Dubai to Welcome Legoland in 2016

23 AUGUST 2014 ISSUE 250

MALL OF THE WORLD TO BOOST DUBAI’S RETAIL TOURISM

LEGOLAND DUBAI REMAINS ON TRACK TO OPEN IN THE EMIRATE IN 2016, AS ITS DEVELOPER MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS RECENTLY CONFIRMED.

ACCOR SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH HIRANANDANI GROUP

09 IN THIS ISSUE

MARKET UPDATE 02 GENERAL 04 ACCOMMODATION 09 CLASSIFIEDS 12 AIR 14 RENDEZVOUS 17 INTERNATIONAL 18 AGENT CORNER 19 TRAVEL TALK 20 TRAVEL CHANNELS 21 WHO’S MOVED 22 DUBAI TO WELCOME LEGOLAND PHOTO ALBUM 23 NEWS & EVENTS 24 IN 2016 6 MARKET UPDATE

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MENA EXCHANGE RATES Doha Hotels: MANAGING EDITOR Accurate as of Mary Kammitsi 21/08/2014 [email protected] 11.5 Percent Surge Currencies shown in blue ASSISTANT EDITOR are fixed against the Maria Kazeli US Dollar SENIOR JOURNALIST in RevPAR Rita Kasziba COUNTRY CURRENCY 1USD=

PRESS Maria Demetriadou UAE (AED) Dirham 3.67 Pauline Shahabian Doha hotels experienced an 11.4 percentage Egypt (EGP) Pound 7.15 DESIGN & LAYOUT point growth in occupancy to 75.9 percent in Elena Stylianou Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal 3.75 Lebanon (LBP) Pound 1,508.49 the first six months of the year, pushing Rev- WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou Bahrain (BHD) Dinar 0.37 PAR up 11.5 percent to USD166.66. DIRECTORS Jordan (JOD) Dinar 0.71 Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi Syria (SYP) Pound 152.35 Kuwait (KWD) Dinar 0.28 HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD Qatar (QAR) Riyal 3.64 s Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Con- P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 Oman (OMR) Rial 0.38 sulting, elaborated, “Doha hotels are yet to show signs of stabilisation in average room rates during the first half WEBSITE Tunisia (TND) Dinar 1.72 of the year, although occupancy levels continue to grow www.traveltradeweekly.travel Morocco (MAD) Dirham 8.42 on the back of increased demand from international and Iran (IRR) Riyal 26,574.00 EMAILS regional visitors, particularly Saudi nationals.” [email protected] Yemen (YER) Rial 214.81 A [email protected] Profit margins were boosted by strong food and beverage demand [email protected] Algeria (DZD) Dinar 80.13 which generated over 45 percent of total hotel revenues and was driv- Libya (LYD) Dinar 1.23 en primarily by the local residential population, according to Goddard.

Accor Presents Solid Growth in H1

Business remained favourable in most of Accor’s markets in the first half (H1) of the year, with revenue totalling EUR2.59 billion (USD3.47 billion).

otelInvest, the group’s hotel owner and investor unit, reported good revenue growth in every region except HFrance, with H1 revenue from the Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa (MMEA) region growing by 6.7 percent. HotelServices, Accor’s hotel operator and franchiser, recorded a five percent rise in income derived from owned, leased and managed properties and room revenue from fran- chised hotels. MMEA was once again prominent, where a 10.1 percent year-on-year increase was achieved. The French hospitality company has opened 92 hotels representing 12,284 new rooms in H1, of which 90 percent are under management and franchise agreements.

2 23 AUGUST 2014 MARKET UPDATE

Cairo Hotels Show Wyndham Worldwide Signs of Recovery Reports Q2 Earnings

Hoteliers in Cairo experienced improving Announcing results for the evenues grew to performance levels, with average room rates (ARR) second quarter, Wyndham reach USD1.3 billion, reflecting growth in increasing 5.5 percent during the month of June, Worldwide highlighted a all of the company’s according to TRI Hospitality Consulting findings. seven percent increase in business segments. revenues compared with RReported net income was up USD20 million over the same pe- the second quarter (Q2) of riod of 2013 at USD153 million. 2013. “We delivered strong results in the second quarter, improv-

Did you know... Cairo ing upon the positive trends from the first quarter,” said Ste- The improved hotel phen Holmes, chairman, Wynd- performance coincided ham Worldwide. “Domestic with the presidential election's results which RevPAR growth continued to providedstability? a sense of accelerate, net vacation owner- ship interest sales increased ten percent and we are seeing continued strong growth in rental Wyndham Worldwide Headquarters transaction volume.”

he growth in average rates caused RevPAR to rise 2.7 percent to USD57.64. However, overall demand continued to fall, with occupancy declining 1.3 percentage points. Despite a loss in the corporate segment, leisure visi- Ttors returned to the capital and helped raise non-rooms revenues, leading total RevPAR to increase by 5.5 percent. “Although June saw an increase in average rates, revenues were not restored during the first half of the year due to the continued pressure on occupancy levels,” said Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting, adding that positive market sentiment is expected to result in a gradual uplift in demand by year-end.

