TTM november issue 13 by Travel Trade Publications

Middle East and North Africa Edition

INVESTIGATION: CRUISES The global cruising industry has made a concerted eﬀort to alter its image in recent years by introducing a range of family friendly options, adventure-based itineraries and high adrenaline activities. The Middle East has responded to the new wave of cruise holidays with strong sales and a governmental focus on boosting the local industry.

The United Arab Emirates has evolved rapidly from a society of fishing villages and nomadic Bedouin tribes to a vibrant hub of international business and luxury leisure tourism. The past two years of economic decline and uncertainty have taken their toll on the region, but the tourism industry remains resilient and development continues. Now that high revenues and strong demand can no longer be taken for granted, the focus is on savvy management and promotional strategies to capture tourists in an increasingly competitive market.

4 ONSITE: INDIA Inexpensive, exotic and scintillatingly diverse, India has spawned a whole genre of semimystical self-discovery travel literature. But the clichés of snake charmers and spiritual awakenings are only one of India’s many faces; the country’s economy has exploded in recent years and India is ready to take its place as a sophisticated, modern destination.

20 In This Issue MARKET UPDATE INVESTIGATION: Cruises VISIT: UAE EXCLUSIVE: Overnight Travel EXPLORE: Iran & Iraq ONSITE: India TRAVEL TALK TRAVEL TIPS TOUR: Portugal RENDEZVOUS WHO’S MOVED LONG HAUL: Brazil NEWS & EVENTS NOVEMBER 2010

ISSUE 13

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The UAE

6 www.traveltradeweekly.travel

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY Editor Laura Warne Deputy Editor Louis Dillon Savage Design & Layout Elina Pericleous Sales & Marketing Marianna Tsiamas Evelina Hadjigeorgiou Dimitris Thomaidis Directors Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi Headquarters P.O. Box 25255 Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +35722820888 Fax: +35722318958 Website www.traveltradeweekly.travel Emails info@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel Printed in Cyprus Cyprint Plc P.O. Box 58300 CY-3732, Limassol Cyprus Tel: +35725720035 Fax: +35725720123 Email: cyprint@cytprint.com.cy

Publisher’s Note Welcome to the latest issue of Travel Trade Monthly! This issue marks the first anniversary of our publication – in just one year, Travel Trade Monthly has become one of the leading sources of news, analysis and opinion for the travel trade industry in the Middle East and North Africa. I would like to personally thank our editorial, design and sales and marketing teams, as well as our loyal readers and advertisers for their contribution to the continued success of our two publications. Since launching in November 2009, we have produced: n 13 issues of Travel Trade Monthly, full of in-depth feature articles covering leading destinations and trends

within the Middle East and North Africa, as well as emerging global destinations and time-honoured traveller favourites. n 51 issues of our virtual sister publication, Travel Trade Weekly, which features up-to-the-minute industry news and market developments, as well as exclusive interviews with leading industry figures. I would also like to take this opportunity to highlight some changes within our team. Firstly, I am pleased to announce the promotion of Laura Warne to the position of editor of Travel Trade Weekly and Travel Trade Monthly. Laura has worked as deputy editor on both publications since their launch and will continue to lead our editorial team in her new role. Taking her place as deputy editor will be our journalist, Louis Dillon Savage, who has also played an integral role in the growth of both our weekly and monthly publications. Both Laura and Louis have proven to be valuable members of our team and I congratulate them on these new positions. Once again, I would like to thank all of our readers for your continued support of Travel Trade Monthly and Travel Trade Weekly – I hope you enjoy this latest issue and many more to come! Mary Kammitsi Publisher

MENA Exchange Rates Accurate as of 25/10/2010 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar COUNTRY UAE (AED) Egypt (EGP) Saudi Arabia (SAR) Lebanon (LBP) Bahrain (BHD) Jordan ( JOD) Syria (SYP) Kuwait (KWD) Qatar (QAR) Oman (OMR) Tunisia (TND) Morocco (MAD) Iran (IRR) Yemen (YER) Algeria (DZD) Libya (LYD)

CURRENCY Dirham Pound Riyal Pound Dinar Dinar Pound Dinar Riyal Rial Dinar Dirham Riyal Rial Dinar Dinar

Rail Europe Targets Middle Eastern Travellers with New Dubai Oﬃce 1USD= 3.69 5.77 3.75 1501 0.37 0.70 45.72 0.28 3.64 0.38 1.39 8.04 10,370 214.97 73.41 1.25

Rail distribution group Rail Europe 4A plans to target outbound travellers from the Middle East with a new Dubai oﬃce, located in Internet City. Waleed Ahmed, regional manager of Rail Europe Middle East, said the market had shown strong interest in European rail products and was proving to be a dynamic source market. “Every year, thousands of visitors from the Middle East choose to travel Europe by train, whether for business or leisure purposes,” said Ahmed. “We will leverage our in-depth knowledge and extensive experience in the regional market to increase awareness and interest in the unique products and services oﬀered by Rail Europe 4A.

“Our new oﬃce in Dubai will allow us to sustain the highest level of quality, in co-operation with our comprehensive networks of general sales agents.”

Every year, thousands of visitors from the Middle East choose to travel Europe by train The Dubai oﬃce will join a growing network of Rail Europe outlets around the world, with a further six representative oﬃces currently operating in Tokyo, Seoul, Mumbai, Buenos Aires, Sydney and Hong Kong. NOVEMBER 2010

- Cruises

Mainstream Ahead: Gulf Cruising Becomes Big Business The global cruising industry has made a concerted eﬀort to alter its image in recent years by introducing a range of family friendly options, adventure-based itineraries and high adrenaline activities. The Middle East, now a popular port of call for several major cruise lines, has responded to the new wave of cruise holidays with strong sales and a governmental focus on growing the local industry. Laura Warne writes

range of traveller trends and new facilities have encouraged the cruising industry to shrug off the decidedly old fashioned reputation it had attracted. Gone are the days of cardigan-clad retirees playing shuffleboard on deck – spirited aqua theatre, luxury spa treatments and experiential land excursions are now the order of the day. Onboard the most recently launched cruise ships, passengers can expect to find rock climbing walls, surfing simulators, zip lines and tree-lined boulevards of exclusive fashion boutiques. However, the long-established staples of fine dining, security and all inclusive service have remained, making cruising a popular choice with the Middle Eastern market. Within the region, government and industry representatives have worked together to attract major cruise companies and improve services. The new cruise terminal at Port Rashid in Dubai has been well received by international brands and local tour companies are signing on to offer landbased excursions during Middle East sailings. Some issues do remain a challenge for both inbound and outbound visitors in the region, such as securing visas for all the necessary points of disembarkation. However, these challenges can offer a silver lining for travel agents – early bookings. In an increasingly last-minute bookings landscape, cruising is one holiday option that requires forethought; guests must book well in advance to ensure they secure the cabin of their choice and have time to arrange any necessary visas. Despite the necessity of booking ahead of time, cruises are designed to be otherwise hassle-free – once a traveller has decided on the basic issues

Liberty of the Seas Liberty Platinum Theatre 4

Oasis of the Seas

of destination and length of journey, there is very little other planning required. Travel professionals agree that the all-inclusive and convenient nature of cruising remains one of its strongest selling points. Major Players hit Middle East While not long established as a cruising destination, the Middle East is now serviced by a range of major international cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Costa Cruises and Silversea. Sailings around the Middle East, most often taking in the UAE, Oman and Bahrain, are becoming more frequent. After completing a successful first season sailing from Dubai this year, passenger demand has prompted Royal Caribbean to increase the range of its Middle East itineraries and extend its winter season for 2011 and 2012. Lakshmi Durai is the executive director of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara Club Cruises for the Middle East. She pointed out that, while the company had recorded regular booking increases throughout its 16 years in the region, the decision to home-port Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas ship in Dubai during the most recent cruising season proved to be a major success. Compared to the solid growth of around 35 percent per year that the company had seen prior to 2009, there was an increase of 63 percent in guest volume from the Middle East during the first half of 2010. Durai attributed the growth to increased awareness and the opportunity to give travel agents and media

Costa Pacifica

representatives first-hand demonstrations of the ship’s facilities during its stops in Dubai. She added that cruising holidays are well aligned with the services and experiences that many Middle Eastern guests look for when choosing travel options. Around 70 percent of Royal Caribbean’s Middle Eastern clients are Arabic, with the remaining 30 percent made up of Eastern and Western expats. “The main appeal of cruising for Arabic clients is the family aspect,” explained Durai. “Cruising is an excellent fit for everybody – a family can book a holiday that provides something for children, teenagers, middle aged parents and elders. “There are children’s activities for every age, not just babysitting services, and there are specific activities for all guests, whether they are interested in sports, relaxation, spa and beauty or entertainment.” Durai added that convenience and a high level of service were also major drawcards for Middle Eastern tourists. “Cruising holidays take in multiple destinations without the hassle – every morning you arrive in a new port, you don’t have to pack or unpack anything, just take your handbag, explore for the day and return in the evening for dinner onboard before departure,” she said. NOVEMBER 2010

