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30 AUGUST 2014
ISSUE 251
STR GLOBAL REPORTS ON
MEA PERFORMANCE
ACCORDING TO OMAN’S NATIONAL CENTRE
FOR STATISTICS AND INFORMATION THE TOTAL
NUMBER OF KHAREEF SALALAH VISITORS, BOTH LOCAL AND
INTERNATIONAL, HAS GROWN BY 170 PERCENT.
02
JUMEIRAH GROUP LAUNCHES
MOBILE CAREERS SITE
11
IN THIS ISSUE
MARKET UPDATE
TECHNOLOGY
RENDEZVOUS
ACCOMMODATION
CLASSIFIEDS
AIR
INTERNATIONAL
AGENT CORNER
TRAVEL TALK
TRAVEL CHANNELS
WHO’S MOVED
PHOTO ALBUM
NEWS & EVENTS
02
03
08
11
12
14
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
VISITORS TO KHAREEF SALALAH
EXCEED 203,000
4
MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
Accurate as of
MANAGING EDITOR
29/08/2014
Mary Kammitsi
[email protected]
Currencies shown in blue
are fixed against the
US Dollar
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Maria Kazeli
SENIOR JOURNALIST
Rita Kasziba
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
PRESS
Maria Demetriadou
Pauline Shahabian
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
DESIGN & LAYOUT
Elena Stylianou
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.15
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,512.5
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
153.55
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.74
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.47
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
26,624.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
80.37
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.23
WEB DEVELOPER / IT
Soteris Constantinou
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 103670
WEBSITE
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
EMAILS
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
STR Global Reports
on Middle East and
Africa Performance
According to data compiled by STR Global,
the Middle East and Africa region (MEA)
reported positive performance in June yearto-date figures.
T
he figures showed a one percent increase in occupancy to
64.6 percent, a 3.5 percent increase in average daily rate
(ADR) to USD169.22 and a 4.5 percent increase in RevPAR
to USD109.24.
“We are seeing rate growth for all three sub-regions,
including the Middle East (up 2.4 percent), Northern Africa (up 2.0
percent) and Southern Africa (up 7.2 percent),” said Elizabeth Winkle,
managing director, STR Global. “It is nice to see some ADR growth
across the region, albeit muted, in spite of instability and turbulence
in many of the countries.”
Abu Dhabi Hotel Profits
Rise 11.8 Percent in H1
The Abu Dhabi hotel market continued to grow, as
strong performance elevated profitability levels in the
first half of the year (H1), according to the latest HotStats survey from TRI Hospitality Consulting.
I
Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi
ncreasing demand raised occupancy levels by 4.9 percentage points
to 78.2 percent, drove RevPAR up 6.8 percent while average room rates
(ARR) remained stable in the period under review.
“Occupancy growth allowed hoteliers to maintain steady average
rates during the first six months of the year, as the market showed signs
of stabilisation. ARR have increased for four consecutive months while occupancies have seen a consistent upward trend for nearly two years,” commented Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting.
2
30 AUGUST 2014
TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS
Travelport Increases Stake in
eNett International
New Red App Delivers Carey
Limo Content
T
ravelport announced an increased ownership stake
in eNett International, its joint venture with PSP International, which was established to provide stateof-the-art integrated payment solutions tailored specifically
for the travel industry.
Since the joint venture’s inception in 2009, Travelport
held a majority stake of 57 percent, with PSP International
holding the remainder. Over the past five years, eNett International has grown to become an increasing part of Travelport’s strategy to redefine travel commerce. Upon the new
deal, Travelport acquired an additional 16 percent from its
partner, raising its holding to 73 percent, in a transaction
which values the venture at USD450 million.
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arey International, a leading provider in chauffeured services and ground transportation logistics
management, has created a new application in collaboration with Sabre Corporation enabling travel agents to
book chauffeured ground services in more than 1,000 cities
worldwide directly from the Sabre Red Workspace.
Carey’s new Red App provides real-time status updates so
that any changes made by passengers appear in the agent’s
workflow and on the traveller’s itinerary. “Typically, when people talk about global distribution system (GDS) content they
largely think of air, hotel and rental car content. That is changing, and it will continue to evolve dramatically in the coming
years,” said Greg Webb, president, Sabre Travel Network.
Sabre’s New Technology for Air Travel
S
abre Corporation and payment services partner Conferma have
introduced Sabre Virtual Payments for air travel, designed to
streamline and automate settlement of air segments for travel
buyers. The system is built on the most secure payment card technology
available and assigns a unique virtual credit card number to each travel
segment. The service allows corporations to control the exact amount
of every transaction and ensures that only airlines are able to bill these
accounts, delivering even more protection against fraud.
Greg Webb, president, Sabre Travel Network, commented, “Virtual payment services are a huge opportunity to realise increased
efficiency through automated process and better data integration.”
30 AUGUST 2014
3
WEEKLY NEWS
VISITORS TO KHAREEF SALALAH
EXCEED 203,000
B
According to Oman’s National Centre for
Statistics and Information (NCSI) the total
number of Khareef Salalah visitors, both local
and international, has grown by 170 percent.
F
or the period June 21 – August 6 the number of travellers stood
at 203,171, compared to just 75,262 in 2013.
NCSI revealed that the majority of visitors within the
recording period were GCC citizens, totalling 178,131, with
Omanis comprising the majority of these travellers at 143,099.