Amadeus Reports Ro- bust Performance in H1 Amadeus registered a growth of 8.9 percent in profit.

ne of the leading technology partners for the global travel industry, Amadeus, has reported results for the first half (H1) of the year, showing a year-on-year growth in profit of 8.9 percent to EUR380.6 million (USD510.3 million), backed by an increase in revenue of 8.5 percent, to EUR1.73 billion (USD2.32 billion). OLuis Maroto, president, Amadeus, commented, “Amadeus’ core business continues to deliver strong results despite improved, but still challenging, market conditions. The distribution business outperformed the industry ena- bling us to continue to gain market share.”

23 AUGUST 2014 3 WEEKLY NEWS

Mall of the World to Boost Abu Dhabi Sets Beach Water Quality Dubai’s Retail Tourism Standards The upcoming project is set to persuade various international brands to enhance their presence in Dubai, thus leading to the advance- ment of the emirate’s retail, bu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) has published a guideline entitled Man- shopping, and family tour- agement of Beach Water Quality for Human Health ism sectors. Aat Abu Dhabi Hotels, with the support of Environment Nazek Al Sabbagh Agency-Abu Dhabi (EAD). The guide outlines procedures now mandatory for the emirate’s 24 beachfront resorts. ll this according to Nazek Al Sabbagh, owner, Zari O’Breesam, who also “By unifying the monitoring procedures and sam- predicted global success for Dubai-based brands over the upcoming pling methods across the emirate through these newly years, as the ideal business environment established in the UAE allows published guidelines, we all now have more reliable Athe private sector to flourish. The eminent businesswoman additionally praised data about our beaches to base decisions on,” con- the emirate’s policy of investing in grand retail projects, which appeal to interna- firmed Shaikha Ahmed Al Hosani, director of environ- tional brands, thereby pushing hotel occupancy to amongst the highest levels mental monitoring and analysis, EAD. globally.

4 23 AUGUST 2014 WEEKLY NEWS

Qatar Summer Festival Contributes ICAO to Establish to Tourism Promotion Safety Measures

he International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Inter- T national Air Transport Asso- ciation, Airports Council International, and the Civil Air Navigation Services atar Tourism Authority (QTA) has announced the start of the Qatar Organisation have released a joint Summer Festival which aims to promote the country as a unique statement which condemns the use of Q family holiday destination. arms against civil aviation, following Rashed Al Qurese, director of marketing, QTA, extended a welcome the downing of Malaysia Airlines’ flight to visitors, commenting that the festival is part of QTA’s National Tourism MH17. Sector 2030 Strategy to promote Qatar as an international tourism desti- The declaration stresses ICAO’s piv- nation with deep cultural roots. otal role in future attempts to prevent The festival includes family games and rides, dancing fountains, ac- repetition of such acts, through its high- tivities such as bike riding and kayaking, and an inflatable aqua park on priority collaboration with all member the beach. states. ICAO will also be responsible for Data for the first quarter showed that approximately 380,000 people composing a Task Force comprising of visited Qatar during the period, representing a nine percent year-on-year industry experts, to confront the issue increase. Saudi Arabia was the largest single source of visitors, whilst arriv- of effectively gathering and distributing als from Kuwait rose by a staggering 42 percent. information.

23 AUGUST 2014 5 WEEKLY NEWS

Seawings to Fly THOE Guests DUBAI TO WELCOME LEGOLAND IN 2016

LEGOLAND Dubai remains on track to open in the emirate in 2016, as its developer Merlin Entertainments recently confirmed.

leindienst Group, a UAE real estate developer, has announced that its flagship project The Heart of Europe (THOE) has partnered with Seawings to promote Ktourism to The World islands. Seawings will provide THOE’s clients and guests with the opportunity to see the finest views Dubai has to offer from 450m in the air, while the two entities will also collaborate on flying guests from around the GCC to the project via seaplane. THOE is an iconic holiday destination located on The World in Dubai, made up of six stunning man-made islands, each capturing a different facet of Europe’s character.

n its financial report for the first half of the year (H1), the UK-based visitor attraction operator confirmed the Dubai target opening date, whilst also reporting

that discussions are ongoing with a number of parties LEGOLAND California over potential LEGOLAND projects, primarily in South IKorea, the US and China. Merlin Entertainments overall posted strong H1 results, which were attributed to further growth from the existing estate and continued roll out of its international brands, as well as strong performance from LEGOLAND which benefitted in part from the effective marketing surrounding The LEGO Movie in the first quarter.

Did you know...

Each LEGOLAND park spans more than 40ha with more than 50 rides shows and attractions?

LEGOLAND Malaysia

6 23 AUGUST 2014 WEEKLY NEWS

Middle East’s Spending Power Morocco Welcomes Gulf Tourism Grows

azagan Beach & Golf Resort revealed dramatic increases in visitors, originating mainly from the MGulf, as a result of more competitive summer and Ramadan packages offered by the property. All this according to Stephan Killinger, president, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, who added that “[The management is] collaborating with eight airline service providers to reward our visitors on isa has released its Visa Everywhere Travel Report for every mile they cross to reach us.” the World Cup in Brazil, with analysis of travel data The General Directorate for National Security in Morocco V and cross-border spend on all Visa products, includ- and the Ministry of Tourism Morocco, have reported that 3.57 ing credit, debit and prepaid payment cards. million tourists vacationed in the Kingdom between January The survey showed that Middle East visitors splurged and May, an increase of nine percent compared to the same over USD5.7 million during the tournament, 70 percent of period in 2013. Revenues from foreign tourists rose by three which came from fans from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. percent, achieving MAD21.7 billion (USD2.6 billion). During the event, Visa cardholders from the UAE spent USD2.5 million, ranking it the 27th largest spending nation in the report. Saudi Arabia and Qatar ranked 47th and 49th respectively, with spends of USD840,000 and USD639,000. Did you know... All three countries witnessed triple-digit increases in international spend compared to the same period in 2013., Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort covers 250ha alongside a superb beach offering panoramic views across Ocean?the Atlantic

Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort

Aviation Sector in Dubai is Thriving

H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), is positive that completion H.of the runway refurbishment at Dubai International Airport will bring a significant surge in air traffic. “We are confident about the airport handling over 70 million passengers this year which will bring us further closer to becoming the world’s number one airport for international passengers,” said Al Mak- toum, adding that the next project is a fourth concourse, due to open in the first quarter of 2015. The development of Al Maktoum International Airport with an eventual capacity of 160 million passengers is also progressing, further evidence of the boost being given to Dubai’s aviation industry.

23 AUGUST 2014 7 WEEKLY NEWS

Report on Oman to Chart Developments in Non-oil Growth

xford Business Group (OBG) is to prepare a study exploring Oman’s ongoing drive to create an investor-friendly environment, encourage entrepreneurial activity and develop the OSultanate’s workforce. The Report: Oman 2015 will look in detail at the country’s infrastruc- ture and transportation projects whilst also charting Oman’s efforts to adopt a bigger regional role by integrating more fully within the GCC. “We are now witnessing the results of the Sultanate’s bid to expand its economy on the back of significant hydrocarbons wealth, with major capital works projects under way and smaller businesses taking root,” commented Jana Treeck, regional director, OBG, adding that Oman’s non-oil growth had become a key focus of the group’s research in recent years. Jana Treeck (left) and Kenneth Macfarlane, country senior partner, PwC Oman

QAIA Enjoys Robust Growth During H1

Did you know...

QAIA was originally inaugurated in 1983? QAIA

irport International Group (AIG), the Jordanian company responsible for Queen Alia Interna- tional Airport (QAIA), has released traffic statistics for the first half of the year (H1), which show continued growth in terms of passenger and aircraft movement figures. APassenger traffic surged by 12.9 percent and aircraft movement rose by 8.6 percent during H1 which ended positively in June when QAIA welcomed 687,804 passengers and 6,573 aircraft, an increase of 10.5 percent and 9.2 percent respectively over the same month in 2013. “We look forward to what the remaining six months of the year will bring, in line with our commitment towards helping QAIA reach its full potential as Jordan's prime gateway to the world,” said Kjeld Binger, CEO, AIG.

8 23 AUGUST 2014 ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS

Accor Signs Agreement with Hiranandani Group Accor HotelServices Middle East, a hotel operator and brand franchisor, has signed a management agreement with Hiranandani Group, one of India’s biggest real estate developers, to develop an ibis Styles hotel in Dubai Business Bay.

n an effort to meet increasing demand, Accor will offer the first three-star hotel alongside the Business Bay Canal, with 350 rooms and a view over Downtown Dubai. Discussing the recent agreement, Christophe Landais, chief operating officer, Accor IHotelServices Middle East, stated, “We are pleased to develop this new ibis Styles hotel with the Hiranandani Group and we look forward to a long-term partnership. The hotel’s modern design, attractive facilities and great location will help to service the needs of Dubai’s leisure Dubai Business Bay and corporate guests.”

TIME Hotels Management Acquires Red Sea Resort

AE-based TIME Hotels Management has recently secured a contract for luxury properties TIME Ren- ero Resort Azzurra and TIME Suites Azzurra, both

TIME Renero ResortTIME Renero Azzurra Uintegral components of the 4,000ha Sahl Hasheesh development near Hurghada, Egypt. The hotel boasts 87 rooms and 110 suites, all with panoramic sea views, and the residences comprise 287 units, featuring several private villas with their own infinity pools, terraces and private courtyards. “Not only does this [addition] broaden our reach across the region, it also widens the appeal of the TIME brand, adding our first beach resort to our portfolio,” observed Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels. The resort also features seven swimming pools, a full service spa and gym, five sun terraces, a lounge and reading room, and a kids’ club.

23 AUGUST 2014 9 WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION

Jumeirah Group Leads Charitable Action Hotels Brings another Missions Four-star Hotel in Kuwait

ction Hotels has announced that a memorandum of understanding has been signed with Accor for the management of the new 160-room freehold hotel Ato be built in the prime business district of Sharq in Kuwait City. The four-star property will bear the Novotel flag, Accor’s mid-scale brand. Novotel Kuwait adds to Action Hotel’s existing portfolio in the country and will increase the company’s local room ild Wadi Waterpark organised a charity campaign Waterpark Wadi Wild count to 2,660. which saw more than 15,000 items of clothing Construction is set to commence in the first half of 2015 collected for the Beit Al Kheir Society, a non- with completion expected in 2017, at a total cost of approxi- Wprofit organisation which aids disadvantaged UAE families. mately USD29 million. The initiative enabled 5,256 visitors to contribute to the H.E. Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah, chairman, Action Hotels, cause by trading three items of clothing for a free entry to said, “We are pleased to partner with Accor for the develop- the water park, filling 15 containers with donations. ment of Kuwait’s first Novotel. [...] We strongly believe that “We have been overwhelmed with the support we re- the Novotel brand, which is at the forefront of the mid-mar- ceived from the community [...] and we are looking forward ket hotel segment, will drive superior returns.” to making this an annual campaign,” said Chris Perry, general manager, Wild Wadi Waterpark.