- Cruises “One of the biggest appeals of cruising is that it is inclusive – you don’t have to keep pulling out your wallet. “All food and accommodation is included, as is most of the entertainment and activities – you only pay once and everything is done for you.” While Europe and the Caribbean have traditionally been the markets of interest for Middle Eastern cruise clients, recent bookings show that the region is now looking further afield and embracing new experiences. Princess Cruises has noted a 62 percent increase in sales from the Middle East (predominantly from the UAE, Bahrain and Oman), for its Alaska Family Cruise Vacation package. In addition to regular dining and entertainment options, these cruises feature educational expeditions, wilderness activities and a range of programmes specially designed for children. Good Things, Small Packages For travellers seeking a sailing holiday of a more intimate nature, yacht charters are becoming more popular among independent Middle Eastern travellers. Whether crewed, skippered or chartered bareboat (without crew), yachting holidays can oﬀer a more engaged and exclusive experience, according to Philippe Saad, managing director of the UAE’s Eden Yachting. “Chartered yachts may not travel as far as cruise ships, however they are able to explore the small bays and picturesque harbours that would be impossible for a cruise liner to get into,” said Saad. “Yacht charter is perfect for people who are seeking a more bespoke type of holiday, enjoying the peace of private cruising with the option to dip into the busy life ashore at any point.” Saad pointed out that there was a wealth of research showing the over 50s crowd (a key cruising market) was becoming increasingly adventurous in their holiday choices and opting for experiential travel over sanitised itineraries. “A privately chartered yacht can of course be more challenging, depending on the destination and whether the yacht is crewed, but it can oﬀer

privacy and freedom – something that a cruise never can,” he said. Saad pointed out a wealth of options for charter experiences to suit all markets: a shared sailing holiday in Greece or the Caribbean for younger groups on a budget; a crewed motor yacht through the Italian or French Riviera for a luxury family holiday; adventure holidays in Thailand or Alaska; or natural history trips around the Galapagos. However, while the privacy and flexibility of yachting may be boosting the popularity of charter holidays, there are still many in the Middle East who believe that bigger is better. Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, currently the largest cruise liner in the world, attracted strong interest from the Middle Eastern market. “We have found that clients from the Middle East are interested in specific ships, not just destinations,” explained Durai. “Europe is our most popular destination from this market, but when we launched Oasis of the Seas, we had an increase of bookings on the Caribbean voyages, because people wanted to experience that ship.” Oasis of the Seas will be joined by her sister ship, Allure of the Seas, next month; both will sail

throughout the Caribbean from their home port in Florida, US. In the Middle East, Royal Caribbean will launch its extended winter cruising season from Dubai in 2011, with new itineraries that will include stops in India.

Cruising holidays take in multiple destinations without the hassle Costa Cruises will also continue its services in the Gulf this season, with Costa Deliziosa and Costa Luminosa sailing from Dubai. The Costa ships will offer a range of specific facilities for Arabic guests, including prayer rooms, regional cuisine, Arabic language services and Arabic television and radio channels. Silversea’s Silver Wind will begin sailing from Dubai in late November, offering a boutique luxury cruise experience with celebrity hosts and personal butlers. The increasingly broad range of experiences on offer in the Middle East provides clear evidence of the growing popularity of cruising holidays and the strength of the region as a cruising destination. n

Clients from the Middle East are interested in specific ships, not just destinations

Costa Deliziosa Samsara Tepidarium NOVEMBER 2010

- UAE

State of the Union: Modern Tourism in the UAE The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has evolved rapidly from a society of fishing villages and nomadic Bedouin tribes into a vibrant hub of international business and luxury leisure tourism. The past two years of economic decline and uncertainty have taken their toll on the region, but the tourism industry remains resilient and development continues. Now that high revenue and strong demand can no longer be taken for granted, the focus is on savvy management and promotional strategies to capture tourists in an increasingly competitive market. Laura Warne writes

ubai, once celebrated as the golden child of the UAE, became its whipping boy during the global economic crisis – the glitzy emirate provided an ideal symbol of the epic rise and fall of new wealth markets, with all the associated decadence, debt and over-the-top development. Home to the world’s tallest building, the world’s largest shopping mall and even The World itself, among a galaxy of man-made islands, Dubai is not known for its subtlety. The emirate’s ongoing financial issues, which came to a head at the end of 2009 with the high profile

government bailout and restructure of Dubai World, have made headlines around the world. In addition to allegations of irresponsible spending and lending, Dubai has been publicly condemned for questionable labour practices, unsustainable development and the occasional legal crackdown on affectionate tourists and expats. However, despite the weight of international criticism, the emirate remains the Middle East’s key hub for global business, industry and air traffic, as well as an enduring holiday destination. Over the past year, a somewhat humbled Dubai has dusted itself off and looked toward a more sustainable and measured future.

Dubai has witnessed some exceptional growth levels in tourism rarely seen in other parts of the world

The UAE in Brief Capital: Abu Dhabi Language: Arabic Other emirates: Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain Currency: UAE Dirhams (AED) Mohamed Shoier, executive assistant manager of sales and marketing at Ramada Downtown Dubai explained the new mindset of hoteliers in the emirate. “Though Dubai has witnessed some exceptional growth levels in tourism rarely seen in other parts of the world, international arrivals have decreased in the last two years,” said Shoier. “However, this has given us a chance to reexamine the demand patterns of customers and ensure lasting policies for sustainable tourism development in the country. “With a changed global scenario, today the customer has become very cautious about spending money... and although the Middle East seems to be pulling out of the economic slump and showing signs of renewed growth, much still needs to be done to convince travellers to alter their behaviour and traditional travel patterns.” Dubai’s newest airport, Al Maktoum International, is expected to play a major part in driving future travel in the region, naturally putting Dubai front and centre. In typical Dubai fashion, Al Maktoum International is designed to be the biggest airport in the world, with five runways, four terminal buildings and capacity for 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo.

Dubai Marina

NOVEMBER 2010

- Dubai The airport is part of the USD33 billion government-led Dubai World Central project, which aims to position Dubai as an international trade centre and global logistics hub. The airport opened to cargo flights in June, 2010, and Lorne Riley, head of corporate communications at Dubai Airports, said the passenger terminal was expected to open in 2011. “Initially the volumes are anticipated to be relatively modest as Dubai International will continue to serve as Dubai’s global hub well into the next decade,” said Riley. “That said, Dubai World Central will play an instrumental role in accommodating traﬃc growth.” Riley said capacity at the existing Dubai International Airport would expand to 75 million passengers per year with the opening of Concourse Three at the end of 2012. Additional facility enhancements and eﬃciency gains, according to Riley, could further boost this capacity to 90 million. “However, passenger numbers are forecast to reach 98 million by 2020, so Dubai World Central will be needed to make sure the impressive

NOVEMBER 2010

growth we have seen over the past 50 years continues unabated,” said Riley. Dubai is now home to two national airlines – established legacy carrier Emirates and the more recent low cost carrier, Flydubai. Both continue to expand their services with new flights and increased frequency, focusing on successful trade routes, popular holiday destinations and relevant links for the UAE’s large expat population. Emerging business and tourism destinations are also a key focus, with Africa, Russia, China and India all seeing increased traﬃc from the emirate.

Investment’s New Wave While project delays and plummeting property values may have soured Dubai in the eyes of many investors, Helmut Meckelburg, CEO of Safir Hotels and Resorts, pointed out that a new breed was stepping up to take advantage of the changed market. “The last [investment] trend I observed ended two years ago when projects halted, came to a standstill and capital dried up,” he said. “There is a new group of investors, which have never before invested in or developed hotels. “They are attracted by the substantially lower costs compared to the prices just a few years back.”

- Dubai He added that the new wave of investors had brought with it a dramatic increase in new hotel management companies – a development that Meckelburg suggested was long overdue. “Once you have created a brand and a name, and with it expectations, you need to have systems and processes in place which not only help to deliver results to owners, but which assure that these results happen – with you or without you,” he explained. While locally branded hotels do exist in the emirate, Dubai’s skyline is awash with instantly recognisable international names. Many of the global brands present in Dubai are confident in new developments and are rushing to boost their local portfolio in order to corner multiple tourism sectors – be it beach holidays, spa retreats, city stays or business travel. Elie Younes, vice president for Rezidor’s business development across the Middle East and Africa explained this trend, following the recent opening of the group’s latest Radisson Blu property in Dubai. Younes pointed out that with four Radisson Blu properties across the emirate – targeting Media City, Dubai Marina, Deira Creek and the rapidly growing Downtown Dubai – a beach hotel was

the logical next step for the brand. “Now that our city properties are well established, the focus for the next eight months is definitely to develop a resort property,” said Younes. “We have lots of experience running resorts around the world and a hotel by the beach would complete our Dubai oﬀering.” Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts is another brand set to dominate the local skyline; in September, the brand launched the first 396 of a total 1,200 new rooms set to be released in Dubai over the next six months. Mövenpick’s imposing Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel is the brand’s third Dubai property so far – three more are still to come. In partnership with Dubai-based developer Seven Tides, Mövenpick plans to launch Mövenpick Hotel Deira, plus two resorts on The Palm Jumeirah – Oceana Hotel and Spa at the Oceana Beach Club and Royal Amwaj Resort and Spa. While many continue to voice concerns about a growing imbalance of supply and demand, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce (DTCM) is quick to point out that the emirate

With a changed global scenario, today the customer has become very cautious about spending money

Deira Creek

recorded significant growth in hotel occupancy and tourism arrivals over the first half of 2010, despite a seven percent increase in the number of operational hotels. Eyad Abdul Rahman, executive director of media relations and business development at DTCM, said the number of hotels operating in Dubai increased from 530 in 2009 to 566 in the first half of 2010. Despite this increase, he pointed out that hotels had sustained their occupancy rates at 71.7 percent. As a result of the increasingly diverse accommodation oﬀerings in the emirate, DTCM has identified the need to overhaul its existing hotel classification system, which was implemented in 1998 and rates properties on a scale of one to five stars. A new classification system will be implemented from the end of 2010, and while the star rating will remain, additional factors will be taken into account, including hotel category (for instance, business, beach, desert or heritage). To distinguish between the myriad luxury properties in the emirate, five star hotels will have three categories – platinum, gold and silver. According to DTCM, the new system is in line with global benchmarking standards and the quality assurance component of Dubai’s tourism strategy. As Dubai continues to woo new markets, while trying to win back traditional customers that have shied away in recent years, operators hope initiatives such as this will help the emirate recapture its former glory (if not its former price-tag).