In second place were UAE citizens at 25,923, followed by 5,035 visitors
of other Arab nationalities.
For the first time, NCSI introduced a simple and convenient
self-counting platform to be used by visitors, who could complete
the electronic forms as they passed through Salalah and Muscat
International Airports.
4
Bawadi Mall Welcomes
Over 800,000 Visitors
Salalah
awadi Mall in Al Ain welcomed
829,121 visitors during Ramadan,
an increase of 7.5 percent over the
same period in 2013. The increase was attributed to the extensive shopping campaign held across 400 outlets, which gave
visitors the chance to win prizes every day,
and an entertainment campaign entitled
Around the World in 40 Days that will continue until September 6.
Bassam Saleh, marketing manager,
Bawadi Mall, revealed that their strategy is
based on widening the options offered to
visitors, explaining, “Customers in the UAE
look for more than a traditional shopping
experience, as competitors now consider
other elements like entertainment, hospitality, promotions and raffle draws to attract
visitors.”
30 AUGUST 2014
WEEKLY NEWS
Gulf Air to Represent
MENA at SITA Council
G
ulf Air has recently taken on the
post of MENA representative
on the Société Internationale
de Télécommunications Aéronautiques
(SITA) Council, with Jassim Haji, director
of information technology, Gulf Air, taking the seat.
“As technology becomes an increasingly important part of people’s
travel experience, Gulf Air’s steadfast
commitment to implementing the latest information technology enhancements has reaped many benefits for
both the airline and its customers. Participating in the SITA Council will give
us the opportunity to embark on a wider spectrum of information technology innovations which can only bring
about greater benefit to all,” said Haji.
30 AUGUST 2014
Halal Market’s Value Rises
T
he latest research note by Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry states that
the halal food and beverage market was
worth USD1.1 trillion in 2013 and is expected to
grow to USD1.6 trillion by 2018. The news is significant ahead of October’s 10th World Islamic
Economic Forum to be held in Dubai, where halal food will be discussed as a major component
of the Islamic economy.
Commenting on the report, H.E. Abdul Rahman Saif Al Ghurair, chairman, Dubai Chamber of
Commerce & Industry, confirmed his belief that
Dubai has the capability to create new avenues
for growth and become an international centre
for the halal industry, as halal food is a key pillar
in the Dubai Capital of Islamic Economy initiative launched in 2013. The sector is growing in
a number of countries globally, mainly those of
the MENA region, South and Southeast Asia.
5
WEEKLY NEWS
Passenger Movement Declines in June
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assenger traffic results for June from the International global Air
Transport Association (IATA) indicate a modest deceleration in
growth compared to May.
Tony Tyler, director general, IATA, commented, “June traffic growth
at 4.7 percent [over the same period a year ago] is encouraging, even
though it is a slight weakening on May’s performance.”
International passenger demand rose 5.5 percent compared to
June 2013, with airlines in all regions, except Africa, recording growth.
The strongest gains were amongst Middle East carriers where demand
jumped 10.8 percent in June, the largest increase for any region and reflecting the continued strength of regional economies and solid growth
in business-related premium travel.
Tyler expressed optimism that the industry will still end the year
with an improvement in profitability over 2013 but also pointed out
that certain regional risks will challenge some airlines more than others.
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Saudi Arabia to Exhibit at WTM
for First Time
Riyadh
T
6
he Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities
(SCTA), along with the country’s national airline
Saudi Arabian Airlines and low cost flynas, will
all be exhibiting for the first time at World Travel Market
(WTM) in London from November 3 – 6. Commenting on
their reasons for participating at WTM, Hamad Alsheikh,
vice president, marketing and programmes, SCTA, said,
“We plan to highlight and introduce the existing tourism
investments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in different
fields, especially in the convention and exhibition sector
and accommodation sector, in addition to other tourism
and investment areas.”
According to a 2013 MENA tourism and hospitality report by research consultancy Aranca, the Saudi government
plans to invest heavily in its tourism industry over the next
decade to the tune of over GBP18 billion (USD30 billion).
30 AUGUST 2014
WEEKLY NEWS
RAK Properties Reports Strong
Sales in H1
Tour Oman Smartphone Application
Launched by NCSI
T
Julfas Towers, RAK Properties
he National Center for Statistics and Information
(NCSI) in Oman recently launched the Tour Oman
application, providing visitors as well as citizens
with essential information while exploring the country.
This includes information about government and private
sector services, ATMs, hotels, historic and archaeological
sites, and natural tourist attractions around the Sultanate
such as water springs, wadis and waterfalls.
The information is backed with geographical data
showing the location of the desired destination on
the map and guidance on how it can be reached most
efficiently by road.
R
AK Properties has reported revenues of AED149 million (USD40.6 million) on sales in excess of AED234
million (USD63.7 million), generating net profits of
AED52 million (USD14.2 million) for the first half of the year
[H1], up slightly over the same period in 2013. RAK Properties is one of the largest real estate developers in the GCC
and is currently engaged in a massive expansion phase. Mohammed Sultan Al Qadi, CEO, RAK Properties, said, “We are
pleased with the company’s strong performance for the first
half of the year,” adding that the company is studying new
projects including more residential and hospitality leisure
developments.
RAK Properties' current total assets are valued at AED4.7
billion (USD1.3 billion).
RTA to Link Tram Stations with
Neighbouring Hotels
D
ubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) held a workshop to forge integration between the tram stations and
residents of nearby hospitality units, and examine how
best to serve the needs of these hotels when the tram starts operation later this year.
