Travel Trade Weekly Issue 219 by T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD

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CYPRUS! Monthly www.traveltradecyprus.travel

18 JANUARY 2014

ISSUE 219

Dubai Gearing up to Launch Food Festival Dubai Food Festival will bring together the emirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular business and consumer food events for enterprises and consumers.

Steigenberger Hotel Group has further expanded its presence in Egypt with the launch of Steigenberger Aqua Magic on the Red Sea Coast.

04 Waldorf Astoria Debuts in Dubai Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah has opened its doors.

10 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION AIR INTERNATIONAL WHO'S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT'S CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS

02 03 08 11 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Steigenberger Aqua Magic Opens

MARKET UPDATE

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel COPY EDITOR Emily Millett

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman: Occupancy Soars in 2013

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman has achieved an average occupancy rate of 91 percent in 2013, up four percent year-on-year.

SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia, 1308, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103607 WEBSITE

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman

www.traveltradeweekly.travel

n 2013, the property sold 124,000 room nights, surpassing 2012’s record of 105,000. Holidaymakers continued to drive the performance with 57 percent of the bookings coming from the leisure segment, with guests from the CIS countries topping the nationality mix. As Iftikhar Hamdani, general manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman, highlighted, despite the addition of 60 new rooms at the end of 2012, the hotel’s occupancy throughout 2013 has not gone below 90 percent. “Tourism in Ajman is booming thus, the demand for rooms will continue to increase,” suggested Hamdani.

EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of

17/01/2014 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1USD=

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

6.96

Saudi Arabia (SAR)

Riyal

3.75

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,502.50

Bahrain (BHD)

Dinar

0.37

Jordan (JOD)

Dinar

0.71

Syria (SYP)

Pound

142.80

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.28

Qatar (QAR)

Riyal

3.64

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.38

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.65

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

8.24

Iran (IRR)

Riyal

24,856.00

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.76

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

79.19

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.25

Kuwait: Highest Top Line Growth Kuwait registered the highest top line improvement across the five MENA markets surveyed by TRI Hospitality Consulting’s HotStats report in November 2013. Average room rate recovered from the particularly low base witnessed in the corresponding month in 2012, soaring 36.8 percent to USD331.96. Meanwhile,

occupancy levels rose 3.8 percentage points to 62.5 percent driving a RevPAR growth of 45.7 percent to USD207.44. As the market continued to stabilise, a substantial improvement in conferencing and banqueting revenues boosted total RevPAR levels up by 32.2 percent to USD432.19.

Abu Dhabi: Guest Numbers Exceed 2.5 Million

bu Dhabi’s hospitality industry has hit the destination’s 2013 hotel guest target a month early with total arrivals to the emirate surpassing the 2.5 million mark following a highly successful November. During the month under review, 260.810

guests checked into Abu Dhabi’s 149 hotels and hotel apartments, marking a 26 percent year-on-year increase and delivering 856,785 hotel nights, up 27 percent. Meanwhile, occupancy levels rose 10 percent to 83 percent and total revenue lunged 19 percent upwards to AED669 million (USD190.3 million). 18 JANUARY 2014

WEEKLY NEWS ADPC to Manage and Operate Zayed Port Abu Dhabi Terminals (ADT) has transferred the concession for the management and operation of Zayed Port back to Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC). The two organisations have had a long-established working relationship and have assembled a dedicated team to manage the handover. All of the current infrastructure, equipment, system and processes and employees are being transferred to ADPC to guarantee uninterrupted high levels of service for all customers and stakeholders. ADT had assumed the management of Zayed Port in 2006, and moving forward, the two companies will continue to work in close collaboration as ADT also holds the 30-year concession to manage and operate the emirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagship Khalifa Port. Zayed Port

Health Conference in Abu Dhabi The Emirates Gastroenterology & Hepatology Society (EGHS) has signed an agreement to jointly organise Gastro 2016: EGHS/WGO International Meeting, together with the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO) in Abu Dhabi in 2016. The successful deal follows a two-day official visit to the UAE capital, organised by the Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau, for the WGO delegation to gain first hand insights into the destination and its wide range of meeting venues, hotels and tourism attractions. The meeting, hailed as the largest of its kind in the Arab world, is expected to attract over 2,000 health care professionals, medical specialists and policy makers.

Russian Visitors in Ras Al Khaimah

S E A M L E S S LY B L E N D S W O R K A N D P L AY.

Conveniently located 10 minutes away from Dubai International Airport, Dubai Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf offers views of the city landscape of Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay and the Burj Khalifa.

DISCOVE R A WHOLE N EW W O R L D O F T R AV E L OPENING SOON. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.DUBAIMARRIOTTALJADDAF.COM

DU BAI M ARRI OT T HOTE L AL JADDAF OUD METHA ROAD, AL JADDAF AREA PO BOX 122273, DUBAI, UAE T. 971.4.317.7777 DUBAIMARRIOTT.ALJADDAF@MARRIOTT.COM WWW.TRAVELBRILLIANTLY.COM

18 JANUARY 2014

WEEKLY NEWS

Burj DAMAC Marina: Key Construction Milestone The 13th storey slab has been cast at Burj DAMAC Marina, DAMAC Properties’ luxury serviced hotel apartments project in Doha. Set in the heart of the marina district of Lusail in the Qatari capital city, the 20-storey mixed-used development is scheduled for completion over the next 12 months and it will comprise more than 100 luxurious serviced hotel apartments consisting of one, two and three bedrooms. Services will include a kids’ club and baby-sitting, fully-fitted kitchens throughout, inroom hair and nail treatments and 24-hour room concierge service. An outdoor swimming pool, running track, state-of-the-art gym, all-day dining restaurant, and four floors of dedicated office space will also be available. “Qatar is experiencing a steep growth in investment and tourism and Burj DAMAC Marina will service the influx of international visitors heading to Doha in the coming years,” commented Niall McLoughlin, senior vice president, DAMAC Properties.

