Vol. XIII No. 5; May 2017 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages: 32 ddppl.com TravTalkMiddleEast.com

Largest ATM ever turns ‘experiential’ ...... 05 Disruption Management by Amadeus ...... 08 Al Shaab Village aims for 250,000 visitors ...... 19 2500+ exhibitors @ATM 2017 With a focus on strengthening inbound and outbound markets, the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2017 is back at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 24-27. With more than 2,500 exhibiting companies participating, the event promises to improve connections, ensuring a steady growth in business opportunities.

SHEHARA RIZLY

At the Arabian Travel Market this year, we are pleased to be able to showcase yet another layer of Sharjah’s diverse tourism portfolio. For many years we have focused on positioning Sharjah as a perfect family destination for discovering heritage and culture supported by a broad edutainment opportunity. This year we are delighted to offer Sharjah’s outdoor tourism as a product to the market, packaged as an ‘incredible experience,’ the diversity available in the Emirate from mountains to mangroves, desert to coast and wadis to wetlands is breathtaking; large areas are under protection to ensure they remain unspoilt. The investment and development in interpretation centres across the emirate ensures that all visitors can gain maximum enjoyment from their time outdoors. Inbound tourism to Sharjah is buoyant and we are seeing the accommodation sector rising to the challenges faced by high occupancy as we continue to implement our Marhabtain programme ensuring that visitors throughout the emirate receive the very best service and feel welcome while they are here. H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA)

Inbound tourism to This year, GTA will promote Compared to global hot- Dubai grew at 12 per cent the preferred destinations from spots like Hong Kong and Sin- Year-on-Year. ATM serves as across Europe, Asia Pacific gapore, Dubai has emerged to a platform to highlight the fac- & the Americas. We will be be the 4th most visited city on tors behind Dubai’s appeal relaunching the special Strategic the planet this year, and traffic to a diverse range of travel- Partnership Program (SPP) rose by 10 per cent compared lers. We are looking forward of Dubai, Japan, Thailand, to last year. Further, in the to showcasing Dubai’s ever- Hong Kong & Singapore; GCC, there are difficulties in evolving destination proposi- showcasing the expansion obtaining a visa, few interna- tion to the international travel of our loyalty programme g tionally active intermediaries, Issam Abdul Rahim Kazim shop; and launching exclusive Rami Mashini Freddy Farid trade community. On the CEO Vice President of Sales and such as professional congress Area General Manager Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Geneva shop campaign from Marketing for Middle East, Africa, Gloria Hotels and Resorts stand at ATM this year we’ll Commerce Marketing (DCTCM) Turkey & India, GTA organisers and destination May 1 to July 31, 2017. GTA’s also be highlighting several key marketing strategy is to provide multiple contracting management companies, and a limited market for con- new initiatives of our own including Dubai Sustainable choices to travellers, while providing an effective support gresses. But at the same time the success can largely be Tourism updates and our new industry training ‘Dubai with immediate solutions that reflects our main focus, attributed to the excellent airlift into Dubai and Abu Dhabi Expert’ which Dubai College of Tourism will showcase which is to employ technology to make it easy for travel agents which is home to Emirates and Etihad, respectively. – and much more. to sell more. Contd. on page 3

COVERSTORY MAY 2017 TRAVTALK 3 ATM means business TRYP set for summer opening Contd. from page 1 A new joint executive committee will manage The Arabian Travel Market is one of the most important Wyndham Hotel Group’s Wyndham Dubai Marina and events in the travel exhibition calendar and an ideal platform to highlight the business developments and product innovations TRYP by Wyndham Dubai and their 1,100 guest rooms. of the airline to the travel and tourism industry. This event also TT BUREAU Wyndham Dubai participate in Swissôtel, in leadership and brings together key stakeholders within the travel space for Wyndham Rewards, the loyal- management roles including productive meetings, seminars, panels and much more and we RYP by Wyndham Dubai ty programme from Wyndham Managing Director and Gen- look forward to networking and cultivating stronger relationships is set to open this summer Hotel Group, offering mem- eral Manager. Last year, he Sheikh Majid Al Mualla T with our trade partners, which in turn creates highly targeted Divisional Senior Vice President with 650 hotel rooms includ- bers generous points earn- joined Wyndham Dubai Mari- - Commercial Operations business and growth opportunities for the airline. Centre, Emirates Airline ing 25 of the brand’s signature ing structure along with a flat, na, the first Wyndham Hotels fitness rooms. The hotel will free-night redemption rate in and Resorts location in the also offer an inviting, social 75 countries across the world. UAE, as general manager. We hope that we can have significant results this year by having double digit growth of the Middle East arrivals. This is supported by the replenishment of direct flights from the Middle East to Indonesia’s main destinations. Likewise, Banyuwangi, a regency located in East Java, is considering to create ‘halal beach’, where there is area separation between women and men. In 2016, Indonesia welcomed 240,989 ME tourists. This number increased by 32.31 per cent compared to 2015 with 182,143 arrivals. Although the proportion is still small, the growth of ME region market is always magnificent and the spending rate of ME tourists doubled Cluster team for Wyndham Dubai Marina & TRYP by Wyndham Dubai Nia Niscaya Director, International the rate spending of all our markets. Promotions ME & Europe, Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia lobby known as Plaza Central. Spearheading the joint “Wyndham Hotel Group’s Other facilities include a swim- executive team is industry expansion throughout the UAE ming pool, fitness centre, and veteran Rogier M. Hurk- has brought the first Wyndham We are releasing series of packages and special meeting space. mans as Cluster General and TRYP by Wyndham hotels promotional deals for the upcoming season for the Middle East and Manager, responsible for to Dubai, offering the utmost in Indian markets. The inbound tourism industry plays a vital role in the Wyndham Dubai Marina leading daily operations and quality accommodations and countries’ economy. Our marketing strategy is a mix of branding, and TRYP by Wyndham Dubai overseeing more than 350 hospitable service for travel- printed ads and marketing materials and social networking. are owned by subsidiaries of hotel associates. Hurkmans lers,” said Hurkmans. “We have Relationship and word of mouth are still the best strategy for leading Dubai-based property has more than 20 years of a team of dedicated, service- B2B. Consumer attitudes are changing; people want to experience developers The First Group experience serving global oriented leaders who will en- deeper emotional and personal connection when they travel and are managed by Wynd- hotel chains, including Inter- sure the hotels’ success while – more people are focused on ‘experiencing’ a destination by Kulwant Singh ham Hotel Group. Wyndham Continental Hotels Group, delivering great experiences to connecting to its history, people, culture & food. Founder & MD Dubai Marina and TRYP by Hilton, Steigenberger and all guests at both locations.” Lama Group GUESTCOLUMN Meeting mid-scale needs The hospitality market in Saudi Arabia offers tremendous potential for EDITORIAL investors to lay out money on mid-scale hotels. This can in turn help a large demand segment looking for quality and affordable accommodations. Bridging the world he Saudi market has calculated budget hotels that hard to ignore in the current At Ghina Real Estate, Tbeen conventionally can cater to a large segment economic climate. we believe that the 2030 vi- n its 24th year, the Arabian Travel Market dominated by upscale and of guests that are looking sion of the Kingdom will be I(ATM) opens its doors to 2,500 exhibiting luxury hotels without real for an accommodation that On the other hand, the a booster to the hospitality companies spread across 12 halls at the Dubai focus on the change in hotel takes into consideration their management of these ho- sector in the country, with a guests’ needs and decrease income – without a sacrifice tels by an international hotel continuous focus from the World Trade Centre, making it the largest ATM in their purchasing power. As on quality. operator will provide guests government on infrastruc- in its history. Last year the event attracted a result, Ghina Real Estate with confidence in the quality ture projects adding to it the almost 40,000 industry professionals, settling has identified a gap in the Riyadh, Jeddah and of service and reassurance relaxation of visas require- market that it can fill through Dammam have been iden- that the rates will satisfy ments for visitors and the on deals worth $2.5 billion over the four days. the development of mid- tified as the prime focus their needs, not to mention expansion of the entertain- Opening on April 24, the exhibition this scale internationally branded areas for the development the support received from ment sector. The hospitality hotels, targeting the corpo- of these hotels with the po- the operator distribution and sector still offers a lot of de- year will host a diverse international diaspora rate segment and to a lesser tential of expansion to other marketing channels. velopment opportunities for on one platform for four days to network and extent, the leisure segment. investors, associating good tap into the most potential travel markets in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam returns with an acceptable the world. The focus of this edition of Arabian We have seen over re- have been identified as the prime focus level of risk. cent years that average room Travel Market is on the trends which have rates in the Kingdom were areas for the development of these (The views expressed taken the world by storm. relatively high compared to hotels with the potential of expansion are solely of the author. the rest of the region, despite to other Tier-II cities The publication may or may Many tourism boards around the globe a lack of good and accepta- not subscribe to the same.) are looking into creating local experiences as ble quality offerings. This was part of the tourism itinerary which enables the coupled with an increase in Tier-II cities. The advan- The corporate sector tourist to be more aware of the importance of the supply of economy hotels tages that the mid-scale ho- and budget-oriented leisure that are mainly unbranded tels offer to the investor are segment provide the strong- culture and heritage. More focus is on cultural and of low quality. Based on mainly the reduced develop- est target audience for these and heritage tourism in this part of the world as all of this, we believe that the ment budget, the choice of types of hotels. Tier-II cities it is very rich in its unique culture and tradition. mid-scale market in the King- small to medium plot size will also offer a potential dom can still cater to a large and a GOP percentage of geographical diversification Technology, on the other hand, continues demand segment looking for around 45 per cent that can plan, where the supply of to play a pivotal role in today’s travel, tourism quality hotels at an accept- be achieved from opera- these kind of hotels is still able budget. tions. Our feasibility studies limited. As a developer, our and hospitality sector. Traditional travel agents show that these factors will priority will be on the effi- are gearing up to be more versatile and they are In addition, the partner- help the developer achieve cient design of the mid-scale fast becoming consultants who sell experiences ship with international hotel an IRR exceeding 15 per hotels, the good quality of operators will help the de- cent for each hotel develop- finishes and providing good Samer Sabra* beyond what is offered on a website. In Vice President, Investment & veloper build good quality, ment – an opportunity that is service to the guest. Development, Ghina Real Estate this manner, influencers are the new breed * Ghina Real Estate is a newly established real estate development firm in KSA and Gold Sponsor at the upcoming Arabian Hotel Investment Conference 2017 (AHIC) – which is being held from which has bloomed, sharing their thoughts, April 25-27 at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. recommendations and guiding travellers around the globe. AHIC opens from April 25-27 at Madinat UK top origin for travel to UAE Jumeirah with the theme ‘Catalysts of Change’, an apt theme for recent times. Among the The UK continues to hold the position of top origin for travel to the UAE topics of interest would be the way in which this summer followed by the United States and Germany. Pakistan has technology will shape the future of hotels and th th the global major trends that impact hospitality risen six places to 6 position and India drops two places to 8 position. in the ME region. Top 10 Origins At ATM last year the introduction of mid- Rank 2016 2017 YoY Rank 2016 2017 YoY 2016 = Searching or Rank Rank Booking October ’15 - scale brands witnessed a major share in the Change Change January ’16, to depart tourism market ensuring more numbers to the 1 United Kingdom United Kingdom 0 6 India Pakistan 6 in June - August ’16. region. The Middle East is considered to be 2 United States United States 0 7 France France 0 2017 = Searching or the most lucrative region to do business by 3 Germany Germany 0 8 Ireland India -2 Booking October ’16 - most operators because of its connectivity 4 Australia Italy 1 9 Spain Ireland -1 January ’17, to depart options, swift terms of business and continued 5 Italy Australia -1 10 Russia Spain -1 in June - August ’17. growth trajectories. (*Data is based on searches and bookings made between October 2016 and January 2017 to depart in Source: Sojern’s Summer Travel Trends for 2017 June-August 2017.)