ibis Sharq

New Asian Restaurant in Sharjah

izzling Wok, the home- grown restaurant brand of Citymax Hotels Bur SDubai, is now open at a second location in Citymax Hotels Shar- jah. The venue offers an eclectic menu with all-time favourites from Pan-Asian cuisine based on authentic recipes from Thai- land, Vietnam, China, Japan and Singapore. Sizzling Wok

10 23 AUGUST 2014 ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS

Chameleon Club Dubai Relaunched

hameleon Club Dubai, located in the penthouse of Byblos Hotel, Tecom, has been refurbished and re- C launched this season in an effort to bring a new di- mension to Dubai’s party scene. Initially opened in 2011, the club has upgraded a number of facilities, including a wider dance floor and a newly reno- vated VIP zone. The club operates as a restaurant and pre- clubbing lounge where guests can indulge in international cuisine with food served throughout the night. The club’s management cited a passion for adapting to new trends and creating an unforgettable clubbing experience as the reason behind the refurbishment and subse- quent relaunch.

Chameleon Club Dubai

Millennium Resort Jordan Marriott Mussanah: Maxi- Hotels Hosts mum Occupancy Charitable Mission

uring Eid Al Fitr, Millennium arriott International Resort Mussanah, Oman, re- has stepped up its hu- corded maximum occupancy M manitarian initiative, Dwith its 304 rooms and apartments in Spirit to Serve, in Jordan. high demand during the extended Jordan’s Marriott hotels host- holiday period. The resort experi- ed Flying Doctors of America, enced an increase of 23 percent over a US-based organisation which the same period in 2013, and 80 per- offers medical assistance to de- cent over 2012. veloping countries, during a Maurice De Rooij, general man- five-day mission which provided ager, Millennium Resort Mussanah, over 400 free medical consulta- noted, “We are pleased that so many tions and services at the Syrian guests chose to celebrate Eid Al Fitr refugee camp. with us [...] and experience the ever- “It is our pleasure that we growing variety of recreational activi- had the chance to contribute in ties that we offer for the whole family.” a cause that makes a difference in people’s lives”, commented Philip Papadopoulos, country general manager, Jordan, Marri- ott International. Jordan’s Marriott hotels also held a dinner to extend their thanks to the Flying Doctors of America for the opportunity to participate in this good cause. Millennium Resort Mussanah

23 AUGUST 2014 11 CLASSIFIEDS RECRUITMENTS FREE RECRUITMENT LISTINGS

IN TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY

[email protected]

12 23 AUGUST 2014 RECRUITMENTS CLASSIFIEDS

RECRUITMENT LISTINGS

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 Website: www.gloriahospitality.com  Security manager Email address: [email protected]  Front office desk agent Telephone Number: +971 2 644 4739  Guest relations officers Fax Number: +971 2 644 4759

CAPITAL CLUB DUBAI VACANCY IN-HOUSE GRAPHIC DESIGNER (BEACH HOTEL IN RAS AL KHAIMAH)

Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing.

Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts information: If you are looking to start a career at a fast-paced innovative company with Work for one of the top 10 most exclusive private member’s Clubs in the loads of opportunities, then look no further than Bin Majid Hotels & world: Capital Club Dubai. Resorts. We are growing dynamically and are looking for motivated, Accepting applications for Membership Managers to talented and proactive individuals to join our team. [email protected] Must have sales experience in luxury goods and/or hospitality, a strong UAE Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing. business network and a 5* professional attitude. Please send your CV to: [email protected]

23 AUGUST 2014 13 WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Qatar Airways Boosts Perth Route Qatar Airways will increase capacity on its Perth route with an aircraft upgrade to a Boeing 777-300 from October 1, as the destination has seen exceptional growth since its launch.

Did you know...

Perth was first launched in July 2012 and became the second Australian destinationAirways? for Qatar

he move will bring a 30 percent increase in seats on the direct daily flights to Perth Airport, equating to 1,064 additional seats per week. T According to Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, adding Perth to the airline’s network of destinations two years ago has proven to be a very sound move. “Just two years later, we are already increasing our capacity to meet the needs of our Australian passengers who are extremely keen and avid travellers, with a great sense of adventure. We are very pleased that they continually choose to fly with us and have the opportunity to enhance their Perth overall travel experience with our five-star service and product,” he added.

Gulf Air to Serve Moscow

ulf Air is to launch direct services to the Russian capital from October 28. The airline will operate four flights per week to Domodedovo International Air- G port, Moscow’s largest hub in terms of passenger and cargo traffic. Maher Salman AlMusallam, acting CEO, Gulf Air, commented that adding Russia to its flight schedule for the first time, further demonstrates the airline’s strategy of strengthening its network with key global destinations that provide strategic business and tourism links. “We are confident this new route will be a success for our passenger operations, and we look forward to facilitating business and leisure traffic between the two countries and beyond,” he said. Gulf Air flights to Moscow will be operated by an Airbus A320-ER aircraft in a two- Moscow class configuration of 14 Falcon Gold seats and 96 seats in economy.