Dubai Gearing up to Launch Food Festival

H.E. Laila Mohammed Suhail, CEO, DFRE

Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and running between February 21 to March 15, the Dubai Food Festival will bring together some of the emirate’s most popular business and consumer food events for enterprises and consumers. Dubai Food Festival will also feature a wide range of food-related activities, tastings, offers and events, while it is intended to become an annual fixture on Dubai’s calendar of world class events. It also aims to provide entertainment for residents and visitors, contributing to the further development of the culinary sector and support the tourism and hospitality industry through increasing the international awareness of Dubai on the global stage.

Burj DAMAC Marina

Demand Dries up in Sharm El Sheikh According to TRI Hospitality Consulting’s latest HotStats report, hotel performance in Sharm El Sheikh continued to plummet in November 2013 with average room rate (ARR) suffering a drastic decline. As the report pinpoints, hotel occupancy levels fell 20.4 percentage points to 58.1 percent, while ARR dropped 26.6 percent to USD32.50, resulting in RevPAR plunging 45.7 percent to USD18.87. Meanwhile, high-fixed operating expenses, including payroll costs, increased substantially to 23.5 percent weighting heavily on the bottom line with gross operating profit per available room falling 65.6 percent to USD9.43. As Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting Middle East, explained, the ongoing unrest in Egypt has forced Sharm El Sheikh hotels to offer discounted rates in order to elevate occupancies, however, leisure visitors and tour groups, which comprise the bulk of demand, continue to be deterred.

18 JANUARY 2014

WEEKLY NEWS Sharjah Launches Interactive Map

Qatar to Host International Tourism Conference

Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has introduced the emirate’s first interactive map, available both on the web and as an application on smartphones. The innovative solution highlights all the major tourist attractions, historical sites and business centres across the emirate’s major cities, including Sharjah, Khorfakkan, Lalba and Dibba Al Hisn. As H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, SCTDA, noted, the map forms part of the authority’s policy and efforts to enforce and boost smart e-governance solutions in all areas and activities of the tourism sector. A new tourism portal, interactive touchscreens, Discover Sharjah, tourism mobile app, as well as the hotel statistic system and event ticketing system are all part of these initiatives. In order to upgrade and develop all its services, SCTDA is working on a number of pilot projects to effectively promote the emirate and its tourism sector. Icon TTG Half Page AD 155x220.pdf

1/7/14

Qatar Tourism Authority has partnered with Stenden University Qatar, Al Rayyan Tourism Investment Company and the European Tourism Futures Institute to organise the first major international tourism conference of its kind in Qatar. Running between February 23 - 24 at Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel, the twoday conference, titled ‘Tourism in Tomorrow’s World: What the future holds for tourism in the region’, will cover every sector of the industry from family tourism to business tourism, cultural, sun and beach, sports, education, health and environmental tourism. It will also address relevant issues, as well as new industry developments and trends in the GCC and factors which can affect tourism in the region.

10:25 AM

INTERCONTINENTAL MUSCAT

CROWNE PLAZA DUQM

A 35-acre oasis nestled between the majestic Hajjar Mountains and Indian Ocean and ideally located in the heart of the city. The hotel’s Palm Beach Club offers 900 square metres of rest and relaxation, an Olympic pool and beautifully landscaped gardens leading to the beach.

600kms from Muscat, the hotel offers expansive views of the Al Wusta Region’s coastline with its 213 Rooms, Frontier Pub and Sports Bar, Al Safi Restaurant and SOUQ our all-day dining Restaurant.

CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT

CROWNE PLAZA SALALAH

Set in 10 acres of lush landscaped gardens within the prestigious "Qurum Heights" area of Muscat the hotel's Cliff Club offers the latest in leisure facilities. You will be able to unwind and reward yourself after a day at the office or simply lounge at the pool or private beach and completely rejuvenate yourself.

Situated in 45 acres of lush tropical garden, overlooking the Arabian Sea and on a long stretch of pristine white sandy beach. The Resort enjoys an ideal location for Business Travellers, Meetings and Events and for Families.

CROWNE PLAZA SOHAR

HOLIDAY INN MUSCAT AL SEEB

With 126 rooms and suites, and situated 9kms from Sohar's Economic Zone, Industrial Estate and Port. Whether it is for business or leisure, we are your definite partner for accommodation and events in Sohar.

One of the city’s newest hotels with 187 guest rooms including 11 apartments; this modern hotel is conveniently located approximately 8kms from Muscat Airport; its close to the city’s main shopping and historical sites and business hub.

For more information, please call the hotels directly on the following numbers: InterContinental Muscat +968 2468 0000. Crowne Plaza Muscat +968 2466 0660. Crowne Plaza Sohar +968 2685 0850. Crowne Plaza Salalah +968 2323 8000. Crowne Plaza Duqm +968 2521 4444. Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb +968 9444 9606.