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SHEHARA RIZLY stone house in remote Omani vil- travel. The Chief Information Officer Could you share the lages to Old Dubai walking tours that Summit will take place in Abu Dhabi Qgrowth since last year? Could you explain the search out the best street food. Else- room B alongside the main exhibi- The show has experienced phe- Qtheme in focus for this where, the meteoric rise in the popu- tion and will be held exclusively nomenal growth of over 70 per cent year’s ATM? larity of Airbnb and volunteer tourism for CIOs to share best practice, since 2012 and this year already looks Travellers are increasingly look- are just some of the ways the industry knowledge and strategy. like it’s going to break all previous re- ing beyond conventional leisure pro- has evolved to capitalise on the grow- cords. We have more than 100 new grammes and itineraries to actively ing trend, while bringing new players In response to the Middle exhibitors and 65 country pavilions, seek typical experiences that deliver into the market. At ATM 2017, there East’s growing international luxury while we expect representation from a true taste of local culture. Experi- will be a focus on converting these travel market, ILTM Arabia will 140 countries over the course of the ential travel encompasses adventure, concepts into viable commercial re- showcase the buoyant market for event. This year we have over 400

culture, heritage, wellness & spa, and alities to broaden the appeal of Mid- SimonSi PPress luxury products and experiences mainstand holders and expect more cruise tourism segments, which are dle East destinations and increase Senior Exhibition Director that define the region’s outbound than 2,800 exhibiting companies. We Arabian Travel Market currently trending globally. their visitor numbers and revenues, travel market. Co-located with ATM will also have our hugely successful which can support sustainable 2017, ILTM Arabia will target high country pavilions. In terms of visitors, Today we see brands and tour- economic development. include ‘The New Age Travel Agent,’ net-worth travellers from through- we expect to welcome more than ism industry stakeholders offering which will assess how smart travel out the GCC and wider Middle East 30,000 people over the course of the their guests intangible and emotional What will be different agents are evolving to meet the region, with buyers from the UAE, show. Almost $2.5 billion of business experiences, immersing them in local Qat ATM this year? needs of today’s travellers. Saudi Arabia and Qatar expected was negotiated at ATM last year and culture, traditional and ways of life. We have three major new addi- to have a particularly strong pres- similar levels are anticipated for 2017. It’s an appeal that can be success- tions for the 2017 show: the Digital The Halal Travel Summit takes ence. Targeting the region’s highest fully transferred to backpackers and Transformation Summit, the Halal place on the Global Stage and will net worth travellers, this is an invita- billionaires alike. This growing trend Tourism Summit, and ILTM Arabia. showcase leading Muslim travel in- tion only event. Buyers will be fully New Participants is now on the radar of the region’s The Digital Transformation Summit dustry experts including, Rafi-uddin hosted by ILTM Arabia and attend tourism chiefs. takes place in the Travel Tech Thea- Shikoh, CEO of DinarStandard and one-to-one, pre-scheduled appoint- Atout France; Cambodia, tre and will explore how the travel Faeez Fadhlillah, CEO of Salam ments with up to 25 international Ministry of Tourism; China National Tourist Office in The Middle East has an abun- businesses is responding to the Standard and Tripfez, who will dis- luxury travel brands – a first for ATM Singapore; Destination Zanzibar; dance of authentic local experiences demands of the digital world. Ses- cuss the big picture, halal destina- and the proven successful ILTM and Uganda Tourist Board to offer from overnight stays in a sions in the Travel Tech Theatre will tion strategies and how to sell halal Arabia portfolio format. 6 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 AVIATION Ethiopian’s A350 to Mumbai Cathay’s four decades in Dubai Apart from bringing its new generation Airbus 350- The year 2017 marks 40 years since Cathay Pacific 900 to Mumbai, India, the airline also initiated the began operations on its Dubai route from its hub in code-share agreement with South African Airways. Hong Kong in 1977, marking its 20th destination.

TT BUREAU In another develop- TT BUREAU ates via Bangkok and Mum- ment, Ethiopian Airlines and bai. During the last 40 years, thiopian Airlines launched South African Airways, both athay Pacific Country the route has seen a number EAfrica’s first Ethiopian Air- members of Star Alliance, CManager UAE & Oman, of enhancements, including bus A350-900 XWB on the have entered into an expand- Ashish Kapur, says, “Since the introduction of the Super Addis Ababa-Mumbai route ed codeshare agreement, launching the Dubai route four Tristar L1011 – Cathay Pacif- on April 7, 2017. Passengers inked on October 01, 2016 decades ago, we have played ic’s first wide-body jet – on the on Ethiopian’s twice daily non- and projected to be effective an important part in bringing Dubai route in 1982. The new stop services between Mumbai as of 2017 summer season. visitors from different parts of aircraft supported the launch to Addis Ababa will be able The revamped code-share the world to this fast growing of a twice weekly Hong Kong to enjoy the extra features of agreement is anticipated to country. We, as an airline, have to Mumbai service that oper- this latest flying machine: new TadesseTd TTilahunil h further enhance the coopera- come a long way in developing AshishAhihK Kapur ated via Bangkok and on to cabin interior features with the Regional Director tion among the two carriers our products and services for Country Manager UAE & Oman Dubai (CX751/750). Indian Sub-continent Cathay Pacific latest high-definition touch- and avail a range of addition- our customers in this region screen, personal monitors with to serve our Indian custom- al destinations for customers and will continue our commit- We will continue By the end of 1989, the a higher selection of movies, ers with this latest aircraft to travel to. ment in providing a high stand- to provide a high Hong Kong-Bangkok-Mum- wider seats and windows, the from Mumbai.” ard of service and connecting bai-Dubai service increased lowest twin engine noise level, Girma Shiferaw, A/Vice travellers from Dubai to Hong standard of service and to four times a week. Through- advanced air conditioning tech- He added, “Currently, we President Strategic Planning Kong and beyond.” connecting travellers out the last four decades, nology, full LED mood lighting. are operating 28 weekly passen- and Alliances, Ethiopian, re- from Dubai to Hong the route has been ser- ger flights to India’s major cities, marked, “The expanded code The twice-weekly service Kong and beyond viced by the airline’s Boeing Tadesse Tilahun, Re- Mumbai and Delhi. Moreover, to share between the two carriers marked the Asian airline’s 747-300, Boeing 777, and gional Director, Indian Sub- further strengthen the growing enables our customers enjoy second destination in the re- Airbus A330-300. By 2008, continent, remarked, “The trade and commercial ties be- the best possible connectivity gion. The first flight, serviced and CX740, initially flew via Dubai had expanded to 18 A350 is a game-changing tween the booming economies options and also plays a sig- by a Boeing 707, launched Bangkok and Bahrain. A di- flights a week, 14 being direct fleet that has proven excep- of India and Africa at large, we nificant role in enabling greater within a year of Cathay Pa- rect Hong Kong-Dubai service operating twice a day, and tional levels of luxury and have started weekly freighter people-to-people, investment, cific adding its first Middle was introduced just 24 years one operating via Mumbai. reliability for a totally unique operation to Ahmedabad, our trade and tourism ties within East route to Bahrain. Leav- late in 1993, complimenting The remainder were routed passenger experience. We fifth cargo destination in India, Africa as well as with the rest ing Hong Kong on Wednes- Cathay Pacific’s existing ser- through Bangkok and on are glad to be the first airline since March 28. ” of the World.” days and Sundays, CX741 vice to the United Arab Emir- to Bahrain. 19m flew Cebu in 2016 The Philippines’ Cebu Pacific flew 19.1 million passengers in 2016, an increase of four per cent from the 18.4 million passengers flown in 2015.

TT BUREAU frequencies in key domestic Shanghai and Xiamen in Chi- markets. Specifically, the for- na, Taiwan and Hanoi and Ho ast December 27, 2016, mer recorded a 9.3 per cent Chi Minh in Vietnam. In the Lthe Cebu Pacific Air Group growth compared to 2015, Philippines, domestic traffic in- carried a total of 64,684 pas- while the latter reflected a 2.6 creased in Cauayan, Siargao sengers — the highest num- per cent increase. and Ozamiz. CEB currently ber of travellers we have offers flights to a total of 37 do- ever flown in one day. This “This significant increase mestic and 29 international des- surpasses our prior record of in number only shows our firm tinations, operating an extensive 62,947 passengers flown last commitment in trafficking trade network across Asia, Australia, January 3, 2016, translating and tourism in all the destina- the Middle East, and USA. Its to 1,737 additional passen- tions we operate in, while at 58-strong fleet comprises four gers, said Atty. JR Mantar- the same time enabling every- Airbus A319, 36 Airbus A320, ing, Vice President for Corpo- one to connect with their fami- seven Airbus A330, eight ATR rate Affairs, Cebu Pacific. lies and friends all around the 72-500, and three ATR 72-600 world,” added Mantaring. aircraft. Between 2017 and Growth in passenger 2021, CEB expects delivery of volume was largely driven by CEB posted notable pas- one more brand-new Airbus the airline’s low-cost short- senger growth in international A330, 32 Airbus A321neo, and haul services, and increased destinations such as Beijing 13 ATR 72-600s.

