01 JUNE 2013
ISSUE 186
First One&Only Jeddah Resort Kerzner International Holdings has entered into an agreement with Al Khozama Management Company in partnership with Saudi Oger to develop and operate a new One&Only resort in Jeddah.
SKAI Holdings has unveiled plans for a USD1 billion establishment, which will be operated by Viceroy Hotels and Resorts, marking the company’s first venture into Dubai.
08 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
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WEEKLY NEWS
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ACCOMMODATION
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AIR
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WHO’S MOVED
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TRAVEL TALK
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AGENT’S CORNER
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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RENDEZVOUS
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NEWS & EVENTS
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SKAI Holdings: USD1 billion Project on Palm Jumeirah
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MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel COPY EDITOR Stefanie Saghbini
RAK: Over 300,000 Visitors in Q1 Ras Al Khaimah continues to strengthen its position as an affordable luxury destination, with visitor numbers for the first quarter (Q1) of the year reaching 304,843, boosting the emirate’s hotel revenue to USD45.1 million.
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SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
ased on statistics released by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (Ras Al Khaimah TDA), the destination is enjoying a significant rise in domestic tourism, as the UAE recently overpassed Germany and Russia as the emirate’s largest source market. In addition, visitor volume from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and India grew 312 percent, 227
JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli SALES & MARKETING Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Derek Lainsbury DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
percent, and 109 percent respectively. Since Ras Al Khaimah TDA’s establishment in May 2011, the travel and tourism industry’s contribution to the emirate’s GDP has soared to five percent and the authority aims to reach nine percent within the next five years, as the destination continues to grow with five new hotels and resorts featuring a total of 2,000 rooms set to open in the coming months.
HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia, 1308, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 210466
Marriott: Positive Q1 for the MEA Marriott International recorded an 11.2 percent increase in RevPAR figures across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region for the first quarter (Q1) of the year, driven predominantly by a 4.1 percent growth in occupancy levels. “These remarkable results clearly re-emphasise Marriott International’s commitment to the Middle East and Africa region, continuing to contribute to the ongoing growth of the region’s hospitality industry,” pinpointed Alex Kyriakidis, president, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International. “Our system continues to improve, and with our focus on the company’s flagship brand, Marriott Hotels and Resorts, as well as the extended stay sector and mobile technology, there is a lot more to come in [the current year]. Marriott International will be perfectly placed to accommodate the increasing number of visitors to the region.”
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
30/05/2013 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
6.98
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,504.00
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
97.25
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.29
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.64
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.57
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
12,283.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
79.21
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.28
Jumeirah Group: Strong Results in Q1
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uring the first quarter (Q1) of the year, average occupancy in Jumeirah Group’s portfolio of hotels showed a year-on-year increase of nine percent globally, while average daily rate also rose nine percent and RevPAR was up 22 percent. The top five source markets for the group’s properties in the UAE continue to be Russia, UK, GCC, Germany, and the US, while the Dubai properties also benefitted from a significant increase in business from Australia. Meanwhile, preparatory works on the site
of the new 430-room fourth hotel at the Madinat Jumeirah resort, Dubai, are set to commence during this summer, with construction slated for completion by the end of 2015.
Burj Al Arab
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WEEKLY NEWS DEPE Renamed to DFRSPE H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, has issued a new law renaming the Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE) as Dubai Festivals and Retails Sector Promotions Establishment (DFRSPE). Under the law, the new entity, an affiliate of the Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, is entitled to collaborate and coordinate with both the private and public sectors to promote and upgrade the retail sector in order to attract visitors and further increase the sectors’ contribution to Dubai’s GDP.
Saudi Arabia: 4.9 Million GCC Visitors Saudi Arabia continues to gain popularity within the GCC with 4.9 million travellers having visited the Kingdom from the region in 2012, representing 34 percent of the total of inbound visitors. As H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), highlighted, the tourism sector is capable of becoming one of the largest job creation forces in the country and investments in the hotel sector are set to reach SAR143.9 billion (USD38.37 billion) by 2020. In addition, SCTA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce are investing significantly in the MICE sector.
