City JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

DUBAI’S LEADING LUXURY CITY HOTEL Grand Millennium Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai JW Marriott Marquis Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai The Fairmont Dubai

DUBAI’S LEADING HOTEL Armani Hotel Dubai Atlantis The Palm Dubai Burj Al Arab Grosvenor House Dubai Hilton Dubai Creek Jumeirah Emirates Towers JW Marriott Marquis Dubai One&Only Royal Mirage

DUBAI’S LEADING RESORT Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Desert Palm Dubai Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Madinat Jumeirah One&Only Royal Mirage The Jumeirah Beach Hotel

DUBAI’S LEADING HOTEL SUITE Penthouse Suite at TAMANI Marina Hotel and Hotel Apartment Penthouse Suite, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Presidential Suite at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Dubai Royal Suite at Burj Al Arab Royal Suite at Grosvenor House Dubai Royal Suite at One&Only Royal Mirage The Royal Bridge Suite at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai DUBAI’S LEADING LIFESTYLE HOTEL Armani Hotel Dubai Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Dubai Park Hyatt Dubai Raffles Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai The Address Dubai Mall

DUBAI’S LEADING SERVICED APARTMENTS Ascott Park Place Dubai Fraser Suites Dubai Oasis Beach Tower TAMANI Marina Hotel and Hotel Apartment DUBAI’S LEADING SPA RESORT Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Armani Hotel Dubai Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Madinat Jumeirah One&Only Royal Mirage One&Only The Palm, Dubai The Jumeirah Beach Hotel

DUBAI’S LEADING TRAVEL AGENCY Al Futtaim Travel Al Rais Holidays Al Rostamani Travel & Holidays dnata DUBAI’S LEADING TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY Alshamel Travel ITL World, Dubai Orient Travel FUJAIRAH’S LEADING RESORT Concorde Hotel Fujairah Hilton Fujairah Resort Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Radisson Blu Resort, Fujairah MAKKAH’S LEADING HOTEL Al Marwa Rayhaan by Rotana Al Shohada Hotel, Managed by Al Khozama Dar Al Tawhid InterContinental Hotel Makkah Le Méridien Makkah Le Méridien Towers Makkah Makkah Clock Royal Tower – A Fairmont Hotel Makkah Hilton hotel Raffles Makkah Palace

MEDINA’S LEADING HOTEL Al Madina Shaza Al Muna Kareem Radisson Blu Hotel, Al Madinah InterContinental Madinah-Dar Al Iman Le Méridien Medina The Oberoi Madina RAS AL KHAIMAH’S LEADING HOTEL Acacia Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Mangrove Hotel Rixos Bab Al Bahr RAS AL KHAIMAH’S LEADING RESORT Banyan Tree Al Wadi Golden Tulip Khatt Springs Resort & Spa Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa The Cove Rotana Resort Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah SHARJAH’S LEADING HOTEL Golden Tulip Sharjah Hilton Sharjah Radisson Blu Resort Sharjah Sharjah Grand Hotel Sharjah Rotana

MAKKAH’S LEADING HOTEL IN SERVICE EXCELLENCE Al Shohada Hotel, managed by Al Khozama Raffles Makkah Palace

E&OE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

67

World Travel Awards heads to South America’s Leading Destination The fascinating nation of Ecuador will step up to host a World Travel Awards ceremony for the first time on 9th August 2014. The glittering red carpet event will take place in its historic capital city, Quito.

San Francisco Church (image courtesy of Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel)

Augusto Barrera, Mayor of Quito, says: “As Mayor of the City of Quito it is an honour to welcome World Travel Awards to the very first city to be declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO over 35 years ago, not only for its incredible and priceless architecture, but also because it is home to a richlyevolving heritage.”

He adds: “Quito has earned other major awards, including the award received in 2013 as ‘South America’s Leading Destination’ at World Travel Awards. This year we will be hosting this important event and it is a privilege for those who make this city nestled in the Andes, to bring this event to Ecuador for the first time.”

Composed of an ancient mixture of peoples, cultures and traditions, Quito

70

WWW.WORLDTRAVELAWARDS.COM

has been a unique and treasured place for generations of Ecuadorians. The city was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city and stands at an altitude of 2,850 metres. It boasts the bestpreserved, least altered historic centre in Latin America.

attractions and amenities. The cobblestoned streets and pastel-colored mansions which hem the revitalised San Francisco Church now dazzle once again as they welcome guests from around the world.

Throughout its history the city has attracted great people that appreciate the value of the land and offer their unique contribution to the development of this metropolis, strategically located on the equator.