18 JANUARY 2014

WEEKLY NEWS

Troon to Manage Golf Course in Marrakech Troon has continued to grow its Moroccan portfolio by taking over yet another Palmeraie Development Group facility in Marrakech. Following the announcement in 2013 that the company will manage sister venues at Les Jardins De l’Atlas, Marrakech and California Golf Resort, Casablanca, the signing of PalmGolf Club Marrakech demonstrates the ownership’s confidence in Troon. Previously known as Palmeraie Golf Club, the 27-hole venue adds to an existing portfolio of Troon-managed properties in the region, bringing the total to eight. “These are extremely positive times in Morocco; the destination continues to grow with loyal client bases across the globe and the signing of PalmGolf Club Marrakech adds an all-new string to the bow of Troon in the Europe, Middle East and Africa division,” commented Bruce Glasco, senior vice president, international operations, Troon.

Vida Downtown Dubai Redefines Customer Engagement Emaar Hospitality Group’s newly-launched Vida Downtown Dubai has introduced OPERA9 Mobile, a platform that enhances front and back of house operations, increasing overall efficiency. With this step, Vida Downtown Dubai has become one of the first hotels in the Middle East to implement this innovative system that is set to further improve its speed of service, increase staff efficiencies, simplify complex requests surrounding reservations, and manage operations seamlessly. Commenting on the initiative, Stefan Viard, general manager, Vida Downtown Dubai, said, “From the moment that our guests make their reservation to the checkout process, we ensure that with enhanced connectivity and state-of-the-art technology, their experience is nothing short of memorable.”

Vida Downtown Dubai

SCTDA Outlines Annual Agenda Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) hosted a special meeting with representatives of the hotel industry, malls and commercial establishments in the emirate to brief them on the organisation’s plans and agenda for the current year. As H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, SCTDA, highlighted, the interaction is a new step in the process of cooperation between the authority and industry partners and is aimed at reinvigorating the growing tourism sector in the emirate that has been attracting more than 1.7 million visitors a year and recorded a 10 percent rise in arrivals in the first nine months of 2013. Highlighting the great significance of the international travel and trade shows, Al Midfa noted that these events have helped effectively position and promote the destination to a broad audience.

18 JANUARY 2014

WEEKLY NEWS

Mixed Hotel Results in Doha

Doha

GCC Ecotourism Conference to Be Held in March The GCC Ecotourism Conference will take place between March 30 – 31, at Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman with attendees including a number of specialists representing tourism ministries, travel organisations, as well as the hospitality, tourism and aviation sectors in general. The event aims to investigate the challenges ecotourism is facing in the Gulf region, and the ways to protect wildlife, while it will also suggest solutions that can contribute to the well-being of the communities living near environmental tourist’ attractions. Sustainable life development in the GCC countries will be the central focus of the conference’s proceedings, whereas the UAE government and its development plans in the field of ecotourism are also to be highlighted. Lastly, reaching the best economic strategies which can support ecotourism in the Gulf will be the first priority on the meetings’ agenda through dialogues and papers introduced by airline representatives, tour operators, travel agents, and hotels.

18 JANUARY 2014

The Qatari capital city’s four- and five-star hotels posted mixed results for November 2013. According to TRI Hospitality Consulting’s HotStats report, occupancy levels rose 2.7 percentage points to 73.3 percent, average room rate (ARR) on the other hand fell 14.7 percent to USD231.20. A significant reduction in ARR resulted in RevPAR declining 11.4 percent to USD169.40 and ultimately leading to a gross operating profit per available room drop of 3.4 percent to USD231.90. “The Doha hotel market continues to show positive results with an increase in occupancies not only during the month of November 2013, but throughout 2013,” highlighted Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting Middle East, adding that this is a positive sign for the Qatari market.

WEEKLY NEWS

Rezidor: Improving Profitability The Rezidor Hotel Group has signed four deals in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2013. By restructuring three lease agreements and terminating one unprofitable contract, after already exiting from nine unprofitable leases in 2012, the company achieved significant rent reductions and managed to increase its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA). Two of the restructured lease contracts had an impact on the Q4 2013 results, and when combined, they led to a EUR3.6 million (USD4.9 million) 2013 EBITDA increase, while the other one will take effect this month and is forecasted to generate an additional EUR1.7 million (USD2.3 million) in EBITDA this year and thereafter.

Accommodation

Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Al Bida’a Kuwait Adds Meeting Rooms

Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Al Bida's Kuwait

Following an extensive renovation, Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Al Bida’a Kuwait has unveiled its nine new meeting rooms. Ideal for smaller meetings as well as larger receptions for up to 45 persons per room, the stylish sea-view venues are fully-equipped to meet the needs of a variety of functions and offer Wi-Fi connection, LCD projectors and screens, sound system and microphones. With the launch of the new facilities, the resort now offers an entirely unique corporate experience with five-star meeting and banqueting venues and a myriad of amenities and services that delegates can enjoy during breaks or after the events.

Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments Nears Completion Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments is in advanced stages of construction and is due for completion by the second quarter of the year. The property, which is located in Qurum, is one of the five projects scheduled to open this year under the Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) banner, and will be a flagship hotel for Coral Hotels & Resorts in Muscat. Owned by Mustafa Sultan Enterprises, the deluxe four-star property forms part of a shopping arcade and multiplex, and features 88 apartments. Guests will also benefit from an allday-dining restaurant, pool deck and lounge, terrace lounge, gym, aerobics room and swimming pool and various meeting venues.

Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments

18 JANUARY 2014

WEEKLY NEWS

Accommodation

Steigenberger Aqua Magic Opens Steigenberger Hotel Group has further expanded its presence in Egypt with the launch of Steigenberger Aqua Magic on the Red Sea Coast. The property features 707 rooms and suites, including 294 family suites, nine restaurants and bars, a souk, kids’ and teen club, private beach, wellness and gym area, and a nine-hole golf course. The “magic of water” plays a special role at the resort and it boasts a certified aqua park offering a host of attractions for visitors of all ages. These include five swimming pools, giant water slides, a "lazy river" and a separate children’s area with a range of play equipment.

Mövenpick Takes Over Sheraton Hotel in Pakistan Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has taken over management of the 407-room Sheraton Karachi on the Pakistani city’s prestigious Club Road. Rebranded as Mövenpick Hotel Karachi, the hotel is the first property in Pakistan to be managed by the upscale international hospitality company. A major refurbishment of the property’s lobby, restaurants and two guest room floors will be carried out in the coming months to meet the standards of the managing company. Mövenpick Hotel Karachi features convenient business facilities including 16 multi-purpose meeting rooms, in addition to the main Darbar Hall which can accommodate up to 1,000 delegates. Besides various dining options, the hotel also offers a pool, sauna, fitness centre and a tennis court. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts

TTW Jan 2014.pdf 1 12/29/2013 5:27:06 PM

MEMORABLE STAY WITH DANAT FABULOUS CHOICE Make your escape to a magnificent resort retreat in UAE’s picturesque garden city - the Danat Al Ain Resort. Located in the heart of a breathtaking landscape, with elegant interiors and premium amenities including indulgent spa, health and fitness centre and three soothing swimming pools. This five star property offers a truly amazing and unique stay! C

You can enjoy this fabulous offer, with rates starting from AED 550* including sumptuous buffet breakfast for 2 adults and 2 kids and Hili Fun City tickets.

Call +971 3 704 6000 for more information

CMY

Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a Division of National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels PO Box 16031, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates T. +971 3 704 6000 F. +971 3 704 6009 E. info.alain@danathotels.com www.danathotels.com

18 JANUARY 2014

WEEKLY NEWS

Accommodation

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Organises Workshop A workshop was held in late December 2013 at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, Bahrain, which was aimed at laying a solid foundation for a meaningful four-dimensional hotel action plan for this year and beyond. Chaired by Panos Panagis, general manager, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, and attended by the hotel’s heads of departments and staff, the event rolled out a four-dimensional strategy designed to have a direct, positive impact of the property’s guests, staff, owners and shareholders. The plan has a multidimensional framework based on four strong pillars; develop talent, drive business, delight guests, and deliver results. The workshop was followed by an honouring ceremony for the long-service employees of the property.

Waldorf Astoria Debuts in Dubai Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah has opened its doors, marking the second Waldorf Astoria branded property’s launch in the UAE. Located on the east crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the hotel features 319 rooms, exuding luxury, sophistication and world-class amenities. Commenting on the brand’s foray into the destination, John Vanderslice, global head of luxury and lifestyle brand, Hilton Worldwide, said that the increasing number of international arrivals into Dubai had created a demand which the company can readily satisfy with this property’s launch. Guests will be spoilt for choice with a selection of six restaurants and bars and an abundance of recreational facilities including tennis and a full range of water sports. In addition, eight meeting rooms and a 600-capacity multi-purpose ballroom are also available.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Launches New Facilities Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre has unveiled its new MICE venues, offering up-to-date and modern facilities for corporate travellers and event organisers. Covering a total area of 909m2, the meeting space comprises nine rooms and allows great flexibility to host various events from board meetings to conferences, to social events and formal functions. The new venue is equipped with ground-breaking technologies, modern amenities and a car lift, while a fully dedicated team is available to ensure successful events. In addition, the main ballroom adorns two different banquet styles that is a wedding, cocktail and a theatre to best suite occasions of all type.

18 JANUARY 2014

Air

WEEKLY NEWS

RAK Airways Suspends Operations

RAK Airways

SPA Enhances VIP Services Saudia Private Airline (SPA), an investment wing of Saudia Arabian Airlines, signed an agreement with Mohammed Yousuf Naghi Motors, agents of Jaguar and Land Rover in the Kingdom, to use Jaguar XJ as an official car to transport the airline’s most important customers in major Saudi airports. As Faisal bin Ghazi Kayyal, CEO, SPA, explained, the agreement comes as part of the company’s efforts to further improve services to its customers. In line with its endeavours, SPA has categorised its clients into silver, gold and platinum and has now a fleet of 10 aircraft with luxurious facilities. Ehab Allam, CEO, Mohammed Yousuf Naghi Motors, described the agreement as the beginning of a longterm partnership.

18 JANUARY 2014

RAK Airways has announced the discontinuation of all operations as of January 1. The UAE airline explained the decision with the increased pressures on the carrier’s performance due to continued market conditions, rising operating costs and the impact of the regional political instability on the overall aviation industry. The airline’s management believes that the decision to suspend operations until further notice is in the best interest of the carrier and its stakeholders and will take this time to re-evaluate the best options available for RAK Airways’ future as well as those that fit the industry requirements of the rising emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. RAK Airways, which served more than 300,000 passengers in 2012, operated from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport to destinations in the Middle East, Pakistan, India and Nepal.