Pacific World Reaches Gulf Region The global destination management company (DMC) part of TUI Travel, Pacific World, announced its expansion into the Middle East, as it will now operate in the UAE and Oman. The development was facilitated through a strategic partnership with Travco, a leading full-service DMC in both Arab countries, and also a joint venture with affiliate TUI Travel. “The Gulf region has experienced tremendous growth in inbound travel in recent years. As home to three major aviation hubs, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, connecting Europe and Asia, it was critical for Pacific World to establish a presence in this market,” commented Harsha Krishnan, director, strategic development, Pacific World.
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Doha Improves its World Ranking Doha continues to strengthen its position as a leading convention destination, moving up 49 positions in the International Congress and Convention Association’s latest list of over 360 cities. The Qatari capital currently shares the 111th position with Florence, Riga, and San Juan, which, according to Adam Mather-Brown, general manager, Qatar National Convention Centre, demonstrates the commitment of all the stakeholders who work together to achieve the country’s vision of becoming a world-class meetings destination. “We are working hand-inhand with suppliers, hoteliers, and the relevant authorities to build awareness of the destination and increase the number of business tourism events that are attracted to this metropolitan hub with deep cultural roots,” he said.
Qatar National Convention Centre
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WEEKLY NEWS
Shurooq Unveils Sir Bu Nuair Island Project
Baloon Adventures: New Addition
The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) is to develop a AED500 million (USD136 million) integrated tourism project on the Sir Bu Nuair Island, one of the most important environmentally-protected areas in the emirate. Slated for completion by 2017, the project will include a luxury five-star hotel and resort, hotel apartments and villas, a camping village, retails shops, souk, dedicated family areas, amphitheatre, museum, mosque, education centre, harbour, and airport. As H.E. Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq, highlighted, the development is in line with the authority’s strategy to create a large variety of truly unique destinations.
Balloon Adventures Emirates introduced this season’s newest addition to their fleet of balloons; the A6-BOB, which is the largest in the Middle East standing almost 40m tall. The equipment can be licensed to hold up to a maximum of 30 passengers, however Balloon Adventures Emirates will fly with only 24 passengers per flight, to allow for more space for their guests. Licensed by the General Civil Aviation Authority, the company has been operating in the UAE since 2005, boasting experienced commercial pilots, while all balloons undergo a strict maintenance programme involving regular tests at their own facilities.
ResNet World Launches Arabic Internet Booking Engine ResNet World, one of the region’s fastest growing e-distribution and online marketing companies for the hospitality industry, continues to strengthen its position through innovation and its recently-launched all-inclusive Arabic Internet Booking Engine. The new booking engine, the first of its kind in the region, offers the full functionality of ResNet World’s English Internet Booking Engine, allowing hotels to manage Internet bookings quickly and effectively while avoiding expensive technology investments.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
DAMAC: Strategic Building Programme in Iraq DAMAC Properties has unveiled a comprehensive strategic plan to expand its operations in Iraq. The company has already begun work on the USD100 million Princess Tower, a 26-storey, luxury furnished apartment complex in the heart of Baghdad, marking the first stage of a long-term commitment to the country, as Ziad El Chaar, managing director, DAMAC Properties, explained. “Iraq is a key market for us and the Princess Tower is a clear sign of our commitment to build luxurious living environments in a country which is seeing strong investment and capital growth.” Upon completion in 2016, the tower will feature threebedroom fully-furnished luxury apartments in addition to a private health club, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and gym, and will be one of the highest residential towers in the Iraqi capital. Princess Tower
Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter Opens Marriott International celebrated the opening of Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter, which is set to appeal to travellers looking for a prime location close to the city’s diplomatic area. Commenting on the launch of the property, which features 277 rooms and nine suites, Farhan Lone, general manager, Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter, said, “I look forward to hosting guests at our contemporary café that offers all-day dining and showing off the state-of-the-art lobby featuring free Wi-Fi access. We also have a modern, fullyequipped fitness centre with an indoor pool and whirlpool which will keep them refreshed during their stay.” As Alex Kyriakidis, president, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, noted, tourism in the Kingdom has strong growth potential with an average increase of 6.5 percent year-on-year projected through 2014.
