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23 FEBRUARY 2013
ISSUE 172
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23 FEBRUARY 2013
Dubai Unveils USD1.6 Billion Bluewaters Island Project The Bluewaters Island project is envisaged to become one of the largest tourist hotspots in the world.
ISSUE 172
Royal Caribbean International’s Serenade of the Seas has made its maiden call in Dubai and will be homeported there until mid-April, offering cruise enthusiasts the chance to explore the region.
05 Four Points by Sheraton to Debut in Saudi Arabia Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has signed an agreement to operate a Four Points by Sheraton hotel in the Saudi capital city.
06 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION AIR NEWS WHO’S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT’S CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS
02 03 06 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Dubai Welcomes Royal Caribbean Ship
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MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Stefanie Saghbini Rita Kasziba Dominique Christou Maria Kazeli
Egypt: Rates Remain Under Pressure
Egyptian hotels continued to post improving results in December 2012, with profit margins increasing 25 percent, according to TRI Hospitality Consulting’s HotStats survey.
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SALES & MARKETING
lthough average room rate (ARR) showed a slight drop of 2.7 percent across Cairo’s hotels, there was an 8.6 percent increase in RevPAR, boosted by a 4.2 percentage point growth in occupancy, which averaged at 40.5 percent, resulting in an upsurge in gross operating profit per
Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
available room (GOPPAR) by 25.6 percent. Meanwhile, in Sharm El Sheikh occupancy climbed 8.3 percentage points to 60.2 percent, however, due to lower rates in third party agreements, ARR dropped 4.5 percent, changing the overall market mix which resulted in a 26.2 percent increase in GOPPAR.
HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia, 1308, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 210466
QAIA Exceeds Six Million Passengers in 2012
WEBSITE
Airport International Group (AIG), operator of the Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA), announced record-breaking traffic results for 2012, with passenger activity exceeding the six million mark for the first time in the airport's history. In December 2012, 441,288 passengers travelled through QAIA, marking a 2.4 percent increase compared to the same month in 2011, while the number of passengers for 2012 was recorded at 6,250,048, a number which exceeded the annual total of 2011 by 14.3 percent. Passenger traffic surpassed the airport’s current capacity of 3.5 million for the last four years, with the upcoming launch of the new terminal catapulting the airport’s capacity to nine million annual passengers. AIG have invested an estimated USD750 million in the construction of the new terminal, while the operator further reported that future expansions will increase the airport’s capacity to 12 million passengers a year.
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
22/02/2013 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
6.74
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,504.00
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
70.80
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.57
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.43
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
12,284.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.30
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
78.73
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.27
Abu Dhabi Duty Free Reports Record Revenue
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bu Dhabi Duty Free’s retail revenue reached AED809.5 million (USD220.4 million) in 2012, an increase of 24 percent over 2011, setting a new record for Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), the operator of the UAE capital’s five airports. The retail figures reflect a growth in both
spend per passenger and average transaction value, as travellers continued to enjoy an attractive combination of retail mix, a variety of luxury brands, and various promotional campaigns. Once the new Midfield Terminal opens in 2017, ADAC’s retail business is expected to grow over AED1.5 billion (USD408.4 million). 23 FEBRUARY 2013
WEEKLY NEWS
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Wego Opens Middle East Office
Hertz UAE Opens Sharjah Branch
Dubai Welcomes Royal Caribbean Ship
The travel metasearch engine in the Asia Pacific and Middle East, Wego, has announced the establishment of a dedicated full-service operation in Dubai. The company had launched a comprehensive Arabic language site in April 2012, adding to its 50 websites available in 30 languages around the world. “Arab travellers embrace Wego as a means to gain control of their travel plans and enjoy greater value for money. The travel comparison shopping concept has huge appeal among Internet users in the region, who are almost universally regular travellers,” commented Mohamad Ibrahim Masri, managing director, Middle East and North Africa, Wego.
