7 FEBRUARY 2015 ISSUE 274

NEW WATER TAXI IN ABU DHABI

WARWICK INTERNATIONAL HOTELS HAS CELEBRATED A NEW ADDITION TO ITS LEBANESE PORTFOLIO WITH THE OPENING OF WARWICK STONE 55, A FOUR-STAR BOUTIQUE PROPERTY. 06

TIME OPENS MEERA TIME RESIDENCE

09 IN THIS ISSUE

MARKET UPDATE 02 TECHNOLOGY 03 AIRPORTS 04 ACCOMMODATION 09 AIR 13 RENDEZVOUS 17 INTERNATIONAL 18 AGENT CORNER 19 TRAVEL TALK 20 TRAVEL CHANNELS 21 WHO’S MOVED 22 LEBANON WELCOMES WARWICK PHOTO ALBUM 23 NEWS & EVENTS STONE 55 24 12 MARKET UPDATE

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS Nakheel: Biggest Year Yet Driven mostly by the continued delivery of residential units and plot sales, Nakheel MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi recorded a net profit of AED3.68 billion (USD1 billion) for 2014, marking a [email protected] 43 percent surge over 2013. ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli

SENIOR JOURNALIST li Rashid Lootah, chairman, Nakheel, Rita Kasziba deemed 2014 the -based develop- CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou er’s biggest year yet in terms of financial Ana Mladenovic performance and achievements. Interest in the company’s retail pro- PRESS Maria Demetriadou jectsA swelled in 2014 with high demand for space Pauline Shahabian at Nakheel Mall and The Pointe at

DESIGN & LAYOUT among others. Elena Stylianou Developments for this year include

WEB DEVELOPER / IT Mall, The Circle Mall, Al Khail Avenue, The Palm Tow- Soteris Constantinou er, Ibn Battuta expansion and several other projects Nakheel Mall DIRECTORS across Dubai. Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi

HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD Record Air Traffic in Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 Some 20 million passengers passed through Abu Dhabi International Airport’s

WEBSITE three terminals in 2014, representing an annual growth of 20 percent – the www.traveltradeweekly.travel highest ever in the hub’s history. EMAILS [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] raffic movements rose 14.5 percent to 154,821, During the year, two new carriers, AEGEAN Airlines while cargo throughput soared 12.8 percent to and NIKI joined the UAE capital and in order to facilitate 797,069 million tonnes. the increased traffic, the airport implemented a number The top five destinations from the UAE capi- of upgrades and reopened its newly renovated southern MENA EXCHANGE RATES tal included India, Germany, the UK, Pakistan runway as part of its expansion plans in preparation for Tand Saudi Arabia. the launch of the Midfield Terminal Complex in 2017. As of 6/2/2015 Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar Kingdom Holding’s Net Income COUNTRY CURRENCY 1USD= Bahrain (BHD) Dinar 0.37 Increases Jordan (JOD) Dinar 0.71 Oman (OMR) Rial 0.39 Kingdom Holding Company (KHC)’s gross operating profit for the fourth quarter Qatar (QAR) Rial 3.64 (Q4) of 2014 amounted to SAR431.5 million (USD115 million), representing a Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal 3.75 surge of 1.7 percent compared to the same quarter in 2013. UAE (AED) Dirham 3.67 Algeria (DZD) Dinar 93.30 Egypt (EGP) Pound 7.63 Iran (IRR) Rial 27,533.55 ost importantly the Saudi organisation Iraq (IQD) Dinar 1,160.34 recorded a net income of SAR266 million (USD71 million) for Q4, a year-on-year Kuwait (KWD) Dinar 0.29 boost of more than 15 percent. Lebanon (LBP) Pound 1,504.40 “Kingdom Holding’s Q4 results com- Libya (LYD) Dinar 1.35 plete its successful performance in 2014,” commented Morocco (MAD) Dirham 9.45 M H.R.H. Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Abdulaziz Alsaud, chair- Syria (SYP) Pound 188.90 man, KHC. Tunisia (TND) Dinar 1.91 Kingdom Holding Company held a board meeting to The company’s consolidated net income for 2014 announce the results Yemen (YER) Rial 215.09 period reached SAR869.1 million (USD231 million).

2 7 FEBRUARY 2015 TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS travall App Rolls Out in Abu Dhabi UAE Airports Lead in Smart Technology

obust passenger traffic growth at UAE airports, projected at 5.6 per- cent annually until 2034 by the In- Rternational Air Transport Association, higher expectations of travellers and ceaseless technological advancement are prompting regional airports to adopt smart technolo- The UAE’s video guide mobile gies with the UAE leading the transforma- tion. application, travall, launched its “The demand for smart technologies in- Abu Dhabi version. tegrated into centre infrastructures will sky- rocket in the next few years. All airports will be s the second market to get this city-specific, free-to-download app, travall’s format offers users an transformed into intelligent, adaptive and re- interactive visual experience in choosing how and when to visit in the UAE capital. sponsive environments. Changes in the ways “Not only can ΄travallers΄ check accommodation, dining, venues, clubs, malls, exhibitions and clin- we travel are coming at us faster,” suggested Aics by watching a 30- or 60-second video, but they can also film their own 15-second VideoReview, a first of Mohammed Fouz, CEO, Smartworld, adding its kind in the UAE. Each video is reviewed by us before being uploaded to the app for others to view,” com- that airports can benefit through 25 percent mented Adam Ridgway, CEO, travall. cut operation costs and enhanced capacity A UAE-developed brand, travall aims to change the way tourists and residents of the UAE review and book handling by turning to smart technologies. various activities.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 3 WEEKLY NEWS AIRPORTS