First Staybridge Suites to Open in Saudi Arabia InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed an agreement with Dyafah Al Mutahida to open a 200-key Staybridge Suites property in Jeddah. Located in the city centre, the brand’s first hotel in the Kingdom will cater for extended stay guests and will be developed on a 14,700m2 plot that will form part of Dyafah Al Mutahida’s mixed-use development including retail outlets, healthcare facilities, and a multi-purpose hall. “We are seeing an increase in demand for a range of accommodation options in Saudi Arabia and Staybridge Suites is our latest response to that demand,” asserted Pascal Gauvin, chief operating officer, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG, adding that the new property will suit the needs of business travellers staying for prolonged periods as well as families and intra-regional leisure travellers.
Ascott to Launch Serviced Residence in Riyadh The Ascott Limited has secured a management contract for its first premier serviced residence in Riyadh. Slated for opening in 2015, Ascott Olaya Riyadh will be part of Rafael Real Estate Development’s real estate project near the King Abdullah Financial District and will increase the Singapore-based company’s presence in the GCC to nearly 1,300 serviced apartment units. Guests will be able to choose from a mix of studio, one- or two-bedroom apartments, and benefit from a number of meeting rooms, a business centre and other business support services, as well as a health club. Ascott Olaya Riyadh 1 JUNE 2013
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WEEKLY NEWS
First One&Only Resort in Jeddah
Accommodation
SKAI Holdings: USD1 billion Project on Palm Jumeirah
Kerzner International Holdings has entered into an agreement with Al Khozama Management Company in partnership with Saudi Oger to develop and operate a new One&Only resort in Jeddah on the Red Sea. Boasting some 150 guest rooms, suites, and villas, a prestigious One&Only residential component, a myriad of dining and retail options, a health spa, extensive meeting facilities, and 230m of beachfront, the first One&Only-branded property in the Kingdom is set to become a destination for both business and leisure in Obhur, north of Jeddah. “Jeddah is the perfect location for the first One&Only experience in Saudi Arabia. The beachfront location is remarkable and I am very confident the resort will be well received by our many loyal One&Only guests and new guests alike,” commented Alan Leibman, CEO, Kerzner International Holdings.
Golden Tulip Galleria Hotel to Renovate Golden Tulip Galleria Hotel, located in the residential area of Jnah, Beirut, is to embark on a renovation programme by the end of the year. As Mohammad Zein, director of sales and marketing, Golden Tulip Galleria Hotel, revealed, the project will include the public areas, the conference rooms, as well as the addition of a large ballroom. “Other improvements will include all mechanical and technical areas, IT and system upgrade, and we are also studying the possibility of some additional food and beverage outlets,” Zein further informed. Rebranded in 2012 under Golden Tulip’s name, the hotel has since received significant, positive exposure, indicated Zein, adding that building on the company’s global presence, the management also aims to attract new markets, especially from Asia and Eastern Europe.
Golden Tulip Galleria Hotel
Dubai-based real estate investment firm, SKAI Holdings has unveiled plans for its USD1 billion hotel and furnished residences project on the Palm Jumeirah that will be operated by Viceroy Hotels and Resorts, marking the company’s first venture into Dubai. Construction on Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah has already begun, with completion and grand opening slated for the last quarter of 2016. Situated at the base trunk of the archipelago, the property will feature 481 rooms and suites along with 221 signature Viceroy Residences. “Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah will offer the best of all worlds,” claimed Kabir Mulchandani, CEO, SKAI Holdings, adding that the property is set to become a luxury urban beach resort in the heart of Dubai.
Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Gloria Hotels & Resorts: Six New Properties Gloria Hotels & Resorts plans to add at least six properties to its growing portfolio within the next two years. Set to welcome its first guests in July, the five-star Al Fayroz Al Massi Gloria Hotel Al Madina will feature 307 deluxe rooms and suites. Meanwhile, the company also recently signed a management deal for Gloria Hotel Doha, and in Cairo, Egypt, two five-star boutique hotels, namely Al Rehab Gloria Hotel and Al Maadi Gloria Hotel, are currently under development and slated for inauguration in 2014. Also in 2014, the five-star Gloria Sports City Hotel in Abu Dhabi will open its doors, while Gloria Ghala Hotel Muscat is expected to be unveiled in June 2015. Commenting on the upcoming launches, Antoine Sayegh, president, Gloria Hotels & Resorts said, “We have carried the Gloria ethos forward and […] look forward to welcoming new projects as we continue to grow.“
1 JUNE 2013
Accommodation
Rotana Translates its Official Website After recording a 49 percent occupancy growth in the wider Middle East region in 2012, Rotana is now offering its home market in the GCC and the wider Arab region a translated version of its official website in Arabic. In addition, to further expand the company’s international reach, guests will now be able to access the site in another five languages including English, Chinese, Spanish, German, and Russian. The translation project, which includes all content as well as booking capabilities, is driven by Rotana’s existing clientele and key growth markets, according to Omer Kaddouri, executive vice president, Rotana.
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JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort Awarded with Green Globe Certification A number of green initiatives, complemented with various socially responsible projects, have resulted in JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort receiving official Green Globe-certified resort status. Green Globe is known as the travel industry’s leading certification programme for sustainable tourism with the certification process being based on a total of 337 compliance indicators that cover 41 criteria. In recognition of the management’s endeavours, the resort also received a Dubai Green Tourism Award from the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing in 2012.
WEEKLY NEWS
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Emaar Unveils Vida Hotels and Resorts Emaar Hospitality Group has launched Vida Hotels and Resorts targeted at the new generation of young entrepreneurs, and business and leisure travellers. “The profile of today’s global traveller is changing, with a more youthful, upwardly mobile audience now seeking a distinct hospitality experience to suit their needs. Vida will add life to the hotel stays of this increasingly important tourist community,” said Mohamed Alabbar, chairman, Emaar Properties. The company plans to roll out the new hotel chain starting with Vida Downtown Dubai, which will also oversee the operations of the neighbouring Al Manzil Hotel.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Air
Qatar Airways Partners with Bangkok Airways Qatar Airways and Bangkok Airways have entered into a codeshare agreement whereby the Middle Eastern carrier now serves destinations across Thailand as well as the capital cities of neighbouring Cambodia and Myanmar. “This new partnership will offer better flight connectivity for passengers travelling on long-haul routes with Qatar Airways to Bangkok for their onward journey within Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar,” commented Peter Wiesner, senior vice president, network management, Bangkok Airways. The domestic Thai codeshare destinations to and from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport are Samui, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Trat, SukSuvarnabhumi International Airport, hothai, Lampang, Krabi. Bangkok
Etihad Airways and Alitalia Extend Services Following the success of December 2012’s launch of non-stop services between Rome and Abu Dhabi, driven by healthy load factors, strong feeder and onward connections traffic, as well as burgeoning trade and tourism ties, partners Etihad Airways and Alitalia have announced an increase in direct services between the two capitals to five weekly flights. At the same time, Etihad Airways has extended its onward codeshare connections over Alitalia’s Rome Fiumicino hub to comprise Athens, Barcelona, Belgrade, Bucharest, Budapest, Frankfurt, Geneva, Madrid, Malaga, Malta, Milan, Munich, Sofia, Tirana, Venice, Vienna and Zurich.
EGYPTAIR Takes Off to Abidjan and Al Qassim National flag carrier, EGYPTAIR, announced the launch of its new daily flights between Cairo and Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, starting from July 1, and also between the Egyptian capital and Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia, launching on June 1. The new EGYPTAIR operations will complement the current Middle East and African destinations in addition to other hubs already served by the company’s codeshare partner airlines.