Hertz UAE has inaugurated a new car rental outlet at Sharjah International Airport, to capitalise on the increasing international inbound traffic coming into the emirate. “The new Hertz UAE location at Sharjah International Airport is a significant step in our strategic network expansion plan across the UAE, and is our fourth airport location,” explained Nigel Johnson, managing director, Hertz UAE, adding that the company is looking to enhance its presence in the country, by increasing its fleet size and refurbishing existing locations. Besides its new outlet in Sharjah, its 18th UAE location, the company has also presence in Dubai’s Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 as well as a branch at Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Royal Caribbean International’s Serenade of the Seas has made its maiden call in Dubai and will be homeported there until mid-April, offering cruise enthusiasts the chance to explore the region on sevennight round-trip sailings visiting the ports of Fujairah, Muscat and Abu Dhabi. Welcoming the ship in its new home, Lakshmi Durai, executive director, Middle East, Royal Caribbean International, said that guests will marvel at the scenery on show in this part of the world. Serenade of the Seas, which boasts 1,073 staterooms, and can carry 3,360 guests on double occupancy, has undergone a USD29 million revitalisation now offering new dining concepts, entertainment options and technological advancements.
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16 FEBRUARY 2013
WEEKLY NEWS Dubai Unveils USD1.6 Billion Bluewaters Island Project
Jordan: Tourism Revenues Reach USD3.47 Billion
The Bluewaters Island project, an AED6 billion (USD1.6 billion) mixed-use development, envisaged to become one of the largest tourist hotspots in the world, has been given the green light after receiving approval from H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai. Located off the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) coastline, the project, which is being developed by Meraas Holding, will include the world’s largest ferris wheel, called Dubai Eye, which is set to articulate the emirate’s long-term vision to be a key tourism hub in the world. Construction on the island project, which will also comprise retail, entertainment, and hospitality zones completed with a five-star hotel, is due to commence in April, while work on the AED1 billion (USD272.2 million) 210m ferris wheel is set to start in the second quarter of the year. Connected to the mainland with a direct roadway from the Sheikh Zayed Road, the island city will be easy to access from the metro station as well as from a pedestrian bridge linking the island to JBR beachfront, while a cable car will ferry visitors to the entertainment piazza.
Bluewaters Island
DAMAC Properties Reveals Details of New Projects DAMAC Properties has teamed up with luxury global brand FENDI to provide interior designs on the developer’s upcoming projects in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. DAMAC Esclusiva Luxury Serviced Apartments, a 150m high tower overlooking the Kingdom Tower in Riyadh, will feature more than 100 luxury serviced apartments boasting refined luxurious interior designed by the Italian fashion house, and the two companies will also collaborate on the interiors of DAMAC Residenze, the exclusive private apartments in Dubai Marina. The state-of-the-art projects, which are currently under construction and set to be completed in 2016, will take the standards of luxury living in the Middle East to a new level, as Hussain Sajwani, chairman, DAMAC Properties, explained, adding that the projects are expected to become the most desired serviced apartments available anywhere in the Middle East.
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As Jordan continues to forge ahead with its 25-year tourism development master plan, government figures show a 15.3 percent increase in 2012 tourism receipts over 2011 levels, contributing USD3.47 billion to the Kingdom’s economy. According to the Central Bank of Jordan, the growth was strongly associated with the recovery of inbound tourism, as numbers, especially from Iraq, Libya, and the US, started to pick up. Despite that the total number of visitors fell by 7.3 percent to 6,314,250, overnight tourists rose 5.1 percent to 4,162,367. In addition, based on Jones Lang LaSalle’s report, in the third quarter of 2012, Jordan achieved the best trading results in the Middle East, primarily due to an 18.1 percent improvement in occupancy. In line with the Kingdom’s ambitious plans, the Jordan Tourism Board will lead a host of high-profile participants to the Arabian Travel Market, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, on May 6 – 9.