Etihad Airways to Fly to Yerevan Etihad Airways is to launch scheduled services to the capital city of Armenia, effective from July 2. The UAE flag carrier will operate a two-class Airbus A320 aircraft on the route, offering a total of 1,088 seats per week. The flight connecting Abu Dhabi and Yerevan is expected to cater for the significant and growing demand for air services between the UAE and Armenia and comes in line with the carrier’s expansion plans. “The launch of Etihad Airways’ flights to Yerevan is consistent with our strategy of targeting areas of strong growth in emerging markets,” explained James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, adding that the Abu Dhabi-based carrier will be the only full-service commercial airline from the Gulf region to serve the Armenian capital.

Opera House, Yerevan

WEEKLY NEWS

Air

Air Arabia Steps Up Doha Services Air Arabia has celebrated 10 successful years in Qatar with the addition of one more daily flight to Doha, offering now three daily frequencies between Sharjah International Airport and the Qatari capital city. The low-cost carrier entered the GCC country in January 2004 and has, over the past decade, enjoyed continuously good performance on the route which resulted in the airline expanding its operations from a few weekly flights to 21 non-stop services. Commenting on the occasion, Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, described Qatar as a key market for the carrier which holds future opportunities for the company.

Etihad Airways: Recordbreaking 2013 Etihad Airways has celebrated a year of recordbreaking success after achieving its highest ever passenger and cargo volumes in 2013. During the year under review, nearly 12 million people flew with the national airline, marking a significant rise of close to 16 percent versus 2012. Bangkok proved to be once again the carrier’s busiest route, with a total of 742,759 passengers, followed by Manila, London, Jeddah and Paris. The airline carried 73 percent of the more than 16.4 million passengers who travelled through Abu Dhabi International Airport in 2013 and with the addition of its equity alliance partners that operate services to the UAE capital, the combined total reached 79 percent of the airport’s passenger volumes. Meanwhile, 486,753 tonnes of freight and mail were delivered by Etihad Airways, up 32 percent, and the airline accounted for 89 percent of cargo imports, exports and transfers at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Air Arabia Sharklet

Wizz Air: 13.5 Million Passengers Carried

Wizz Air

Wizz Air, hailed as the largest lowcost carrier in Central and Eastern Europe, served a total of 13.5 million passengers in 2013, representing a 12 percent year-on-year increase, with an average load factor of 86 percent. Wizz Air’s fleet currently consists of 45 Airbus A320s and the carrier, which also operates to Dubai, is expected to take delivery of an additional eight new airplanes in the coming months, bringing its total to 53 aircraft by year-end. This comes in line with the airline’s expansion drive that includes the upcoming opening of its 18th and 19th operating bases in Lviv, Ukraine and Craiova, Romania, and the further expansion of its current operations.

18 JANUARY 2014

Air

WEEKLY NEWS

Emirates Circled the Globe over 18,000 Times in 2013 According to the airline’s data, Emirates’ aircraft flew around the world more than 18,000 times in 2013. Figures show that the carrier’s fleet travelled more than 751 million km throughout the year, which is equivalent to 18,753 navigations of the Earth’s circumference at the equator. In 2013 a total of 164,635 flights were conducted, carrying over 43 million passengers. Moreover throughout the year, the airline received 24 new aircraft, a combination of Airbus A380s, Boeing 777s and 777 freighters and launched nine new passenger routes, while 2013 was also filled with milestone achievements such as the opening of Concourse A, the world’s first purpose-built A380 concourse at Dubai International.

flynas: Most Successful Year to Date flynas has concluded its most successful year to date with a number of achievements that includes carrying 3.3 million passengers in 2013. During the year under review, the Saudi national carrier revealed its new name and identity and launched the in-demand flynas business class while it also achieved high rates of customer satisfaction and on-time performance. “We worked very hard to make a consistent progress during the recent past years and we reached a good step in the implementation process of our strategic plans and 2013 was an exceptional year to have various major achievements,” commented Sulaiman Al Hamdan, group CEO, NAS Holding, adding that serving 3.3 million travellers, achieving 91 percent customer satisfaction and 90 percent on-time performance reflects the carrier and other stakeholders’ commitment to continuous improvement.

flynas

18 JANUARY 2014

Emirates

Air Algerie Commits for Eight Boeing Boeing and Air Algerie announced a deal for eight Next-Generation 737-800 airplanes, which will all feature the Boeing Sky Interior, the 787 Dreamliner inspired cabin, while onboard passengers will enjoy a greater sense of spaciousness with decorative sculpted sidewalls, larger window reveals, LED mood lighting and larger pivot overhead stowage bins. The carrier is pleased with these aircraft, and anticipates receiving all eight units before the end of 2016, commented Mohamed Salah Boultif, CEO, Air Algerie. “Air Algerie has been a major player in North African aviation for more than 50 years and has already experienced the enhanced performance and improved economics of the 737-800,” said Van Rex Gallard, vice president, sales, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

WEEKLY NEWS

International

Dusit International Launches New Hotel Brand

Dusit Devarana New Delhi

Swiss-Belhotel International Grows in Indonesia Swiss-Belhotel International extended its presence in the Indonesian hospitality market with the launch of Swiss-Belinn Manyar, Surabaya in East Java in December 2013. The three-star, 143-room property is the first Swiss-Belhotel International project in the city, although the global hotel management company handles resorts ranging from two-star to five-star classifications across Asia Pacific and the Middle East, with a strong presence in Indonesia. Ideally located in the central business and commercial district of the country’s second largest city, Swiss-Belinn Manyar, Surabaya offers an attractive accommodation option for business and leisure travellers alike, with easy access to a variety of dining and shopping options, as well as other entertainment and leisure activities.