99 Percent of Steel Early Check-in at HIA’s The Airport Hotel Works Complete at MTB

MTB construction

bu Dhabi Airports’ board of direc- tors carried out a site visit to the A Midfield Terminal Building (MTB) to review the progress made on the future Hamad International Airport gateway to the capital city. The tour was led by H.E. Ali Majed Al Mansoori, chairman, Abu Dhabi Airports, joined by members of the board, along with representatives of the company’s ex- ecutive and project team. Al Mansoori said, “With 99 percent of he Airport Hotel at Doha’s Hamad International Airport (HIA) now offers guests the steel works completed on all four piers, the possibility of checking in their luggage up to 12 hours before their flight departure. building structure has become a visible T In addition, guests can also make use of a dedicated Qatar Airways counter lo- landmark from the air and the ground [...]. cated in the check-in hall where they can drop off their luggage in a relaxed environment. This achievement has allowed us to start Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, commented, “The newly announced offering the building enclosure around the piers, from The Airport Hotel at HIA will be a popular new service, adding an enhanced level of which will enable the building structure flexibility to Qatar Airways’ passengers who want to either relax at the hotel and spa before to take its final shape during the course of their flight or explore the fantastic five-star facilities at HIA.” [the year].”

4 7 FEBRUARY 2015 WEEKLY NEWS

The Region’s Biggest Indoor Gulf Craft Shipyard Entertainment Centre in Qatar Showcased Megapolis, hailed as the region’s biggest indoor entertainment centre at ulf Craft recently welcomed a del- 2 5,000m , is set to open in Medina Centrale at The Pearl Qatar in March. egation of Emirati businessmen to its shipyard in Umm Al Quwain, UAE. GThe high-profile delegation toured dif- ferent areas, including three large sheds and various departments that play a pivotal role in manufacturing the UAE yacht and boat-builder’s vessels. he facility, the result of a partnership between Gulf Craft, hailed as one of ’s United Development Company and Palma Hos- top 10 superyacht shipyards, aims to pre- pitality Group, will combine a multitude of en- serve its prestigious global position, and Ttertainment venues, ranging from arcades and indoor through its continuous efforts to achieve attractions like golf, bowling, snooker, billiard and darts, customer satisfaction both locally and in- to 3D and 5D games and sports zones, and a five eater- ternationally. With an annual production ies will also be available. capacity of around 400 craft and expertise The Pearl Qatar's retail and hospitality expansion built over three decades in the business, plans also continue to unfold in Porto Arabia and Qanat the company has a presence in all boating Quartier, with another big indoor sporting facility, the markets globally through its Majesty Yachts, Bowling room room Bowling 2,000m2 Gymito being in the pipeline among many Oryx and Silvercraft brands. other original concepts.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 5 WEEKLY NEWS

New Water Taxi in Abu Dhabi

n order to connect two of Abu Dhabi’s prime waterfront tourist destinations, a new water taxi service using a traditional wooden has been launched. I Departing from the Eastern Mangroves Promenade the service stops at five-star hotels at the Maqta Creek, before arriving to the souk at Qaryat Al Beri. Antonio Neto, owner, Capt. Tony’s, operator of the Abra Water Hopping Service, said, “These are two very popular areas for residents and tourists with a host of restaurants and attractions, so what Abra Water Hopping Service Water Abra better way to experience the two areas than on a leisurely and safe journey between the two.” Currently the 25-minute boat-ride runs from 10:00 until 18:00 on Fridays and Saturdays with the service expected to become daily in the near future.

Showcasing ADP Strengthens Works of Art in Operations with Dubai New Software

he ninth edition of Art bu Dhabi Ports (ADP) Dubai is set to take place revealed that it is imple- T on March 18 – 21, at Ma- A menting a brand new dinat Jumeirah. terminal operating system to The halls will feature 91 gal- enhance and speed up cargo leries from 40 countries, present- operations across the emirate’s ed in three programmes; Con- ports. temporary; Modern, devoted to The new software by Jade masters from the Middle East and Software, called Master Terminal, South Asia; and Marker, a curated is planned to replace ADP’s exist- section of art spaces from Latin ing systems, providing real-time America and the Arab World. information about cargo flows Art Dubai’s extensive non- across the operations cycle. profit programme includes a dy- “We are committed to con- namic roster of commissioned tinual investment in order to stay projects; artists and curators’ res- competitive in the 21st century idencies; an exhibition of works and to confirm our position at by winners of the annual The the forefront of progress. Master Abraaj Group Art Prize; a range Terminal will boost our service of educational programmes offerings and support us in han- including Sheikha Manal Lit- dling our growing general cargo tle Artists and the community volumes and delivering trade school Campus Art Dubai; and excellence,” said Gary Lemke, the critically-acclaimed Global executive vice president, ports Art Forum. unit, ADP.

6 7 FEBRUARY 2015 WEEKLY NEWS

Al Ain Visitors to Reach The First Wedding Expo in Ajman 710,000 in 2020

ourist numbers to Al Ain are set to soar to 710,000 in 2020 and 1,071,000 by 2030, with retail T 2 space expanding to 800,000m , according to The Urban Structure Framework Plan of Al Ain. As Bassam Saleh, marketing man- ager, Mall, noted, the Abu Dhabi he Ajman Palace Hotel is set to host a two-day wedding fair, un- government’s drive to attract such a huge der the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal Al Qassimi, number of visitors acts as a catalyst to the vice chairman, Hospitality Management Holdings, operator of the city’s retail and shopping sectors as well. Tproperty. The event will take place at the hotel’s Al Saalah ballroom on “Being the biggest shopping and February 12 – 13, and is to bring together over 50 leading brands and

entertainment destination in Al Ain, we designers specialised in catering to high-end weddings. Saalah Al ballroom believe that we have a bigger role to play Ferghal Purcell, general manager, The Ajman Palace Hotel, said, “The in contributing in the tourism and retail Wedding Fair is Ajman's first wedding expo and will serve as a showcase growth in the city. [...] The aim is to contin- for visitors to see the finest mix of wedding must-haves.” ue positioning Bawadi Mall as not only a Additionally, on site is the Bridal Suite that consists of a private room retail stop but also an all-round preferred with a dressing area, separate make-up room and a spacious living room destination,” he added. furnished with large mirrors.