Lourve Hotels Group Takes Over 12 Hotels in Morocco Lourve Hotels Group has signed a partnership agreement with Ynna Holding for the management, operation and marketing of the Ryad Mogador Hotels Chain, the tourism and hotel division of the Moroccan company. Under the terms of the renewable eight-year deal, 12 hotels, representing 3,000 rooms, will be rebranded as ‘Mogador Hotels by’ Tulip Inn, Golden Tulip or Royal Tulip. The agreement reaffirms the group’s international growth strategy of forming alliances with local partners in order to gain a better understanding of the market, and positions the company as a first-tier hotel group in the North African country with nearly 4,600 rooms and 1,600 others under construction. The company’s growing presence in Morocco will further facilitate the establishment of Campanile and Première Classe brands in major economic centres, like Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, Tangiers, and Fes, as well as mid-size cities such as El Jadida, Meknes and Oujda.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Four Points by Sheraton to Debut in Saudi Arabia Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has signed an agreement with Khaldia Towers Company, a partnership between Al Jedaie Group and Al Hokair Group, to operate a Four Points by Sheraton hotel in the Saudi capital city. Set to open in the second quarter of the year, Four Points by Sheraton Riyadh Khaldia will mark the brand’s entry into the Kingdom. Located 20 minutes from the business areas of the city and 45 minutes from the airport, the 376-room and 138-suite hotel will feature three restaurants and lounges, an event space with 18 purpose-built meeting rooms along with a spa and fitness centre. There is strong demand for mid-market hotel brands in the country, noted Othman Abahussain, general manager, Khaldia Towers Company, adding that Four Points by Sheraton has earned a great reputation with business travellers globally.
Hilton Expands Dubai Portfolio Hilton Worldwide signed a management agreement with Al Ain Hospitality Investments, the hospitality business arm of Al Ain Properties, to operate a new DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in the Jumeirah Beach Residence district of Dubai. Located on the district’s coastline, the 24-storey DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Jumeirah Beach will feature 110 suites and a full-range of guest amenities, including ample meeting and conference facilities, various dining options, furthermore a fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool, retails shows and a private beach. As part of a dual-tower upscale development, the hotel is expected to open late this year. Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Middle East and Africa, Hilton Worldwide, commented, “Dubai continues to be a key market for us and its on-going appeal as one of the GCC’s most attractive destinations is a major factor in expanding our city-wide presence.”
InterContinental Jordan Celebrates 50 Successful Years March 15 will mark the 50th anniversary of InterContinental Jordan; half century after the iconic hotel has embarked on an impressive journey of hospitality and service, introducing guests to a unique amalgamation of new experiences. InterContinental Jordan has been at the heart of the Kingdom’s life for five decades, as Jan Ifcic, general manager, InterContinental Jordan, noted, adding that this will be a historic year for the hotel. “We are all so proud of the achievements we have made here at the hotel and are grateful and honoured that our loyal guests have chosen us as their number one choice.” Over the past 50 years, InterContinental Jordan has undergone a series of expansions and renovations in line with its commitment to offer guests premium services and value for money. In 2010, the hotel invested JOD17 million (USD23.99 million) into renovations and upgrading facilities, and the management’s efforts have been recognised with a number of prestigious awards.
23 FEBRUARY 2013
Accommodation
Al Safir Hotel & Tower Completes Renovation
Rotana and Sundus Partner for Muscat Project
Al Safir Hotel & Tower, Manama, has unveiled its refreshed new look and upgraded facilities. As part of the renovation project that started in July 2012, all 112 rooms have been fully refurbished, and the restaurant, offices, meeting facilities, and public areas are now boasting an authentic atmosphere with a modern touch. The hotel, which also offers Wi-Fi connection and upgraded business facilities, is now classified as a ‘dry hotel’, informed Stephen Daniel, director of sales and marketing, Al Safir Hotel & Tower. “Considering that the bulk of our main guest are families, athletes and from various religious groups, management decided to serve only non-alcoholic beverages,” explained Daniel.