Abu Dhabi: Over 1,000 Flights a Week Abu Dhabi International Airport is set to welcome 1,065 flights a week this summer, a 15 percent rise compared to the corresponding period in 2012, as certain airlines from around the globe are increasing their operations from and to the UAE capital. Meanwhile, the number of weekly seats available is expected to reach 32,004, demonstrating an 11 percent year-on-year surge. “The increased flight frequency inbound and outbound demonstrates the trust airlines have in the attractiveness of Abu Dhabi as a business and tourist destination,” pinpointed Ahmad Al Haddabi, chief operation officer, Abu Dhabi Airports Company.
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WHO'S MOVED
Ahmed Hishma Ahmed Hishma has been promoted to director of sales and marketing at Mercure Grand Hotel Seef in Bahrain. With a bachelor degree in hotel management from the Applied Science University in Jordan, Hishma joined the hotel’s team in 2006 as a sales manager.
After gaining experience in this position, he moved to different hotels in Bahrain as director of sales and marketing. Prior to re-joining Mercure Grand Hotel Seef, he acquired a wealth of experience having worked for Le MĂŠridien Hotels & Resorts as well as Ramada Worldwide.
Laurent Chaudet Laurent Chaudet has been selected by Majid Al Futtaim Hospitality and Accor to lead the recently-renovated Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel as the new general manager. Chaudet’s commitment to Accor spans over 30 years and includes key executive positions in the Far East and the UAE, including regional general manager for East Indonesia, general manager at Novotel Seoul Ambassador Gangnam, opening general
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manager at Sofitel Suzhou in China, and general manager at Grand Mercure Central Beijing. Prior to his appointment, he worked as general manager from the pre-opening of Pullman Dubai Mall of the Emirates. An enthusiastic and resultorientated hotelier, Chaudet has extensive experience in leading multi-cultural teams, delivering high service standards, achieving profitability, and boosting market share.
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Gianni Malerba Gianni Malerba has been named general manager of the soon-to-open Royal Rose Hotel. Malerba brings with him over 28 years of experience in international groups, including Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt International, and Warwick International Hotels which will help establish
the property, due to open in September, as a leading fivestar hotel in Abu Dhabi. Prior to his appointment, he served as general manager at Grand Excelsior Hotel, managing director of TMC International Hotels & Resort, and as general manager for five-star properties in Croatia, England and Morocco.
TRAVEL TALK
travel talk is your space
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Mohamed Taher
Rana El Khoury
Director of sales and marketing, Traders Hotel Dubai.
General manager, Le Gray Beirut.
“The Star of Excellence Award [which recognises and rewards high-potential wholesalers and tour operators] is a valuable opportunity for us to express our gratitude and appreciation towards our top producers and preferred business partners across the region. It signifies the solid partnership that has been created over the year, due to exceptional service and genuine care for our guests.”
“This year, we will continue to build on the quality and high standards of service that Le Gray is known for, while also continuously innovating. Le Gray is now preparing to kick off its extension, which will include a larger lobby with a lobby lounge, a chocolate room, banquet space, a 35-seat movie theater, and an additional 18 rooms; so this should be an exciting year. The project should be completed by the end of 2014.”
Jan Ifcic General manager, InterContinental Jordan.
“Launched by the late King Hussein bin Talal, InterContinental Jordan opened its doors on March 15 1963, so we started our festivities in the month of March. We had a very special gala reception […]; another set of activities revolves around art, as InterContinental Jordan’s gallery was the first in the Kingdom. One exciting collaboration has been with the Royal Automotive Museum of the late King Hussein, which donated a Rolls Royce.”