Nasir Bu Shehab, director of strategic planning, RTA, encouraged residents and tourists to use the tram, confirming that RTA
can provide integrated public transport cards at hotels along with
maps depicting the tram stations to facilitate use of the tram.
“During the workshop, representatives of hotels as well as investors made a host of suggestions, inquiries and ideas which will
be studied as they have the potential of improving the effectiveness of the Dubai Tram in the best manner,” added Bu Shehab.
30 AUGUST 2014
7
RENDEZVOUS
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How would
you describe the first half (H1) of the
year in terms of tourist arrivals? Has
the hotel experienced an increase in
tourist volumes?
MOHAMED MAKNINE: H1 has been on
a par with our performance of H1 2013,
which is a good performance all things
considered. No real increase in terms of
volumes but perhaps in terms of segments, since golf and thalassotherapy
aficionados have shown growing interest in our property compared to [2013].
Q & A with
Mohamed Maknine
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, SALES AND MARKETING,
MÖVENPICK RESORT & MARINE SPA SOUSSE
“
THE LAST MINUTE
BOOKINGS
BUSINESS IS
SUBSTANTIAL, BUT
CANNOT BE
FORECASTED IN
AN EFFECTIVE WAY
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What do you
think are the main challenges Tunisia
is facing with regards to the hospitality industry at this point? Is room
MOHAMED MAKNINE: More than the
mere aspect of available room inventory, the essential factor is seasonality.
Come summer, demand is such that it
is difficult to satisfy it and having extra
room capacity would be great. But filling those very same rooms in the lower
occupancy periods is also challenging.
This is the sort of contrast that needs
to be considered: building more capacity, or trying to use the existing one in
a more efficient and profitable manner.
Another challenge lies in the
change of behaviour of our customers, as the recent trend shows that our
guests are delaying the decision to go
on holiday or not – and choice of destination. The last minute bookings business is substantial, but cannot be forecasted in an effective way.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Many international hospitality brands are
planning expansion into the country. What makes Tunisia an attractive
destination for them do you think?
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are
your key feeder markets and how
have these changed over the years?
MOHAMED MAKNINE: Our property
enjoys an eclectic mix of nationalities,
but the main feeder markets remain
Germany, the UK and Russia. Performance from French-speaking markets,
such as France, Benelux and Switzerland, has been lower than in the past,
and this is one of the areas we are focussing our efforts on.
inventory satisfactory for the current
demand ?
TUNISIA IS GOING THROUGH A TRANSITIONAL
PHASE, BUT HOTELS SEEM TO BE ENJOYING
HEALTHY RATES, AND ACCORDING TO MOHAMED
MAKNINE, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, SALES AND
MARKETING, MÖVENPICK RESORT & MARINE
SPA SOUSSE, THINGS ARE MOVING QUICKLY IN
THE COUNTRY.
MOHAMED MAKNINE: Tunisia is attractive to these brands for the same
reasons that made Mövenpick Hotels
& Resorts one of the first international
brands to believe in the destination.
Tunisian hospitality is legendary, the
warmth of its people unique. Educated
people are easier to hire and train and
quality infrastructure in and around
hotels is also a major point. There is a
new breed of hotels appearing in the
country over the past few years, built
to modern standards and offering facilities and services that are in line with
the expectations of the modern traveller. Things are moving quickly here and
we are happy to be riding the winds of
change in Sousse.
Mövenpick Resort & Marine Spa Sousse
8
30 AUGUST 2014
WEEKLY NEWS
Corporate Demand Drives TRevPAR
Growth in Jeddah
UAE Visa Changes to Boost Dubai’s
Cruise Tourism
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ubai’s cruise sector will experience a transformation
following recent regulatory changes to UAE’s visa
system.
The new ruling, which took effect on August 1, will ensure implementation of a new visa and fees system, consisting of amendments such as a new multiple entry tourism
permit for cruise passengers, and a range of new entry permits for medical tourists.
Discussing the changes, Hamad Mohammed Bin Mejren, executive director, business tourism, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, commented,
“Through our network of Dubai Tourism offices across the
world we will use the ruling to further promote Dubai’s attractiveness as a destination for both leisure and business.”
J
Jeddah
30 AUGUST 2014
eddah hotels saw average room rates
surge 15.5 percent to USD305.92
in June, reaching the highest level
amongst MENA hotels surveyed by HotStats for the month under review.
Despite occupancies declining by 3.1
percentage points to 82.3 percent, average
room rates (ARR) drove RevPAR growth of
11.3 percent to USD251.71.
High corporate and MICE demand
caused double-digit growth in food and
beverage and conferencing revenues,
which elevated total RevPAR (TRevPAR) levels to USD386.95.
Hotels in Jeddah historically record
strong revenues in June, however, performance was particularly robust this year,
as corporate and conferencing segments
drove double-digit growth in average rates,
while the hosting of regional events also
generated higher dining and conferencing
revenues, as Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting, explained.
9
WEEKLY NEWS
BBC Blue Planet in Concert to Open VOR Stopover in Abu Dhabi
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bu Dhabi’s Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) Stopover will open with two 90-minute performances of the BBC’s highly-acclaimed Blue Planet in Concert on December
12 and 13, marking the show’s Arabian premiere.