8 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 TECHNOLOGY Disruption Management by Amadeus Disruptions reduce airline profitability and impose considerable delays across the network. While airline disruptions might start with one flight delay, it can then spread ‘virally’ throughout the whole travel ecosystem, Vincent Lacroix, Airline IT solutions–Head of Reservations, Flight and Disruption, Amadeus, tells .

TT BUREAU top of that to place a value on the due to a number of factors. s /VER  OTHER SOLUTIONS time, revenue, rebooking costs of passenger delays and The air transport network now address disruption issues costs, overnight costs, What are the no- the supporting industry. handles even more passen- in addition to their initial merchandising, passen- Q table costs for gers, numbers are expected purpose, including De- ger revenue, passenger delays and cancella- When calculating the total to reach 7.3 billion by 2034, as parture Control System value and loyalty ensur- tions? combined costs of expenses a result airlines and airports (DCS) (with Disruption ing all systems run as In the whitepaper ‘Shaping such as hotel accommodation, are now turning to innovations Transfer at individual pas- smoothly as possible dur- the future of Airline Disruption meals, rebooking, etc. the costs that can help provide a more senger or flight level, and ing the disruption. Management (IROPS),’ pub- add up to a significant amount: efficient operation, limiting dis- Self Service Disruption) s 0ASSENGER RECOVERYnRE- lished by Amadeus, we defined between 43-55 per hour per ruption. With the rise of social s !MADEUS !LTÏA )NVEN- schedule, rebook, reis- airline disruption as “dealing passenger. The estimate of the media there is an increased tory: includes single flight sue, re-route bags, re-ac- with the consequences of can- total value, including the cost incentive for the industry to re-accommodation, al- cept on DCS (Departure ViVincent t LLacroixi celled or delayed flights”. As a of the loss of productivity and tackle issues that are found Airline IT solutions–Head of Reserva- lows TAs to support any Control System) based tions, Flight and Disruption, Amadeus consequence of planes and down time, is $60 billion annual- to be consistently frustrat- disruption thanks to full on each passenger crew not arriving as planned, ly. Beyond costs, airlines’ direct ing for consumers, among With the arrival of visibility & can decrease profile further networks will face can- and future revenue is at stake. other factors. ADMs (Airline Debit s 2E ACCOMMODATED PAS- cellations and delays, even from Airlines now tend to factor in new technologies, Memos) that would mini- senger notified–via digital a relatively minor initial problem. this element in their evaluation, It is also key for industry such as centralised mise cost on both sides. channels, airport agents which means that the evolution players to increasingly work data servers bringing Re-accommodation in and self-service stations T2RL’s report stated that of solutions to disruption is be- together to tackle the issue data together from !LTÏA )NVENTORY AT mIGHT resulting in a full recovery. “the consensus estimate of the ing further prioritised. of disruption. With the arrival level) cost of disruption to airlines is of new technologies, such as multiple sources, the s !MADEUS4ICKET#HANGER What are the main about 5 per cent of airline rev- What is the indus- centralised data servers bring- industry is taking a offers travellers a self- Qcauses for flight enue, or about $35 billion world- Qtry’s point of view ing data together from multiple more collaborative servicing tool to change delays and cancella- wide.” This figure was reached by on disruption, and sources, the industry is taking approach to tackle their ticket online any time tions? taking an average of the studies what is being done to a more collaborative approach s !MADEUS "AGGAGE There are a number to date which quantify the cost tackle it? to tackle disruption, and we disruption, and Reconciliation Sys- of key causes that lead to of airline delays to airlines. T2RL We are now seeing an expect to see breakthroughs we expect to see tem (BRS) provides airline disruption. The most then added its own estimate on increased focus on disruption, in this area soon. breakthroughs in this real-time information common are bad weather, area soon to ensure baggage ac- air traffic control constraints, curacy whilst enhanc- sirport congestions, strike ing a fast turn-around action (e.g. airline, airport, What are the in- of aircrafts, on-time 3rd party), third-party is- Qdustry specialists departure and accurate sues (e.g. rail connections doing to minimise the and secure passenger/ to airports, ground handler), issues? baggage reconciliation. crew logistics, Natural dis- Historically, airlines have (Icelandair) aster, Terrorism/ war/ politi- empowered their Operations’ s !MADEUS !IRPORT #OM- cal instability, Local anoma- department to manage dis- mon Use Service ena- lies (e.g. sand storm, snow ruption recovery. However, bles check-in anytime, storm), mechanical faults in the last several years, the anywhere with an internet and IT issues. industry has shifted towards connection. Operations working collaboratively to can be easily be moved As you can see, airlines tackle the issue and has elsewhere so it miti- are not usually the cause begun investing significant gates business continu- of disruptions, though they amounts into disruption miti- ity risk from unplanned have to manage them in gation systems. disruption. order to minimise their con- sequences, in order to get Today, operational man- What are the other back to smooth operations agers and developers are Q roles to be played as quickly as possible. working towards overcoming by Amadeus in this the difficulties that have slowed regard? In your opinion, progress down in the past. Amadeus’ solutions work Qwhat would the fu- to mitigate and resched- ture of airline disrup- Do explain the ule disruption across the tion management be? Q identified caus- traveller journey. Solutions Recent investment into this es and solutions by focus on four key areas, and area is a positive indicator that Amadeus? below we include a case we are headed towards a break- Amadeus offers an end- example of how these tools through, thanks to technology to-end solution, which capi- work together in the case of innovation and increased talises on Amadeus’ wealth of disruption: collaboration. This technol- traveller data across the pas- s /PERATION CONTROL CEN- ogy breakthrough will not senger’s journey. Amadeus’ tre–provides end-to-end happen overnight, how- disruption management port- visibility of all airline op- ever: the growing enthusi- folio includes: erations asm for tackling disruption is s !MADEUS 3CHEDULE 2E- s 3CHEDULE  CREW RECOV- necessary to maintain mo- covery: optimised flight re- ery–the solution has the mentum and staying on scheduling (e.g. Qantas) bandwidth to manage: track. Making small and s !MADEUS0ASSENGER2E- customer service, op- gradual changes towards a covery: multi-flight opti- erational costs, schedule more collaborative and inte- mised re-accommodation integrity, crew connec- grated approach will lead to (eg SWISS) tions, keeping to recovery substantial results.

10 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 AVIATION PAL expands footprint in the GCC Philippine Airlines (PAL), the flag carrier of the Republic of the Philippines, has started operating non-stop from Doha, Jeddah and Kuwait to Manila, capital of the Philippines. PAL now flies non-stop to Manila from Dubai daily and Riyadh daily.

TT BUREAU venience, Filipinos will feel whole cabin more spacious The non-stop service across right at home upon boarding and comfortable. these routes will give us a better he Philippine Airlines also a PAL aircraft. We offer our Tflies from Manila to Dam- passengers warm and caring “The shift to bi-class ser- product to offer our primary market, mam five times weekly; Doha service that comes from the vice gives our passengers the the nearly 800,000 Filipino four times weekly; Kuwait four Heart of the Filipino. ‘Buong flexibility to choose between contract workers times weekly; Jeddah three pusong alaga’ (wholehearted regular economy and busi- times weekly; and Abu Dhabi care) is what makes Philip- ness class service. Regard- three times a week. The rea- pine Airlines a cut above the less of which class of service vices. The aircraft’s myPALWi- under PAL’s frequent flyer lignment of routes is an en- rest,” said Jaime J. Bautista, you choose, PAL will deliver fi allows one to surf, browse mileage program, the Mabu- hancement of PAL’s product President and COO, PAL. its distinct brand of Filipino and keep in touch with loved hay Miles.With non-stop op- offering for its primary market service,” Bautista added. ones and friends while on erations to Manila, travellers JaimeJ i JJ. Bautista B ti t President and COO in the Gulf region – the over- The devolved service board the flight. An added from the Middle East will now PAL seas Filipino workers. Begin- – non-stop point-to-point PAL will start deploy- treat is 30 minutes of free Wi- have a direct link to the Philip- ning March 26, 2017, PAL service – translates to an in- ing the reconfigured A330 to fi. iPads will also be offered for pines and other destinations friendly locals. Puerto Prince- dropped its Dubai and Abu crease in capacity by 47 per Dubai on June 15; to Doha use during the whole flight. in the PAL network. Upon sa (Palawan) offers the under- Dhabi stop-over on the Doha- cent. PAL is also reconfigur- on July 15; to Abu Dhabi arrival in Manila, passengers ground river cruise at the sub- Manila, Jeddah-Manila, and ing the aircraft being used on and Riyadh on August 15; to Full-service inflight of- may conveniently connect to terranean river national park. Kuwait-Manila routes, all PAL these routes. PAL is taking Dammam on September 15; ferings include a selection of 43 international and 30 Phil- flights to Manila from seven away more than a hundred and to Jeddah and Kuwait on Asian, Continental and Halal ippine destinations. PAL’s Busuanga flights points in the Middle East have seats on the mono-class, October 15. meals plus a wide selection will bring passengers to Coron become non-stop. 414-seat Airbus A330 aircraft of beverages. Each passen- Domestic flights to Cati- (Palawan) for exciting water that has premium and regu- Passengers can also ger is entitled to free baggage clan will enable passengers sports – snorkeling and scuba “The non-stop service lar economy sections. The enjoy wireless inflight enter- allowance of two pieces, up to to visit Boracay, one of the diving – while enjoying lagoons across these routes will give reconfigured A330s will have tainment by downloading the 23 kilos each. world’s best beaches. Basco and hotpsrings. They can also us a better product to of- 264 seats, set in two classes myPAL Player app for free in (Batanes) in the northernmost discover Pearl Farm or Samal fer our primary market, the – Business Class (with lie-flat order to stream a wide selec- Passengers may also tip of the country will give Island in Davao or experience nearly 800,000 Filipino con- seats) and Economy (Premi- tion of movies, TV shows and earn mileage points that they visitors an unforgettable ex- the resorts and beaches of tract workers. Aside from con- um and Regular), making the music from their personal de- can exchange for free tickets perience of rugged terrain and Cebu in central Philippines.

12 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 HOTELS Ramada Hotel & Suites gets a facelift Ramada Hotel & Suites Sharjah, managed by global hotel giant Wyndham Hotel Group, unveiled the completion of more than AED 25 million in extensive renovations and upgrades, creating an elevated 4-star guest experience across all 343 of its guest rooms and suites.