TRAVEL TALK is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
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AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Georges Moussa POSITION: Chairman COMPANY: Planet Group LOCATION: Dubai WEB: www.planetgrouponline.com Who are you? I am a businessman from Lebanon, living in the UAE for 31 years. After spending the first seven years in the engineering field in electro-mechanical contracting, as I am an engineer by qualification, I changed my career path in 1989 to the service sector, such as tourism, hospitality, food and beverage, and other customerorientated industries. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? My most important motivation to work in the travel industry is that it is still ‘people’s business’, so the direct dialogue with both suppliers and customers is very important. It is never stagnating. There are always new things and attractions to explore and offer to our customers. When is the best time to visit Dubai? Some 15 years ago, this would have been easy to answer, as at that time we had high season and low season (summer) in Dubai. Meanwhile, Dubai has become a year-round destination, and there is no low season any more. To make it short: it is always a good time to visit Dubai. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I would like to travel with my family to Munich and show my kids the Allianz Arena, the stadium of Bayern Munich, and to enjoy the surroundings of this city with its lakes, castles, mountains, and greenery. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We offer personalised service and we know the destination UAE better than anybody else. For free independent traveller bookings, we have a password protected business-to-business online reservation system for our customers, where they can book accommodation hotels and hotel apartments, transfers, tours and safaris, and other travel-related services at competitive net rates. We will always go the extra mile in order to exceed the expectations of our customers.
Rosewood Corniche Hosts FAM Trip Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Saudi Arabia, recently hosted a group of travel agents from Kuwait and Qatar on a five-day familiarisation (FAM) trip. Organised by Rosewood Corniche and its sister property, Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel, Riyadh, the FAM trip was designed specifically to promote the hotels’ services and facilities to agents selling travel packages to Saudi Arabia. Agents from Al Shamel Travel, Mubasher Holidays, Villa Travel, Bab Ishtar Travels, and Regency Travel were invited for the exclusive trip to Riyadh and Jeddah to experience firsthand the hotels’
quality accommodation, service, and culinary delicacies. Highlights of the trip included VIP arrival and drop-off, along with a specially organised Umrah trip to Mecca in chauffeurdriven cars, followed by a dinner at the rooftop pool of Rosewood Corniche. Hans Peter-Leitzke, managing director, Rosewood Corniche, said, “The group enjoyed the trip and was very satisfied with the hotel’s quality and standards, and expressed their liking for Rosewood Corniche and the city of Jeddah; [...] this is a great way to promote the city and receive more visitors from the region.”
Quickbeds.com Joins Travelport’s Database Travelport recently announced that Quickbeds.com has joined its hotel booking engine, Travelport Rooms and More, thus extending the technology provider’s already large database with an additional 4,200 hotel offerings based in Australia. Quickbeds.com, a division of Flight Centre, is the 21st supplier to be implemented in Travelport Rooms and More, since the engine was launched in 2011 with the vision to improve the efficiency of searching for hotel content across numerous websites and aggregators. Niklas Andréen, group vice president, hospitality and partner marketing, Travelport, explained that enhancing hospitality offering is one of Travelport’s core strategic focuses. “We are delighted to welcome Quickbeds.com on board as a partner, adding extensive Australian hotel offerings which are often difficult to find. This partnership is an exciting development in the growth of Travelport Rooms and More as we continue to expand,” Andréen commented. Niklas Andréen
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Supporting Morocco’s Tourism In the implementation of a new classification system for tourism accommodation establishments, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Morocco’s government recently signed an agreement.
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he project will build capacity within Morocco’s Ministry of Tourism to set up a new classification system for the accommodation establishments with the aim of elevating the competitiveness of the country’s hotel industry in line with international standards. This initiative is set to contribute to the economic and social development of Morocco as well as advance the quality of its tourism sector, according to Fréderic Pierret, executive director, programme and coordination, UNWTO. The programme, financed by Morocco’s government, will be implemented by UNWTO which will provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Tourism between this year and 2018, and is an integral part of the country’s tourism strategy ‘Vision 2020’.