14 23 AUGUST 2014 AIR WEEKLY NEWS

flydubai Launches Etihad Airways Sets New Record Flights to Iran

lydubai has commenced services to Tehran and Mashhad, the carrier’s first f two destinations in Iran. On August 10 the flights were inaugurated with the Mashhad route launching first, while the plane to Tehran took off on August 11. flydubai now serves Iran with four flights per week. Commenting on the announcement, Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, said, “Our approach to opening up previously under- served markets, including Iran, presents much opportunity for flydubai and enables a greater number of passengers to benefit from Dubai’s efficient aviation hub.”

bu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has enjoyed the busiest four days in its history with 181,333 passengers flying with the air- A line during the post Eid Al Fitr period. The figure represents an increase of 36 percent over the same days at the end of Eid Al Fitr in 2013, when 133,007 passengers took an Etihad Airways flight. Load factor for the period also rose from 79.3 percent in 2013 to 88.1 percent this year, with the busiest routes for passengers carried between July 31 and August 3 being Bangkok, London and Manila. Peter Baumgartner, chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways, commented that carrying more than 180,000 passengers during the specific season was a fantastic achievement for the airline. Tehran

Emirates Implements Innovation ExecuJet Middle East Reo- pens for Business

xecuJet Middle East, part of the ExecuJet Avia- tion Group, is once again offering full aircraft E handling and line maintenance services at Dubai International, following the reopening of the facility to all business aviation traffic. mirates has become the first airline to introduce audio ExecuJet’s fixed-based operations facility at Dubai description on movies for visually impaired customers, International includes eight lounges and a spacious E providing a recorded narration explaining the scene dur- arrivals zone with guest 'meet and greet' areas, duty- ing gaps in dialogue. The technique is offered on 16 Walt Disney free shopping, VIP parking and convenient limousine films and follows on from the closed captions technique intro- drop-off and pick-up access. duced on over 50 movies for passengers with hearing difficulties. “We are pleased to welcome business aviation cli- “In future, we want to add more content with audio de- ents back to Dubai International,” said Mark Hardman, scription, so visually impaired passengers can be entertained operations director, ExecuJet Middle East. “The air-

with an even wider choice of content,” noted Patrick Brannelly, Emirates port remains the ideal drop-off and pick-up location vice president, corporate communications product, publishing, for clients with limited time in Dubai, as well as those digital and events, Emirates. connecting to commercial flights out of the country.”

23 AUGUST 2014 15 WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Emirates Steps-up Connectivity to Morocco

Did you know... eginning September 1, Emirates is to step up services to Morocco with a second daily flight to Casablanca, boosting the route to 14 weekly flights. Since the route launch in 2002, Emirates B Moreover from October 26, the carrier will upgrade this additional daily operation from an Air- has carried over 1.6 bus A340-500 to a Boeing 777-300ER, which will see both daily services being served by the Boeing aircraft. million passengers The additional connection, coupled with the aircraft upgrade, will double Emirates’ weekly passen- between Dubai and Casablanca? ger capacity to Morocco, equating to an extra 2,520 seats per week in each direction. “The strengthened service will foster new business and tourism ties to one of our key destinations within Africa and open up a wealth of choice for passengers travelling from Casablanca to Dubai,” commented Adil Al Ghaith, vice president, commercial operations, Northern and Western Africa, Emirates.

Air Arabia Marks Second Turkish Route

ir Arabia has started its nonstop services to Antalya in the southwest of Turkey. A The new three-times-weekly flight from the carrier’s primary hub in Sharjah marks its second destination in the country and 97th worldwide. The launch of Antalya complements Air Arabia’s seven weekly flights to the historic city of Istanbul, a route introduced in 2006. In June 2009, the airline expanded Turkish operations to connect Istanbul to its Casablanca hub in Mo- rocco. Currently, the low-cost airline operates over five weekly direct services between Istanbul and the Moroc- can destination.

Gulf Air Upgrades Operational Performance

ulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, is moving from a paper-based flight manual to an advanced technological process, by rolling out the new generation iPad Electronic GFlight Bags across the entire fleet. The electronic information management device offers advanced information management and delivers more accurate performance calculations, creating significant time and cost savings while increasing safety and streamlining the management of flight information. Introducing the new device, Nasser Al Salmi, chief operations officer, Gulf Air, said that the airline is committed to all new technology that provides integrated solutions for managing information in the air and on the ground.