The monasteries of San Francisco and Santo Domingo, and the Church and Jesuit College of La Compañía, with their rich interiors, are pure examples of the ‘Baroque school of Quito’, which is a fusion of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish and indigenous art.

At the heart of the city is the Spanish colonial centre, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978. The area has recently undergone a renaissance, with the city government investing hundreds of millions of US dollars on improvements to infrastructure,

The WTA red-carpet gala ceremony will take place at the Centro Cultural Itchimbia, a magnificent glass-and-iron building, which forms the centrepiece of Parque Itchimbia. The structure is modelled after the city’s original Mercado Santa Clara. The centre hosts

regular art exhibits and cultural events, as well as serving as a museum.

Other projects include recovering landmark buildings to house two new universities, the construction of the cultural complex and recreational Cumandá (in a former bus terminal), the opening of the Monastery of Carmen Alto Museum, the rehabilitation of the St. Augustine Sala Capitular and San Blas Square, Victoria Square and the Capitol Theatre.

Close by, La Mariscal is considered the centre of entertainment in Quito. Here the city offers visitors endless options for dining, shopping, dancing and anything else they might desire. A meeting point for local people, the cosmopolitan atmosphere also takes in a huge array of cultural experiences, dance schools and craft shops.

Quito is also home to a number of relaxing parks, which serve as the lungs of the city. These are spaces where people meet to walk, play sports, fly kites and enjoy nature at its finest. Most famous is the Guanguiltagua Metropolitan Park, which is located almost 3,000 meters above sea level. Surrounded by trees and gigantic art installations, visitors can spot over 70 bird species in this natural haven of 557 hectares. Located just a few minutes from Guanguiltagua Street in the urban neighborhood of

Batán Alto, the park is easily accessible to guests. Also popular with locals is Las Cuadras Park, located south of the city.

Declared an ecological area of special interest because of its native trees and exotic plants, there is also a wide variety of wildlife.

Offering a significant boost to tourism in Ecuador, the Mariscal Antonio Jose de Sucre International Airport in Quito opened last year. Welcoming five million passengers in its first year, the airport offers a longer runway than its predecessor meaning planes no longer have to stop at Guayaquil to refuel on the way to European destinations.

Quito is also set to boost its business credentials with the launch of one of the largest urban development projects in recent years: the Quito Convention & Events Centre Complex. The project will be created as a public/private partnership, and will occupy an 11 hectares site on the grounds of the old airport.

With the construction of this new development, Quito aims to become one of the top ten destinations for conventions and trade fairs in Latin America and rank among the first 50 countries worldwide in the industry of events tourism, as per guidelines of its strategic tourism promotion plan.

For more information visit www.quito.com.ec and www.worldtravelawards.com

CAPTIONS TOP TO BOTTOM: Cotopaxi Volcano / Centro Cultural Itchimbia / San Francisco Church / La Compañía Church Facade

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

71

DIvIne LUXURY Athens | GReece

www.divanis.com

Athenian Riviera, Athens, Greece

T +30 210 8911100

follow us

E info@divaniapollon.gr

A ride that’s worth the trip.

Avis welcomes you to the World Travel Awards in Greece, the “Oscars of the Travel Industry”.

Buckle up and enjoy the experience.

avis.gr

“RECOGNISING, REWARDING AND CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN THE GLOBAL SKI HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY”

worldskiawards.com

WORLD SKI AWARDS GALA CEREMONY 21-23 November 2014 A-ROSA Kitzb端hel, Austria

Kitzbuehel „The legendary City of Sports in the Alps“.

The home of skiing is the home of the World Ski Awards from 21-23 November 2014 in Kitzbuehel.

www.kitzbuehel.com Š Gams-Logo-Design: Alfons Walde 1933 / VBK Wien

Austria's Best Ski Hotel

Enter a world of unique experiences at World Luxury Expo

The 2nd American Express World Luxury Expo in association with The Saudi Investment Bank, hosted in the spectacular Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, will again showcase the world’s leading luxury brands, to an ultraaffluent and highly discerning target audience.

RIYADH 2015 The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh 3rd – 5th February 2015

The World’s Leading Luxury Brands… including Luxury Travel

ATTENDANCE BY INVITATION For all enquiries, please contact: riyadh@world-luxury-group.com worldluxuryexpo-riyadh.com

WORLD GOLF AWARDS GALA CEREMONY 2014

13-16 November 2014

Conrad Algarve, Quinta do Lago, Portugal

“CELEBRATING AND REWARDING EXCELLENCE IN GOLF TOURISM”

worldgolfawards.com

The World’s Leading Production Company of High Definition Virtual Tours and Digital Production Company 785 domains covering the world’s major countries & cities

www.virtualworldinternet.com

Email: virtual@virtualworldinternet.com Phone: +44 (0) 20 7925 0000

360 WORLD VIDEO LTD IS A MEDIA PRODUCTION COMPANY WITH A DIFFERENCE We specialise in 3D stereoscopic video production for the Travel, Tourism, Hospitality & Sports industry. Our previous campaigns have included 3D Animation, 3D Movies, 3D commercials for TV advertising and 3D for the internet.