Oman Boosting Tourism Investment With over 3,000 hotel rooms due for completion by the end of 2014, the outlook for new properties in Oman looks promising as a list of new projects has been released by the sultanate’s Ministry of Tourism. OMRAN, Oman’s specialist tourism development and asset management company, is making a pivotal contribution to the sector’s development outcome by leading the delivery of several major joint venture projects valued at around USD1.6 billion. Private sector investment is also on the rise with new resorts opening, the next being the 37-room Tiwi Resort followed late this year by a mountain resort hotel at Diana’s Point, Jabal Al Akhdar. “OMRAN is on track to complete niche resorts in Khasab and Jabal Al Akhdar, and the construction of new hotels and visitor facilities are starting in Muscat and Salalah, while the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre is on track to open in the first quarter of 2017,” commented H.E. Ahmed Al Mahrizi, minister of tourism, Oman.
Ireland Popular Among Middle Easterners The number of GCC visitors to Ireland increased by 15 percent between January and May this year compared to the same period in 2012, new figures released by Tourism Ireland have revealed. An eight percent rise was also observed in visitors’ visa applications, compared to the corresponding period in 2012, as both these metrics continue to climb the growth trajectory, based on the tourism authority’s data. According to Thomas Redmond, marketing account manager, GCC, Tourism Ireland, the number of visitors to Ireland is expected to rise by approximately five percent this year, in response to the year-long initiative namely The Gathering Ireland 2013, which aims to boost overseas tourism through a diverse roaster of prestigious events across the Middle East.
InterContinental Aqaba Resort Supports Beach Clean-up InterContinental Aqaba Resort has participated in one of the Blue Flag initiatives for this year, which included a beach clean-up activity at the shores of the city of Aqaba. The resort’s team gathered together along with employees from other properties in Aqaba and took part in various activities, including snorkelling, diving, and cleaning the beach as well as underwater. Saving and conserving the environment has long been a priority of InterContinental Aqaba Resort which has been awarded with both the Blue Flag and Green Key certificates, focused on maintaining the environment through several ways and means.
InterContinental Aqaba Resort’s team
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RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with George Amireh As Jordan continues to develop as a world-class tourist destination, the new Abdali Downtown promises to become a prominent landmark of Amman and foster the city’s socio-economic growth on the regional and global scales, as George Amireh, CEO, Abdali Investment & Development, explains.
Travel Trade Weekly: Abdali is hailed as Amman’s new downtown. At what stage is the development? George Amireh: Approximately 85 percent of midrise developments within the project are ready for operation. These developments consist primarily of Grade A office buildings and luxurious serviced apartment buildings with the ground floors featuring high-street integrated retail spaces. Moreover, a total of five towers are currently being erected within the project, one of which is the celebrated Rotana Hotel Tower. At 188m, this landmark building is positioned to become the highest tower in Jordan. Meanwhile, the Abdali Boulevard, which is one of the highlights of the Abdali project, is now more than 97 percent complete. The Abdali Mall has completed the substructure works on its 32,000m2 land. To date, five underground floors have been constructed, which will be designated for services and parking. The project, which includes a unique shopping mall and a mixed-use tower, has also commenced work on the superstructure of the shopping mall reaching to the skeleton works of the fourth floor out of five. Finally, construction works have recently commenced on a new tower, the W hotel, which will be, in addition to the Rotana hotel, key to cementing Abdali’s role as a touristic hub. Travel Trade Weekly: How will the development benefit Jordan as a tourist destination? George Amireh: Abdali is the ideal tourist destination, bringing together a mix of the finest hotels, cafés, and restaurants, as well as a host of
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George Amireh CEO, Abdali Investment & Development
local and international fashion boutiques. Situated in the heart of the city and within close proximity to Jordan’s renowned tourism sites, Abdali itself will also be a hub for live entertainment and leisure for local and foreign visitors. With several international luxury hotels such as the Rotana and the W hotels, in addition to 400 luxurious serviced apartments operated and managed by Rotana Hotel Management Corporation at the Boulevard, tourists will be offered the pinnacle of luxuriant world-class services and the ultimate convenience of having a multitude of facilities only steps away. [...] The project will give the city a more cosmopolitan feel, creating a lively tourism destination for both locals and visitors. Travel Trade Weekly: What are the other highlights of the project?