High definition footage from the BBC nature programme The Blue Planet will be
shown on a 10m-wide screen on a purpose-built stage floating in the waters off Abu
Dhabi’s Corniche, accompanied by a 78-piece live orchestra led by a celebrity guest
conductor.
Sultan Al Dhaheri, acting executive director, tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture
Authority, commented, “The stopover is a tremendous international showcase which
propels our winter water sports credentials and marine heritage to the fore among the
global sailing community.”
BAC Strikes Technology Agreement
with BEONTRA
A
new technology agreement was announced between Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), manager and operator of Bahrain International Airport, and BEONTRA, a Lockheed Martin company. The deal will
see the implementation of BEONTRA’s cutting edge route analysis tool, B
Route Development.
The technology will allow BAC to calculate, analyse, and present route
cases to airlines, while being able to re-calculate and amend on demand,
ensuring that airlines are provided with the most efficient service possible
through high-quality route analysis.
BRIC Capital Inflow to UAE Exceeds
that of MENA
A
ccording to Fortress Investments, a leading Middle East investment
firm, there has been a significant increase in capital inflow to UAE from
the BRIC countries, particularly from India. The news that BRIC inflow
to UAE surpassed that of MENA follows index compiler MSCI’s recent upgrading of UAE to emerging market status, placing it within the BRIC grouping.
Hamed Mokhtar, managing director, Fortress Investments, commented
that Dubai’s hosting of the annual meeting of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in 2003 provided the first spark to catapulting the
emirate and UAE onto the global finance stage.
10
30 AUGUST 2014
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
Al Basel Consultancy
in Partnership with
Mandarin Oriental
Suites in the SKAI Underway
x
S
Al Basel Consultancy, a leading company
in the high-end hospitality sector, has
announced a partnership with Mandarin
Oriental Hotel Group.
KAI Holdings has secured AED927 million (USD252.4
million) worth of sales for its new four-star hotel, Suites
in the SKAI.
Strategically located in close proximity to three of Dubai’s
arterial roads and a short drive from Dubai’s new international
airport, Suites in the SKAI will comprise 234 hotel rooms, 234
one-and two-bedroom apartments and 33 penthouses.
The property’s tri-star wing structure allows for each room
and apartment to incorporate a landscaped garden. The 117
one-bedroom hotel apartments will come complete with an
outdoor sky garden and Jacuzzi while the 117 two-bedroom
apartments include a swimming pool and floor to ceiling windows with cascading water. Construction is to begin in September with operation commencing in 2017.
T
he consultancy will promote Mandarin Oriental hotels
worldwide to discerning clients in the Middle East and GCC
who expect high-quality standards and luxurious accommodation.
“We are very honoured to welcome Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group as a key partner, allowing us to live up to our commitment of only offering the best to our customers,” said Basel Al
Kasem, CEO, Al Basel Group.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group now operates, or has under
development, 44 hotels representing close to 11,000 rooms in
25 countries.
Jumeirah Group Launches Mobile
Careers Site
J
umeirah Group has launched a mobile careers site making it
easier for candidates to apply for jobs. The new website can
adapt itself to various platforms including Android, iPhone, iPad
and Blackberry and can also be viewed on desktops. It offers users
easy navigation and access, enabling them to search the interactive
vacancy map, complete the application process and check its status,
as well as manage interview time slots and modify personal details.
“With increasing competition for talent both in the Gulf region and
internationally, at a time of unprecedented growth in the hospitality
industry, having a strong employer brand together with an effective
digital presence is a key prerequisite for attracting and retaining the
best talent,” said Nabil Ramadhan, chief human capital officer, Jumeirah Group.
30 AUGUST 2014
11
CLASSIFIEDS RECRUITMENTS
FREE
RECRUITMENT LISTINGS
IN TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY
[email protected]
12
30 AUGUST 2014
RECRUITMENTS CLASSIFIEDS
NEWLY-OPENING 5-STAR DESERT RESORT HAS SIX OPENINGS
Newly-opening 5-star desert resort near Al Ain, UAE, is seeking for the
following posts. All must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the
same position in 5-star chain hotels.
 Food and beverage manager
 Chief engineer
 Waitress / waiters
 Security manager
 Front office desk agent
 Guest relations officers
CAPITAL CLUB DUBAI VACANCY
Website: www.gloriahospitality.com
Email address: [email protected]
Telephone Number: +971 2 644 4739
Fax Number: +971 2 644 4759
IN-HOUSE GRAPHIC DESIGNER (BEACH HOTEL IN RAS AL KHAIMAH)
Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing.
Work for one of the top 10 most exclusive private member’s Clubs in the
world: Capital Club Dubai.
Accepting applications for Membership Managers to
[email protected]
Must have sales experience in luxury goods and/or hospitality, a strong UAE
business network and a 5* professional attitude.
30 AUGUST 2014
Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts information:
If you are looking to start a career at a fast-paced innovative company with
loads of opportunities, then look no further than Bin Majid Hotels &
Resorts. We are growing dynamically and are looking for motivated,
talented and proactive individuals to join our team.
Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing.
Please send your CV to: [email protected]
13
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Qatar Airways Boosts Key City Operations to
Meet Demand
Qatar Airways has announced increased frequencies to the popular cities of Tehran, Islamabad and
Muscat from September.
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Tehran
ehran will be served with 18 flights a week when an additional four flights to Iran’s capital city are offered from September 1. An extra two flights per week to Islamabad will
help meet the needs of those travelling to and from the Americas, a
destination popular with many passengers from Pakistan. Increased
demand for the Doha-Muscat route, from local residents in particular, will see an additional four flights bring the total to 35 per week.