Asian hospitality group Dusit International introduced a new premium hotel brand, Dusit Devarana, addressing the needs of a new segment and catering to the discerning, high-powered sophisticate looking for a more experiential stay. The addition aims to provide one-of-a-kind resorts that offer an escape from the everyday world – a sense of renewal; a renaissance of the mind. “The Dusit Devarana brand compliments the existing core Dusit brands. Dusit Thani hotels and resorts typically have extensive facilities with larger room inventories, and dusitD2 hotels are typically modern, boutique-style products aimed towards those looking for affordable luxury. The Dusit Devarana brand now offers the group another choice for partners who wish to develop hotels with us, and we see great potential for the brand [this year] and beyond,” said Rustom Vickers, group director of development, Dusit International.

BWI Debuts in Myanmar Best Western International (BWI) has launched BEST WESTERN Green Hill Hotel, Yangon, marking the company’s foray into Myanmar. Located in the heart of the city, the 189-room midscale property offers a range of modern amenities, further to a restaurant and three meeting rooms. “Once again Best Western International is blazing a trail in the global hospitality industry,” stated Glenn de Souza, vice president, international operations, Asia and Middle East, BWI, noting that with the launch of the property, BWI has become the first US-based hotel company to establish a presence in Myanmar. “Best Western International sees huge potential in Myanmar, and we intended to be here for the long-term, helping to grow the country’s tourism industry,” added de Souza.

BEST WESTERN Green Hill Hotel, Yangon

18 JANUARY 2014

WHO'S MOVED

Oresto Traetto

Laszlo Jaszberenyi Laszlo Jaszberenyi has been promoted to general manager at Suite Novotel and ibis Mall of the Emirates. Jaszberenyi, who joined Accor over 20 years ago, brings a wealth of experience to the role in which he will be responsible for the overall performance of the hotels.

Prior to his promotion, he worked as hotel director for the properties, a position he successfully held for three years.

Jaszberenyi joined Accor more than 20 years ago

Oresto Traetto has taken on the position of general manager at ibis Al Rigga in Dubai. Traetto’s promotion follows his three successful years as hotel director at Novotel Deira City Centre and ibis Deira City Centre. Over the years, Traetto has proved his ability to build

Shane Jameson Shane Jameson has returned to Dubai as the new director of sales and marketing of Crowne Plaza Dubai – Deira. Jameson has long been part of the InterContinental Hotels Group family and spent the past 18 months as director of sales and marketing at InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort, a five-star resort on the Indian Ocean island. Prior to that, he served as director of sales and marketing at Mövenpick Tower &

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Suites Doha. Jameson returns to the UAE after a two and half year hiatus, having previously also worked at Jebel Ali International Hotels, now JA Resorts & Hotels.

Jameson has long been part of the InterContinental Hotels Group family

self-directed teams and create environments and conditions that allow individuals to align their strengths with the organisation’s vision.

Traetto has been promoted to general manager

Rohit Rattan Rohit Rattan has joined Emirates Grand Hotel as the new director of sales and marketing. In his capacity, he will mainly be accountable for leading the hotel’s sales and marketing strategies from concept to execution in order to maximise revenue and optimise return on profit. He has been tasked to direct the property’s existing clientele while also establishing new corporate accounts. In addition, he

is also in charge of providing an effective communication scheme in line with the clients’ feedback and requirements, as well as initiating development activities for the sales and marketing team. Rattan has over 14 years of sales experience under his belt, having previously served as pre-opening director of sales of Rixos The Palm Dubai, and director of sales and marketing of Wafi Group’s hospitality division.

travel talk is your space

TRAVEL TALK James Hogan

Bill Loveday

President, Etihad Airways.

General manager, Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat.

“Our record-breaking numbers in 2013 reflect the continued success of our strategic master plan, which focuses on three fundamental pillars; organic network growth, the forging of codeshare partnerships, and minority equity investments in other airlines. As the national carrier of the UAE, we also continued to support Abu Dhabi’s growth as a leading international travel hub, while facilitating trade to and from the country.

“We are the perfect MICE venue for executive brainstorming and team building sessions with an attractive, fully functional boardroom seating up to 20 people and signature outdoor spaces to relax. We are even more suited as a destination for families and welcome tourists through our hotel and travel partners via our day pass offer. We are developing kids’ programmes to enhance the kid’s pool and beach areas. “

David Garner

Mohamed Hamza

Regional director of sales and marketing, Middle East, Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas.

General manager, Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi

“We are optimistic about business potential moving into the new year, as we offer a unique range of hotel and resort products in Abu Dhabi. Anantara Hotels Resorts & Spas is the only hotel operator that can offer a 360 degree experience of city, desert and island experiences in Abu Dhabi. With the addition of the new Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort within the Arabian Wildlife Park, we are well set for a successful start to the year.”