Downtown Dubai

NOVEMBER 2010

- Ras Al Khaimah

as Al Khaimah’s new theme park facilities and a rejuvenated national airline have repositioned the emirate, which was once almost exclusively a businessfocused corner of the UAE. Upcoming resorts and entertainment facilities are set to cement the emirate’s growing leisure appeal.

Back in the Air Ras Al Khaimah’s national airline, RAK Airways, was forced to suspend all services in May, 2009, citing tough market conditions caused by the global economic downturn. However, since re-launching in September this year, the airline has seen high passenger demand, leading to an immediate increase in flight frequency. RAK Airways initially re-launched with four weekly flights each to Calicut in India and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. Omar Jahameh, CEO of the airline, said bilateral demand for the Calicut route had led to the introduction of a fifth weekly flight, a service that began on October 31, 2010. “Interest in our Calicut route has been overwhelming, with passengers from across the emirates and India wanting to avail of our value offering,” said Jahameh. “With a free shuttle service from the neighbouring emirates and five direct flights a week to Calicut, the gateway to Kerala, RAK Airways offers a convenient, affordable travel option for the UAE’s Keralite community.” The airline’s Saudi Arabian service is seeing similar success, with load factors of between 70 and 80 percent. Jahameh explained that RAK Airways was pursuing a middle-ground stance in the market, positioning itself between established legacy airlines and the more recently introduced low cost carriers. NOVEMBER 2010

While fares are designed to remain competitively low, the price of each flight includes a full meal and non-alcoholic beverages, a 30kg baggage allowance and a free shuttle bus service between the neighbouring emirates. The airline has already partnered with car rental group Holiday Autos in the UAE and plans to boost sales with further strategic partnerships. Ice Land in Ras Al Khaimah Ice Land Water Park opened to the public in late September, 2010. The water park is the first phase of the WOW RAK theme park and resort, featuring more than 50 water attractions and slides. The second phase of WOW RAK is expected to open in late 2011. It will feature a shopping mall, 4D theatre, seaside resort and ice skating rink. The final stage, Planet Earth amusement park, is scheduled to open in 2012, with signature rides and attractions across five themed zones – Cosmos, Oceanic, Amazon, Mountain and Desert. Ice Land will be managed by Polo RAK Amusement, which is a joint venture between India’s Polo Amusement Group, RAK Properties PJSC and RAK Investment Authority. Balwant Singh, managing director of Polo RAK Amusement said the park was designed to oﬀer experiences for a wide range of ages, lifestyles and cultural groups. “We have built the Kids Cove as a dedicated place for toddlers, primarily because children and toddlers are often overlooked in facility planning of other water parks,” he said. “There is certainly something for everybody to enjoy and appreciate and we are sure that families will greatly appreciate such a unique, complete entertainment experience.” Mohammed Sultan Al Qadi, managing director of RAK Properties, said the water park would reinforce the growing reputation of the emirate’s tourism and leisure industry. “Ice Land Water Park underlines Ras Al Khaimah’s continuing thrust to oﬀer a premium

selection of business, leisure and lifestyle amenities and to attract more visitors to the emirate,” he said. Hotel Development Al Hamra Village, a mixed use tourism and residential project by Al Hamra Real Estate Development LLC, continues to introduce new facilities to the market in Ras Al Khaimah. The project’s semi-completed masterplan includes a marina, golf course, several hotels and a shopping mall. Dr Ayoob Alfaraj, general manager of Al Hamra Real Estate Development LLC, recently visited the Kuwait International Property Exhibition to promote two major projects currently under development in the village: Royal Breeze, a beachside and golf course freehold property development; and The Palace Hotel, featuring 375 hotel rooms and 230 hotel apartments. “Royal Breeze and The Palace Hotel are just a few of the impressive line of development projects that will ultimately help redefine Ras Al Khaimah as a popular destination for property investors and buyers,” said Alfaraj. Newcomer Banyan Tree Al Wadi, currently the only Banyan Tree property in the Middle East, has received strong support from travellers and the tourism industry since its oﬃcial opening early this year. The luxury spa resort has attracted local clientele as well as solid interest from the UK market, where spa holidays to the Middle East continue to be strong sellers for high-end travellers. Man-made islands are set to be a fixture in the future landscape of Ras Al Khaimah; according to Rakeen Development, the company is on track to deliver its flagship project for Al Marjan Island, Bab Al Bahr, in early 2011. Bab Al Bahr is expected to feature commercial oﬃce space and residential apartments, while the finished Al Marjan Island project will be home to a range of tourism and hospitality attractions. 9

- Abu Dhabi

bu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is arguably the fastest rising star in the collection of emirates. A keen focus on high profile sporting events, MICE tourism and business travel set a strong foundation for growth; the emirate is now reaping the benefits, while also diversifying into the leisure market. Attractions such as the new Ferrari World theme park, Yas Island, Al Ain Wildlife Park and Desert Islands are attracting visitors seeking a mix of cultural, adventure and luxury experiences. Hotel Development Abu Dhabi’s hotel industry has evolved rapidly in recent years to combat a serious lack of available rooms at peak times. Increased supply has driven down average room rates and occupancy figures in recent months; Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) reported a drop in hotel rates of 24 percent in August, 2010, compared to figures from the same month in 2009. Euromonitor International echoed these sentiments, with figures that showed a strong

decrease in occupancy and rates throughout the first half of 2010. With an estimated 14,712 rooms still in the total active pipeline across Abu Dhabi, this competitive trend is expected to continue, possibly intensifying as new hotels come online. However, while this may not be good news for hoteliers, it has encouraged meeting and event planners who previously criticised the emirate for its expensive accommodation. Diversity of hotel options is also on the rise, with budget and mid-range properties entering the market, which was previously dominated by luxury business hotels and resorts. One of the emirate’s latest oﬀerings is Grand Millennium Al Wahda Abu Dhabi, which opened on November 1, 2010. With 850 rooms, including 585 guest rooms and 265 residences, the property is currently the largest hotel in the emirate. Costas Gavriel, executive assistant manager at Grand Millennium Al Wahda, admitted that, despite its growing popularity as a leisure destination, Abu Dhabi was not without its challenges. “[Abu Dhabi] is still an immature tourist destination that lacks the attractions, shopping

With the development of the other emirates and the increase in the number of hotels opening, it is a city under serious pressure

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

malls and facilities to draw the visitors,” he said. “It also faces considerable competition from its popular neighbours Dubai, Oman and Egypt and, with the development of the other emirates and the increase in the number of hotels opening, it is a city under serious pressure.” However, Gavriel praised the work of the government in improving facilities within the emirate and stepping up promotional eﬀorts. He also pointed to the host of new and improved attractions that would help to draw new visitors to the region in the near future. “The opening of the Ferrari Theme Park, the development of Yas Island, Al Reem and Saadiyat as well as the investment in the ADNEC exhibition centre to attract MICE business, are all helping Abu Dhabi make a name for itself as a stand-alone destination,” said Gavriel. While hotel owners and developers are increasingly reluctant to commit to firm opening dates in the uncertain climate, it is reasonable to expect a number of new internationally branded properties over the coming year. Starwood, following the recent launch of its Aloft brand in Abu Dhabi, has a further four hotels in development for the emirate. They include two scheduled for opening in late 2011 - St Regis Saadiyat Island and The Westin Hotel and Spa - as well as a W Hotel in 2012 and another St Regis in 2013. In addition, Park Hyatt Resort on Saadiyat Beach, a development by Abu Dhabi National Hotels that will adjoin Saadiyat Beach Golf Course, is expected to open in early 2011. Abu Dhabi

NOVEMBER 2010

- Abu Dhabi ADTA Initiatives ADTA has been widely celebrated for its eﬀorts, both by stakeholders in the region and independent global bodies, including the World Travel Awards. The authority’s recent initiatives have been wide ranging; ADTA has pursued strong Emiratisation policies, partnerships with major sporting events, a revamped hotel classification system and cutting edge environmental policies. In September, 2010, ADTA began piloting green hotel guidelines in four upcoming properties; the trial will be completed and assessed by mid2011, when it will be rolled into the emirate’s existing hotel classification system. This pilot is part of a broader programme of green initiatives, designed to position the emirate as a sustainable tourism destination, in line with the government’s 2030 plan. ADTA’s environmental, health and safety management system, designed in conjunction with industry stakeholders, has set hotel reduction targets of 10 percent for energy, 20 percent for water and 20 percent for waste. In line with this environmental push, the emirate signed on to host the inaugural World Green

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Tourism Abu Dhabi conference (from November 22 to 24, 2010), bringing together international tourism authorities, urban planners, hotels and resorts, airlines, tour operations, environmental product suppliers and academics from the sustainable tourism industry. ADTA is also pushing tourism development outside the main city, in growing regions such as Al Ain and the outlying resort islands of Abu Dhabi.