TT BUREAU and two bedroom suites fea- ture a well-appointed kitchen, ormerly the Ramada which includes a refrigerator, FSharjah, the hotel began oven and washing machine. renovations in June 2016 and All rooms and suites feature now offers deluxe rooms and amenities of the highest qual- executive deluxe rooms, as ity to ensure a comfortable well as one and two bedroom and memorable stay and are suites. Additional facilities, as spacious as 100sqm. which were also upgraded as part of the renovations, Dining options at the ho- AlperAl CCan Bulcum B l include an executive lounge, tel include Zaafaran, which Cluster General Manager six meeting and event venues offers an international menu Ramada Hotel & Suites Sharjah with state-of-the-art audio with a variety of dishes de- At Ramada, we’re visual capabilities, two res- signed to cover all tastes; and taurants, a gym and spa area, the newly added Sunshine focused on helping as well as an indoor pool and #AFÏ WHICH OFFERS CASUAL experiences we offer,” said respite from the world outside. The hotel also offers an on- our guests sample sun terrace. dining and serves hot and Cluster General Manager Whatever a traveller’s rea- site tour desk with informa- the world and cold dishes in an easy light Alper Can Bulcum. “Our new sons for visiting Sharjah, our tion on local attractions such these renovations All newly renovated fare menu for visitors and twin bedded rooms are a won- intent is to be their go-to-hotel as Burj Khalifa (a 15 minute rooms offer an array of con- guests to enjoy in a cosy derful example. Ideal for short- of choice.” drive away), Mall of the Emir- have enabled us to temporary accommoda- seating area. stay, budget-minded travel- ates (a 20 minute drive) and completely re-imagine tion, including king and twin lers, these smaller rooms help Hotel guests seeking Dubai Parks and Resorts the experiences we bedded deluxe rooms of 50 “At Ramada, we’re fo- guests to keep their costs af- recreational activities have (a 40 minute drive away). offer. Our intent is to be square metres with mod- cused on helping our guests fordable by easily sharing with access to both an indoor pool Sahara Centre, Sharjah’s ern design and decor and sample the world and these a colleague or friend. And for and children’s pool, sauna, largest shopping mall, is con- their go-to-hotel a comfortable seating area renovations have enabled us our longer-term guests, our fitness centre and spa, which veniently located just across of choice with a flat-screen TV. One to completely re-imagine the spacious suites offer a private offers a variety of treatments. the street. Team building through CSR Ibis Styles Jumeira’s continued programmes on team building through CSR activities have given them an edge over others in the market, says Hotel Manager Muhammad Haider.

TT BUREAU at the property. At the end of the day, it is good relationship s a young property in that would secure us the busi- Athe market, Ibis Styles ness we require.” Jumeira is on a steady growth trajectory having been able Guest experience plays to maintain 79 per cent oc- a pivotal role and at Ibis cupancy level throughout the Styles Jumeira, under the past year. Locals and Emi- leadership of Haider, new rati clientele top their list, fol- plans have been made to lowed by India, KSA, the UK, ensure that guests stay are France and Turkey. Recently made memorable. A hotel MuhammadMh dHid Haider Hotel Manager they have been penetrating manager today is expected to Ibis Styles Jumeira new markets such as Spain, interact both with guests and Brazil, Azerbaijan, Kazakh- staff members to ensure con- Skills can be stan, Czech Republic, Latin tinued output and productivity. transferred to other America, etc. Among the many steps taken teams. Sometimes by Haider, the first and most Every market has its own important is the appointment even HODs can requirements and the past of a quality assurance team be educated on year has worked out very which consists of team mem- various aspects are rectified faster or forward Haider’s second Programme pects unknown such as the well for the property ensur- bers from various different unknown such as the to the relevant departments along with his departmen- plantation project we carried ing guests around the year. departments such as talent & and ensure prompt action is tal is to identify hidden skill out. The junior staff provided Haider states, “Long-term re- culture, housekeeping, engi- plantation project taken. This team is special as set in associates and to the information and impor- lationships play an important neering, sales, etc. Their role we carried out. The it has become the heart and capitalise it by giving them tant details for the seniors role in the travel, tourism and is to interact with the guests junior staff provided soul of the property responsi- incentive on multi-tasking in to carry out the Programme. hospitality sector. We need to every morning at breakfast/ the information and ble in researching CSR pro- each department. We make sure 80 per cent of work very closely with DMCs, afternoon and evening times important details for grams and ensuring that skills junior staff and 20 per cent of OLTA’s, Tour Operators, travel to obtain information /feed- are shared among every staff Haider states, “Skills can HODs attend the CSR initia- agents, corporate companies back from them about their the seniors to carry member of the property. Re- be transferred to other teams. tives to ensure the opportu- and other partners to ensure stay and if there are any re- out the Programme lationships are very important Sometimes even HODs can nity for everyone to be a part the continuity of the business quirements to ensure they either internally or externally. be educated on various as- of the Programme.” QUICKBYTES MAY 2017 TRAVTALK 13 Game plan for Dubai hospitality industry As Dubai marked 100,000 rooms a few months ago, the industry is on a rapid adaptive game plan tapping different market segments. Industry experts share their views with .

SHEHARA RIZLY

Despite the many challenges of Central Hotels will continue to grow Dubai hotels are extremely the last few years, the MEA region has in Dubai from 2020 and beyond with fortunate as we are led by Dubai proven its resilience. The region remains eight operating properties and a total Tourism that really does a lot of the dynamic with many opportunities for room count of 2,750. Central Hotels thinking and marketing for Dubai growth. The evolving budgets of both will effectively utilise the best tools as a destination. The retail sector leisure and business guests, together with available in the market in terms of market including the hospitality sector benefits an improved mid-scale and budget hotel intelligence, revenue management, tremendously from these results. offering, have created a lot of opportunity digital communications, and social media Dubai has created supply to meet the in the region. The increased number of Ignace Bauwens while at the same time, investing heavily Ammar Kanaan Sanjeev Gohlan Regional Vice President General Manager forecasted demands. Year-on-year General Manager people travelling to the MEA region (due Middle East and Africa on our products and our people. Included Central Hotels Four Points by Sheraton to cheaper airfares and better connectivity Wyndham Hotel Group within Central Hotels’ five-year plan is our hotel rooms are filling up with the Bur Dubai of budget airlines to this region) means that, although we are expansion outside the UAE targeting Levant, North Africa, and many events and exhibitions being still seeing healthy growth within the luxury market, the real the GCC. By being present in different markets, we will be able hosted in this city. We take our direction and brand marketing opportunity lies in midscale and budget developments. to maintain our growth for the next 10 years. from Dubai Tourism.

We are no doubt witnessing a The industry is always looking for new We are exceptionally proud of the significant increase in room supply ways to fill rooms as it’s not always possible contribution Jumeirah Group makes to the as well as other forms of competition for a 100 per cent occupancy for multiple development of Dubai as a world-class like Airbnb. This, coupled with weaker reasons. The region will open to new hospitality and tourism destination. In market conditions, creates an extremely markets and actively pursue destination December, Jumeirah Al Naseem will open competitive landscape. In addition there marketing activities targeting locations with 430 rooms adding to our existing are new source markets emerging that continue to open thanks to new and portfolio of luxury properties at Madinat especially from Asia, with China and India expanding airline services. Connectivity Jumeirah, that includes Jumeirah Al Qasr, Ferghal Purcell at the top. We at HMH unlock and leverage Mamoun Hmedan plays a big role in drawing visitors, and Stefan Leser Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Jumeirah Dar Al COO, Hospitality Managing Director Group Chief Executive Management Holding global opportunities, creating value for Wego Middle East stopovers are very helpful in attracting Officer, Jumeirah Group Masyaf. We current operate 9 properties our owners and associates with unique revenue generation and North Africa and India repeat visitation. New offerings such as the in Dubai with an inventory of 3208 hotel rooms, suites and villas. optimization tools, reinforced central business development and new Theme Parks in Dubai will keep a renewed interest in the city, Our efforts are focused on bringing new visitors to Dubai and sales team, strategic alliance with travel trade and intermediaries, and Expo 2020, which will target 20 million visitors, will showcase delivering experiences aligned with Jumeirah’s brand promise of and compelling value proposition for guests. the region to visitors from all around the world. ‘stay different’. 14 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 SPECIALFEATURE

Personality of the month Taking Oman Air to greater heights Shahzad Naqvi, Country Manager, Oman Air, has been a remarkablekable leader in the airline industry ensuring smooth operations between their head officee in Muscat and government institutions, consulates, travel agents, corporates and allll stakeholdersstakeholders// travel partners based in Dubai.

SHEHARA RIZLY that the flag of Oman Air will East and the West takes Naqvi states that at wiwithth a renewreneweded soar higher than the rest. place in these areas. It takes Oman Air they strive to alal-- fofocuscus on on-boaron-boardd ith his unique career an exemplary leader to grab ways be conscious about thehe seservicesrvices and de-de- Wspanning a decade in In 2001 after comple- all opportunities available to changing trends of the travel,vel, vevelopmentslopments will be the travel and tourism in- tion of his Masters of Busi- ensure that the business is tourism and hospitality sec-ec- a priority for Oman dustry, Shahzad Naqvi has ness Administration from the turned towards his establish- tors as the airline has a teamam AiAirr in 2017; ensurinensuringg become a prominent figure University of Lincoln UK, he ment taking one step further of extensive researchers whoho ththee airline of the SulSultan-tan- due to his commitment, started his career as a Travel than others. have dedicated themselvesves atatee of Oman contcontin-in- leadership, hard work and Consultant at dnata and was to ensure that the latest in-in- determination to turn the promoted as an executive As a Country Manager, dustry additions are just a tide in his favour. in 2011 and then moved to Naqvi has proved himself to click away. Oman Air ensuresres that they are regularly updat-at- As the country manager Having been born and brought up in the ed with the latest technologi-gi- for Oman Air, he has been UAE, Naqvi is well versed not only in cal know-how to ensure thathat actively implementing the their clientele will receive thehe vision of the airline through travel, hospitality and tourism but also best service as they haveave all the programmes carried the changes that occurred during the one of the best cabin brandsds out under his leadership in past two decades on offer. The timely promo-mo- Dubai. Naqvi was instru- tions aimed at increasingng