“The tourism drive implemented by the local tourism authority provides the perfect foundation for Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi to prosper and, in turn, help strengthen Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a key global business and leisure destination. Through working with Abu Dhabi tour operators and popular attractions, we seek to combine our top class offering with Abu Dhabi’s growing number of international tourist spots.”

TRAVEL TALK is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

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AGENT'S CORNER

AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Ramy Nicola POSITION: Chairman COMPANY: Lady Egypt Tours LOCATION: Egypt WEB: www.ladyegypt.com

Who are you? My name is Ramy Nicola and I am the chairman of Lady Egypt Tours. I am a proud Egyptian and business owner who now more than ever, loves showing people the beauty and history of Egypt and its people.

Thomas Cook India Expands Presence in Dubai Travel Corporation India (TCI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Thomas Cook, recently appointed TravTips, a sales and marketing consultancy company, as its Gold Circle franchise partner for Dubai. The agreement permits TravTips to market and sell the India-based company’s wide range of travel products and services across Dubai, including group tours, personalised holidays, luxury packages, sports vacations, cruises and corporate MICE programmes. “Our Dubai consumers will be able to purchase TCI’s product range not just at our retail outlets,

but also our extensive business-tobusiness channel partner network, across Dubai,” said Suraj Mainat, managing director, TravTips. Dubai is a powerful source market for Thomas Cook India and also a gateway for the GCC and Middle East region, according to Madhavan Menon, managing director, Thomas Cook India, who added, “With its discerning travel consumers, extending across families, professionals and the business community, on the lookout for world-class service, our diverse travel portfolio at Thomas Cook India, offers a dream vacation for every Dubai-based holidaymaker.”

What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? I get to play a small part in making people’s holiday dreams come true. So many people save for months, even years to come to this part of the world so we have to get it right and satisfy every need and anticipation when they book a holiday with us. When is the best time to visit Egypt? The weather is great from October to April. During July to September it is very hot so people tend to visit Egypt less. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I would love to travel to Morocco. Even though the Moroccan culture is relatively similar to the Egyptian one, I would love to visit the historical sites and visit the deserts as I believe we have the most extraordinary White and Black Deserts in Egypt. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We are approaching two decades of experience in the travel industry. During this period of service delivery, we have also been the ground handlers for major tour operators based in the UK, US, China and Brazil. We use the best hotels so that our customers experience nothing but luxury and comfort. With our dedicated fleet of reliable transportation and well-trained drivers, our guests are in safe hands. Our tour guides and tour leaders provide our customers with a vast fountain of life-gained knowledge about the history and the life in Egypt.

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Representatives of TravTips and Thomas Cook India

Travelport Signs Agreement with FlightCar Travelport announced a new multi-year distribution deal with FlightCar, a service which lets people parking at the airport to rent their vehicles out to other travellers. As a result FlightCar is bookable to all Worldspan-connected travel agents in the US, offering services in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Boston. “Our vision at FlightCar is to revolutionise the traditional parking and car rental experience through innovation by forging a new path for car sharing and peer-to-peer rental businesses. We are committed to helping travellers find the best options for parking and car rental services and this includes supporting those who book through travel agencies,” said Rujul Zaparde, CEO, FlightCar.

TRAVEL CHANNELS Accommodation Facilities to Post Prices on SCTA Site

The tourism law approved in Saudi Arabia in October 2013 is viewed as a tool which will regulate national tourism development.

Ahmed Al Eisa, assistant vice president, SCTA

according to the new regulation, the prices of the Kingdom’s accommodation facilities and other tourism activities, services and professions are required to appear on the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA)’s official website and on all its other media channels. Ahmed Al Eisa, assistant vice president, licensing, SCTA, said, “According to the new regulation, SCTA will not interferes in prices, however it will create a mechanism through which every facility is requested to determine and announce its prices by itself, where room price should be determined in a way that ensures its competition before being posted on the SCTA website.”

100 Years of Commercial Aviation This year marks the 100th anniversary of commercial aviation, and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is celebrating with a year-long campaign, highlighting the industry’s enormous social and economic benefits. The global commercial aviation’s unprecedented development began with only one passenger on one route on January 1, 1914. Today, the sector provides before unimaginable connectivity and positively impacts – directly and indirectly – people in all corners of the world. On average, every day more than eight million people fly and in 2013 total passenger numbers reached 3.1 billion, surpassing the three billion mark for the first time ever. Each year, about 50 million tonnes of cargo is transported by air, and aviation supports over 57 million jobs globally, generating USD2.2 trillion in economic activity. This year, the global airline industry’s turnover is expected to soar to USD743 billion, with an average industry net profit margin of 2.6 percent.

Philippines Bid to Attract Saudis The Philippine Department of Tourism has launched a new promotional push to encourage more Saudi nationals and expatriates to holiday in the Philippines this year. A week-long promotional campaign in both Riyadh and Jeddah was conducted in December 2013, including seminars, industry meetings and events which promoted Philippines as an exciting destination for all travellers. In 2012 the country hosted a total of 30,040 visitors from Saudi Arabia, which represented a year-on-year increase of 7.5 percent, while between January September 2013 arrivals from the Kingdom stood at 30,258, spurring the tourism department to identify Saudi Arabia as a priority outbound market.