“People from all over the world are becoming more and more
interested in discovering this part of the world. With such rich histories and stunning, undiscovered landscapes, these destinations
are hidden gems that are slowly coming into their own,” said Akbar
Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways Group.
Gulf Air Reaches Asian Market
G
ulf Air took part in the three-day Travel Madness
Expo in Pasay, Philippines, showcasing three of the
airline’s newest product and service developments
to the Asian market.
The airline highlighted its retrofitted Airbus A330 aircraft, recent schedule enhancements delivering more
flights across the network, and new routes. Adel Al Saleem,
country manager, Philippines, Gulf Air, commented, “From
our revamped A330 product which introduces fully-flat
bed seats in the airline’s falcon gold class, upgraded seats
in economy class and a state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system, to our increased flights to select destinations
in GCC and MENA that serve to facilitate travel across our
network, to the launch of our newest destinations this year,
we truly believe Gulf Air passengers have a lot to look forward to when they fly with Bahrain’s national carrier.”
14
Travel Madness Expo
30 AUGUST 2014
AIR WEEKLY NEWS
Qatar Airways Increases Operations
to Madrid
Adel Al Redha, executive vice president, Emirates (centre)
Emirates Touches Down in Chicago
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mirates commenced a daily nonstop service to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, with the inaugural
flight carrying passengers from more than 20 different
countries to the American city.
“Increased connectivity with Dubai will expose more international guests to the world-class hospitality, shopping
districts, cultural attractions and architectural achievements
that make Chicago one of the greatest cities in the world,”
said Rahm Emanuel, mayor, Chicago.
In addition to passenger service, the Chicago - Dubai
flight, which will utilise a US-built Boeing 777-200LR aircraft
powered by GE90 engines, will carry up to 17 tonnes of cargo per flight and is set to increase trade links between the
two cities.
ommencing November 16, Qatar Airways will
be increasing its operations to Madrid, Spain,
with the addition of three extra flights per
week, bringing the total number of services up from
seven to 10 resulting in an overall increase of 2,010
seats.
Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways Group, confirmed that in the short time the carrier has been flying to Madrid, there has been a steady increase in the
demand for flights. “I am happy to say that a direct
result of that is the number of travellers that choose
to fly with us has also increased, and this is why we
are thrilled to be able to satisfy the demand of our
passengers by offering three additional flights per
week,” he added.
Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan Business Lounge Unveiled
Q
Al Mourjan Business Lounge
30 AUGUST 2014
atar Airways’ premium passengers can now enjoy one of the largest lounges in the world in the
shape of the 10,000m2 Al Mourjan Business Lounge at Hamad International Airport. Spread over
two levels, the lounge is able to accommodate 1,000 guests at a time and features quiet rooms
and relaxing family spaces, games rooms, prayer rooms, a nursery and shower facilities as well as a dedicated business centre. After sampling one of the many dining options, guests can enjoy the water feature
located at the base of the spiral staircase which leads to the mezzanine level.
Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways Group, said, “We are very pleased to be able to offer our premium
passengers our new premium lounge, which sets new benchmarks in airport luxury and will far exceed
our passengers’ expectations.”
15
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Second Freighter Service between Doha and Delhi
Q
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atar Airways Cargo has rapidly increased capacity on its freighter service to Delhi, India
by already adding a second frequency after its
recent launch in May.
Marking the city as a highly important market,
Ulrich Ogiermann, chief officer, cargo, Qatar Airways,
commented, “Delhi has one of India's largest and fastest growing retail industries, and on top of that, it is an
important commercial capital for Asia.”
With its move to the brand new, fully automated
cargo terminal at Hamad International Airport and the
recent launch of two new premium services optimising the transportation of time and temperature-sensitive goods, Qatar Airways Cargo offers the very latest
technology and five-star service to customers across
the globe and has further enhanced its capacity and
flexibility to effectively move sensitive commodities in
line with the highest world-class standards.
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ays
Airw more
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Qat ser ves
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Carg 40 fre ns
than stinatio ?
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Emirates Introduces Abuja Route
E
mirates commenced flight operations to Abuja, the Nigerian capital,
marking its second destination in the country after Lagos and its 26th
in Africa.
The new daily Dubai - Abuja route provides a convenient point-to-point
service for customers. In addition, the freight division of the airline, Emirates
SkyCargo, offers over 180 tonnes of cargo capacity a week on the route.
Identifying Nigeria as a key target market, Adil Al Ghaith, vice president,
commercial operations, Northern and Western Africa, Emirates, expressed the
hope that this flight will further stimulate business and leisure travel demand,
as well as trade, between the two cities.
Mahan Air Reported Growth in H1
16
M
ahan Air has issued its first half (H1) passenger and
cargo traffic results, registering a strong performance
and steady growth during the period.
More than 2.8 million passengers were carried, a figure up
nine percent on H1 in 2013.
According to the announcement, Mahan Air achieved a
79 percent load factor on its domestic and international network while the load factor for its domestic network only was
82 percent. Cargo operations also grew by 19 percent. During
this time period the airline added its 14th international destination, to Yerevan in Armenia, and also increased frequency on
many of its international and domestic routes.
30 AUGUST 2014
RENDEZVOUS
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How would
you describe the first half of the year
in terms of tourist arrivals? Have you
experienced an increase in tourist
volumes?