Crowne Plaza Dubai-Deira Unveils Royal Suite Crowne Plaza Dubai-Deira has opened its newly renovated Royal Suite, designed for the most discerning guests with a taste for luxury. The two-storey 256m2 suite features a separate living room, kitchen and bathroom, along with the latest in business and entertainment technology, positioned as the perfect base for families and VIP guests, as Myriam Petit, marketing manager, Crowne Plaza Dubai-Deira, explained. “Dubai has a wide variety of visitors and the Royal Suite caters to those guests who appreciate extra space and comfort, with close access to Dubai’s international airport and shopping malls. In addition, the renovation of all suites and rooms within the hotel is also nearing completion, including at the Presidential Suite, Executive Suite, Junior Suite, Executive Club Room and the Deluxe Room. Royal Suite
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WEEKLY NEWS
Rotana Hotel Management Company and Sundus Investments Projects, have signed a memorandum of understanding for a four-star Sundus Rotana by Rotana Hotels & Resorts in a unique hospitality complex at Airport Heights in Bousher, Muscat. Slated for completion in the first quarter of 2015, the 245-room hotel will serve as a one stop destination for visitors to Muscat, attested Selin El Zyr, president, Rotana Hotel Management Company. “Sundus Rotana by Rotana Hotels is the first property to open in Muscat and our 71st in the region under the Rotana Hotels & Resorts by Rotana brand, which is set for incredible growth in the upcoming years,” added El Zyr. Commenting on the development, Mohammed Mahfood Saad Al Ardhi, chairman, Sundus Investments Projects, said, “In a growing economy such as Oman, tourism is an emerging sector requiring huge investments. Our decision to venture into a hospitality project was backed by our confidence in the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos and the overwhelming support we continue to receive from government departments. Once the project was identified, choosing an operator was easy”.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Taj Palace Dubai Adds Another Restaurant Taj Palace Dubai has unveiled the latest addition to its extensive portfolio of food and beverage outlets, the Arabicthemed Al Waha restaurant. “We invite Arabic food lovers to enjoy our gracious hospitality in an exotic setting as they indulge in the region’s famed cuisine,” commented Samer Abiad, director of food and beverage, Taj Palace Dubai. Diners will be able to indulge in a variety of delicacies and gourmet delights on the restaurant’s theme nights. “Our ward-winning chefs will take you on a culinary journey across the region,” added Abiad. Al Waha restaurant
JA Resorts & Hotels to Make Global Debut in June JA Resorts & Hotels is set to open its first international property in the Seychelles in June. The company will mark its entry on the global stage with the launch of Enchanted Island Resort, a luxurious hideaway in the middle of a designated National Marine Park in the Seychelles. “Enchanted Island Resort in the Seychelles will be our first international property and naturally we are very excited about this opening,” commented David Thomson, chief operating officer, JA Resorts & Hotels, describing the resort as a stunning and intimate property, featuring just 10 Creole-style pool villas. “It will also be possible to take the island on an exclusive basis for up to 24 guests,” concluded Thomson.
Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea Introduces Wi-Fi In line with its commitment to continuously improve its services and facilities, Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea now offers guests wireless Internet access across the whole resort. The latest addition to the property’s range of services will enable guests to check their emails and surf the web anytime, anywhere in the resort, including the guest rooms, the food and beverage outlets, as well as the conference rooms, the business centre, the beach, the public areas and even the pool area. The newly introduced Wi-Fi connection aims to ensure an all-round perfect stay in every aspect.
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Unveils New Lounge The five-star hotel, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi opened the Ess Lounge, its latest beachfront venue. Located at the property’s South Beach, the new lounge provides a tranquil space where guests can indulge in a wide selection of food and beverage offerings, sample a variety of shisha flavours and enjoy a view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque across the water. Managed by Pool Bar & Restaurant, Ess Lounge displays a white and turquoise themed setting, boasting a relaxed contemporary ambience against the hotel’s Arabian-style backdrop.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Air
RAK and Travelport Sign Agreement
Etihad Airways Boosts Khartoum Flights
Travelport, the business services provider to the global travel industry, and RAK Airways have announced the enhancement of their partnership to a full content agreement. Under the new deal, Travelport customers will gain full access to the carrier’s inventory of flights and fares, while RAK Airways’ e-ticketing functionality is now extended to Travelport-connected agents in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India and Nepal. Will Owen Hughes, senior director, global distribution sales and service, Middle East and Africa, Travelport, commented, “Working with flag carriers is a key part of our business strategy and this enhanced agreement demonstrates the trust that RAK Airways has in Travelport’s global reach and ability to take their business to the next level.”
Etihad Airways has increased its Khartoum services from five flights per week to a daily schedule. The Abu Dhabi-based airline launched its operation to the Sudanese capital in July 2006 with an initial three flights per week. The new services, operated by a two-class cabin A320-200 on Thursdays and Saturdays, cater to the growing passenger demand between the African country and Abu Dhabi, and enhance connection for Sudan on Etihad Airways’ network of over 36 destinations in Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Europe, via the UAE capital. Kevin Knight, chief strategy and planning officer, Etihad Airways, said, “Khartoum has been performing strongly since we launched the route in 2006, and the increase in service will provide further benefits and travel options for our guests.”