Yas Island Bolsters Presence in South Asia

as Island has participated at the recently concluded South Asian Travel and Tourism Exhibition (SATTE) in New Delhi. YIndia is hailed as Abu Dhabi’s most popular international source market, with 207,136 visitors checking into local hotels during the first 10 months of 2014. Clive Dwyer, director of destination management, Yas Island, commented, “Over the years our deep connection with India has been growing from strength to strength. The partnerships we identify and sign each year with key traditional and online trade partners have been instrumental in effectively promoting our destination across the subcontinent.” He concluded that since the opening of the attraction, there was an increase of 20 percent in visitor numbers from the Indian market.

Yas Island

7 FEBRUARY 2015 7 WEEKLY NEWS

Boosting Maritime Sector in Oman Over 1.1 Billion Tourists Wandered and Bahrain the Globe in 2014

he number of international travellers reached 1.14 bil- lion in 2014, 51 million more than in 2013. With an in- crease of 4.7 percent, it was the fifth consecutive year Tof above average growth since the 2009 economic crisis. Over the past years, tourism has proven a resilient eco- nomic activity for destinations all around the world, but par- ticularly for Europe, commented Taleb Rifai, secretary gen- eral, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). By region, the Americas and Asia and Pacific registered the strongest growth, with seven and five percent respective- ly, while Europe, the Middle East and Africa developed at a slightly more modest pace equal to or less than four percent. ithin the ongoing cooperation framework For this year, UNWTO forecasts international tourist arriv- between Bahrain and Oman, the Ministry als to surge between three and four percent. Wof Transportation and Telecommunications (MTT) Ports and Maritime Affairs hosted a delegation from the Ministry of Transportation and Communication, Oman. The visit was to enable the delegation to learn about the Ships and Seamen Affairs Directorate’s activities as well as the recently launched Ship Registry Portal, one of MTT’s most important projects in the maritime sector. The portal is an electronic gate to register vessels, en- abling owners worldwide to register their ship in Bahrain, together with providing a number of electronic vessel registration services in an easy and convenient process. Ways of further boosting cooperation between the two countries in the maritime sector were also discussed.

New Apartments at The Wave, Muscat

he Wave, Muscat has released the new marina-front apart- Marsa Gardens T ment precinct, Marsa Gardens, which offers 232 one- and two-bed- room units. Located in close proximity to Almouj Marina and the forthcoming Kempinski, The Wave, Marsa Gardens is set to appeal to first-time buyers with a variety of floor plan designs ranging from 80 – 191m2. Suggesting that this is the first of many releases to follow this year, Hawa- zen Esber, CEO, The Wave, Muscat, said, “Marsa Gardens has created a balance between the need to provide affordable options for an increasing demand for apartment living and increasing facili- ties and amenities within our buildings.”

8 7 FEBRUARY 2015 ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS

TIME Opens Swiss-Belhotel to Meera TIME Expand in the Gulf

wiss-Belhotel International is Residence planning to open 10 new hotels S in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, The new 312-unit property Oman and Iraq this year, as part of its occupies a prime Gulf-facing expansion strategy in the region. Announcing the news, Noel Mas- position along Abu Dhabi soud, vice president, operations and Corniche, with a choice of 39 development, Middle East, Swiss-Bel- studios, 195 one-bedroom and hotel International, underlined that the group is also considering a number of 78 two-bedroom apartments. offers to manage and build new hotels in Dubai, which is considered the most important tourism market in the region. he success of our two existing locations re- “We are also interested in enter- flects the growing appeal of residence and ing new markets including Turkey, hotel apartment alternatives to a traditional Egypt, Tunisia and Morocco [this year],” “Thotel environment, and the potential for further devel- he added, noting that the company’s opment of this operational model under the TIME um- property portfolio is to reach 136 ho- brella, as the emirate aims for 3.5 million visitors [this tels in 2016. year],” said Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels. Meera TIME Residence

7 FEBRUARY 2015 9 WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION

Drake & Scull Sandy Beach Hotel & Raising Green Undertakes Hotel Resort Eyes European Awareness in Kuwait Development in Dubai Market

rake & Scull Engineering (DSE) has been reen Globe member, Möv- andy Beach Hotel & Re- awarded an AED198 million (USD53.9 enpick Hotel & Resort Al sort, Fujairah aims to attract D million) mechanical, electrical and G Bida’a Kuwait has demon- S more guests from European plumbing contract for an upcoming hotel and strated a firm commitment to sus- countries. serviced apartment complex in Dubai. tainability for years. As Satish Gujaran, duty manager, Construction work on the project has com- In line with Mövenpick Hotels Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort, ex- menced with completion expected for 2017. & Resorts’ corporate philosophy, plained, taking advantage of the sun- DSE will deliver its services for five hospital- the upscale hotel has been en- ny weather in the UAE, an increased ity buildings ranging between 15 and 19 floors, gaged in numerous environmen- number of travellers are expected featuring a hotel and serviced apartments, a tal activities and all these efforts from Europe over the coming months, ballroom, an attached café and a marina. were recently awarded by Green the management, however, will not “The hotel complex is an ambitious and Globe. forget about the local market either. fresh project that will enable us to showcase “We are very proud to earn “Our main plan for the year is to DSE’s exceptional engineering expertise and the renewal of our Green Globe promote the hotel in Europe and of- help augment Dubai’s hospitality and MICE certification. This achievement fer very good packages for UAE resi- portfolio,” commented Ahmad Al Naser, man- will encourage us to continuously dents,” revealed Gujaran, saying that aging director, DSE. improve our environmental per- locals are expected to head to Fujairah formance, and raise awareness on during weekends and public holidays. sustainability issues in Kuwait. We have implemented a long-term environmental system to reduce the water and energy consump- tion. We also encourage our guests to minimise their footprint, join our responsibility programmes and local activities promoting awareness,” said Maged Gubr, gen- eral manager, Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Al Bida’a Kuwait. Project rendering Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort

10 7 FEBRUARY 2015 ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS

Al Tayyar Invests in Saudi Heritage Hospitality Company Did you know...