George Amireh: The new downtown is geographically situated within the core of major public, touristic, financial, and commercial establishments. One can imagine how Abdali will become the pulse of Amman, as it offers the first master-planned development in the centre of the city. Its well-balanced urban density of business districts, residential spaces, indoor and outdoor shopping, verdant spaces, and entertainment hotspots is the key to successful living. The 30,000m2 park in Abdali offers charming landscaping, while pedestrian zones and modern road infrastructure enhances everyone’s experience of the area, whether they choose to walk or to drive. Up to 25,000 vehicles can be accommodated at Abdali’s parking facilities. Abdali has taken on the responsibility to implement various policies and initiatives in its various departments and divisions to protect the environment. […] Furthermore, Abdali also supports and encourages developers to attain LEED certification which verifies that a building project is environmentally responsible. Travel Trade Weekly: Please tell us about the company’s plans for the remainder of the year. George Amireh: The Abdali project consists of two phases. The first phase covers 34 separate projects owned and developed by a multitude of both local and international investors. Of the 34 projects, 26 are expected to conclude by year-end 2014, with 17 of those actually set to become operational within the span of the current year. The second phase of the project is currently under review to accommodate to changing demand patterns within the real estate market.
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NEWS & EVENTS
SCTDA on European Road Show A European road show was held between May 13-15, bringing together various top representatives of the tourism sector across the countries who took part, under the leadership of the UAE’s National Council of Tourism & Antiquities (NCTA). The road show included workshops and meetings in the capitals of Germany and the Netherlands, as the former is considered a key tourism feeding market for Sharjah, with 2012 witnessing 85,000 tourist arrivals from the country, while the overall number of travellers the emirate received from Europe stood at 621,315. H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), underscored the importance of cooperation between government agencies and the private sector in the tourism sector to boost the country’s leading position, regionally and globally, while he praised the efforts of NCTA for providing a federal umbrella to the tourism sector in the UAE while maintaining its unique character and identity.
InterContinental Jordan Presents Art Exhibition The opening of ‘Les Créateurs Libanais Exhibition’ took place under the patronage of H.R.H. Princess Alia Tabbaa on May 20 at the Grand Ballroom of InterContinental Jordan. The event, organised by the Beirut Association for Social Development and the Social Solidarity Society already recognised as a key exhibition for the development of outstanding Lebanese talents, this year gave the opportunity for Jordanian artists to exhibit their unique designs. Hotel guests visited the exhibition to discover the stylish and creative gifts that are not available on the common market as they are handmade in Lebanon and Jordan. ‘Les Créateurs Libanais Exhibition’ features some of Lebanon’s and Jordan’s most creative designers and artists displaying their works from handicrafts and clothes to fashion and home accessories, and part of the event’s donations were given to charity.
EVENTS International Luxury Travel Market Asia (ILTM Asia) Shanghai, China, June 3 – 6, 2013 (www.iltm.net/asia) A leading ‘by invitation only’ event for the luxury travel community of the Asia Pacific, presenting the world’s most sought after collection of luxury experiences.
International Travel Expo (ITE) Hong Kong, June 13 – 16, 2013 (www.itehk.com) The event is set to welcome some 50 countries and regions from different continents and over 600 exhibitors presenting the latest trends and ideas.
Euroal 2013 Torremolinos, Spain, June 6 – 8, 2013 (www.euroal.net) A meeting point for business contact and professional deals, presenting new markets and new opportunities.
Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE) Beijing, China, June 21 – 23, 2013 (www.bitechina.com) One of Asia’s leading travel and tourism events, which will showcase a range of destinations, tourism attractions, travel packages, and services.
The Americas Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (AIBTM) Chicago, US, June 11 – 13, 2013 (www.aibtm.com) A three-day event focusing on the Americas’ meetings and events sector, where no time is wasted and where deals get done.
Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Kolkata, India, July 5 – 7, 2013 (www.ttfotm.com) TTF is hailed as India’s largest business-to-business focused travel trade show network.
1 JUNE 2013