Air Arabia Launches Baghdad Service The UAE low-cost carrier announced the introduction of nonstop operations to Baghdad, Air Arabia’s fourth destination in Iraq, and 83rd worldwide, with services beginning on March 10. The airline will offer three weekly flights between Sharjah and Baghdad, which will then be increased to five-weekly in the coming weeks. Three months after the launch of the airline’s last destination in Iraq, Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, expressed his delight to be expanding further into the country. “Iraq is a market of focus for Air Arabia and [the] announcement further reiterates the commitment that we place on serving the Iraqi market.” With an approximate population of 7.3 million, Baghdad is an important city to connect to from Sharjah, and Air Arabia also offers nonstop services to Basra, Erbil, and Najaf. Air Arabia
RJ to Begin Direct Services to Algiers Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) is to launch direct services to the Algerian capital city of Algiers, as of February 25, thus connecting Jordan and Algeria for the first time since the company’s establishment 50 years ago. Amer Hadidi, CEO, RJ, said there will be two weekly flights between Amman and Algiers, on Mondays and Wednesdays. Additionally, as of April 1, the airline will add a third flight, on Thursdays, in order to meet the demand on travel that is expected to witness a gradual growth in the coming months. Hadidi stressed that connecting Amman with Algiers through a direct scheduled service is bound to boost tourism in both countries, and also develop economic relations.
23 FEBRUARY 2013
WHO'S MOVED
Siddharth Bhardwaj
Ruth Swamy Ruth Swamy has been appointed business development manager at Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai. Swany began her career in the industry at Emirates Towers, before joining Coral Hotels & Resorts. Over the past years, she has gained invaluable experience and in-depth knowledge of the Dubai hospitality sector, having held various roles at Dhow Palace
Dubai, Dusit Princess, Traders Hotel Dubai, and Royal Ascott Hotel. Prior to her appointment, she worked as corporate sales manager at Mondo Hospitality, where she was responsible for three properties.
Over the past years, Swamy has gained invaluable experience
Siddharth Bhardwaj has been named director of flight operations at Rizon Jet. The aviation professional brings an extensive industry experience and knowledge to the role, having previously held senior operations and management positions with a commercial airport. Overall, he has worked in the aviation industry for more than 14 years
Dana Hlavnova Dana Hlavnova has been appointed general manager at Jumeira Rotana, Dubai. Hlavnova is transferred to the hotel from Amwaj Rotana, where she served as executive assistant manager, and brings with her over 16 years of international hotel and resort management experience. Hlavnova started her career as a front office receptionist, and has since worked her way up
23 FEBRUARY 2013
through her dedication and hard work to manager, director, and executive assistant manager before being promoted to general manager. Her career includes roles in various parts of the world, including the Czech Republic, Tanzania and Sudan.
Hlavnova’s career includes roles in various parts of the world
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and during this period logged more than 9,600 hours of flying experience. In Doha, Bhardwaj is a nominated post holder accepted by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, overseeing the flight operations and training department, and responsible for ensuring compliance with national and international regulations.
Covi Larxe-Rey Covi Larxe-Rey has joined Sofitel Bahrain Zallag Thalassa Sea & Spa as director of sales. Larxe-Rey graduated in business administration, majored in hotel and tourism management, and holds a diploma in protocol and etiquette studies. Since beginning her career in the industry, she has served a number of international hotel chains, including Marriott In-
ternational, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, and Shangri-La International Hotel Management, where she has gained 13 years of experience working in sales, marketing and events roles in various countries around the globe.
Larxe-Rey has served a number of international hotel chains
TRAVEL TALK
travel talk is your space
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Hussein Hachem
Ayman Ashor
Cluster general manager, Al Bustan Rotana Dubai and Al Murooj Rotana Dubai.
General Manager, Tilal Liwa Hotel.
“We are very proud of Muhamamad Ihsanullah [director of environment, health and safety at Al Bustan Rotana Dubai who won the Best Food Safety Manager Award for 2012 at the first ever Food Safety Awards]. It is yet again another strong manifestation of the efforts and importance we put into food safety. As a key five-star property in a city like Dubai, with an excellent reputation in catering and food and beverage in general, our guests can be assured that food quality and safety are our main priorities.”