Al Tayyar Travel Group has 14 affiliated companies that provide travel and tourism services through more than 300Saudi offices Arabia? within

l Tayyar Travel Group is acting as a founding partner in the new Saudi Heritage Hospitality Company by investing in 20 percent of the company’s capital, valued at SAR50 million (USD13 million). ANasser Bin Aqeel Al Tayyar, president, Al Tayyar Travel Group, stated, “The financial impact will be evident and subscriptions will commence after the company is established as determined by the board of directors and the general assembly for operational projects.” Headquartered in Riyadh, the Saudi Heritage Hospitality Company is a closed joint stock organisation founded by Saudi Commission for Tour- ism & Antiquities, and as Al Tayyar added, investing in it is in line with the group’s interest to develop traditional tourism and real estate sectors in the Kingdom. Nasser Bin Aqeel Al Tayyar Al Nasser Bin Aqeel

Centro Capital Centre Gets HACCP Certification Centro Capital Centre by Rotana by Centre Capital Centro entro Capital Centre by Rotana, Abu Dhabi has been certified with the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control C Point System (HACCP) certification, which guarantees that all food production at the hotel is safe through a number of stringent measures covering the entire process from receiv- ing products to food service. “We have put a lot of effort toward this certification and will continue to strive to better our services and continuously improve our food safety management,” said Ayman Ashor, general manager, Centro Capital Centre by Rotana. The HACCP certification is highly regarded in the hotel and food industry. It has been adopted internationally as the basis for all discussions on food safety and prevention against dan- gers associated to food absorption, such as food poisoning, and the presence of chemical products and foreign particles.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 11 WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION

LEBANON WELCOMES WARWICK STONE 55

Warwick International Hotels (WIH) has celebrated a new addition to its Lebanese portfolio with the opening of Warwick Stone 55, a four-star boutique property located in Zalka, just 20km from Beirut’s international airport.

he property consists of 46 rooms and suites, an all-day dining rooftop restaurant and a café, plus conference and meeting room facilities for up to 100 guests. Travellers looking for a shopping escapade can also take advantage of the ad- jacent mall. “This is the third hotel for WIH in Lebanon after Warwick Pangéa Beach Re- sort & Spa and Warwick Hotel Palm, but the first brand new property and the eighth in the Warwick Stone 55 T region,” underlined Jamal Serhan, chief operating officer, WIH.

Millennium Mussanah UAE Company Acquires Birmingham Hotel Eyes European Market

n a bid to promote the property to key industry partners, international tour op- erators and decision-makers, and explore Ipotential business opportunities, Millennium Resort Mussanah’s team recently participated oyal Gulf, part of Select Group, has taken over the fully at Vakantiebeurs, hailed as the Netherland’s operational Radisson Blu Hotel, Birmingham. largest consumer and professional trade show, As Colin Wright, chief investment officer, Select as part of Oman’s pavilion. RGroup, explained, the decision to acquire the 211-key property According to Maurice De Rooij, general was based on compelling financial rationale, an early mover ad- manager, Millennium Resort Mussanah, the

Marriott Executive ApartmentsMarriott Executive vantage into a major city and its ability to cater for a broad range event offered the management valuable insight of guest needs. into the key drivers and market opportunities “With imminent plans almost agreed with [Carlson Rezidor available in the Dutch and European markets. Hotel Group], Select Group will begin to invest and improve the “The show provided a platform to discuss hotel rooms, meeting areas and other features which will en- and understand the requirements of the Eu-

Radisson Blu Hotel, Birmingham Radisson Blu Hotel, hance the guest experience. This plan will be rolled out over the ropean traveller, and identify packages to suit next 24 months,” added Wright. their various interests,” said De Rooij, adding Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group will continue to manage the that today’s tourists want a chance to unwind, 39-storey hotel under the new ownership. concentrating on fun relaxation activities.

12 7 FEBRUARY 2015 AIR WEEKLY NEWS

Royal Jet Welcomes New Fiji Airways Partners Bombardier with Aviation Online Private charter operator, Royal Jet has taken delivery of its second new he national airline of Fiji Is- Bombardier Global 500 business jet at its fixed based operations and lands, Fiji Airways has an- VIP terminal at Abu Dhabi International Airport. T nounced a new partnership with Aviation Online, a subsidiary of World Aviation Group, to handle all of its sales and marketing activities for Europe. Stefan Pichler, CEO, Fiji Airways, commented, “As we continue to grow Fiji Airways into new source mar- kets, we are pleased to partner with s Patrick Gordon, CEO, Royal Jet, explained, the company’s first a renowned general sales agent like Bombardier Global 5000 has already proven popular with custom- World Aviation Group to perform our A ers over the past months and having a second aircraft available will sales and marketing activities in all of help the operator meet the increasing demand and support the business the European markets. Engaging the aviation industry’s development in the Middle East. services of those experienced profes- “The regional corporate market is steadily growing and instead of flying sionals together with all our interlining with a commercial airline, in many instances it is a cheaper alternative to arrangements will ensure we will grow charter a private jet, such as the Global 5000, for journeys within the region our revenue and our profitability.” Bombardier Global 5000 interior Bombardier and further afield,” added Gordon.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 13 WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Etihad Reshuffles North American Schedule Mahan: Highest Passenger Numbers