A recent programme to enhance the guest experience in Al Ain was well received by the industry; key partners included Al Ain Rotana Hotel, InterContinental Al Ain Resort, Hilton Al Ain and Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort. According to Paul Ram Prakash, industry professional development manager at ADTA, the aim of programmes such as this is to develop consistently world class standards throughout the entire emirate.

Up in the Air Abu Dhabi’s national airline, Etihad, continues to go from strength to strength, with a strong sports sponsorship programme and continued route expansion. Recent activity has included codeshare partnerships with Air Malta and Royal Air Maroc, plus a hotly contested alliance with Australian carrier Virgin Blue. Despite concerns officially lodged by Australia’s legacy carrier, Qantas, the alliance has been given interim approval by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Through the Virgin Blue network, Etihad will be able to offer a host of new destinations across Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and the west coast of the US. According to Abu Dhabi International Airport figures, the South West Pacific region, including Australia, is one of the top developing source markets for travel to and from Abu Dhabi. North America and Europe were also listed as regions to watch, while the majority of passenger traffic in the first half of 2010 came from London, Bangkok, Doha, Manila and Bahrain. With plenty of avenues for entry, industry sources agree that the biggest challenge for Abu Dhabi in the coming years will be attracting the volume of tourists necessary to sustain its massive increases in hotel rooms and tourism facilities. The upcoming Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix will be held on Yas Island from November 12 to 14, 2010. Many are hoping that this internationally popular event will be the catalyst for an influx of new visitors to the emirate, and the perfect platform to showcase Abu Dhabi’s latest tourism attractions to the world. 12

NOVEMBER 2010

- Ajman & Fujairah

jman, one of the quieter emirates in the UAE, is home to just a handful of hotels and minimal tourism facilities. For couples and families seeking a relaxed beachside holiday away from the buzz of construction and commerce, this simplicity can be a strong drawcard. However, the emirate continues to suﬀer from a lack of support and minimal exposure. Ramzy Faris, director of sales and marketing at Kempinski Hotel Ajman, is one of the most vocal supporters of the destination. “It’s tough for us because we don’t have a tourism promotion board in Ajman,” said Faris. “At the moment it’s basically my voice out there in the big world screaming – Ajman, Ajman, Ajman!” According to Faris, more than 80 percent of guests to Kempinski Hotel Ajman are leisure travellers. Western Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States are two key source markets, with travellers from these countries making up around 50 percent of all visitors to Kempinski Hotel Ajman. The weekends and public holidays bring in a steady market of local families from the Gulf, along with couples and families from the Levant. Ajman’s appeal, according to Faris, lies in its near-perfect beaches, with soft white sand and a lack of the development seen in neighbouring emirates. “Our beach has an unobstructed view – that means no construction, no cranes and no man-made islands,” he said. In more prosperous years, Ajman hotels benefitted from an overflow of tourists to Dubai. However, with slower bookings and increasing competition between the emirates, this overflow has dried up. In fact, according to Iftikhar Hamdani, director of sales and marketing at Ramada Hotels and

Suites Ajman, the trend has now reversed. “Upcoming hotel projects and recently opened new hotels are offering very low rates which cannot safeguard the bottom line of any property,” he said. “Secondly, Dubai hotels are offering very low rates and even our region’s corporate flow is going to Dubai due to low rates.” Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman is a central four star hotel, which caters to airline crew, corporate and government clients and some leisure or long-stay guests. The hotel is planning to open a banquet hall in early 2011 to attract local weddings, parties and MICE events – a move that it is hoped will combat the soft market. “The recession impacted a lot on the occupancy of hotels in our emirate, as many corporate entities, particularly in real estate, are not active like before and leisure flow is drastically reduced in beach hotels,” said Hamdani. “We are more aggressively in touch with our current clients to know in detail their requirements and keep them happy with our quality service – companies are not only conscious of price, service is also an important element.” Hamdani added that the introduction of several upcoming beach properties would help to stimulate and diversify the market in Ajman. Similarly, Faris said new blood would be beneficial to the industry’s efforts to establish a tourism board. “There is talk and plans are being made – we’re talking to the government and several of the hotels are getting together to see if we can pool our resources to do something,” he said. “This will pick up, especially when new five star properties come onto the market.” Several tourism projects currently on the books for Ajman remain shrouded in rumour and speculation. However, it is expected that the emirate will see the opening of at least two new beachfront hotels by early 2011.

Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort

ujairah is home to a host of well established beach resorts, upscale city properties and a range of international enterprises that fuel corporate travel to and from the emirate. Media reports of a rumoured low cost airline for Fujairah were recently quashed by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which stated that no official application had been made (as of October, 2010). However, the emirate maintains strong cargo and charter traffic through its international airport. On the accommodation scene, Fujairah has a number of projects in the pipeline. Iberotel currently operates Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort and Iberotel Concorde Hotel Fujairah, but plans to expand its presence with a mixed-use tourism and hospitality project that is currently underway. The development will include a third Iberotel property, Royal Miramar Fujairah, as well as Madinat Miramar, which will feature a mall, residential facilities and a variety of food and beverage outlets. Ashraf Helmy, area general manager for Iberotels and Resorts in the UAE, said demand had become more limited in Fujairah and the wider UAE region since the global economic downturn. He listed package tourism deals as one of the best ways to combat slow sales, particularly in light of increasing fuel costs and air travel. “Airline fees have increased dramatically and they are never going down,” said Helmy. “The only way to overcome this challenge is to cooperate with them and try to offer rates that include both for a win-win.” Helmy predicted an increase in market interest over the next five years, as well as the stabilisation of hotel rates across the emirates. Rotana opened its second Fujairah property in October, 2010 – the 225 room Nour Arjaan by Rotana. Coming up in late 2011, Fairmont Mina Al Fajer will feature 88 rooms and 13 four-bedroom villas. Chris Cahill, president of Fairmont, said the resort would complement the group’s existing UAE properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and would strengthen brand recognition in the region. He pointed to Fujairah’s unique natural features, including its mountains and coastline, as key tourism drawcards for the emirate.

Kempinski Hotel Ajman 14

NOVEMBER 2010

- Sharjah & Umm Al Quwain

harjah, despite its close proximity to some of Dubai’s glitziest resorts, remains one of the most conservative and traditional emirates in the UAE. However, this has not hindered the development of a savvy tourism industry, focused largely on family tourism, corporate travel and cultural attractions. The emirate is also home to low cost carrier Air Arabia, one of the UAE’s fastest growing aviation companies. In addition to its home base in Sharjah, Air Arabia has also opened aviation hubs in Egypt and Morocco and the airline now oﬀers a network of more than 60 routes across the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia. Air Arabia’s continual growth has contributed to significantly increased passenger traﬃc through Sharjah’s airport, which is the third busiest in the UAE, after Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In the past, visitors to Sharjah were overwhelmingly made up of arrivals from the GCC and Europe. While these regions remain major source markets, Mohamed A Al Noman, director general of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), said Asia was now one of the key targets for tourism to Sharjah. “We seek to take advantage of the Asian market by focusing on heritage, cultural and family

NOVEMBER 2010

tourism, eco tourism and elite tourism, as well as conferences,” said Al Noman. “Our aim is to target Asian tourism markets such as China, Singapore and Hong Kong in this framework. “The fact is that this market is one of the most promising markets to supply the region with tourists and it will undoubtedly increase the percentage of tourism contribution to the GDP of the emirate of Sharjah.” However, following a recent GCC road show in October, 2010, SCTDA announced that it expected tourist arrivals from the GCC to increase by 10 percent. Coinciding with Sharjah Water Festival in December, 2010, is the Sharjah Grand Prix Formula One Powerboat Championship – a well established event expected to draw more than 50,000 visitors. In the longer term, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority’s Heart of Sharjah project is expected to be a major boost for the emirate’s tourism industry and one of the largest heritage projects in the region. The Heart of Sharjah development will include the renovation of historic buildings; the revival of heritage areas; restoration of the emirate’s souks; and the rebuilding of several of the ruling family’s houses. Construction on the first phase of the project commenced in August, 2010, and is scheduled for completion within two years.

mm Al Quwain, the least developed of the seven emirates, is home to a handful of beach resorts and leisure attractions that draw a mostly local and expat crowd from neighbouring cities. Some of the existing hotels in Umm Al Quwain include Barracuda Beach Resort, Flamingo Beach Resort and Umm Al Quwain Beach Resort. The resorts have a strong family focus, providing a host of outdoor leisure activities, including water sports and deep sea fishing. Crab hunting is one unique attraction that sets Umm Al Quwain apart from its neighbours – Flamingo Beach Resort provides a guided evening crab hunting programme for guests, including boat transfers to natural mangroves and a dinner buffet where the catch of the day is cooked and served. A range of tour companies from the surrounding emirates now offer crab hunting packages in conjunction with Flamingo Beach Resort. Several islands off the coast of Umm Al Quwain are also worthy tourism attractions, featuring archaeological sites and various bird colonies. Dreamland Aqua Park is another drawcard for tourism to Umm Al Quwain. The popular water park features more than 30 rides, as well as go-karting, sporting facilities, a video arcade and amphitheatre for concerts and corporate events. Dreamland also offers a camping ground, with the option to stay in tents or wooden cabins with full or half board facilities. There is not airport in Umm Al Quwain, so travellers wishing to visit the emirate must arrange transfers from neighbouring cities. n