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Shahzad Naqvi comes Shahzad Naqvi is a across as a very capable truly committed person airline executive. Courte- with great values and ous, well-mannered and respect. It was truly a more importantly sup- facelift for Oman Air ever portive and dependable. since he joined as Country He responds even at odd manager for the UAE. hours and has excellent PR skills which makes him a very likeable person Asim Arshad Rafeeq Mohammed in the industry. Group CEO Chief Operating Officer Orient Travel and Tourism ITL World mental in implementing Etihad Airways as Sales be a leader guiding his team the number of flyers onboardard short haul holiday getaways Manager Dubai. Thereafter, towards sustainable growth the airline are smart movesves between Oman and Dubai Naqvi moved to Oman Air which is a valuable asset to keep up with the competi-eti- conducting many road as Country Manager for the to the company. His moti- tion and secure a good placece shows in conjunction with UAE in 2014. Having been vation, determination and all the time. the tourism board of Oman born and brought up in the proactive nature has enable as well. There were several UAE, Naqvi is well versed Oman Air to be a visible air- Oman Air is provid- instances where promotions not only in travel, hospital- line network throughout the ing a range of education- Scaling New Heights were held with various other ity and tourism but also the emirates. Technology plays al, cultural and sporting ues to drive up revenues, Shahzad Naqvi started tourism boards ensuring changes that occurred dur- a vital part in the industry to- initiatives which not only increases its growing con- his career in 2001 as ing the past two decades. day, when Naqvi first started help to improve the lives tribution to the national a Travel Consultant at Middle East region has al- working in the trade it was of individuals, but make economy and delivers dnata and was promoted ways been considered the still the time of paper tickets an important contribution against its 10-year devel- as an executive in 2011 fastest growing region in then and eventually now it to the economic and social opment plan. The inaugu- He moved to Oman Air terms of travel, tourism and has become electronic tick- well-being of the Sultanate. ral flight from Muscat to as Country Manager for hospitality hence all the ets enabling smooth travel Continued fleet and net- Manchester, UK, takes off the UAE in 2014 businesses from the for all passengers. work expansion, together on May 1.

16 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 ATTRACTION

Sharjah is the third largest of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It has carved itself a unique niche in terms of its culture and heritage, setting itself far from the bright lights and skyscrapers found in its neighbouring Sharjah highlights emirates. another layerSharjah of tourism in its rich tapestryd/s

TT BUREAU portfolio of international the Sharjah Commerce and joy the outdoors through the from Khorfakan to Sharjah brands and local boutiques. Tourism Development Au- diverse environment that can has already been called the harjah has an ac- There are currently 10,000 thority (SCTDA) has looked be discovered in Sharjah. “road of tunnels” and will tive tourism indus- keys available within the towards the east coast to reduce the additional 60 km try and receives emirate with a further 7000 launch a new layer in its tour- The east coast has a distance to 16 km and the Sapproximately two rooms due to come on line ism portfolio: ‘outdoor tour- rich tourism potential offer- driving time should now be million guests directly into before 2020. ism’. Through this new prop- ing a coast filled with exotic just 45 minutes. its accommodation sector osition the emirate brings to sea life and corals, man- each year. Sharjah offers a Sharjah is the only emir- all visitors and guests what groves, wadis, and moun- Kalba has long been re- complete range of accom- ate to have coastlines on can only be described as “a tains. The infrastructure is puted for its peace, tranquili- modation from apartments both the east and west coast remarkable experience” as becoming more developed, ty and areas of natural beau- to hotels, across a diverse and over the last few years they are encouraged to en- the new road construction ty and the newly proposed ATTRACTION MAY 2017 TRAVTALK 17

The newly-opened Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre and protected area is another highlight for visitors to this area. The 12-km two wildlife conservation centre borders the Hajjar mountains and offers visitors a chance to see the critically endangered Arabian leopard (Panthera pardus nimr) and other endangered species including the Arabian wolf and the Arabian Tahr, and the striped hyena ecotourism project will cre- visitors to this area. The 12- Also keeping the theme, ate a sustainable platform for km two wildlife conservation the Kalba Birds of Prey cen- tourism development, keep- centre borders the Hajjar tre can be found in the out- ing a careful balance on put- mountains and offers visitors skirts of Kalba town, which ting conservation ahead of a chance to see the critically accommodates a variety of development. This said there endangered Arabian leop- resident and migratory rap- will also be a development ard (Panthera pardus nimr) tors. Visitors to the centre of retail and coffee shops and other endangered spe- can see birds of prey such on the edge of a manmade cies including the Arabian as the barn owl, short-toedSharjah lagoon. The most exciting wolf (Canis lupus arabs) snake eagle, greater spot- of these developments are and the Arabian Tahr (Ara- ted eagle, and lappet-faced d/s the new eco-lodges, which bitragus jayakari), which are vulture. Live demonstrations are a ‘safari styled’ luxury both classified by the IUCN and bird of prey displays are tent with private swimming as ‘Threatened’; and the held daily for visitors during pools and five star facilities striped hyena (Hyaena hy- the winter months. adding more bed spaces to aena), which is classified as the tourism growth in the re- ‘Near Threatened’. Recently, Tourism in Sharjah has gion. The walkways into the the centre has enjoyed par- certainly seen growth and mangroves will make it pos- ticular success in breeding investment in new markets sible to observe the flora and endangered Damani ga- which has meant increased fauna with minimal invasion zelles from breeding stock room nights throughout the and impact on the rare spe- introduced in 2012. The year. The authority will con- cies found in this area. mountain conservation cen- tinue with its promotion of tre has tourist facilities and Sharjah as a remarkable The newly-opened He- employs full-time trained experience as it continues faiyah Mountain Conserva- guides to show visitors the to develop new packages tion Centre and protected reserve and answer ques- encompassing outdoor tour- area is another highlight for tions about Arabian wildlife. ism, culture and heritage. 18 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 TRAVELINSURANCE Increasing need for travel insurance With the growing importance of opting for an insurance while travelling abroad, the travel insurance market is showing positive growth, riding on the upward swing within the global tourism industry.

TT BUREAU nies, online platforms as well which are mandating for all travellers. Looking towards as airlines are catering to the visitors to have a valid travel the future, the leisure sector ndustry experts forecast a needs of their clients. Arijit medical insurance, other holds tremendous oppor- Istrong growth for the travel Munshi, General Manager, countries which require a tunities. We believe travel insurance industry. Accord- Tune Protect, EMEIA, online valid travel medical cover are protection to be one of those ing to a report published facilitator of travel insurance Cuba, Turkey, Georgia and considerable revenue op- by Allied Market Research, in collaboration with various even Antarctica. And now portunities for both, us as titled, ‘Travel Insurance local insurance companies more countries are evaluat- well as travel management Market by Insurance Cover, in the region, says, “Travel ing the need for a medical companies. Travel insurance Distribution Channel, Users, management companies travel cover.” is in its infancy stage in the Geography - Global Oppor- and airlines including cruise Middle East, but holds great tunity Analysis and Industry liners and destination man- Munshi adds that travel promise,” he suggests. ArijitAijitM Munshi hi LucianLi AlAle Forecast, 2014-2022,’ the agement companies want to insurance has become one of General Manager Head of Products and Operations, travel insurance sector is ex- ensure that their clients travel the key value offerings partic- Ale adds that in an Tune Protect, EMEIA Sabre Travel Network, Middle East pected to generate $28,264 with peace of mind and are ularly for travel management evolving industry, it’s all million by 2022, growing at covered for any unforeseen companies, B2C online book- about service and product facilitated by Tune Protect, EU or a non-EU country, to ing platforms or enablers and differentiation. “Sabre Travel EMEIA. ensure various types of trav- airlines to ensure travellers Network is dedicated to ellers can travel with peace of Travel management companies and airlines are better aware and can fa- providing travel agents with “Within the Middle East mind, Munshi observes. including cruise liners, destination management cilitate the additional cover, the tools needed to succeed region, approx. 46 per cent companies, travel management companies, want be it for leisure, adventure or and stand out among the of the population are expats. Above all technology to ensure that their clients travel with peace of business travel. rest. And travel protection is And this leads to inbound has become a key driver for not any different. We stress tourism both for leisure, holi- all travel insurance providers mind and are covered for any unforeseen situation, Customised upon the 3 Ps of Travel Pro- day makers as well as visitors and have continued to im- particularly when it comes to health, and want solutions tection to agents; show your visiting family or friends. Such prove their technology to pro- to offer additional benefits through the travel Travel insurance prod- Professionalism, Protec- as health insurance has be- vide better ease of purchase insurance program such as flight delays, flight ucts are constantly evolving tion for customers’ financial come mandatory for visitors as well as customer service cancellation, baggage delays, etc. to meet needs of different investments and vacation kinds of travellers. “Nothing plans, and Profitability maxi- The travel protection industry is evolving, allowing Arijit Munshi is more disconcerting than mization of every booking. us to offer innovative and creative solutions to learning that a client en- Our Travel Protection tool a CAGR of 8.5 per cent dur- situation, particularly when countered medical or logisti- is fully integrated within meet customers’ needs, more product features ing 2016-2022. European it comes to health, and want cal mishaps while traveling, the Sabre Red Workspace and guarantees for both travel facilitators or nations and countries in to offer additional benefits or that they had to cancel a with an enhanced graphical enablers and travellers. We believe travel the Asia Pacific region have through the travel insurance trip due to an emergency,” travel insurance booking tool protection to be one of those considerable shown most growth for this program such as flight delays, says Lucian Ale, Head of featuring preferred suppli- sector due to factors such flight cancellation, baggage Products and Operations, ers.” Ale adds. revenue opportunities. Travel insurance is in its as rise in the number of delays, etc. Sabre Travel Network, infancy in the Middle East, but holds great promise senior citizen travellers, and Middle East. A diversified Lucian Ale an increase in business trav- “Expat hubs around the portfolio el expenditure. world are beginning to re- “The travel protection Online Travel insur- quire mandatory health insur- industry is evolving, allow- ance facilitator, Tune Protect, entering the UAE (Dubai, Abu such as efficient customer However, the prime fac- ance before issuing a visa, ing us to offer innovative EMEIA, have customised Dhabi, etc.) and everyone responses and user-friendly tor driving this growth is an and more and more countries and creative solutions to their portfolio to serve a wide applying for a visit or tourist websites, supporting online increase in tourism. Accord- are deciding to refuse entry meet customers’ needs, range of travellers. Munshi visa needs to have proof of enablers such as Sabre Trav- ing to the latest UNWTO without it. Many travellers more product features and says, “We have done ex- coverage, regardless of the el Network and Distribution World Tourism Barometer, don’t realize that without the guarantees for both travel tensive research based on nationality, age or gender. For platforms or online enablers. demand for international tour- correct insurance, they could facilitators or enablers and travellers’ feedback as well this segment, Tune Protect, Factors such as these have ism remained robust in 2016 be turned away from the des- as feedback given by travel EMEIA in collaboration with already started pushing the despite challenges. Interna- tination they are visiting management companies, on- local insurance companies importance and growth of the tional tourist arrivals grew by before they make it line B2C platforms, enablers has devised the Visit Assur- sector in 2017 and beyond. 3.9 per cent to reach a total of past airport arriv- and airlines to come up with ance Program. 1,235 million. Some 46 million als. Apart from a host of coverage for vari- more tourists (overnight visi- the EU countries ous types of travellers. Apart “Leisure or corporate tors) travelled internationally from the standard EU Travel travellers often pay for non-re- Good to Know last year compared to 2015, Insurance requirements, we fundable hotel, airline or even Travel Protection and this was despite issues have come up with a variety cruise packages. A dedicated fouses on 3Ps – linked to safety and security. of plans such as Lifestyle As- plan, Travel Cancellation, was Professionalism, UNWTO also projects inter- surance -covering a host of also launched to cover last Protection for national tourist arrivals world- specific activities such as minute travel cancellation customers’ financial wide to grow at a rate of 3 shopping or for winter or due to cancellations for in- investments and vacation plans, and to 4 per cent in 2017. These ski destination lovers, surable reasons to cover the Profitability maximization numbers bode well for golf enthusiast as non-refundable portion of the of every booking the travel insurance well as adven- various travel components,” sector. ture junkies. he adds Travel Protection tool is In January fully integrated within the Demand on 2017, for a Corporate or business Sabre Red Workspace with graphical travel the rise trek organised travellers can benefit from the insurance booking tool As people travel by Iloveadven- Travel Easy product, which more, the relevance turetravel.com cover travel delays, baggage Travel Cancellation of travel protection to Kilimanjaro, delay and baggage loss or was launched to cover is steadily gaining all the trekkers damage. All the of the above last minute travel ground, with more trav- had travel and products can be combined for cancellation due to el management compa- medical coverage a traveller, be it travelling to a insurable reasons SPECIALFEATURE MAY 2017 TRAVTALK 19 Al Shaab Village aims for 250,000 visitors The only permanent exhibition centre in the UAE, Al Shaab Village, is aiming at hosting more tourists through their special platform with travel agents and tour operators to reach their target of 250,000 visitors a month.