triving to provide conveni- ent travel options by con- tinuously expanding its Sfleet and network, Mahan Air’s recently released figures indicate that the number of travellers onboard its fleet grew 5.5 percent in 2014. For the third consecutive year n a bid to offer more convenient travel options for the Tehran-based carrier witnessed UAE passengers heading to North America, en- the highest number of domes- Ihance overall connectivity for flights to and from tic and international passengers the Indian subcontinents and establish new connec- carried. tions to key markets, Etihad Airways is introducing a In 2014 the Iranian airline wel- number of schedule changes to the airline’s routes be- comed over five million passen- tween Abu Dhabi and Chicago, New York and Toronto. gers, while its load factor averaged The new timetable, which will come into effect at 77 percent, said to be the high- on March 29, will lead to fewer passengers transiting Chicago est among all carriers operating in through the hub at peak periods, said Kevin Knight, the country. chief strategy and planning officer, Etihad Airways.

Turkish Airlines Hosts Middle Eastern Agents

urkish Airlines invited 11 travel agents from Cairo, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Jeddah, Riyadh, Amman and Kuwait to for a three-day trip to highlight the carrier’s TTurkish Conventions service and introduce the city as an at- tractive MICE destination. According to Adem Ceylan, vice president, marketing and sales, Turkish Airlines, given their close proximity, Middle East- ern countries are of great importance to the airline. “The familiarisation trip is an ideal opportunity to showcase our key offerings and promote Istanbul as a destination for every kind of traveller and to promote MICE tourism. The event is also a strategic opportunity to connect with key agents in each market and strengthen our relations across the Middle East,” comment- ed Ceylan.

Agents touring Istanbul

14 7 FEBRUARY 2015 AIR WEEKLY NEWS

Flying with Confidence with British Airways A380 to Serve Two European Destinations

ritish Airways’ Flying with Confidence pro- gramme is returning to Dubai on March 14 at mirates will launch A380 ser- Capital Club Dubai. vices to Düsseldorf and Ma- BThe one-day course, which by the end of the year drid, effective from July 1 and will have helped over 50,000 people to overcome their EAugust 1 respectively. flying phobias, will be hosted by the airline’s captain, “As the world’s largest operator Steve Allright, who will talk about how aircraft works of the A380, Emirates is proud to and touch upon areas of concerns, including turbu- further expand […]. By introduc- lence and other technical aspects. ing new A380 services out of Düs-

Marriott Executive ApartmentsMarriott Dubai Creek Executive “After speaking to participants during the two seldorf and Madrid, our customers sessions in 2014, it seems that they find long-haul or can enjoy seamless connectivity transatlantic flights more difficult to handle than short- on the most talked about aircraft, haul flights. With so many different nationalities living to popular destinations in Asia, Af- in the UAE, at some point most people are going to rica, Indian Ocean, Australia and the have to take a flight home or on holiday or for a busi- Middle East, via our Dubai hub,” said ness meeting and this is when anxiety can arise," com- Hubert Frach, divisional senior vice

Steve Allright Steve mented Allright. president, commercial operations, West, Emirates.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 15 WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Etihad Cargo Adopts Afriqiyah Airways Vueling Adds African New Management Returns to Europe Routes System

fter a six-month hiatus, Libyan car- rier Afriqiyah Airways has returned Ato Europe. The airline, which is fully owned by Libyan government entities, resumed commercial operations from Tripoli’s Mitiga International Airport to Düssel- dorf on January 24, offering thrice-weekly services to the German city famed for its business and financial institutions and world-renowned fashion and trade fairs. Further enhancing travel options to and from the North African country, Af- tihad Cargo has successfully or the sixth consecutive year, Span- riqiyah Airways also revealed plans to re- launched a new management sys- ish carrier Vueling Airlines will launch launch services to Rome. tem to provide customers with services to several African destinations Egreater communication and improved Ffrom El Prat Airport. handling process. Starting June 20, the carrier will operate Developed in partnership with Hermes direct flights to Rabat, Djerba and Accra in Logistics Technologies, the system ensures Ghana. The new routes are expected to help a complete and integrated IT solution that meet demand especially from European encompasses all the physical handling, passengers residing in the UK and Scandi- documentation and messages, in real time. navia, who can benefit from connections via By implementing the system, custom- Barcelona. ers can benefit from real-time shipment After commencing flights to Marrakech tracking with updates being forwarded to in 2009, the airline has gradually added them on a regular basis. new African services and now has 16 routes As David Kerr, vice president, Etihad reaching 11 destinations on the continent, Cargo, noted, customers are now provided including Marrakech, Rabat, , Na- with greater transparency. dor, Fez, Tunis, Djerba, Algiers and Oran.