“Since [ITB Berlin] is a pure business-to-business travel exhibition, the tour operators are more serious in their discussion and looking out for business opportunities. Our participation this year is to inform our partners about the summer offers from April to September as well as offers for the next winter season. We will also discuss the current leisure market situation and hopefully, sign up with key potential operators.”
William Harley-Fleming
Ziyad Bin Mahfouz
General manager, Oasis Beach Tower.
President, Elaf Group.
“We are constantly striving to offer unbeatable service to our guests and I am delighted that we are recognised as a top hotel [on TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Travelers’ Choice list] based solely on their feedback. To be accredited with these awards alongside other leading hotels in the UAE and Middle East is wonderful, but it is the recognition from our guests that we value most.”
“[The restructuring of the Advisory Committee for tourist accommodation in Saudi Arabia] is a great way to generate new ideas through the experiences and active involvement of new committee members. As a leading industry player, Elaf Group continues to identify various ways to contribute to the sustainable growth of the industry. […] Our strong presence in Riyadh enables us to provide premium-quality services for inbound travellers to Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina.”
TRAVEL TALK is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
23 FEBRUARY 2013
AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Warren Zahra POSITION: Managing director COMPANY: Alpine Sterling LOCATION: Malta WEB: www.alpinemalta.net
Who are you? I was born in London to Maltese parents, and lived there until the age of 29. I started my career in tourism working for a Maltese specialist tour operator in the UK, and later joined my uncle’s company in Malta, where today I am the managing director of Alpine Sterling, a destination management company, which forms part of the Alpine Group, and offers services to conference and incentive organisers, tour operators, and individual services to the corporate business traveller. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Seeing people enjoy their travel experience, whether it is for work or pleasure. When is the best time to visit Malta? I find winter and early spring is the best time to travel. November is also an excellent month to travel, and during these periods one will find excellent value for money in terms of accommodation. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I always like going back to London as the city is part of me, but if I were to choose somewhere for my wife and I to travel, probably it would be New York. If it would be with the family, having teenage children, short city tours are best, and great for shopping and entertainment. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Well, whilst I believe there are many good companies in Malta, I would say you will enjoy your experience by working with us because we still enjoy the business we are in. We have a great multi-lingual team who are the best asset any company could have, they are enthusiastic and very hard working. I guess that comes across as we have always enjoyed excellent levels of repeated business.
23 FEBRUARY 2013
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Travelport Launches Business Intelligence Tools Travelport has introduced a new business intelligence suite for travel agents in the Middle East and Africa. The new device, Agentivity, combines a wide range of tools and also allows automation of corporate reporting, while access to it is online and instant, it involves no process changes for agents, and data updates are available constantly. Rabih Saab, president, Middle East and Africa, Travelport, assured, “It can significantly improve agent efficiency by aggregating data from multiple suppliers and sources in one place, as well as providing
access to valuable customer data, such as advanced booking patterns,” further noting that Agentivity offers complete transparency over booking issues and allows agents to address problems and avoid potential human errors.
Rabih Saab, president, Middle East and Africa, Travelport
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
SCTA Discovers Historical Palace Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA) announced that recent archaeological excavations by a team from the Antiquities and Museums Department have led to the discovery of an ancient palace dating back to the first Hijri century.
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halid bin Mohammad Ascoby, head of the excavation team, Antiquities and Museums Department, stated that preliminary studies of the architectural elements have confirmed the age of the palace, which is about 40m x 30m, while a number of relics, such as ceramics pots, glass jars, stonetools and several vessels made of soapstone were also discovered. The team has detected the architectural foundations representing eight units of rooms distributed within the palace. The walls are built with volcanic
stones plastered with gypsum and mud. Most of the discovered rooms had floor-covering made of compacted mud. According to Ascoby, the relics reflect advancements in Islamic ceramic industry during the first and second Hijri centuries. The discoveries were made in Wadi Al Aqeeq in Al Madina province, one of the famous valleys in the region, mentioned in many historical, geographic and religious sources. Similar ceramics have also been discovered in Al Mabyat and Al Rebza Islamic sites.