SAMI OUNALLI: Although [there was] a
small improvement compared to 2013,
the first six months of the year were below
our expectations. We are still below our
level of normal activity registered in 2010
and previous years. The overall volume has
been steady in the past four years. There
are source markets, like Germany and Italy
which are up and others, like France and
Scandinavian countries which we need to
set in motion for recovering.
In Tunisia, generally, every tourism professional is aware that winter
is tough. April to October are the best
months. This year, July [has been] abnormally bad. I hope that we will have
better business for the rest of the season when reservations are coming,
mainly, at the last minute.
Q & A with
Sami Ounalli
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT MANAGER, RADISSON BLU ULYSSE
RESORT & THALASSO AND RADISSON BLU PALACE RESORT
& THALASSO, DJERBA
and needs. You can find budget hotels
as well as luxury ones, you can find animated all-inclusive clubs as well as guesthouses. The tourism offer in general is satisfactory. Tunisia is a serious competitor
to other Mediterranean destinations and
has much strength such as geographical
location, temperate weather, history, culture, gastronomy, nature, natural hospitality and quality of service.
The main challenges for the moment are to maintain stability and to
establish better flight connections with
traditional and new markets.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Many international hospitality brands are
planning expansion into the country. What makes Tunisia an attractive
destination for them do you think?
SAMI OUNALLI: Tunisia has always interested international hospitality brands.
Many projects have been concluded re-
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are
your key feeder markets and how
have these changed over the years?
SAMI OUNALLI: France is the main
market, followed by Germany, UK, Switzerland, Belgium, and Scandinavian
countries. Since 2011 the French market has decreased by approximately 40
percent for different reasons. The UK
and German markets are performing
better. Other markets are stable.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What do you
think are the main challenges Tunisia
is facing with regards to the hospitality industry at this point? Is room
inventory satisfactory for the current
demand in your opinion?
Sami Ounalli: Tunisia counts more than
700 hotels covering all market segments
Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Thalasso,
Djerba
TUNISIA IS A HUB BETWEEN WORLDS AND
CONTINENTS, CONCEALING BIG BUSINESS POTENTIAL. SAMI OUNALLI, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
MANAGER, RADISSON BLU ULYSSE RESORT &
THALASSO AND RADISSON BLU PALACE RESORT
& THALASSO, DJERBA, UNVEILS THE HIDDEN
SECRET.
cently. By 2016, the most famous hotel
chains will be operating in the country.
Because of its strategic location, Tunisia is a hub between north and south
and between east and west. There is big
business potential in the future. Tunisia
also has a respectable touristic infrastructure and mainly well-trained and
experienced staff able to deliver the
best service.
Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Thalasso, Djerba
30 AUGUST 2014
17
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
IHG and Sikka Set to Develop Crowne
Plaza in Noida
JW Marriott Expands Chinese
Portfolio
J
kn
Did you
W Marriott Hotels & Resorts has unveiled another luxury
property in China, with the opening of the 416-key JW
Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou, in Henan Province.
The new hotel is situated on the topmost storeys of the Millennium Royal Plaza which, at 280m, is the highest building in
central China.
“This is a significant property as it is our first hotel in Zhengzhou which is an important transportation, business and convention hub in central China,” commented Simon Cooper, president, Asia, Marriott International.
The newly opened retreat boasts 2,500m2 of gathering
and event space, including the 1,000m2 JW Grand Ballroom,
featuring a LED wall panel, six meeting rooms and a spacious
ballroom foyer. In addition, the hotel provides guests with four
dining options offering Chinese, Western, Cantonese and Japanese specialties.
ow. .
Crowne Plaza Taj Expressway Noida
ntal
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cur otels
19 h a?
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ha
Indi
I
nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and real estate developer Sikka signed an agreement to open the new 150-room
Crowne Plaza Taj Expressway Noida.
The newly-signed property, expected to open in 2018, will
be the second IHG hotel in the tourist destination of Noida,
and will add to IHG's portfolio of seven Crowne Plaza properties across the country. The new hotel will be a part of The
Downtown project, a mixed-use development which also
comprises corporate offices and retail spaces.
Commenting on the company’s expansion, Pascal Gauvin,
chief operating officer, India, Middle East, Africa, IHG, said,
“India is a key market for us. It holds our third largest development pipeline globally, behind the US and China, and over
the next three to five years we will grow by nearly 300 percent
there.“
JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou
Element Brand to Debut in Aspen Valley
S
tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced plans to introduce its
Element brand to Basalt Aspen Valley in Colorado, US, in August 2015.
Situated near the two ski and mountain towns of Aspen and Snowmass
Village, the hotel will provide easy access to the area’s ski resorts. As Allison Reid,
senior vice president, North America development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts
Worldwide, pointed out, “Element Basalt Aspen Valley will offer an entirely fresh
perspective on the extended stay experience in an area celebrated for its skiing and
year-round outdoor recreation.”
18
30 AUGUST 2014
AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight
NAME:
Hasnain Tayyab
POSITION:
Marketing manager
COMPANY:
Travelex Travel & Tours
LOCATION:
UAE
WEBSITE:
www.travelex.ae
Alpha Tours Supports DSS
What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry?
Travel is my passion. So apart from all the perks that you get in the travel industry,
working for this industry itself is my favourite thing.
When is the best time to visit UAE?