- Overnight Travel

One Nighters Stand as a Growing Travel Trend The Middle East is a region often associated with a high spending demographic, interested in long stays at luxury hotels. Yet it is also a region of booming development, multinational companies and increasingly dense cross border ties. As business grows, business travel grows with it, generating increased demand for shorter trips; often as short as a single night. Louis Dillon Savage writes

he market for this kind of stay is still quite small, but insiders in the industry say it is growing and that operators need to be aware of the diﬀerent demands of the short stay demographic. Thierry Brinte, general manager of Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai, said all trips had decreased in length, faced with the scarcity of funds brought on by 2009’s fiscal apocalypse. “Time and money have become scarce – yet business must go on, people must travel to attend meetings and exhibitions and people still enjoy vacations in the sun, shopping, golf breaks and desert safaris,” he said. “The change is that more activity must be achieved in less time than previously, typified by the ‘one-nighter’. “At the Novotel and Ibis World Trade Centre hotels, the one night stay has increased by over 20 percent in the last year.” Business travel within the GCC is the leading reason for one night travel, meaning that the majority of overnight bookings are made by solo travellers, according to Ricardo Rofail, general manager of Ibis Muscat. Yet despite increasing prevalence, single night travel comprises only a small slice of business for most hotels. Rofail said that even though his hotel benefited from being the only branded budget hotel in Oman, characteristics attractive to the business travellers who dominate the overnight demographic, only around two percent of travellers stayed for just one night. More leisure travellers are also beginning to take

short trips: Housam Raydan, corporate communications manager for Air Arabia, said his airline had noted an increase in weekend bookings by couples. Brinte said that Dubai’s position as an aviation and shipping hub was another driving factor. “Dubai’s location on the world map makes it a fantastic stopover destination between Europe, Asia and Australia,” he said. “Airline crews, commercial shipping crews and leisure cruises into Dubai also provide the hotels with a great supply of business, also typically staying only one night for a quick stopover, rest or sight seeing tour, then on to the next destination,” he said. Raydan noted that while all airlines received one night bookings, low cost carriers had the advantage when it came to overnight travel.

The one night stay has increased by over 20 percent in the last year “If you are traveling for a weekend break or short business trip, it is obvious that you want to get the best deal available,” he said. “Low cost carriers such as Air Arabia, with their value for money product, oﬀer this opportunity.” Special Needs Budget and mid-range hotels have increased their share of the one night demographic as corporate travel budgets have trimmed down and the need for five star amenities has come into question.

“A corporate traveller booking for one night wants a clean room, an affordable room, a nice meal with quick service and internet so he can work,” Rofail said. “A traveller like this might only spend three hours in the hotel, before going out to do business and coming back to sleep.” Brinte said overnight travellers also looked for convenience and efficiency. “Flexible check-in and check-out, food and drinks services and operating times that fall in line with flight or cruise times are important,” he said. Despite the downgrading trend among business travellers, Hany Ahmed, director of business development at Hilton Abu Dhabi, said the extensive business facilities offered by upmarket properties were an attraction for single night travellers. Growing Trend A general trend of shorter stays is taking hold of the industry, driven by shifts in travel distribution. “The trend is a general reduction in length of stay and this will probably continue as airlines, cruises, online travel agents and local destination management companies continue to target the short stay markets by offering more and more attractive and competitive products,” Brinte said. “Shorter and shorter stays leave more and more gaps in occupancy, which pushes hotels to develop more tactical promotions and incentives to fill these gaps and attract new customers.” While single night stays remain a rarity, catering to the overnight demographic could prove to be a test for the industry, as travellers look to maximise their investments, of both money and time. n NOVEMBER 2010

- Iran

Exposing Ancient Persia’s Modern Tourism Appeal According to sources inside the country, Iran’s theocratic government has neglected tourism and sanctions have prevented meaningful foreign investment. Yet despite it all, the country’s historic and natural charms have remained irresistible to a daring and dedicated few. Louis Dillon Savage writes

ran’s diﬃcult relationship with the international community has had wide ranging consequences for all industries, including

tourism. Ongoing tension with the US and its allies over an alleged nuclear weapons programme has led to sanctions against Iran; sanctions which have swept in not only western nations, but Middle Eastern neighbours as well. Iran’s long term pariah status has had both direct and indirect eﬀects on its tourism industry. With an economy forced by the embargo into insularity and self reliance, the market for business travel to Iran has been necessarily attenuated. Similarly, sanctions have ensured that the country suﬀers from a complete absence of internationally branded hotels. However, Sholeh Mirshokraei, of Amin Tour and Travel agency, drew parallels between some of Iran’s own brands and familiar international marquees; but warned that even five star properties were overdue for renovation. “We say that the Esteghlal hotel in Tehran is as the Hilton Hotel; Laleh Hotel in Tehran is as InterContinental Hotel; and Homa Hotel with the branches in Tehran, Mashad and Shiraz is as the Sheraton Hotel,” she said. Connectivity Despite relatively low interest from neighbouring countries, many Gulf based carriers operate services into and out of Iran. Emirates, Etihad, Gulf Air, Bahrain Air, Air Arabia, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Ariana Afghan, Kuwait Air, Jazeera and Syrian Air all fly to the country. NOVEMBER 2010

Tourism Potential Despite Iran’s under-resourced tourism sector, a steady trickle of travellers have overcome misgivings to explore Iran’s famously beautiful countryside. Iran’s fertile landscape has been continuously inhabited since Paleolithic times, and the region has remained a centre of culture for thousands of years. The hills and valleys are saturated with history; ancient ruins, medieval bridges and traditional caravanserai (inns for travelling camel trains) dot the country. According to Mirshokraei, it is travellers already acquainted with Iran’s heritage that visit the country, led to learn more about its past. “The main visitors to Iran are those who already know about Iran, but they come for research about the history, language, culture, nature and to visit historical sites in Iran,” she said. At present, few of the visitors to Iran originate from within the Middle East. However, signs of increasing interconnectivity are beginning to sprout, despite tensions with the wider world. According to a report in Tehran Times, Oman and Iran have signed an economic co-operation agreement covering various industries, including tourism. An agreement with Egypt has also been reached, which will see flights between the two countries resume after a three decade shutdown; no flights have been scheduled between the two countries since Egypt signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1979. Internally, the Iranian government has also begun the

belated process of developing its massive tourism potential. According to a report published by the Iran Cultural, Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organisation (ICHHTO) in 2009, 1,100 potential tourism sites have been identified for development. The government is also seeking to attract foreign investment for the construction of new hotels, the restoration of historical sites and the development of its extensive coastline. n

Naghshe Jahan Square

Iran in Brief Capital: Tehran Language: Persian Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR)

- Iraq

Building Big Business and Bridging Borders Floating on massive oil reserves, Iraq was once numbered among the wealthiest and most influential powers on the Arabian Gulf. Decades later, trade embargoes and intermittent war have taken their toll on the country, but as reconstruction gains momentum, investors are running to get on board. Louis Dillon Savage writes

lthough combat troops have left Iraq, all aspects of life in the country continue to operate under a dense security apparatus; bombings continue to occur and armed attacks remain a fixture of life in parts of the country. Yet despite the still-dangerous atmosphere of the country, Iraq has managed to draw a small amount of leisure tourism. The first package tourists since 2004 arrived in Baghdad in March last year, uninsured and guided by Geoff Hann, owner and operator of Hinterland Travel in the UK. Hann noted that there were still barriers to leisure travel, not least of which is the need for a letter of invitation and a moratorium on independent travel for security reasons. Yet Hann, who has been operating tours into Iraq on and off since 1971, resuming in 2008 with trips to Kurdistan, said most of the country is now accessible and feels safe, with only a handful of no-go areas to avoid. Already Hann has observed the growth of both competition (a rival French company has commenced tours) and investment, which he said could be the beginning of big things for Iraq. “Iraq is beginning to spend on upgrading its hotels; the historic sites need refurbishment and the staff needs training,” he said. “But if they can pull all that off, there will be a tourism boom in Iraq.” Unique Circumstances Iraq is beginning to emerge from the shadow of war, but the country is still a long way from becoming a destination for mass tourism. In recent times Iraq has been both a literal and ideological battleground for proponents of Shiah and Sunni Islam; the breakdown of secular government brought about by the US-led invasion opened the door to long years of sectarian violence and insurgencies. As greater stability has returned to Iraq, the insurgency has receded in its intensity and elections have replaced explosions as the favoured tool of the contending faithful; but just as rival factions wrangle for control within the country, 18

Mosque and Arch to Unknown Soldier, Baghdad

that contest reflects wider geopolitical realities. Factional interests within the new democracy are often seen as proxies for the rivalry of Iraq’s powerful neighbours: Iran and Saudi Arabia. Iraq’s Prime Minister Maliki, a Shi’ite, has been attacked by the Saudi Arabian king for being too close to Tehran, while Iranian President Ahmedinejad’s trademark rhetoric often trends to condemnation of Saudi Arabian policies; especially ties to the US. Political tensions also extend to another of Iraq’s neighbours, Syria. An Iraqi ambassador recently returned to Syria after an absence of several months, following fallout over accusations of sanctuary given to insurgents by the latter’s government. The situation in Iraq is, in other words, complicated, messy and unstable; unsuitable for tourism as it is usually conceived. As a business destination, however, the country is booming, with Iraq’s unique circumstances creating unique opportunities. Reconstruction Eﬀorts According to Richard Evans, general manager of Prime Travel, one of the few international travel firms operating in Iraq, the recent withdrawal of US combat troops has been taken as a milestone of stability by the international business community. “Now you have a sudden influx of the big oil and gas companies,” he said. “Companies like BP and Exxon Mobil are now seeing Iraq as an opportunity to increase their revenues in a big way and they all have to travel.”