16 23 AUGUST 2014 RENDEZVOUS

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How impor- charging full fares still dominate in the tant is the Middle East market to the region. The penetration of low-cost airline’s business? carriers (LCC) is just 13.3 percent in the Q & A with Middle East. EMRE PEKESEN: With the addition of We can draw a great big loop around Bahrain, we now fly to Bahrain, Beirut, Turkey; all of it untouched territory. In Dubai, Erbil, Kuwait, Qatar and Tehran, a all these regions, including the Middle total of [seven] destinations in the Mid- Emre Pekesen East, the concept of consumer choice is dle East which has given us the oppor- only just kicking off. We are focusing on tunity to offer long-haul flights to these growth in this region as a result of our destinations to our guests in the UK and DIRECTOR OF SALES, PEGASUS AIRLINES LCC model and new opportunities that bring the low-cost model to these bur- we are creating which put us in an ideal geoning markets with great potential. position to enter these new markets. Thus these regions of the Middle East can not only benefit from our good-val- TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Please tell us ue flights but also the wide variety of an- about Pegasus Airlines’ future devel- cillary services that we offer our guests. opment plans for the Middle East. Our guests can personalise their travel experience via our ancillary ser- EMRE PEKESEN: This is an incredible vices, including our most-recent Smart time for us and with our increased capaci- Flight Packages [...]. As the first-of-its- ties and efficiencies we will be continuing kind in Turkey and one of the first exam- to expand our international networks, ples amongst airlines around the world and this also includes the Middle East. we are proud to introduce this experi- Although there are some issues ence to the Middle East. with flights in the Middle East as far as We have established Istanbul Sa- rights go, we strongly believe in the po- biha Gökçen International Airport as an tential of this region and so will certain- important hub linking all the regions ly be looking to expand into it further as that we fly to, including Europe and liberalisation takes place in time. the Middle East, making the city a vital bridge between these two major re- TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How can this gions of the world. region drive your business strategy? These new markets that we are pen- etrating in the Middle East represent a EMRE PEKESEN: [Over the years], the significant importance and opportunity Middle East has also accepted Turkey as for our business for a number of reasons; a travel destination, adding to the num- the growth potential of aviation in this ber of guests arriving in Turkey for busi- market, flexibility in visa regulations, ness. Leisure traffic in the Middle East has geographical and cultural closeness to WITH THE RECENT ADDITION OF BAHRAIN, diverted away from Egypt and the UAE this market and the increasing trade PEGASUS AIRLINES NOW OPERATES TO OVER to Turkey for both summer holidays and between Turkey and the Middle East, as city breaks with Istanbul seeing the bulk well as destinations which have no night 80 DESTINATIONS ACROSS EUROPE, THE MID- of this traffic. This of course has benefits curfew thereby giving us the ability to fly DLE EAST, RUSSIA AND CAUCASUS. HERE EMRE on both sides. By making the most of at night and increase our utilisation. PEKESEN, DIRECTOR OF SALES, PEGASUS AIR- the availability of low-cost flights, guests Also, with the exception of one want to have the choice of taking longer or two places in the Middle East, they LINES, SHARES HIS VIEWS ON THE REGION’S holidays as well as different holidays. are still not knowledgeable about the LOW-COST CARRIER SECTOR. Thus we are trying to establish a hub for low-cost concept as full-service airlines flights in Turkey, by watching developments closely, whereby the Middle East is making use of our increased flights in Europe via this hub or bridge and we are also taking a share of the travellers com- ing to Turkey to holiday from the Middle East. We continue to seek out and develop new destinations as and when we obtain the rights. Demand to and from the Middle East remains strong and consistent. This situation encourages us more than ever to continue to position ourselves as a regional carrier with a strong and grow- Pegasus Airlines ing presence in the Middle East region.

23 AUGUST 2014 17 WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL

Best Western to Open a New Hotel in Thailand

est Western International (BWI) is due to open a hotel in Phuket in October, located a short way from the heart of the city’s main touristic area. Did you know... BThe new BEST WESTERN Patong Beach will feature a res- - taurant with local and international cuisine, outdoor infinity BWI comprises more pool, and fully-equipped fitness and business centres. than 4,000 inde pendently owned BEST WESTERN Patong Beach will become BWI’s 13th ho- and operated hotels tel in Thailand and its third in Phuket, joining the BEST WEST- in 100 countries and territories ERN PREMIER Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa and BEST WEST- worldwide? ERN Phuket Ocean Resort. Glenn de Souza, vice president, international operations, Asia and Middle East, BWI, stated, “With modern design, a full range of facilities and Best Western’s legendary service, BEST WESTERN Patong Beach will reinvigorate the midscale sector in Phuket.”

Patong Beach

Radisson Broadens Presence Westin Well-Being Movement Continues in Canada Apace Center Edmonton Center Radisson Hotel & Convention Radisson & Convention Hotel

adisson, one of the leading brands in the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group portfolio, has expanded its footprint in Canada Rwith the acquisition of Radisson Hotel & Con- estin Hotels & Resorts unveiled the next stage of its year- vention Center Edmonton, in Alberta. long Westin Well-Being Movement with the announcement The property, scheduled to open in Septem- of two new nutrition-focussed partnerships with SuperChefs ber, boasts 168 rooms, 40 suites, two restaurants Wand The Juicery. and a conference centre. The amenities in the de- “As we continue to roll-out innovative wellness options, we saw this velopment will include complimentary Wi-Fi, a ful- as a perfect opportunity to introduce two new programmes that are ly-equipped fitness centre, swimming pool, steam carefully customised to help guests continue their healthy eating hab- room, hot tub, and a 24-hour business centre. its while travelling,” said Brian Povinelli, global brand leader, Westin & Le “Hotels with robust offerings like Radisson Méridien Hotels. Hotel & Convention Center play a key role as we Westin has also appointed its next expert to the Westin Well-Being continue developing Radisson as a powerful, Council, internationally-renowned dietician, Ashley Koff. Dedicated to globally consistent, first class-brand,” observed imparting the value of quality nutrition choices in achieving optimal Javier Rosenberg, chief operating officer, Ameri- health, Koff commented, “Westin is the first global hotel brand I have cas, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. encountered that takes such a thorough approach to the well-being of its guests.”

18 23 AUGUST 2014 AGENT CORNER Agent’s Insight

NAME: Abhijit Das Gupta

POSITION: Senior general manager

COMPANY: Indian Holiday

LOCATION: India

WEBSITE: www.indianholiday.com

dnata’s Philippine Operations Awarded RA3

Who are you? I am the senior general manager of Indian Holiday. The company has been a leading tour operator in the country for the past 24 years and works with clients from all over the world, handling all kinds of tourism- and events-related services in India and neighbouring countries. I am spearheading the sales and marketing department of the company and looking after the overall operations/business development of the organisation.