16 7 FEBRUARY 2015 RENDEZVOUS

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: GHM cur- ties. The Hilltown will offer all-suite ac- rently manages The Chedi Muscat in commodation including one royal suite, Oman and is planning to open The 54 pool suites and 45 standard suites Chedi Khorfakkan and Al Bait in Shar- with unspoilt ocean views. The Town jah. Why is the Middle East such a sig- Q & A with Square, the hub of activity in the centre nificant market for the company? of The Hilltown, will feature a variety of cafés by the picturesque beachfront. KENNETH PEREIRA: The Middle East has Kenneth Pereira a strong economy in its own right and we TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are the feel that the timing is excellent for GHM to markets the two hotels are expected expand within this dynamic market. Re- DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT, INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST, to attract? search and trends have shown that room GENERAL HOTEL MANAGEMENT night demands still outweigh the supply, KENNETH PEREIRA: The domestic trav- particularly in the luxury niche and highly ellers within the Middle East at large will differentiated lifestyle segment. no doubt be an important segment for The Chedi Khorfakkan and Al Bait, both hotels. In addition to this, there will both located in the heart of Sharjah, are be travellers from various European cit- high-profile projects and will no doubt ies, not dissimilar to the profile of guests be a welcomed addition to the accom- who currently stay with us at The Chedi modation options in the emirate. Fur- Muscat. Through the intimate portfolio thermore, both hotels’ proximity and size of the hotels under the GHM um- accessibility to Dubai – a destination in brella, guests who are familiar with our and of itself, not just as a tourism centre product offering, being loyalists, will but also an economic hub where many choose to stay at our hotels. […] influential decisions are made – gives us greater confidence that in times to TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the come, they will be able to fulfil the de- main differences between the two mands of the luxury niche segment and properties? further raise brand awareness in this im- portant marketplace. When Al Bait and KENNETH PEREIRA: Al Bait is set to The Chedi Khorfakkan are launched, in be a unique experience as the hotel is 2016 and 2017 respectively, they will carved out of old houses - Bait means serve the emirate of Sharjah and at the house – and is situated in the heart of same time, be the platforms by which Sharjah, in the old town. travel within the UAE, in particular The experience is to recreate how Dubai, can further boost the economic prominent families of the region used strength for the emirates. to live in the past. In keeping with tradi- As a company, GHM has already tion, the property will incorporate areas created an impact with The Chedi Mus- IN THIS ISSUE, KENNETH PEREIRA, DIRECTOR where visitors can gather for coffee and cat when it opened in the Sultanate of OF DEVELOPMENT, INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST, tea. Restaurants and interesting activi- Oman in 2003. Until this day, The Chedi ties will also be added, complemented Muscat remains a hotel of choice for the GENERAL HOTEL MANAGEMENT (GHM), by the rich views and landscapes, to discerning global traveller who visits the DISCUSSES TWO UPCOMING HIGH-PROFILE relive the magic of days gone by. The Sultanate, be it for business or leisure.[...] PROJECTS IN SHARJAH, AND EXAMINES WHY rooms will be furnished in a contem- porary Arabic style with the latest in- TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Please give THE MIDDLE EAST IS IMPORTANT TO THE room facilities and amenities. There will us a brief introduction to both upcom- SINGAPORE-BASED GROUP. even be a souq weaved into the design ing properties. concept so that the overall ambience evokes a sense of nostalgia, one that is KENNETH PEREIRA: The expected both unique as it is vibrant. opening for Al Bait Sharjah is set in the Sharjah, which is set to open in the third The Chedi Khorfakkan, on the other third quarter of 2016. Al Bait Sharjah is a quarter of 2017. hand, is a resort in the true sense of the development aimed at protecting and The Chedi Khorfakkan is a 100-suite TIMING IS word, carved out of a mountain with restoring the emirate’s historic fabric. resort situated on a mountain beside EXCELLENT FOR undisturbed views of the Arabian Sea. 2 “ Spread over 10,000m , the hotel will a private cove on Sharjah’s east coast, The setting is defined by large, well-de- feature 54 guest rooms, restaurants, spa overlooking the Indian Ocean. Cover- GHM TO EXPAND fined rooms and interiors, a feature that and wellness facility, some of which are ing an expanse of 130,000m2, The Chedi WITHIN THIS will be welcomed by the well-heeled incorporated into five decades-old her- Khorfakkan will comprise The Fort, The DYNAMIC MARKET travellers of the region. Various food itage buildings. […] Hilltown and the . The Fort and beverage options and an extensive Al Bait Sharjah is designed by UK- is the primary access to the hotel and will spa will ensure that guests have the based architectural firm GAJ, the same house the main reception, restaurants, prospect of something very different architects of The Chedi Khorfakkan in spa and health club, and business facili- from anywhere else in the Middle East.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 17 WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL

InterContinental Kuala The Westin Dallas SLH Expands Worldwide Lumpur Redefines Downtown in the Reach Luxury Works

nterContinental Kuala Lumpur jump- n a bid to further grow its property tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide started the year with the launch of a portfolio, Small Luxury Hotels of the and New Orleans-based KFK Group I newly refurbished lounge, redefining the I World (SLH) added a slew of new prop- S signed an agreement to launch a new Club InterContinental experience. erties to its network. hotel under the Westin brand in the heart of Welcoming guests to a world of per- These include Sant Francesc Hotel Dallas, Texas. sonal luxury, the facility is designed to re- Singular, a converted old manor house The Westin Dallas Downtown is slated to flect the needs of today’s executive travel- in Mallorca, and Maison Souquet, nestled open by December as part of an adaptive re- ler, thus, functionality and style merge into next to the famous bohemian quarter of use project that will transform the landmark a contemporary aesthetic design. Located Paris, Montmartre. Both of these addi- One Main Place complex into the city’s new- on the hotel’s 26th floor, the new luxurious tions are scheduled to welcome their first est lifestyle hub. Construction has already lounge adds excitement to the overall Club guests this month. begun on the hotel which will feature 323 InterContinental feeling with a substantial The third addition to the SLH portfo- luxurious guest rooms along with extensive increase of seating capacity to 100 guests, lio is Keemala resort in Phuket, comprised meeting facilities. a relaxing lounge, a large mezzanine floor of 38 pool villas including clay cottages, Elie Khoury, CEO, KFK Group, commented, with additional facilities of a boardroom for tent villas, tree houses and bird’s nest vil- “KFK appreciates the Westin brand’s distinctive meetings, and a secluded library corner for las, which is due to open in September. wellness positioning. The new hotel will meet quiet reading. the demand for high-quality lodging [...].”