WHY 3D? SPORTS, TRAVEL AND TOURISM BRANDS CAN UTILIZE THE ADVANCEMENTS IN 3D TECHNOLOGY TO FURTHER ENHANCE THEIR BRANDS TO CONSUMERS.

■

Hotels can utilise 3D movies to invite their audience to take a tour through their grounds, seeing the decadence of the décor, the spacious rooms and intimate details that make the property unique.

Hotels, sporting associations, airlines and tourism boards can now truly showcase their offerings by inviting audiences to experience for themselves what it is actually like to be there.

Through the power of 3D, audiences can step outside of their current location into a new destination, sporting arena or hotel and encounter what the venue can offer to them.

■

Airlines can create 3D TV advertisements to showcase the use of space onboard where before they could only describe it.

■

Tourism boards can invite audiences to experience the sights and sounds of their destination before planning a visit through the use of 3D internet.

3D reality goes beyond what photography and virtual tours have previously offered by creating a deeper sense of involvement for the consumer, therefore making them much more likely to want to live through the experience for themselves.

IT’S TIME TO JOIN IN NOW! Join 360 World Video Ltd and see how we can make a real difference to your marketing & advertising strategy.

AT 360 WORLD VIDEO LTD WE LOVE WHAT WE DO AND WOULD RELISH THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK WITH YOU FURTHER ABOUT YOUR 3D PROJECT. For more information on animation or live action 3D please contact us at: T: +44 (0) 20 7925 0000 F: +44 (0) 20 7925 2552 E: info@360worldvideo.com

So Mag Discover what others are saying about your favourite destination and activity.

www.visit-theworld.co

Read // enjoy // Pick any destination in the world + an activity > “dubai + nightlife�

We build your magazine with dynamic content from Twitter, youTube, Flickr and FourSquare

ociaL Media gazineS FoR The WoRLd

/ LeaRn // ShaRe

DUBAI AT YOU

Talk to us about how you can reach five billion mobile subscribers worldwide Visit www.world.mobi or email us at info@world.mobi

City.mobi - City Guides 800+ cities, 187 countries city.mobi | Š World Mobi Limited

UR FINGERTIPS

THE BEST CHOICE FOR RENTAL CARS IN THE BUSINESS Mega Car Hire offers the largest selection of car rental from over 550 leading and independent car rental suppliers in a 175 countries in 25,000 city and airport locations, in 29 languages, quoting in multiple currencies.

We search many of your favourite brands for the lowest prices. Renting a car is cheaper than you think.

www.megacarhire.com

www.verylastminute.com

Visit the World's Lead resource at www.brea Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com//btn_news

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/breakingtravelnews

ding Travel News akingtravelnews.com

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR PARTNERS We wish to express our gratitude to our partners and supporters worldwide. In particular, we extend a heartfelt “thank you” to our gracious host the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai for its outstanding hospitality and professionalism. We would also like to thank our event partner TV5Monde, as well as our media partners, International New York Times, CNBC Arabiya, Khaleej Times and TTN.

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS TEAM World Travel Awards Momentum House Lower Road London, SE1 8SJ United Kingdom T +44 (0)20 7925 0000 F +44 (0)20 7925 2552 awards@worldtravelawards.com www.worldtravelawards.com Copyright © World Travel Awards 2013

President & Founder Graham E. Cooke

Financial Director Xiaolan Tang

Head of Photography Mark Håkansson

PA to Graham E. Cooke Rebecca Cohen

Global Business Director Sion Rapson

Media Tactician Sid Thaker

Group Senior Vice President Kevin Taylor

Events Manager & Producer Susan Mundy

Data Manager Emma Pitout

Manon Han Executive Vice President

Events Executive Nia Lewis

Senior Vice President David Falcon

Public Relations Christopher James

Vice President Christopher Frost

Project Manager Kelly Footit

Online Media Publishing Ben Roberts IT & Development Team George Cooke Cornelius Jideofor

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2014

103

Let your loyalty be our priority.

World’s Leading Green Transport Solution Company

Europe’s Leading Car Hire

europcar.com/privilege

Europe’s Responsible Tourism Award

Australia’s Leading Car Hire