What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? I am very passionate about the travel tourism industry. The most important thing is that you learn new things, products and ideas every day. This industry is highly nata, one of the world’s leading combined air service competitive, but still with new ideas, skills and sincerity you can achieve a good providers, has received Third Country EU Aviation Se- level in the market. curity Validated Regulated Agents (RA3) certification, dfor its ramp services at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, When is the best time to visit India? Manila. The best time for any tourist to come to India is from October to March. However, The certification ratifies that dnata’s policies abide by EU during the summertime, which is May, June, July and August, lots of people travel requirements, and facilitates the smooth transportation of to the Himalayan regions across North India. cargo between the Philippine capital and the EU, since security controls applied on its ramp services are of an acceptable Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? standard to EU authorities. I have not decided yet but would first love to finish with all the destinations in India. “[In 2013] dnata supported the transport of more than 11,000 tonnes of cargo. With the RA3 certification, our custom- Why should people come to you for travel advice? ers can be confident their goods will arrive smoothly and se- Indian Holiday offers personalised services, not only while drafting a package, but curely at destinations throughout Europe,” attested Margaret also during the entire tour. We offer all services under one roof at highly competi- Yu, general manager, Philippines, dnata. tive rates.

23 AUGUST 2014 19 TRAVEL TALK

We seek to stimulate We are building on the the tourism sector and distinctive Nobu enhance its role in the aesthetic national economy “The design of Nobu Hotel Ri- “Qatar Summer Festival 2014 is yadh is a progression of various part of QTA’s efforts to make Qa- concepts that Rockwell Group tar the best tourist destination for has developed with Nobu in the families in the region. Through past, emphasising natural ma- the summer festival we will offer terials and craftsmanship and quality performances to present visually connecting different Qatar’s various entertainment op- spaces to create a fluid environ- RASHED tions and warm hospitality. DIEGO ment and experience. Through our efforts we seek to We are building on the distinc- AL QURESE stimulate the tourism sector and GRONDA tive Nobu aesthetic while an- enhance its role in the national choring the hotel in its specific economy. We support owners Saudi Arabian context, which Director of marketing of tourist facilities and all other Managing and creative was accomplished by weaving and promotions, Qatar stakeholders in the tourism sec- director, Rockwell Group together abstract references to tor, adding value to their efforts Tourism Authority (QTA) Japanese and Saudi cultural and and helping them promote their Europe natural elements and setting up offerings at home and abroad.“ these dynamic design dualities.“

The Seychelles has a strong and growing appeal as a premium leisure destination

“Our recent campaigns [and] activities have stepped up the demand to the destination. The Seychelles has a strong and growing appeal as a premium leisure destination, with increas- AHMED ing numbers of UAE residents holidaying in the islands of Sey- FATHALLAH chelles. Working closely with our partners to achieve our continuous efforts in raising the tour- Regional manager, ism portfolio of the Seychelles Seychelles Tourism is a must. Our annual Iftar event is the perfect platform to meet Board Middle East our partners and thank them for their continuous support.“

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 23 AUGUST 2014 TRAVEL CHANNELS

GBTA’s 2014 Outlook: SCTDA Hosts

Suhoor Banquet Asian Continent on the Rise

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has released its annual BTI Out- E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, look which predicts spending on global business travel to reach nearly USD1.2 director general, Sharjah H. Commerce & Tourism De- trillion this year, an increase of almost 7 percent on 2013. velopment Authority (SCTDA), reaf- firmed his commitment to working with the hotel industry at a suhoor urrently Asia Pacific owns the largest share banquet held for representatives of the market at 38 percent and is expected from the industry, the staff of SCTDA, to gain another five percent by 2018 while and members of the media. the US and Western Europe will lose three The banquet was held at Al Ma- percent and two percent, respectively. jaz Waterfront and gave SCTDA the CThe report reveals that business travel in Asia Pa- opportunity to strengthen relations cific is led by China which has been growing at an aver- with its partners. age annual rate of 16.1 percent since 2000, compared Having witnessed strong to an annual growth rate of just 1.1 percent in the US growth in the hotel industry in over the same period. Sharjah, Al Midfa emphasised that ”This report underscores that China, along with the the efforts and support of the tour- other BRIC countries of Brazil, Russia and India are lev- ism industry partners have played eraging their business travel expenditures into more a major role in the success and economic opportunities,” said Michael McCormick, growth of the sector, and in the de- chief operations officer, GBTA, adding, “We expect to velopment of the emirate’s tourism see this shift in business travel spending to continue.” product.