Iraq in Brief Capital: Baghdad Language: Arabic, Kurdish Currency: Iraqi Dinar (IQD) However, the oil and gas industry is still nascent and after years of turmoil, recovery has become the focus of post-war industry. Construction materials have become one of Iraq’s leading industries and according to Evans, the majority of travel is still undertaken by US government contractors engaged in rebuilding Iraq’s damaged infrastructure. Fady Darwish, general manager of IFP Iraq, a construction trade show in the country, outlined the scale of projects being undertaken by the government alone. “With some USD25 billion in housing projects, USD8 billion in transportation and USD5.539 billion in water and sewage, the government is focusing primarily on reconstruction and rehabilitation,” he said. The government reconstruction eﬀort has thus become the main driver of Iraq’s travel industry, but other players are already getting in on the game. Other Investments Interest in Iraq is growing beyond construction, with investors fighting for a seat on the bandwagon, chasing a piece of the future aﬄuence guaranteed by Iraq’s massive oil reserves. Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, Invest AD, has created a dedicated Iraq investment arm to take advantage of rapid growth. NOVEMBER 2010

- Iraq Nazem Fawwaz Al Kudsi, CEO of Invest AD, outlined the position that a post-war Iraq would have in the economic landscape of the Middle East. “As Iraq stabilises, it should take its place as one of the major economies in this vibrant region,” he said. “The country is overcoming diﬃcult circumstances to make real progress towards an open economy, and we see tremendous opportunities in the long term: by entering the market early, we hope to capitalise fully.” Aviation Similarly, the civil aviation sector is taking flight. Flights into Iraq are limited to a small number of approved carriers and points of departure. According to Evans, 80 percent of all traﬃc into the country is routed through Dubai, but he noted that a process of liberalisation was underway. “Another port we use is Kuwait, but Abu Dhabi is now becoming more important, and you can also get in through Istanbul and Bahrain,” he said. “The skies are opening up.” Flydubai, Air Arabia, Etihad, Middle East

NOVEMBER 2010

Airlines, Royal Jordanian and Gulf Air are all operating flights to Iraq. The majority of flights focus on the capital, Baghdad; the Shiah holy city of Najaf; and Erbil in the northern Kurdistan region. However, both Gulf Air and Royal Jordanian also fly to the port city of Basra. Flydubai has also diversified its network in the country, adding a second city in Kurdistan, Sulaimaniyah. Heba el Imam, head of Arab media relations for UAE flag carrier Etihad, reported strong responses to Etihad’s Erbil flights, with load factors of more than 60 percent since the launch. Rival carrier Emirates, on the other hand, cancelled planned flights to Baghdad in June; the airline cited operational reasons for the cancellation, but media speculation suggested the decision reflected low consumer interest in the route. As the number of operators has grown, so too has demand for improved aviation infrastructure. Arabian Reach, organisers of the first civil aviation exhibition for Iraq have reported more than USD150 billion worth of aviation related projects currently under consideration.

Bagdad

The Beginning of the Beginning Despite the positive implications of so much development in Iraq, ongoing stability in the country remains critical to the future of its burgeoning tourism industry. Hospitality still has a long way to come and for a country where internal transport is most often by military cargo plane, the prospects of mass tourism remain low for the immediate future. Asked about the potential for traditional tourism in the country, Evans speculated that it would take some time. “Maybe somewhere down the line,” he said. n

- India

One BRIC at a Time: Building Tomorrow’s Subcontinent India has traditionally been a backpacker’s wonderland. Inexpensive, exotic and scintillatingly diverse, the country has spawned a whole genre of semi-mystical self-discovery travel literature. But the clichés of snake charmers and spiritual awakenings are only one of India’s many faces; the country’s economy has exploded in recent years and India is ready to take its place as a sophisticated, modern destination. Louis Dillon Savage writes

ndia is already a firm travel favourite and is growing stronger as an inbound travel market, but according to highly placed sources within the industry, the country faces several obstacles thrown up by a sticky bureaucracy in need of reform. Rajji Rai, president of the Travel Agents Association of India, said development of the travel industry had fallen behind as India emerged as a powerful, diversified economy. “Because the outbound industry is going so strong, as Indians become more wealthy, the inbound travel market has been neglected,” he said. Rai pointed to barriers to development and free movement inherent in India’s approach to taxation. “Hotels are still subject to a high luxury tax and there is still a process of double taxation on airline tickets,” he said. “Also, there are diﬃculties moving around India for example, a luxury coach will be stopped at every state border and forced to pay road tax.” Similarly, IATA has criticised India’s highly regulated aviation industry, with the majority of flights into the country restricted by agreements that dictate capacity, routes and carriers. Yet despite these issues, inbound travel is growing apace. Drawing on research from Euromonitor, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has predicted 70 percent growth of the inbound market to India over the next four years. Rai’s estimate was even higher. “100 percent – I can guarantee you that inbound travel will double within five years,” he said. Connectivity Flight networks by regional carriers have sprouted rapidly over recent years, spreading branches to all corners of India. The country has been one of the first priorities for the Middle East’s nascent low cost segment and legacy carriers have grown their networks steadily. With a high number of expats resident in the Gulf from both India and its dominant source markets, it is no accident that when RAK Air relaunched in September with only two routes, one of them was to Calicut in India. 20

Strong demand saw frequencies on this route increased within the first month of its launch. According to Anna Garcia, public relations manager at Emirates Airline, India is Emirates’ second most important market, with 184 flights per week operating at load factors of upwards of 75 percent. “India ranks second after Dubai, where Emirates has the largest number of weekly flights across our entire global network, a testimony to the fact that India holds significant importance in the Emirates global map,” she said.

Only tourism can open us to the world and show how far we have come Hotels As one of the single most important emerging economies, India has commanded its fair share of development and investment – and the hospitality industry is no exception. At the conservative end of the development stick, Mövenpick has a hotel at Bangalore preparing to open in 2011, while Fairmont has two hotels in the works; one in Jaipur and another in Hyderabad. Comparatively, many companies simply have too many properties planned to catalogue here. Carlson alone has announced plans for 100 new hotels in India between 2010 and 2015, predominantly within the Radisson brand. Starwood has 15 hotels under development and opened four new properties this year: the Westin Guragon in New Delhi; the Aloft Bengaluru Whitefield; the Sheraton Udaipur Palace Resort and Spa; and the Aloft Chennai. Accor is planning to expand to have 50 properties trading by the end of 2012. However, the one example of their luxury Sofitel brand, in Mumbai, was initially slated to open this year but has been delayed until March 2011. IHG currently operates 12 hotels in India and has 39 hotels in its pipeline, focusing its growth on management contracts to capitalise on the booming home-grown construction industry. The InterContinental, Crowne Plaza and

India in Brief Capital: New Delhi Language: Hindi, English Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) Holiday Inn brands will account for the majority of IHG’s new properties. Other Development USD510.7 million worth of government development projects have been approved, ranging from campsites to restorations of ancient architecture. The government is allocating funding for heliports in hard to reach places; port facilities to cater for river cruises; and campsites for adventure and eco tourists. Developments in rural tourism aim to redirect revenue down less travelled pathways, while feeding the desires of travellers interested in authentic experiences. This last initiative is the best reflection of how India has changed in recent years. As Rai pointed out, India is undergoing an economic revolution; he believes that tourism freed of constrictive regulation would flourish and expose a new, modern India, very much part of the twenty-first century. “India is seen as a country of snake charmers and bullock carts, but these are gone from the bustling, modern streets of Delhi,” he said “Only tourism can open us to the world and show how far we have come.” n Taj Mahal

NOVEMBER 2010

Ramada Downtown Dubai

Ashraf Helmy Area General Manager, Iberotel Hotels and Resorts UAE “Competition has distinguished between the experts and those who are not – if you stand on the top alone, it doesn’t make any sense, but if you manage to do it between lots of competitors, then it really feels good.”

Competition has distinguished between the experts and those who are not

Mohamed Shoier Executive Assistant Manager of Sales and Marketing, Ramada Downtown Dubai “Recently, I’ve noticed that travellers book late and wish to spend less. Secondly, regional tourists have started making journeys by car more and less by air carriers. They are travelling more with family members and visiting historical and cultural sites in the Middle East. They also prefer to travel to places which are closer to home, as high security concerns in Europe have discouraged them to visit Western countries.”

High security concerns in Europe have discouraged [Middle Eastern travellers]

Ashraf Helmy

Andrew Hughes Director of Sales – Leisure, Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel “We have had great traction from diﬀerent parts of the world, especially from Asia, Europe and the GCC. We have recently been visited by groups from Japan and Singapore in conjunction with the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing and other partners. They have given very good feedback and seem genuinely impressed with the hotel, especially its grand architecture. The firm favourite is Al Bahou – our Grand Hall, which is 90m by 30m in length and height, respectively. Indeed, from the bridges located on floors one to six there is a wonderful view into the Grand Hall, down through the mammoth 88 lanterns. This is proving to be such a sought-after photo opportunity, I am suggesting we sell tickets up there!”

Andrew Hughes

This is proving to be such a sought-after photo opportunity, I am suggesting we sell tickets up there!