TT BUREAU est ice rink in the emirate of Sharjah with over 240 stands, n the past few years Al 52 products on food, textile, IShaab Village has welcomed cosmetics, uniforms, acces- over 180,000 visitors a month sories, perfumes etc. for the which consists of residents entire family, Al Shaab Village from Sharjah, visitors from the has an edge over all the malls GCC and other emirates. Par- in the emirate. Both indoor and ticipating at international trade outdoor amusement parks is exhibitions with Sharjah Tour- just a tip of the many other ism Authority they are looking offerings they have presented at sharing the experience with to the visitors. The state of the AbdullaAbd ll Al Dah D h Chief Executive Officer new feeder markets such as art seven screen multiplex Al Shaab Village China whilst being a promi- cinemas operated by Oscar nent destination in the agenda cinemas provide entertain- where they are provided spe- state-of-the-art facility as a “We participate at ITB We have designed of tourism promoters of Shar- ment for the visitors with a mix cial care service until their par- permanent exhibition centre Berlin, WTM, and ATM and this fully-integrated jah from all over the globe. of Arabic, English and Hindi ents shop at the venue, which to be enjoyed by residents and even go for roadshows with state-of-the- movies. From the seven, there is very well received. Al Shaab tourists right throughout the Sharjah Tourism to Europe, According to the new are five standard screens, one Village has been established year. From outside, the building Asia, China, and Singapore art facility as a plans for 2017, they have in- VVIP and one 7D screen. as a family destination with displays traditional architecture and soon to Bosnia. Cur- permanent exhibition troduced a special discount products from Arabic coun- and once you enter it is an rently there are shuttle buses center to be enjoyed booklet for all travel agents, Billiards, snooker, play tries such as Jordan, Turkey, amazing feeling of a state-of- from leading hotels in Shar- by residents and tours operators, hoteliers and station and computer games the UAE, with additional prod- the-art modern ambience. We jah where guests are given tourists other partners to be utilised in provide entertainment for all ucts from India, China, among are the first to have an ice rink the opportunity to visit and the state of the art exhibition the tech-savvy youngsters others. Food wise the delec- in the emirate of Sharjah which experience Al Shaab Village. and convention centre. who wish to spend time with table offerings include Arabic, can be enjoyed by the whole My team is in regular contact vide tourists with a mixture of their friends away from home Indian, Italian, etc. family. We want the tourists with travel agents at these in- Arab culture amidst modern The term ‘village’ has but in a safer environment. In and residents of Sharjah to ternational exhibitions so that environs. Very soon we will been used to ensure Sharjah’s terms of the younger kids (in Abdulla Al Dah, CEO, Al be amazed by the offerings in Al Shaab Village will be on the be starting our second branch cultural identity is maintained. the age group of four) “Fun Shaab Village, says, “We have store and ensure that they re- itinerary of the tour operators, and we will share that informa- Housing the first and larg- House” is the activity area designed this fully-integrated turn for more in their next visit. as we believe that we can pro- tion by Q4 this year.” 20 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 SPECIALFEATURE Centara’s rapid expansion to the Gulf The Gulf region is an important part of Centara’s growth plan. Hence, two new properties are scheduled to come up this year in Muscat and Doha respectively with one recently announced in partnership with Nakheel in Dubai, set to open in 2020. Paul Wilson, Vice President of Sales, Centara Hotels & Resorts speaks to .

PEDEN DOMA BHUTIA What about the tara’s new property in Dubai. QMICE facilities at Then of course, Thai hospital- Can you give us the hotel? ity is the best in the world and We would like to tap the local expatt crowd Qan overview of the The hotel has an excel- is exemplified by the eminent within the GCC and very soon we are opening our Centara property in lent conference facility, which Centara brand. We reflect our Dubai? can handle 400-500 persons. “Thainess” in the details of very first hotels in the region, in Muscatcat and Doha Centara in Dubai is a The main conference hall will service we provide; authentic respectively, so we will be sharing ourr cclientlient very exciting prospect for us, have no pillars and plenty Thai cuisine, traditional Thai it will have over 500 rooms in of natural daylight, thanks spa treatment, the Thai service portfolios there. The UK market is vitalal an upscale beachfront prop- to the group’s ability to brief mind vested in our operations in Dubai and the minimum length of erty with water park, dining that very early on, so it will be staff, as well as our luxurious facilities, business centre, very unique and very technol- room amenities with the Thai stay in Dubai is increasing. kids’ club, spa and fitness ogy focussed. There are so touch. In addition to this, the Paul Wilson centre. What will become many hotels in Dubai with size and the magnitude of the Vice President of Sales Centara Deira Islands Beach conference facilities lacking Dubai property is something Centara Hotels & Resorts Resort Dubai is going to be in natural daylight and broken that hasn’t been seen before very family oriented and is up with pillars, we see our in the four star category, to located on Deira Island, Na- spacious and light facility as a the level of the water park, the kheel’s latest prime real-es- key differentiator. varied F& B outlets, the club sales offices and Dubai is winning SPA Cenvaree with What are the tate development project. As lounge and the children’s rec- the second most visited city 16 treatment rooms over Qtrends that you this will be the first Centara A hotel that reational club. Service and ex- in the world after Bangkok. the entire floor, with male have witnessed in the establishment in the UAE, Qunique would be perience are amongst the main We would like to tap the lo- and female facilities and hospitality industry in we are targeting a mixed au- having a lot of USPs, keywords for us. cal expat crowd within the private hammams, Club the Middle East dience, with vacationers from can you enlist some GCC and very soon we are level business rooms and For hospitality in the Mid- Saudi Arabia and through- of the biggest attrac- What are the feed- opening our very first ho- Centara Club Lounge, ball- dle East, the volume is just out the Middle East, as well tions of the property? Qer markets that tels in the region, in Muscat room and meeting facilities. astronomical. When dealing as Europe and Asia. We’ll The four star market is you are planning to and Doha respectively, so We are bringing something with such large volumes you stay true to what Centara something that’s definitely tap for this property? we will be sharing our cli- unique and authentic to need to have the best rev- does very well, which is the needed in this region and Centara is blessed with ent portfolios there. The UK the market. As one of the enue strategy tools and the family market. that’s the big USP for Cen- a number of active global market is vital in Dubai and biggest hospitality players best energy management the minimum length of stay based in Asia, Centara is tools. Increased focus on in Dubai is increasing. Ear- a very well-known brand data management and analy- lier, Virgin Holidays used to and now it’s arriving in sis technology is the biggest achieve an average of only the Middle East. change I’ve seen. Now, it’s a 2-3 night stay in Dubai, all about how fast you get now this has risen to 5-6 So, being a super access and at what time. nights. Dubai is definitely Qluxury property good as a drop-in destina- will your target crowd How do you plan tion for our long-haul mar- change? Qto work with trav- ket. We’ll be focusing on For the Doha property, el agents? the UK, Germany, Scandi- the target crowd is FIT and Thailand is a big tour navia, and of course India. leisure and of course the operator destination; we have In short, every main market corporate crowd. We have fantastic relationship with our is a feeder market for us a lot of corporate business agents and we reward our and we are very specific on from Saudi Arabia, and key clients. We offer incen- the strategies we follow. will focus on that market. tives, and it’s about working To complement this, we on the 80/20 rule, 80 per cent Could you tell us have state-of-the-art custom of your revenues from 20 per Qmore about Centa- meeting facilities, a ball- cent of your clients. We focus Suan Bua, Centara Grand WQ doha ra’s foray into Doha? room, breakout rooms, and on the ones who continue to The Doha property is rooms equipped with high support Centara. a five-star property, set technology. in the new business and What’s your strat- shopping district West Bay. Technology to- Qegy for the Arabi- The property will have 261 Qday plays a piv- an Travel Mart taking rooms and suites plus an otal role in hospital- place in Dubai from attached suite hotel with 96 ity. How important is April 24-27? apartments that vary from technology for your For us, the trend is one to three bedroom units. properties? to keep it simple. We’ll be Centara Grand Hotel Doha Technology for Cen- there on the stand with all will have Centara’s own tara boils down to the fact our marketing collateral to signature Thai restaurant, that it needs to work. If you make sure that people know Suan Bua along with four are in the room you need to that we’ve arrived. We have other F&B outlets. The roof- be connected, your laptop, also set up meetings with top will feature a unique phones etc., need to be con- larger corporations and trav- restaurant and a rooftop nected. Connection speed, I el partners. We have a very bar with stunning city views think, is very important and good representation team, along with a swimming pool we focus on that. Conference and we are taking up lots and relaxation zone. Other and technology facilities are of appointments, table top Premium Lounge, Centara Muscat Oman facilities include the award massive for us. sessions etc. TECHNOLOGY MAY 2017 TRAVTALK 21 Drive to personalisation in Middle East With the travel and tourism investment in the Middle East rising and digital consumption in the UAE and Saudi Arabia expected to reach high levels of personalisation by 2021, innovation in travel tech is supporting the industry’s growth through exposing travellers to more travel choices.