We are based in Dubai, UAE which is one of the fastest growing tourist spots in
the world. Despite all these attractions, this place is known for its extremely hot
weather, so if you want to explore the wonders that Dubai has to offer, the best
time of the year would be November to February when the weather is perfect.
Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday?
My next holiday destination is Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Why should people come to you for travel advice?
As stated above, we are not only travel professionals but we are a team of sports
enthusiasts who know sports very well and understand what it takes to make your
sports travel experience more entertaining and memorable.
30 AUGUST 2014
Ghassan Al Aridi
Who are you?
I am a sales and marketing professional with a decade of experience in different
industries. I am new to the travel industry but this is the most exciting industry that
I have ever worked in so far. I work with Travelex Travels & Tours which takes pride
in being one of the pioneers of sports travel industry in the UAE region. We are a
team of travel experts with a passion for sports that makes my team the best place
to consult when travelling for any sporting event.
D
uring Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), Alpha Tours, the
Arabian Gulf destination management company, has
launched a series of special services for its customers.
The company, which offers a variety of entertainment options, has extended some of its best cruise destination consultancy and management, air charter operations, eco-tourism
programmes, tours and excursions, leisure group programmes,
medical tourism, and hotel reservations services during DSS.
As an added incentive, all excursions bear discounts.
Ghassan Al Aridi, founder, Alpha Tours, commented, “Our
support [to the government of Dubai] is part of our commitment to promote Dubai as a tourist and trade destination.
Such initiatives act as a major magnet for tourists into the
country, which will ultimately contribute to UAE’s GDP.”
19
TRAVEL TALK
SKAI Holdings sees a
great deal of potential
for upscale four-star
concepts
KABIR
MULCHANDANI
Group CEO,
Skai Holdings
“Dubai is one of the most exciting markets for hospitality and
real estate globally. [...]Suites in
the SKAI will cater to the growing
number of business and leisure
tourists that are looking for value
for money as well as comfort and
convenience in a luxurious setting. SKAI Holdings’ strategy is to
build high quality hotels in several key locations in Dubai that will
cater to the growing demand for
tourism in the emirate.”
Gulf Air is proud to be
given this opportunity to
participate in the SITA
Council
MAHER
SALMAN AL
MUSALLAM
Acting CEO, Gulf Air
“It is an honour for Gulf Air to occupy a seat with the foremost information technology and communications representative body
for the air transport industry, and
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Arab Air Carriers
Organization for nominating Gulf
Air and to SITA’s members for accepting it. [...] SITA plays a critical
role in the aviation industry operations and it is our pleasure to
support its endeavours.”
Our workshop
[highlighted] the
integration between
the Dubai Tram and [...]
surrounding areas
NASIR
BU SHEHAB
Director of strategic
planning, Roads and
Transport Authority
(RTA)
“Examples were cited such as the
link between the two metro stations at the Dubai Marina and the
Jumeirah Lakes, and the link between the tram, buses and other
transport means at the Dubai Marina. A briefing was also made to
elucidate the efforts made by RTA
to improve the neighbourhood
of stations in order to ease the
movement of pedestrians and
cyclists.”
TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel
industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories.
We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions,
frustrations and observations to [email protected]
20
30 AUGUST 2014
TRAVEL CHANNELS
Ships of the Desert Dock in Downtown Dubai
A life-size sculpture entitled Camels has taken centre stage
in Downtown Dubai, the flagship mega-development of
Emaar Properties.
T
he piece was created by Donald Greig, an avid wildlife enthusiast, and one of Africa’s most prolific sculptors.
It features a trio of Arabian camels including an adult and its calf and another
camel resting. Weighing in at 800kg, the work took eight months to create plus
another four to be cast in bronze.
Ahmad Al Matrooshi, managing director, Emaar Properties, said, “The gracious and majestic Arabian camel is a reminder of our past and a cue of how significantly the city has
evolved. Donald Greig’s Camels is a seamless fit into Downtown Dubai’s collection of sculptures and artworks from around the world by accomplished artists.”
HeliDubai First Air BP
Customer in the
Middle East
Cathay Pacific Airways
Announces Investment
in Biojet Fuel
Camels by Donald Greig
UNWTO Signs Agreement
with Tourism Research
Institution
A
Air BP's first fuelling at DFC Heli-pad
I
nternational aviation fuel supplier Air BP
continues to grow its business in the Middle East with the successful inauguration of
its first off–airport site in the region, located
at the HeliDubai Festival City (DFC) Heli-pad.
After a successful test refuelling at the venue,
HeliDubai became the first customer in the
Middle East to sign up to Air BP’s Operations
Manual for External General Aviation (OMEGA)
programme, designed to ensure that customers such as airport operators, heliport operators and refuelling contractors can achieve
high levels of operating standards when handling fuel.
The Heli-pad at DFC was opened in 2013
and comprises two pads with a 15 tonne total
capacity at the 520ha, premier waterfront urban development.
30 AUGUST 2014
s part of its plan to achieve a target of
carbon-neutral growth from 2020, Cathay
Pacific Airways has become the first airline investor in Fulcrum BioEnergy, a US-based
sustainable aviation fuel or biojet fuel developer.
The airline has also negotiated a supply
agreement with Fulcrum over 10 years, representing approximately two percent of the airline’s fuel consumption on an annual basis. This
year Fulcrum plans to start the construction of
large scale, waste-to-renewable jet fuel plants
at multiple locations, some of them strategic
to Cathay Pacific Airways’ network, primarily in
North America.