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, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel 22

NOVEMBER 2010

Travel Trade Monthly’s Top Tips from 2010 In 2010, we all stood back from the wreckage of the world financial meltdown and took stock of the damage. As fortunes slowly improve it has become obvious that the business landscape will never be the same. Here are some of the top tips gathered by Travel Trade Monthly over the past year, to help you do business in a changing world. Online, Obviously Travel is now the most traded commodity on the web and online channels are taking an increasing share of the travel distribution smorgasbord. As modern consumers turn to the web it is becoming ever more important for businesses to maintain an eﬀective online profile in order to compete. The internet itself is changing, however, with social media emerging as perhaps the most radical shift in the way people use the internet since its inception. Leverage these changes and engage your clients. Use social networks as distribution channels; reward your fans and followers with exclusive deals; and take the opportunity oﬀered by social media to listen to your customers’ feedback.

NOVEMBER 2010

Corporate Cash As cost-cutting consumers were driven online in search of savings, corporate customers became one of the last reliable bastions for traditional travel distribution. Nevertheless, corporate purchasing officers have tightened their belts and are increasingly taking control of travel spending away from individual travellers; meaning that establishing a good working relationship with these buyers is key to landing and maintaining corporate accounts. Robert Daykin, director of consultancy firm The Corporate Travel Partners, said that in difficult circumstances, openness is the key to building relationships. Purchasing officers will often not have specific knowledge of the travel industry; being able to outline what is and is not possible is much more important than promising the moon, Daykin said.

Go Green Even as corporations are watching their bottom lines, a growing acceptance of the need for environmental responsibility has been emerging. Governments across the Middle East have been instituting green development reforms, even including environmental impact in their hotel star rating standards. Suggestions for green practices in the travel industry begin from the design stage: initiatives such as energy efficient coatings on windows, low flow showerheads, efficient air conditioning or solar power. However, any business can improve its green profile with simple steps such as eliminating disposable eating utensils, minimising the amount of packaging on items, recycling paper in administrative offices and using low energy light bulbs.

- Portugal

Wave of the Future Bound for Europe’s Atlantic Coast Throughout its history, Portugal has been famed for its connection with the sea. One of the first great maritime nations, Portuguese explorers introduced the west to much of the rest of the world. Today the age of galleons is long in the past, but Portugal’s warm climate and 1,800km of Atlantic coastline have assured it as a favourite for travellers hunting their place in the sun. Louis Dillon Savage writes

ourism is one of Portugal’s leading industries, accounting for around 11 percent of GDP; a share that under-values the sector’s potential, according to APAVT, peak body for the country’s travel and tour industry. The majority of travellers visit during the peak summer period, taking advantage of Portugal’s many beaches, which offer an alternative to still Mediterranean waters; fronting onto the open ocean, Portugal offers some of the best surfing in Europe. The Middle Eastern market is still a small one for Portugal, but the exposure given by Dubai’s hosting of the World Tourism and Travel Council Summit in 2008 piqued the

interest of Portuguese travel agents. Paulo Brehm, media spokesperson for APAVT, noted a downturn in Portugal’s traditional source markets and suggested that the Middle East held potential for the future. “In the context of the current economical crisis, it is natural that tourism is suﬀering from the weakness of our main markets,” he said. “The Middle East is not one of our current core incoming markets, although we at APAVT do recognise a lot of potential to explore there.” Official data shows that for the first eight months of this year, the UK, Spain, Germany, France, the Netherlands and Ireland were the country’s main source markets, although their order is prone to change year to year.

Lisbon already attracts 3.6 million tourists and four million business travellers a year

Portugal in Brief Capital: Lisbon Language: Portuguese Currency: Euro (EUR) Hospitality Brehm pointed out that most major hospitality brands maintained hotels in Portugal, naming Hilton, Sheraton, Four Seasons, Novotel, Marriott and Sheraton as examples. However, he recommended that travel agents look into local offerings as well. “[International] brands, of course, may offer some reassurance to first time tourists, from the usual loyalty benefits, but we would strongly advise any travel agent or tour operator to get information on other independent hotels which are just as good,” said Brehm. “We have the Pousadas, for instance, which are famous worldwide; they are mainly centuries-old castles, palaces and monasteries reconverted into top quality hotels, operated by a private group. “We also have a lot of new boutique or design hotels which offer really high quality accommodation and service; definitely worthy of a good look.” Connectivity Connections between Portugal and the Middle East remain thin on the ground, with no major Gulf airlines operating into the country. Proximity has fostered a healthy crop of connections to North Africa, however, with flights by Tunisair, Royal Air Maroc and Egyptair, as well as a number of European airlines. n

Future Directions Portugal is seeking to expand international interest in its tourism product. Despite a skew towards beach visits, the country has a diverse geography and historical attractions ranging from Roman ruins, to remnants of the medieval Arabic kingdom of Al Andalus. Brehm outlined other areas of interest. “We are increasingly investing and promoting other products where Portugal has strong selling arguments, such as golf (Portugal is bidding for the Ryder cup 2018); MICE, with our great new facilities for congresses; touring (exploring a rather unknown countryside); and nature tourism – Azores and Madeira have exceptional arguments for eco tourism for example,” he said. Portugal is also considered a strong contender for the 2016 FIFA World Cup, for which it is bidding in co-operation with Spain. 24

NOVEMBER 2010

Q&A with Sami Nasser In his joint roles as Sofitel’s vice president of Middle East, Africa and Indian Ocean region and general manager of the new Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Sami Nasser has insight into broad regional trends as well as the on-the-ground challenges of a hotel operator in the Middle East. He spoke to Travel Trade Monthly about Sofitel’s expansion plans and his opinions about the future of tourism in the region. Travel Trade Monthly: As vice president for Travel Trade Monthly: What predictions the Middle East, Africa and Indian Ocean, do you have for the tourism industry in have you noticed any tourism trends in this this region over the next five years? Where region as a whole? are the strongest destinations for future Sami Nasser: In terms of business in the growth? region, reservations remain last minute – most of Sami Nasser: It is going to be a competitive the bookings at our hotels are made just seven days in advance, or even less. This is especially true of the corporate market. We are seeing more leisure bookings from emerging destinations, with Brazil, China, India and Eastern Europe all very strong markets. To cope with changing trends, we have found that we have to be more flexible and oﬀer lots of packages and promotions. The time of the hotelier as simply an order-taker is finished. We must be proactive online, reinforce our brand promise and focus on our marketing and communications.

It is simply a question of time – business will return

market, due to the economic situation. Hotels will compete in terms of management, products will be upgraded and there will be a focus on service. A few years ago you didn’t have to do anything to fill your hotel – that is definitely not the case now. People will compare you to your competitors and you must provide something better. Growth will continue to come from Eastern Europe, Brazil, India, China and South Africa – we can see this trend already and in five years, these regions will be booming. In our region, Egypt has always been a good destination and after a slight dip it is coming back very strongly. Mauritius, Bahrain, Morocco and Makkah are also set to be major destinations for tourism in our region.

Travel Trade Monthly: What expansion plans does your company have for this region - can you tell me about any upcoming Travel Trade Monthly: How is the rising properties or key focus areas for development? popularity of Abu Dhabi aﬀecting business Sami Nasser: We are opening more than seven in Dubai? Is it causing competition or hotels in the region over the next two years, stimulating cross-over tourism? Sami Nasser: It is stimulating more crossbetween 2010 and 2012. We recently opened Sofitel Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia, which has been a big success so far. Next we have properties coming up in Bahrain and Abu Dhabi and a suite-only property in Mauritius. There are full renovations going on in our Aswan Old Cataract and Luxor Winter Palace properties – and these truly are legendary hotels. In Dubai, we have two properties coming up for 2012 – one on Sheikh Zayed Road and one on The Palm. We also have a very strong focus on Makkah in Saudi Arabia, which we think will be very big business. Around the world, we’ve cleaned up the Sofitel network and now we only oﬀer very, very good luxury properties. NOVEMBER 2010

Sami Nasser

over tourism, rather than competition. It is really putting the region on the map. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are well known for corporate travel and now customers are staying longer to explore. Furthermore, residents in Abu Dhabi are coming to Dubai to stay for the weekend, and it goes the other way. The two emirates are two diﬀerent destinations, but they are complementary.

A few years ago you didn’t have to do anything to fill your hotel – that is definitely not the case now

Travel Trade Monthly: What are the biggest challenges facing the hotel and tourism industry in Dubai and the UAE currently? How can these be addressed? Sami Nasser: The biggest challenge I see is that, if business doesn’t pick up, hotels will probably start competing more on prices. This could lead to lowering of prices to unrealistic levels. This is a short-term strategy and doesn’t solve anything. We have to provide more packages and value added services, rather than cutting prices. We need a tactical strategy to attract newcomers from emerging regions. People will always travel, so we must push the service, the beaches, the shopping – all the highlights of the region. We can also target the MICE market more and we can help the tourism authorities to promote the destinations to the rest of the world – many airlines in the region are already doing very well in this respect. It is simply a question of time – business will return. n 25

Alejandro Bernabé

Amo Nicolussi Moretto

Kempinski Hotels has appointed Alejandro Bernabé as general manager of Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. Bernabé has more than 17 years of experience in the hotel industry, including 10 years with Kempinski. His various postings have spanned Spain, the US, Switzerland, South Africa, France, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Russia, Turkey, Malta, Kuwait and Jordan. He has a hotel management degree, an MBA and multiple bachelor degrees. Bernabé replaces Holger Schroth, who has taken on the role of general manager at the new Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok in Thailand.