Gulf Construction Industry Grows 48 Percent The value of completed GCC construction projects reached USD68.7 billion in 2012, up 48 percent over 2011, as a report commissioned by dmg :: events and conducted by Ventures Middle East, shows. According to the study, the construction market was led by residential, commercial and hospitality sectors, with USD29.4 billion, USD12.2 billion, and USD5.5 billion worth of projects completed respectively. “A number of construction projects that had been on hold resumed in 2012, as the region’s oversupply concerns were dispelled by a rise in demand due to growth of the population and disposable incomes,” commented on the figures Frederique Maurell, event director, INDEX International Design Exhibition, and The Office Exhibition. As for this year, the construction sector is expected to witness a 19 percent growth, with completed projects set to reach USD81.6 billion, and additional developments valued at USD64.5 billion anticipated to be awarded to contractors. In addition, the hospitality sector of the region’s interior contracting and fit-out market is forecasted to overtake the commercial sector and take the second largest share of the market, increasing in value by 31 percent from USD1.2 billion to USD1.57 billion.
First Sculpture Dubai Symposium 2013 Dubai’s Cultural and Scientific Association plays host to the first edition of Sculpture Dubai, which takes places between February 18 and March 8. A number of celebrated fine artists from 13 Arab countries, including the host country, UAE, are expected to attend the event. According to Sultan Saqr Al Suwaidi, chairman, Dubai Cultural and Scientific Association, such initiatives aim at boosting the UAE’s position in the fine and creative art field. “Through Sculpture Dubai we wish to lay the foundation stone of this art in the country, confirming the leading role of Dubai as a pioneering city in the field of fine art, with a particular focus on sculpture,” said Al Suwaidi.
Football Fans Boost Bahrain Airport Figures Bahrain International Airport (BIA) registered a significant increase in passenger traffic during the 2013 Gulf Cup of Nations as football fans from across the region flocked to the Kingdom to support their national teams. During the biennial competition between January 4 and 18, BIA welcomed more than 20,000 football enthusiasts, who, as Mohammad Yousif Albinfalah, CEO, Bahrain Airport Company, noted, brought a new level of energy and excitement to the airport. In response to the high demand, a number of GCC airlines decided to offer additional services to Bahrain, resulting in 140 extra flights at the airport, and a dramatic rise in air traffic and passenger volume.
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RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with Daniel Essex With the economic crisis on the background, luxury nonetheless appears at the forefront of traveller’s choices since travelling in luxury makes you feel unique and appreciated. Daniel Essex, CEO, Century Travel, a worldwide luxury cruise line tour operator, elaborates on the Middle East luxury options.
Travel Trade Weekly: Century Travel is a worldwide luxury cruise line tour operator serving most destinations around the globe and exclusively representing a number of five- and six-star cruise lines in Cyprus. Is the Middle East and North Africa one of your main luxury destinations at the moment? Are you planning to offer more luxury travel options to the region? Daniel Essex: The Middle East and North Africa have always been main destinations for our product. In recent years, we have started to promote the UAE, as well as Muscat. Egypt has suffered over the past few years, but still remains a focus for us, [since] discerning travellers do seem to be more understanding and often see the situation as an advantage as the regular tourist crowds are much smaller. Travel Trade Weekly: According to your experience in the industry, what are the specific demands and needs of modern luxury travellers? Daniel Essex: The most common demand is time. By this I mean that they want to be able to contact their agent at a time that is convenient to them. This means being available to them night and day. Luxury travellers want to feel special every step of the way and have the confidence that they are dealing with someone that has experienced what they want. By experiencing luxury travel, this allows the agent to manage expectations and deliver what is expected. Needs vary dependant on the individual and can be anything from flowers in a room to ensuring the hotel or cruise ship that is ac-
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Daniel Essex, CEO, Century Travel
Daniel Essex: The Middle East has always been seen as a leader in luxury offerings but in order to be parallel it needs to consider the boutique options. The region has always had the opinion that big is beautiful; however, there are so many luxury travellers that are looking for small and attentive, basically a much more personal approach. This is hard to find in the region and would be worthy of investment. Travel Trade Weekly: Do you think the region will further develop into a luxury destination for global travellers? What could lead to that development?
commodating them stocks their favourite brand of jam for breakfast. Travel Trade Weekly: Do you observe an increasing demand for luxury destinations in the Middle East, driven by the opulent accommodation options and luxury services on offer in the region? Daniel Essex: I do not believe that the luxury traveller is driven by a desire to stay in a particular hotel because it is seven-star. They are driven first by destination and then consider the choices for that destination. Where there are multiple options of top end properties this is obviously of benefit to the traveller. Travel Trade Weekly: Do you consider the Middle East luxury offerings parallel to those in other regions?