Impact on Travel Industry as China’s Tourism Key in Development Economy Overtakes US of Ethiopia

uring an official visit to Ethiopia by Taleb Ri- fai, secretary general, World Tourism Organi- zation (UNWTO), government officials of the Dcountry outlined a number of strategic measures currently being implemented to further develop the tourism sector, through the recently established Tourism Transformation Council. Mulatu Teshome, president, Ethiopia, expressed his full support for the tourism sector and the commitment of the Ethiopian government to making sustainability a priority in future tourism development. aroline Bremner, head of travel and tourism research, Euromonitor “Ethiopia is endowed International, has been examining developments in the Chinese with rich historical relics travel industry, in a year which will see the Chinese economy over- which, combined with the Ctake that of the US. hospitality of our people, Bremner confirms that travel is a core aspect of the Chinese lifestyle make it viable for tourism. with 2.7 billion domestic trips undertaken this year, making China by far The government has lined the largest domestic tourism market in the world. Bremner also reported up able professionals to that China is set to become the largest outbound source market by 2017, work within the industry with 105 million trips. and there is the right po- Bremner contends that China is at the intersection of online, social, litical will in place to con- mobile, and mobile payments trends and, together with its tourism poten- tribute towards tourism”, tial, the country will fundamentally impact global travel patterns. said Teshome. Rifai (left) and Teshome

23 AUGUST 2014 21 WHO’S MOVED

Mohamed Anwar has been Cristalyn Pastrana has been appointed as a sales director promoted to director of mar- at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai keting and communications at Deira Creek. Sheraton Bahrain Hotel. Anwar has 13 years’ experi- Pastrana joined the property ence in the revenue, sales and CRISTALYN in January 2012 as marketing marketing field. communications manager. He started his career in Dubai PASTRANA During the past two years, in 2002 at the regional office of she implemented remarkable InterContinental Hotels Group marketing and public rela- Middle East. After four years, tions strategies and also fo- he joined Shangri-La Hotel, cussed on the digital market- Dubai and steadily grew in his ing and social media segment career specialising in sales and that has resulted in Sheraton marketing, with experience in Bahrain Hotel winning multi- several hotels in the bustling ple awards. emirate. His last assignment In her new role, Pastrana will was with Mövenpick Tower & continue to oversee all aspects Suites Doha. of marketing, public relations, MOHAMED In his new role, Anwar will branding, digital strategies work on maximising hotel rev- and social media for the hotel. ANWAR enue and guest satisfaction. Anwar will work Pastrana has imple- on maximising hotel mented award- revenue winning strategies

Vincent Miccolis has been ap- Wai-Kei Wong is the new ex- pointed by The Ascott Limited ecutive assistant manager at as its area general manager for the upcoming Zaya Nurai Is- the GCC. With extensive indus- land, Abu Dhabi, due to open try experience, having worked in the fourth quarter of the VINCENT for more than 20 years with year by Zaya Retreats. several prominent hospitality He will be responsible for the MICCOLIS brands across Europe, Miccolis entire guest experience, from will oversee Ascott’s opera- the welcome boat trip to the tions and drive the growth of resort to the minute they are the company’s serviced resi- leaving the island and every- dences in the region. Miccolis thing in-between, making sure has been with Ascott since that the guest never regrets 1997 and held senior roles in choosing Nurai Island as their London, Brussels, Marseilles getaway. and Paris. Wong will be assisted in his The Ascott Limited recently role by a group of other high- added two more properties in calibre professionals, aiming to Jeddah, increasing its network transmit true emotional luxury to over 1,700 apartment units WAI-KEI to each guest visiting Zaya Nu- across 11 properties in five rai Island. countries. WONG

Miccolis has over Wong will be 20 years of industry responsible for the experience entire guest experience

22 23 AUGUST 2014 PHOTO ALBUM

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Al Habtoor Group extends sponsorship for the Indian national wins USD1 million at UAE Basketball Association Qatar Duty Free

Emaar pays homage to Arabian wildlife with Emirates crew assists a passenger Donald Greig’s sculpture Camels Jumeirah Frankfurt launches to propose to his loved one in Downtown Dubai velotaxi service

Coral Beach Resort Sharjah hosted an Iftar gathering in honour of the 10 best performing members of Coral Secretaries Club Team Europe wins Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup 2014

23 AUGUST 2014 23 NEWS & EVENTS

EVENTS RTE Talks Visits

Ecuador THE CHINA GUILIN INTERNA- TIONAL TOURISM EXPO (CGITE)

Guilin, China, August 29 – 31, 2014 www.cgite.com.cn CGITE is a key strategic platform catering to the booming Chinese tourism market.

SEATRADE LATIN AMERICA CRUISE CONVENTION Quito, Ecuador Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, September 2 – 3, 2014 eed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) hosted www.latinamerica-cruise.com The event returns to Brazil after a road show around Ecuador to help touring the region, focussing on educate the country’s travel and tour- the development of the cruise Rism industry on new technology trends and industry in Latin America. innovations. The RTE Talks road show included three events in the major cities of Guayaquil, Cuen- ca and Quito and the initiative aimed to up- INCENTIVE, BUSINESS, date and inform the Ecuadorian tourism and TRAVEL & MEETINGS EXPO MICE industries on how to best to utilise new (IBTM) INDIA technologies. The by invitation only RTE Talks Chennai, India, were expected to attract up to 30 suppliers September 3 – 5, 2014 from hotels, destination management compa- www.ibtmevents.com nies and venues, along with 15 buyers from a An invitation-only event for range of tour operators and incentive houses, India’s inbound, outbound and domestic business travel sector. all from the local market.

FOOD & HOSPITALITY OMAN Did you know... Muscat, Oman RTE runs 23 events September 9 – 11, 2014 every year which act www.foodandhospitalityoman.com as the marketplace A business and networking for the travel, tourism platform to promote the latest and MICE industries products and services in the food to negotiatecontracts? and sign 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. Quito, Ecuador

24 23 AUGUST 2014