Anantara Hotels has appointed Amo Nicolussi Moretto as area general manager of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Abu Dhabi. Moretto will also take on area manager responsibilities for Qasr Al Sarab’s sister property, Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara, on Sir Bani Yas Island. Moretto has worked across the globe with companies such as InterContinental Hotels Group, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, The Ritz and Swissotel.

Waleed Ahmed

Yasser Bahaa

Amo Nicolussi Moretto

Rail Europe has appointed Waleed Ahmed as regional manager of Rail Europe Middle East. Ahmed will be based in the company’s new Dubai oﬃce. He has 11 years of experience in the hospitality, travel and tourism sectors. Previous employers have included Marriott International and Starwood Hotels; most recently, Ahmed has been based in the Middle East as a sales and marketing executive within the hotel industry. Waleed Ahmed

Yasser Bahaa Accor Middle East has appointed Yasser Bahaa as general manager of Ibis Amman, Jordan. Bahaa has been with the Accor group for 14 years in a variety of international postings. In the Middle East, he previously held the position of general manager of Mercure Umm Al Qura in Saudi Arabia.

Christopher Newberry Corinthia Hotels has appointed Christopher Newberry as general manager of The Corinthia Hotel Khartoum in Sudan. Newberry began his career with Hilton International in London, before moving to Madagascar Hilton as general manager, followed by a similar position at Yaoundé Hilton in Cameroon. Later, Newberry worked as a general manager at Disney, achieving success at the brand’s theme park in Paris, France. He has also worked with Kempinski, Crowne Plaza and Aga Khan Development Network. Newberry’s most recent position was general manager of The Leela Kempinski in Mumbai, India. 26

Elizabeth George One to One Hotel – the Village has appointed Elizabeth George as director of human resources. George has 21 years of hospitality experience; she began her career in the UK with Marriott and Edwardian, before moving to the Middle East, where she worked with the human resource departments at Hilton Abu Dhabi and InterContinental Dubai. Most recently, George held the position of director of human resources at Hill International, John Buck International and Bond Communication. NOVEMBER 2010

- Brazil

Where Music and Passion are Always in Fashion Tourism professionals describe Brazil as a “complete destination” – a country that features every option a traveller could want. From bustling cities to stunning natural landscapes, Brazil oﬀers visitors a unique blend of culture, sport, food and adventure. It is also one of the few global destinations that has largely resisted the trend towards independent travel, with package tours still the preferred travel option for most international visitors.

s the largest nation in South America, Brazil presents a range of contrasting experiences to travellers from around the world. The country is just as renowned for its spectacular natural attractions, including the Amazon rainforest, as it is for its annual carnival or national football team. A number of major international events are set to be held in Brazil over the next few years, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games. These are expected to draw even stronger interest from the global tourism market and stimulate investment in hotels, infrastructure and other major development projects. Take your Time Marco Heinrich, destination development manager for Emirates Holidays, pointed out that because Brazil is a long-haul destination for most of the world, holidays to the country tend to be longer, giving travellers the chance to see a wide range of attractions. “People who travel to Brazil more often than not choose a tour package, because they want to be safe, they want someone to guide them through the country and they want to have everything organised for them,” he said. “Visitors tend not to stay in Rio longer than a few days, preferring instead to travel throughout the country to see it as a whole – and Brazil really deserves this.” Heinrich noted that language barriers can present a challenge for international travellers, which furthers the appeal of tour guides in the country. From the Middle East, he said couples of all ages were the most likely to book a trip to Brazil, as the frequent travelling involved could be more diﬃcult for families, particularly with young children. “We see everyone from honeymooners, to adventurous travellers, to those people who always wanted to go to Brazil and haven’t done it yet,” said Heinrich. “We have a lot of interest from expats, but more and more we are seeing Middle Eastern nationals who are interested in Brazil because of its football, its sports culture and its carnival.” NOVEMBER 2010

Laura Warne writes Brazil’s annual carnival, usually held in February or March, features public parades, costumes and a celebration of national culture. Estimates suggest that up to 70 percent of Brazil’s annual visitors arrive during this time; a figure that is reflected by interest from the Middle East. “At least every second request we have is for the carnival,” said Heinrich. However, he added that while the event is worth the hype it creates, it can also be the most complicated time to visit Brazil and can distort the flavour of the country for many visitors. “I always suggest that people add the carnival to other experiences in Brazil – don’t go just for this one event, but use it as an excellent addition to a full tour of the country,” he said. Other must-see highlights of Brazil, according to Heinrich, include the famed city and harbour of Rio de Janeiro; the Amazon rainforest; the massive collection of waterfalls at Iguazu Falls; and Salvador da Bahia for its artistic communities, history and cultural vibe.

Rio de Janeiro

Brazil in Brief Capital: Brasilia Currency: Real (BRL) Language: Portuguese

Don’t book London or Paris again – go to Brazil

“SAHIC 2010 exceeded all our expectations... Business transactions generated in this event will no doubt be reflected in the region.” In addition to major global brands, Brazil oﬀers a range of boutique design hotels and well established Spanish and Portuguese chains.

Accommodation Options According to HVS Global Hospitality Services, Brazil is one of the strongest investment markets in South America. Many international brands, including Hilton and Marriott, have expressed renewed interest in the market; Brazil’s growing middle class has been named as the catalyst for a range of new midrange and upscale projects in the region. The 2010 South American Hotel Investment Conference (SAHIC) was held in September, attracting hundreds of investors from around the world. Arturo Garcia Rosa, president of SAHIC, said there was a wealth of development projects in the pipeline not only for Brazil, but for the wider South American region. “It is expected that hundreds of millions of dollars will be invested in the hotel industry in countries like Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Chile and Argentina,” he said.

Connectivity Emirates launched flights to Sao Paulo in 2007 and the airline’s direct service has considerably shortened the trip to Brazil, which used to require a transfer in Europe or the US. Qatar Airways also flies to Sao Paulo International Airport, and the city is well serviced by European, US and South American carriers. From Sao Paulo, Brazil has a well developed domestic network, connecting travellers to other destinations within the country. According to Heinrich, the only barrier to tourism in Brazil is convincing people to step outside their comfort zone. “As travellers, we have a tendency to visit places we know, which makes us miss out on a lot,” he said. “We have strong demand for Brazil and excellent support from the tourism oﬃce and specialist tour guides in the country. “My advice is, don’t book London or Paris again – go to Brazil.” n 27

Sol Kerzner to Headline ILTM Ultratravel Forum Sol Kerzner, founder and CEO of Kerzner International Resorts, whose holdings include the Atlantis the Palm and One and Only properties in Dubai, will headline the Ultratravel Forum at this year’s International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM). The Ultratravel Forum comprises a panel of travel heavyweights discussing the big issues concerning the industry. Joining Kerzner on the panel will be presidents and CEOs of top international luxury travel suppliers and buyers, including Andrew Crawley, sales and marketing director for British Airways; Marc Dardenne, CEO of EMAAR Hotels; Herve Humler, president of Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company; Tom Marchant, founding director of Black Tomato; Tomas Perez, director of Teresa Perez Tours; Massimo Quarra, executive vice president of American Express Europe; Ted Teng, president of Leading Hotels of the World; Matthew Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso; Enzo Visone, CEO of Silversea Cruises; and Jennifer

Atlantis the Palm

Wilson-Buttigieg, co-president of Valerie Wilson Travel. Kerzner will also engage in a live one-on-one interview, conducted by Graham Boynton, group travel editor of the UK’s Telegraph Group Media. Debbie Joslin, group exhibition director of ILTM, said securing Kerzner’s involvement represented a coup for the exhibition. “We are absolutely delighted that Sol Kerzner, a major figurehead of the international hotel

World Travel Market London, UK, November 8-11 (www.wtmlondon.com) Global event for the travel industry – four day business to business event promoting a range of destinations and industry sectors to international travel professionals.

International Luxury Travel Market Cannes, France, December 6-9 (www.iltm.net) Annual business to business event for the global luxury travel industry. Showcases destinations and travel experiences, with a programme of networking events and pre-scheduled meetings.

World Green Tourism Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, UAE, November 22-24 (www.worldgreentourism.ae) Inaugural eco-tourism exhibition, featuring tourism authorities, urban city planners, hotels and resorts, property developers, airlines, tour operators, green product suppliers, universities, museums and heritage site organisations.

Moroccan Travel Market Marrakech, Morocco, January 12-15 (en.mtm.ma) Exhibition for international travel professionals.

EIBTM Barcelona, Spain, November 30 – December 2 (www.eibtm.com) Global event for the meetings and events industry, including networking opportunities, professional education seminars and a trade show platform for exhibitors, hosted buyers and trade visitors.

industry, is to be guest of honour at this year’s ILTM,” she said. “It is also particularly pleasing that ILTM attracts such a prestigious list of panellists representing a cross section of the international luxury travel market; it is rare to bring together in one place, on one stage, such a distinguished group of industry leaders.” ILTM 2010 will be held in Cannes, France, between December 6 and 9. n

Blossom Japan Tokyo, Japan, January 18-21,2011 (www.blossomjapan.com) A new invitation-only luxury travel exhibition focusing on the Japanese market. Fitur International Tourism Trade Fair Madrid, Spain, January 19-23, 2011 (www.fitur.es) Fitur is a meeting point for tourism professionals to establish lines of action, strategies and business alliances.

NOVEMBER 2010