Fulcrum's demonstration plant
Griffith Institute for Tourism
A
cooperation agreement has been
signed between UNWTO and Australia’s
Griffith Institute for Tourism (GIFT) in a
bid to advance tourism knowledge. GIFT is a
leading tourism research institution and a UNWTO affiliate member.
The collaboration will include research on
the role of Asia and the Pacific in global tourism, and the creation and dissemination of
knowledge on climate change and sustainable
tourism development in the region, among
many other areas.
Discussing the cooperation, Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, noted, “This partnership enables us to further narrow the gap between demand and supply of tourism research
in a number of important areas, not least tourism and climate change [...].”
21
WHO’S MOVED
JOHN
BURKE
NOEL
MASSOUD
22
John Burke has taken over as
the new director of operations
at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, and will also
assume the joint role of technical services manager at the
facility.
He brings extensive operational experience to the venue
having served most recently
at the Qatar National Convention Centre in Doha. Prior to
that, Burke spent 15 years with
the NEC Group in Birmingham,
UK, which included overseeing business at the National
Exhibition Centre, International Convention Centre, LG
Arena and the National Indoor
Arena.
MICHAEL
CRAWFORD
Burke takes on joint
role at the Oman Convention and Exhibition
Centre
Noel Massoud is Swiss-Belhotel International’s new vice
president for operations and
development in the Middle
East.
With the company looking to
operate seven hotels in the region by 2015, he will oversee
the opening of new properties in Bahrain, Oman, Iraq and
Saudi Arabia.
Massoud has extensive experience in hotel management having held senior management
positions with InterContinental
Hotels Group for more than 25
years.
He was also general manager
of Kempinski’s Emirates Palace
in Abu Dhabi, developing the
property into one of the top
luxury hotels in the Middle East.
Massoud’s most recent assignment was with Paramount Hotels and Resorts as vice president of development.
ROMA
ANDREWS
Michael Crawford has joined
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts executive team in the
newly created position of
president, Asia Pacific.
Reporting directly to the company’s president, Crawford assumes primary responsibility
for all business activities in the
Asia Pacific region, including
implementing the company’s
growth plan and delivering on
financial objectives associated
with the strategic plan for the
region.
Based in Four Seasons’ corporate office in Singapore, the
24-year veteran of The Walt
Disney Company with experince in real estate, is relocating
from Shanghai, China, where
he was senior vice president
and general manager of
Shanghai Disney Resort and
president of Walt Disney Holding Company, Shanghai.
Roma Andrews has been promoted to executive director for
Al Habtoor Motors, in line with
the group’s cohesive strategy
to continue driving growth via
highly energetic and professional senior management
teams in all sectors of its operations; hospitality, automotive,
car leasing, real estate, and
education.
Andrews began her career in
the UAE 21 years ago following
15 years’ of human resources
experience at a leading foreign
bank in India.
She joined the automotive division of the Al Habtoor Group
in 1993 and has since played
a key role in spearheading the
human resources functions.
Andrews will oversee
more than 1,500 employees across the UAE
30 AUGUST 2014
PHOTO ALBUM
Take a Shot!
Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues
know what you have been up to.
Send your photos to [email protected]
Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island received the Bronze Certification for
the Welcome Chinese standard from China Tourism Academy
GTA marks 30 years with charity Mount Fuji climb
Dubai Summer Surprises creates
festive atmosphere
Emirates touches down in Chicago
Atlantis, The Palm, enriches Dubai Summer Surprises experience with range of family entertainment
30 AUGUST 2014
23
NEWS & EVENTS
Responsible
Tourism Programme at WTM
EVENTS
SEATRADE LATIN AMERICA
CRUISE CONVENTION
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,
September 2 – 3, 2014
www.latinamerica-cruise.com
The event returns to Brazil after
touring the region, focussing on
the development of the cruise
industry in Latin America.
INCENTIVE, BUSINESS,
TRAVEL & MEETINGS EXPO
(IBTM) INDIA
Chennai, India,
September 3 – 5, 2014
www.ibtmevents.com
An invitation-only event for
India’s inbound, outbound and
domestic business travel sector.
FOOD & HOSPITALITY OMAN
World Travel Market
T
his year’s World Responsible Tourism
Programme at World Travel Market
(WTM) includes some of the biggest
names in the travel industry. Stretching across
all four days of the event for the first time, the
programme will tackle issues such as the impact of tourism on local economies, the effect
on both the environment and the bottom line
of reducing water and energy consumption,
matters surrounding wildlife tourism and the
social inclusion aspect of holidays for all, regardless of disability or background.
“The number of big name companies
taking part in the World Responsible Tourism
Programme this year demonstrates how the
issue is moving up the industry’s boardroom
agenda,” said Charlotte Sutton, conference
and events manager, WTM.
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Muscat, Oman
September 9 – 11, 2014
www.foodandhospitalityoman.com
A business and networking
platform to promote the latest
products and services in the food
and beverage sector.
ARAB AVIATION & MEDIA
SUMMIT
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE,
September 24
www.aamsummit.com
Arab media and top executives
gather to have insightful
discussions on the current trends.
THE HOTEL SHOW
Dubai, UAE
September 28 – 30
www.thehotelshow.com
Now celebrating 15 successful
years, The Hotel Show presents
a full view of the hotel and
hospitality industry.
30 AUGUST 2014