Sharjah Research Academy Discovers New Plant Species The Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium (SSBH), part of Sharjah Research Academy, has secured funds for five different research projects, totalling AED5 million (USD1.36 million). All of the initiatives are concerned with the conservation of habitats and investigation on the feasibility of using native plants for economically beneficial purposes. According to Ali El-Keblawy, head of team, SSBH, since the organisation’s inception, SSBH has collected 637 viable seed collections representing 340 species of the emirate. In addition, 925 herbarium specimens representing 379 species have been collected and are conserved in SSBH’s herbarium. Research at SSBH

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RENDEZVOUS

Q & A with Jork Bosselaar Slated to open in the second quarter (Q2) of the year, Alila Jabal Akhdar is set to bring a brand new concept to Oman. Situated 2,000m above sea level, the property will offer access to a magnificent landscape, creating, as Jork Bosselaar, general manager, Alila Jabal Akhdar, says, an authentic and cultural experience.

Travel Trade Weekly: Please tell us about this unique resort.

Jork Bosselaar General manager, Alila Jabal Akhdar

Jork Bosselaar: Anyone who has already stayed at an Alila hotel or Alila resort knows, when they arrive at one of our properties, wherever it is in the world, they can expect to instantly tap into what we proudly refer to as the ‘Alila Experience’, and Alila Jabal Akhdar will be no different in this regard. The Alila Jabal Akhdar property has been designed to reflect the long Omani history of the destination, and the architecture and décor reflect the rich culture and stunning natural surroundings of Jabal Akhdar, but with a uniquely modern interpretation. The resort will offer 84 spacious suites and two Jabal Villas. Likewise, the restaurant and Rose lounge, Spa Alila, fitness centre, outdoor and indoor pools provide enchanting mountain top views, while the arrival lounge with its iconic wall of roses and unique stone sculptures, evoke a perfect blend of nature, heritage, culture and style. The Alila philosophy is to create an authentic and cultural experience for guests, one that creates attachment and memories of a place. Already we have engaged Omani artists [...] and we are working with the people of Jabal Akhdar to establish the best cultural experiences for our guests. As part of the Alila ethos, we will be developing guest experiences centered on the themes of active spirits, culture learning, wellness, culinary activities. At every stage we will work closely with the people of Jabal Akhdar to promote understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Oman. Travel Trade Weekly: How would you describe your target market?

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perience in a relatively undiscovered region of Oman, and this will make a stay at our resort all the more memorable for our guests. Travel Trade Weekly: What were the main reasons behind the company’s decision to introduce the Alila name to the Middle East in Oman?

Jork Bosselaar: This is the first foray by Alila Group into the Middle East, and we are obviously committed to creating a very strong presence within the domestic and GCC market. The benefits of Alila Jabal Akhdar’s stunning mountain top location, 2,000m above sea level, means that we are in the perfect position - climatically - to provide a cool escape from the desert heat found in the rest of the region. Our market plans also include engagement with European travellers, a segment that favours Oman as a destination. However, we are confident that the resort will garner a worldwide interest, appealing to travellers who yearn for a truly unique destination. Alongside the desert camps and coastal hospitality offerings found throughout Oman, we believe that Alila Jabal Akhdar offers visitors a unique mountain top ex-

Jork Bosselaar: Our partner Omran - who developed the property - has a long term and sustainable vision to showcase this unique region to travellers from across the world. The key philosophy behind the inception of Alila was always to use sustainable practices to create a unique guest experience. Therefore it is very important that the locations we choose to set up properties that offer a rich heritage for our guests to engage with and explore, and most importantly provide a memorable visit. The Jabal Akhdar location is quite unique for its bountiful rose harvest, the fruit orchards, spectacular location and its rich cultural heritage. Travel Trade Weekly: How do you see Oman’s tourism industry developing over the next five to 10 years? Jork Bosselaar: Through our partnership with Omran, we were pleased to have been chosen to support their objectives via Alila Jabal Akhdar. The government has a very clear vision for the growth of the tourism sector over the next five to 10 years and one need only to look at the high quality developments taking shape across the country. This growth is supported by the new Muscat airport which will open up capacity for travellers to the Sultanate, providing unrivalled facilities for travellers from the GCC and beyond.

NEWS & EVENTS

QTA Convenes Tourism Marketing Workshop The Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) assembled its international representation offices and local tourism and hospitality sector stakeholders for a framework workshop on strategic tourism marketing initiatives for the current year and beyond. Held at The Ritz-Carlton Doha, the two-day programme was aimed at updating source market representation and providing the opportunity to share the tourism marketing plan for the coming months. “As Qatar’s tourism sector is developing rapidly it is critical that the people representing Qatar abroad are aware of the developments and plans for the year ahead, as well as hear first-hand from the local stakeholders on their new products, services and plans for this year,” commented on the initiative Rashed Al-Qurese, director of marketing and promotions, QTA.

Go and Regiontour Fairs Brno, Czech Republic, January 16 – 19, 2014 (www.bvv.cz) One of the largest presentations of the industry, with an emphasis on Central European regions. International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) Madrid, Spain, January 22 – 26, 2014 (www.ifema.es) A global meeting point for tourism professionals with some 10,000 exhibiting companies. SATTE India New Delhi, India, January 29 – 31, 2014 Mumbai, India, February 3 – 4, 2014 (www.satte.in) Hailed as the biggest networking forum for the travel and tourism industry in South Asia, with more than 600 exhibitors from over 50 countries.