TT BUREAU grown up surrounded by and apps which deliver innovative have recently launched new etration in the Middle East is adapting to technology. The digital travel solutions for their routes in the UAE and have astronomical, across the GCC eading travel commerce region’s travel industry is feel- travellers, improving the travel been key adaptors of innova- almost 80 per cent of the pop- Lplatform, Travelport is ing the clout of their spending experience. Low cost carriers tive technology to reach new ulation are mobile subscribers. participating at the Arabian power already and it is esti- strengthening expansions in travellers in the region. Smart travel brands will contin- Travel Market (ATM) from mated that millennials ue to look at how mo- April 24-27, 2017, and will in the UAE will gener- bile can help bridge the throw light on how travel tech ate $40,000 average gap between generic is allowing airlines and travel annual gross income experiences and ones agents to meet Middle East by 2019 with almost Technology News where the end-traveller travellers’ demands, and grow half of them book feels truly engaged their businesses, by providing travel through mobile and supported. Brands Powered by RabihRbihS Saab b a more personalised travel devices. Travel apps will thrive or decline President and Managing Director for Europe, Middle East, Africa and experience with more rel- have become the depending on the ex- South Asia, Travelport evant travel choices to all the millennials preferred periences delivered region’s travellers. With to- method of interacting to travellers and how Travel tech is an day’s youngest working seg- with brands, almost relevant and person- exciting place to be ment–the millennial genera- 1/3 more than past alised these experi- right now. Mobile tion–estimated to become the generations. Mobile ences are. Travelport’s largest workforce segment by applications are great technologies and penetration in the 2030, travel industry players platforms to create unique Travel Com- ME is astronomical, in the Middle East are lever- personalised offers. merce Platform is across the GCC aging technology to meet the For airlines, the key can be the Gulf such as India’s larg- Speaking ahead of ATM, leading the industry in pro- needs of millennials who tend the travel behaviour already est airline, IndiGo, also provide Rabih Saab, Travelport’s viding technology solutions almost 80% of to be higher spenders than known to the airline through strong mobile retailing exam- President and Managing to ensure our airline and the population are their global peers with re- past purchases tied to the ples. Research indicates low Director for Europe, Middle travel agency partners flour- mobile subscribers gards to travel. user’s booking account. cost carriers have high growth East, Africa and South Asia, ish in this pivotal point in time opportunities in the Middle commented, “Travel tech is an for our industry.” In the GCC, millennials In the Middle East, leading East. With rising business and exciting place to be right now. Commerce Platform in account for a quarter of the airlines such as Etihad have tourism stemming from the We are increasingly living in an ATM visitors can ex- action at Sheikh Saeed population and they have launched successful travel Gulf, carriers such as IndiGo experiential world. Mobile pen- perience Travelport’s Travel Hall 1 – Stand TT1520. dcs plus brings latest product to ATM dcs plus, an enterprise technology solutions provider, returns to ATM for the fifth consecutive year, showcasing the latest version of its flagship product, TINA.

TT BUREAU Cristian Dinca, Founder The revenues from been providing access to Besides ATM Dubai & CEO, dcs plus, said, “The MENA customers increased Emirates Direct Connect. show, dcs plus is planning INA is the travel ERP Middle East is one of our fo- by 101 per cent in 2016 vs Through this platform, more several roadshows with its CristianCiti DiDinca Tused by many members cus areas for 2017. We have 2015. Today, 23 per cent of than 350,000 travel profes- business partners across Founder & CEO of global Travel Management been working with some key the total revenues of dcs sionals in over 45 markets the region. dcs plus has dcs plus Companies (TMCs) including TMCs in the region for more plus come from MENA cus- can benefit from flexible important partners world- Lufthansa City Center, BCD than 5 years and look forward tomers. dcs plus is plan- and transparent access to wide, including: Amadeus, TT1655, Sheikh Saeed Hall Travel, Egencia, GlobalStar, to strengthening our rela- ning to set up an office in Emirate’s full content, in- Sabre, Travelport, Emirates 1 from 24-27 April 2017 HRG, FCM Travel Solutions, tionships with them as well Dubai to support its MENA cluding schedules, fares, and Lufthansa City Center. during ATM and can be Radius Travel, American Ex- as attract and collaborate with business. Since 2016, availability, special offers The dcs plus team will be followed on social media at press and Uniglobe. new companies.” dcs plus technology has and ancillary services. present at Stand number #dcsatATM.

24 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 QUICKBYTES Tapping new markets and trends Travel, tourism and hospitality professionals share their expectations from this year’s Arabian Travel Market as they venture into new areas seeking opportunities to enhance and expose their products on offer to the world on this stage.

SHEHARA RIZLY The year 2017 is a busy We showcase Tilal Liwa year for R Hotels with the launch Hotel as a unique desert We will be showing our of our two new properties. The hideaway destination in Western leadership in mobile and the Retreat Palm Dubai, MGallery Region of Abu Dhabi and target ways Travelport is leading by Sofitel will cater to the travellers who are looking for the digital transformation by growing global demand for spa ultimate desert experience. connecting all the people in and wellness tourism, which Tilal Liwa Hotel is one of the travel with all the people who is also one of the highlights best desert destination offering travel. Travelport powers over of this year’s ATM. Wyndham a high-quality stay catering $79 billion of travel spending. Garden Ajman Corniche is set to to convenience and budget We will be at Sheikh Saeed Hall accommodate the rising number Sumair Tariq minded guests. Combining Khaled Sharabassy of visitors in the emirate, and Managing Director our world-class facilities, General Manager 1 – Stand TT1520. The stand will R Hotels Tilal Liwa Hotel Matthew Powell to boost our presence in the personalised services, action feature an array of interactive Regional Director ME and South features including demo pods Asia, Travelport Northern Emirates with the largest room inventory in Ajman. packed desert activities for visitors to experience the On top of the new openings, the group continuously seeks to and more, we have come up with the most affordable technologies for themselves and learn more about latest strengthen its presence in the GCC region, and look out for packages suitable for individual travelers, families and developments including the partnership with IndiGo, India’s new and emerging markets. Our properties are all in strategic couples around the UAE and abroad. We’re hoping a lot of largest airline. business and leisure locations in Ajman and Dubai, and we visitors and exhibitors this coming ATM compared to last year are always on the lookout to acquire and develop new hotels and hope to get more leads where the business opportunities to strengthen our portfolio. are for 2017 and 2018.

Ramada Plaza Jumeirah The Middle East is an Our highlight this year is the Beach and Ramada Hotel & emerging growth market for recent completion of Ramada Suites Sharjah is excited to Brussels. To this end we are Hotel & Suites Sharjah’s be at the 2017 Arabian Travel participating at ATM 2017 where renovation. The hotel has earned we will launch two packages that Market. One of our main aims a 4-star status and now offers have been crafted especially during the show is to develop for visitors from the Middle new room categories, as well as relations with existing partners East. Titled ‘Brusselious & six meeting and event venues and create new ones. It’s also ME’, the packages will focus and the executive lounge. We are a great opportunity for us to on Brussels’ excellent gourmet now in the position to welcome Angela Christodoulopoulou Pieter Callebaut Yasser El Sayed Cluster DOSM, Ramada Plaza keep up to date with the latest Account Manager Leisure and cultural experiences for Hotel Manager more corporate business with Jumeirah Beach and Ramada Hotel Visit Brussels families and couples. Naturally Ramada Hotel & Suites Sharjah & Suites Sharjah market trends so we are hoping the addition of diverse event the experiences will also include to identify areas that we can and meeting venues which Halal options. Brussels is known for its gastronomical and implement in our current operations. Both hotels will be culturally immersive experiences. We are also known for our can enjoy upgraded food and beverage options and provide represented at the Wyndham Hotel Group stand, number amazing chocolates! A truly unique experience is our “Tram access to the new executive lounge, while continuing to attract HC0605, where you can find out more. experience” where Belgian chefs take you for a gastronomy leisure guests from CIS markets, Far East and some of the tour while being driven around Brussels’ major attractions. African countries.

The Arabian Travel Market is an inspiring event for travel Infinia Services & Solutions introduces a progressive industry that will fabricate new opportunities and brings to reality approach to tourism–a mobile app namely Dubuy. It presents the scope of the travel market growth. It is a platform to forecast tourists visiting Dubai with discounts, offers and deals all year, the future growth and analyse the key steps to achieve it. We underscoring Dubai’s tourist appeal. We look forward to partnering strongly believe that ATM 2017 will provide business networking with leading travel professionals who recognise the synergy opportunities, feature insightful seminar sessions, debates between experience and technology for today’s traveller and to and workshops to accomplish topical and forward thinking. bring Dubuy to the forefront of Dubai’s tourism since ATM is the Our expectation is to build new relationships with travel and biggest travel trade show in the Middle East. tourism partners, as well as strengthening existing ones, to gain the insight of current market scenario which plays a major role as we work toward to realising our tourism vision, and develop Prashant Khattar Rouxshin Vajifdar MD and Founder our targets for the upcoming years. We will also use this as an Director of Sales Infinia opportunity to highlight Holiday Inn Dubai–Al Barsha’s strength Holiday Inn Dubai-Al Barsha within various segments of hospitality.