Did you know...

SLH receives over 1,000 hotel applications each year, fivebut acceptspercent just of them?

Club InterContinental Mezzanine Rendering of The Westin Dallas Downtown

18 7 FEBRUARY 2015 AGENT CORNER Agent’s Insight

NAME: Moustafa Hassan

POSITION: Managing partner

COMPANY: Family World Travel & Tourism

LOCATION: Dubai, UAE

WEBSITE: www.fwttdubai.com

Who are you? My name is Moustafa Hassan and I have been working in the travel and tourism industry for 34 years [in Egypt, Kuwait and the UK]. In 2012, I established Family World Travel & which runs as a desti- nation management company, and is dealing with inbound tourism from various markets and organises splendid outbound packages and sea cruises to Europe, the US and the Far East.

What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Seeing the world and making people's holidays and events very successful.

When is the best time to visit Dubai? June.

Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? Brazil.

Why should people come to you for travel advice? [With us there are] no hidden costs. Most travel agencies exclude additional costs and, most importantly, flight taxes from the total price of the package. This usually shocks customers when all costs are added up. We include taxes and other costs, except visa, in the total package price. [Also] we communicate all information with maximum transparency and honesty to the last detail.

Which is the percentage of MENA travelers your agency welcomes annually? MENA represent 30 percent of our annual traffic.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 19 TRAVEL TALK

This will definitely help We keep introduce Barocco diversifying our with style target markets

“For sure Ras Al Khaimah is a threat to Fujairah when it comes to international tourists, there- “We are so pleased to have fore we keep diversifying our Thierry Gallas [as the new chef target markets to spread around of our Mediterranean restau- Western and Eastern Europe as GIANNI rant, Barocco] on our team. He HAZEM well as Asia. We also keep com- is young, dynamic and very en- ing up with a lot of offers to MALERBA thusiastic about great food, this AOUAD attract tourists, such as free will definitely help introduce transportation from and to the Barocco with style, in the very airports in Dubai, Sharjah and General man- competitive capital’s market. Cluster director of Ras Al Khaimah. In addition, […] ager, Royal Rose, Barocco is a refined Mediter- sales and marketing, we also focus on the local mar- ranean restaurant with a fresh ket in the UAE to attract MICE Abu Dhabi and original menu that we be- Radisson Royal Hotel and weekend business and that lieve will delight food lovers.” Dubai; Radisson Blu has worked very well.” Resort, Fujairah

The presidential suite Every year, DSF experience [...] attracts millions of gracefully combines visitors luxury with simplicity “Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) “Guests staying at the presiden- is the longest running and the tial suite are not only spoiled largest shopping festival in the with an expansive layout but world for 20 years now. Every also with the finest personalised year, DSF attracts millions of service by The Ritz-Carlton. In visitors providing a boost to the addition, the world-class dining economic, retail and tourism RAUL options, full resort experience HUSSAIN aims of the city and reaffirming spread-out across our 350m Dubai as a leading global tourist SALCIDO beachfront retreat, as well as the MOOSA hub and a shopping destination cosmopolitan vibe of The Walk rivalling that of London, New on Residence York or Paris. […] It remains a General manager, at our doorstep, make the presi- Associate director, contributor of Dubai’s economic The Ritz-Carlton, dential suite experience one that shopping malls, and tourism aims, driving mil- gracefully combines luxury with lions of people to Dubai, pro- Dubai simplicity, energy with calm and Majid Al Futtaim viding a completely immersive wellness with indulgence.” Properties experience.”

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 7 FEBRUARY 2015 TRAVEL CHANNELS

Emirates Tops Customer Expedia Takes over

Travelocity Review Survey

Emirates has been ranked as the best airline for 2014 xpedia has acquired Traveloc- in eDreams’ annual study. ity from Sabre for USD280 mil- lion in cash. EThe transaction follows the 2013 strategic marketing deal between s many as 90,000 travellers shared their opinion Expedia and Travelocity under which on the best airlines, best entertainment options, Expedia has powered the technol- baggage handling and modernity of aircraft, ogy platforms for Travelocity’s US among others, with Emirates sweeping most of and Canadian websites and ensured the categories with an overall rating of 4.24 out of access to its supply and customer theA top score of five. programme. In addition, the UAE carrier also ranked highest in overall “Our primary focus at Sabre is cleanliness and modernity of aircraft and also received the to provide mission-critical software highest ratings for best in-flight entertainment, best flight -at solutions to our global airline, hos- tendant service, best VIP lounges and best baggage handling. pitality, and travel agency custom- As Thierry Antinori, chief commercial officer, Emirates, ers – and to help them support their noted, the airline is always looking for ways to enhance the customers every day,” said Tom Klein, travel experience. CEO, Sabre. Emirates onboard services

FRHI Launches Saudisation Campaign

Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel

s part of its ongoing commitment to find and nur- ture local talent, and in keeping with the govern- ment’s efforts to develop Saudi human resources, AMakkah Clock Royal Tower, a Fairmont Hotel, Raffles Makkah Palace and Swissôtel Makkah, all part of the FRHI Hotels & Resorts portfolio, have launched their annual campaign to recruit Saudi nationals. The countrywide effort is expected to result in the em- ployment of at least 1,000 Saudi citizens through outreach events and the company’s online recruitment platform. The company aims to bring Saudi men and women to the forefront of the industry by helping them work towards their personal goals.