Daniel Essex: Abu Dhabi, in my opinion, has already addressed this with the development on Saadiyat Island and the introduction of cultural arts such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum, as well as the Performing Arts Centre. [These developments] will attract a more international and discerning traveller.
Luxury travellers want to feel special every step of the way and have the confidence that they are dealing with someone that has experienced what they want
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NEWS & EVENTS
ITB Berlin: Sustainable and Responsible Tourism Social and ecological responsibility in tourism is the focus at ITB Berlin this year, where numerous events will address various aspects of sustainability and socially responsible travel. The programme will include discussions dealing with human rights, travel for the deaf and developments on Haiti three years after the disastrous earthquake. The 8th Pow Wow for Tourism Professionals will focus on ’Earth’s Wetlands & Geoparks – Celebrating Earth Heritage, Sustaining Local Communities’, with panel discussions on wetlands, wildlife watching and biodiversity, while this year’s Convention & Culture Partner of ITB Berlin, Azerbaijan, will be providing details about its own sustainable tourism concept. Barrier-free travel will also be a topic covered at ITB, with features on travel organised by the deaf for the deaf, along with a paper on accessible tourism in India.
GIBTM Announces New Initiative The Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings (GIBTM) exhibition enriches its programme with the addition of Event Camp Middle East to this year’s edition of the event, held between March 25 – 27, in Abu Dhabi. The new feature aims to deliver a dynamic education programme, and allow visitors and buyers to interact with likeminded professionals, while it will also deliver real life case studies, strategies for exploiting social media, and new technologies. According to Lois Hall, event director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, organiser of GIBTM, Event Camp Middle East will add value to the show’s existing programme.
DTCM Partakes in SATTE The Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) participated for the seventh successive year at SATTE, South Asia’s business-to-business travel and tourism event, held in January in New Delhi, India. The Department was represented with 35 participants at the event, led by Mansoor Bawazir, head of region, overseas promotions and inward missions department, DTCM. Relations between the two countries have been showing signs of rapid growth as India remained one of the largest trading partners of Dubai while the number of Indian guests to the emirate reached 763,846 in 2012, indicating that the relation between the two regions is strengthening.
EVENTS Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) Melbourne, Australia, February 26 – 27, 2013 (www.aime.com.au) A must-attend, five-star event in the Asia Pacific region for the meeting and events industry.
The Gulf Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM) Abu Dhabi, UAE, March 25 – 27, 2013 (www.gibtm.com) A leading event for the meetings, incentives, and business travel industry in the GCC region, which can truly unlock all participants’ business potential.
Abu Dhabi Air Expo Abu Dhabi, UAE, March 5 – 7, 2013 (www.adairexpo.com) Held at Al Bateen Executive Airport, this expo is a platform for the leaders in the general aviation sector to promote their latest innovations.
Saudi Travel & Tourism Investment Market (STTIM) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, March 31 – April 4, 2013 (www.sttim.com.sa) The event covers all travel and tourism investments aspects in the Kingdom through a combined conference and exhibition.
ITB Berlin Berlin, Germany, March 6 – 10, 2013 (www.itb-berlin.de) A business-to-business platform for trade visitors which provides the possibility to discover the whole world within a few hours.
International Destination Expo (IDE) Dubai, UAE, April 4 – 7, 2013 (www.asta.org/events) Organised by the American Society of Travel Agents, IDE is a destination training programme where participants can meet local suppliers and built profitable long-lasting relationships.
MITT Moscow Moscow, Russia, March 20 – 23, 2013 (www.mitt.ru) Russia’s leading and largest travel exhibition with over 3,000 participating companies and 197 destinations, a key meeting place for industry professionals.
Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai, UAE, May 6 – 9, 2013 (www.arabiantravelmarket.com) The travel and tourism event unlocking business potential within the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals.
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