7 FEBRUARY 2015 21 WHO’S MOVED

Michael Martin has been cho- Marcus Sutton has joined sen to oversee InterContinen- Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi as tal Hotels Group (IHG)’s devel- general manager. opment as regional general Sutton succeeds Ivor Prest- manager and to lead the team wood who has recently taken at InterContinental Dubai MARCUS over as general manager at In- Marina as the property’s new terContinental Abu Dhabi. general manager. SUTTON Sutton, who has more than 17 With more than 30 years of in- years of industry experience in dustry experience, 22 of which the luxury, upscale and busi- have been with IHG, Martin ness travel segment, joined will spearhead the overall op- InterContinental Hotels Group eration of the hotel as well as (IHG) in 2011 as executive assis- a portfolio of 10 properties tant manager of rooms at IHG’s within the UAE. properties. During his time with the com- Most recently he worked as ho- pany, he has held area general tel manager of InterContinental manager positions in the UK Dubai Festival City and Crowne and China, serving most re- Plaza Dubai Festival City, where MICHAEL cently in the same capacity in he was responsible for oversee- the Sichuan province of the ing rooms and food and bever- MARTIN Asian country, where he over- age operations. saw a portfolio of IHG hotels in Sutton has a strong hotelier Chengdu and Chongqing, as educational background, with well as managing the opening degrees from Australia as well of Crowne Plaza Chengdu West. as Switzerland.

Myrla Alindayu Barnayha Ibrahim Kharman has been has assumed the role of rev- promoted to director of sales enue and reservations man- at Four Seasons Hotel Amman. ager at Park Regis Kris Kin Ho- Kharman, who holds a busi- tel, Dubai. ness administration degree, MYRLA Barnayha moved to Dubai in started his career in the indus- 2000 to join Jumeirah Beach try in 1999 as a sales manager ALINDAYU Hotel, where she worked in at Holiday Inn Hotel Amman. the reservations department After four years at the prop- BARNAYHA as reservations executive and erty, he moved on to Four Sea- in Jumeirah Group’s central sons Hotel Amman to work as reservation office in charge a sales manager and he was of customer sales. She then later promoted to associate moved to Bab Al Shams De- director of sales. sert Resort in Dubai as res- Having spent more than 15 ervations group coordinator years in the hospitality indus- where after three years she try, Kharman has had the privi- was promoted to assistant lege to work with clients from reservations manager. a variety counties. His work Barnayha then continued as IBRAHIM ethic and dedication has also reservations manager at Le earned him various awards. Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi and KHARMAN In his new capacity, Kharman Sheraton Dubai Mall of the will develop and implement Emirates before accepting her dynamic and creative sales new position at Park Regis Kris strategies that support the Kin Hotel. success of the hotel.

22 7 FEBRUARY 2015 PHOTO ALBUM

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Send your photos to [email protected] Because a picture is worth a thousand words...

Dubai's Gold Souk proved to be a hit Qatar Airways showcased benefits and services of the airline’s frequent during the Dubai Shopping Festival flyer programme at Qatar’s Lagoona Mall

Swiss-Belhotel International has been named Indonesia's The Royal Golf Club donated BHD1,000 (USD2,652) Leading Global Hotel Chain at the Indonesia Travel and to the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society Tourism Awards 2014-15

Etihad Airways revealed its new uniform

7 FEBRUARY 2015 23 NEWS & EVENTS

New Horizons for EVENTS China’s Tourism IBTM ARABIA

he sixth China Guilin Interna- Abu Dhabi, UAE tional Tourism Expo, 12th Beijing February 10 – 12 www.ibtmarabia.com International Tourism Expo, sec- T Formerly GIBTM, it brings a fresh ond China Xi’an Silk Road International new format with one-to-one Tourism Expo and the first Chengdu In- meetings and an exclusive closed ternational Tourism Expo, are set to bring community experience. forward new horizons for domestic and international tourism stakeholders look- ing to expand their business portfolios in China’s vast tourism market. Held respectively in Guilin, Beijing, Xi’an and Chengdu, the four internation- al tourism exhibitions will cater to the changing needs of industry stakeholders in the regions. With more Chinese from various re- TEHRAN INTERNATIONAL gions now travelling overseas for work TOURISM EXHIBITION and leisure purposes, there are ample opportunities for tourism-related busi- Tehran, Iran nesses to flourish, according to Edward February 12 – 15 Liu, group managing director, Confer- www.titexgroup.com The eighth edition of the event ence & Exhibition Management Services, covers an area of 21,000m2, a 55 Singapore and Beijing. percent growth compared to 2014.

INDIA TRAVEL MART

Indian Visa Regulations Ahmedabad, India February 21 – 23 Boost Business www.itmtravelmart.com Organised across many Indian cities throughout the year, it showcases travel, tourism, he recent announcement that hospitality, leisure and other travellers from 43 countries, related industries. T including Australia, Brazil, Ger- many, Japan and the US, will no longer have to queue at their local consulates ITB BERLIN to obtain visas when heading to India, was welcomed by both international Berlin, Germany exhibitors and hosted buyers who will March 04 – 08 be attending this year’s ibtm India. www.itb-berlin.de Travellers to the country from the A leading trade fair for the global travel industry as in 2014 some specified 43 countries can now apply 10,140 companies from 189 online for their tourist visa-on-arrival, countries exhibited their products. entitling them to a 30-day stay in India. Shinu Pillai, exhibition manager, INTERNATIONAL ibtm india, noted, “This is very good TRAVEL FAIR news for our international exhibi- tors and hosted buyers attending Guangzhou, China ibtm India which will take place March 06 – 08 from September 1 – 3, in Jaipur. www.gitf.com.cn The Chinese fair has received These new visa rules will also help wide attention from the tourism to unleash the huge potential of the industry since its first session country’s growing MICE industry.” 22 years ago.

24 7 FEBRUARY 2015