ATM is very important for us as this is the best platform ATM is the best platform to exhibit due to its vast exhibitor where we meet with our trade partners, MICE operators, and base and participation from across the globe. GCC is our online distributor channels to enhance our business relationships. core market hence every year we witness an increase in the During a period of four days we are able to meet new number of visitors, exhibitors and buyers as well. Interacting with markets and partners from around the globe which makes it the over 60 countries within a period of four days within a limited best networking event for the region. It enables us to discover space enables opportunities to all travel, tourism and hospitality industry knowledge, global trends, innovations, research, and partners to network well. We look forward to another successful gain insight, to be up to date with the latest trends in the trade. By year at ATM to ensure we obtain new markets and the knowledge attending the regular sessions we are able to expand our horizons on the latest trends in travel, tourism and hospitality in the even further in the industry. region and around the globe. Thameem Razick Yousuf Malimar Hotel Manager Hotel Manager, Rose Garden Hotel Rose Garden Hotel Apartments Apartments, Bur Dubai

26 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 HOTELS Grand Millennium focuses on bleisure Strategically located in a multicomplex connected to Al Wahda shopping mall and office tower, residences within walking distance to Al Wahda stadium, Grand Millennium Al Wahda is one of the few properties which enjoys both leisure and business clientele.

SHEHARA RIZLY Grand Millennium Al Wahda also holds Abu Dha- he iconic Grand Millenni- bi’s best kept secret – the Tum Al Wahda Abu Dhabi Zayna Spa; the hidden gem with 844 rooms and apart- that provides a sanctuary ments, state-of-the-art meet- for those seeking relaxation ing room facilities, a health through extensive and pre- club and spa, internationally- mium spa services featuring themed restaurants catering Elemis products. They claim to the leisure and business to also have the city’s finest guests is truly a unique prop- health clubs with private fit- erty. For family and leisure ness centre just for women CliveCli SSmith ith travellers, the property’s that incorporates a state-of- General Manager proximity to the mall with over the-art Technogym. Grand Millennium Al Wahda Abu Dhabi 1000 high-quality branded van. Subsequently, he moved shops makes it a complete Clive Smith, General to Azerbaijan where he was shopper’s paradise. Manager, Grand Millennium the opening General Man- Al Wahda Abu Dhabi, is an ager of Pik Palace Hotel and The iconic Qasr Al Hosn, experienced hotelier who Park Chalet Hotel. In 2014, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, started off his career in the he became the Cluster Gen- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, and UK having worked in London, eral Manager for Boulevard Abu Dhabi National Exhibi- Edinburgh and Glasgow and Hotel and Intourist Hotel in tion Centre (ADNEC) are just made a foray abroad into Jed- the capital city of Baku. about 20 minutes away from dah, Saudi Arabia, where he the hotel and apartments. set up refurbishments for In- “We have a strong and For dining, they operate an terContinental Hotels. There- healthy mix of travellers from All Day Dining – Al Wahda, after, Smith moved to Africa, Porter’s English Pub, Level Hong Kong, Iraq, and Turkey One Bar and Lounge and and also established a hotel Sky Lounge offering stunning in Iraq for the Turkish views of the Abu Dhabi city. brand, Di- Very soon they will add three more new restaurants includ- ing an Asian, Brazilian ‘churrascaria,’ and Tex-Mex.

Travel agents and tour operators work very closely with us and we have many interesting deals and packages to suit the needs of leisure and business travellers alike. We are continuously trying to build stronger relationships with travel agents and tour operators to get more groups into our hotel Clive Smith

the GCC, Asia and Eu- offices and being centrally lo- media front currently aiming rope. Location is a key cated, close to the exhibition at the millennials which is a factor to attract the GCC centre brings in many busi- new source market for us. We travellers as it connects ness guests to the property,” will be participating in a group to one of the largest Smith notes. level at ATM as it is beneficial shopping malls in Abu for us to be visible and pro- Dhabi housing over “Travel agents and tour vides us a good platform to 1000 shops. The con- operators work very closely network, discuss business nection to the with us and we have many in- with our current clients and teresting deals and packages meet new potential business- to suit the needs of leisure es,” Smith concludes. and business travellers alike. We are continuously trying to build stronger relationships At Grand Millennium with travel agents and tour Porter’s English Pub, operators to get more groups Level One Bar and into our hotel. We look at vari- Lounge and Sky Lounge ous platforms in promoting are the dining options our property – print, radio or The Zayna Spa at the social media and via exhibi- hotel offers premium tions and trade shows. How- spa services featuring ever, we are looking at get- Elemis products ting more active on the social HOTELS MAY 2017 TRAVTALK 27 UAE’s 1st Wyndham Garden debuts at ATM The first Wyndham Garden hotel in the UAE, Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche is slated to open in the last quarter of 2017, with 179 rooms and suites, says Iftikhar Hamdani, the Cluster General Manager for the properties, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman, and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman.

TT BUREAU plus. If their specific acces- tive lounge on the top floor men and women on two dif- up to 600 plus which makes it sibility needs can be met with panoramic sea views, ferent levels to accommodate the largest room inventory in yndham Garden Ajman throughout the entire travel two restaurants, an outdoor more individuals, and a kids’ the emirate of Ajman. WCorniche will exhibit as process, from searching swimming pool, gym and play area. The total number of part of R Hotels, alongside and comparing to physically spa, separate health clubs for rooms under Hamdani will go “We are excited to in- two Ramada properties in connecting between trans- troduce the new Wyndham Ajman in its inaugural partici- port modes, there is great Garden Ajman Corniche. On pation in this year’s Arabian potential for growth. Even top of the Middle East market, Travel Market. today, seniors represent a we are also eyeing Baltic, Bal- very lucrative segment in kans, East Europe, Germany, Wyndham Garden Aj- many markets, and the age- and Central Asia during the man Corniche will be an up- ing population will probably exhibition. Along with our IftikharIftikh HHamdani d i per mid-scale property open become an increasingly im- two Ramada properties, the Cluster General Manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman, and Ramada Beach to various markets with a portant market segment for group is expected to accom- Hotel Ajman focus on catering to fami- the travel industry. Visionary modate the growing number lies, and will target sports Cluster General Manager of guests in Ajman, thus rein- The group is and accessible tourism as for three properties in Aj- forcing our status as the lead- expected to well. UNWTO declared last man, Iftikhar Hamdani will ing group in terms of number accommodate the year as the accessible travel once again pioneer in cater- of rooms and occupancy year. According to reports, ing to this market segment in the Northern Emirates,” growing number of accessible tourism is a rap- by providing more facilities reveals Hamdani. guests in Ajman, idly growing segment. The and rooms to accommodate thus reinforcing our World Health Organisation a larger segment of those R Hotels stand will status as the leading states that 15 per cent of the seeking accessible tourism be at HC0425 of the total world population has at friendly properties. hotel pavilion. Wyndham group in terms of least one type of disability. Garden Ajman Corniche number of rooms and It is also estimated that by This four-star property will also be joining the occupancy in the 2050, 21.5 per cent of the will feature a total of 179 Ajman Tourism Development Northern Emirates world population will be 60 rooms and suites, an execu- Department (ATDD) stand. 28 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 ATTRACTION

PerfectPerfect solitudesolitude atat HurawalhiHurawalhi MaldivesMaldives ,OCATED  MINUTES FROM 6ELANA )NTERNATIONAL !IRPORT -ALÏ (URAWALHI IS A PRIVATE ISLAND SURROUNDED by a lagoon. It is ideal for the Middle East’s elite clientele who prefers to indulge in an intimate setting on the pristine white sandy shore.

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urawalhi is a private island surrounded by a beautiful la- Hgoon with house reefs and long stretches of white sandy beaches. The only resort on the island, Hurawalhi is about 400 me- ters long by 165 meters wide, sprawling across 6.5 hec- tares (16 acres). There are 90 villas, including 60 over- the-water Ocean Villas and 30 Beach Villas, some are available with an infinity pool The scene-stealer is the Hurawalhi Island Resort’s guests’ affinity to the resort. and/or sunset view. The villas undersea restaurant, named blissful Duniye Spa brings visi- High degrees of customer sat- offer privacy, spaciousness ‘5.8 Undersea’ and will send tors closer to nature overlook- isfaction and enviable levels and comfort. All feature the senses soaring in this unpar- ing the vibrant turquoise water. of loyalty, as demonstrated same contemporary design, alleled setting, located 5.8 Duniye means ‘universe’ and by the big volumes of repeat tropical chic with clean lines, meters beneath the sea. The the name represents its phi- guests, are what reflects his earthy colours and natural food menu blends the best in- losophy: a universal approach dedication and hard work the building materials which har- gredients with innovation and to wellness, with treatments most. What’s more, Hurawah- to attract guests to Hurawahli. retreats, wedding ceremonies monise perfectly with the sur- style, resulting in a showcase inspired by ancient and mod- li’s General Manager is widely With opening of Kudadoo Pri- to a honeymoon tailor made rounding lush, landscaped of imaginative modern cuisine, ern expertise from around the recognised as a person who vate Island which is only five by their team; their concept is vegetation on this pristine combined with an incredible globe. Channeling wholeness, nourishes positivity, team minutes away by boat from that anything is possible. They island. It is a unique property location, wine and service. simplicity, purity and quality, work and sensibility among Hurawahli they provide seasonal offers to with the world’s largest all Coming up for air, above the the spa uses only the highest team members that, in turn, offer their guests experience their island regu- glass undersea restaurant. water, the aquarium restaurant quality chemical free, organic makes properties that are a choice of facili- larly to trade partners and this offers staggering sea views by compound products from under his management much ties for every year they will be part of iLTM With a focus on pre- the day and a romantic flicker ‘Healing Earth,’ free from pet- more than holiday destina- taste from Arabia at ATM to appeal to serving the environment, of candlelight by night. rochemicals, synthetics, col- tions to their guests. corporate discerning travellers from Hurawalhi Island Resort ourants, DEA, preservatives the ME region. gives back to the Maldives as Private beach dining al and parabens. Catering to the Russian, much as it takes. Using solar fresco under the stars is also Middle East, USA, Asia and panels, its own water bottling encouraged, allowing guests to Hurawalhi is part of the European markets, Hurawalhi plant, energy saving solu- create once-in-a-lifetime memo- Crown and Champa Resorts is extending their outlook to tions, hot water recovery and ries in a romantic setting second with David Feinberg as emerging niche feeder mar- an in-house marine biologist, to none, enjoying signature lob- CEO and Managing kets in the upcoming season. Hurawalhi Island Resort’s eco ster and wagyu beef created by Partner Lars Petre. Sales and marketing team credentials are the finest in the a personal chef. The seductively under the leadership of Nina Maldives. In addition, Hurawal- lit bar is directly on the beach Under David’s leadership, Fleischmann-Torosyan has hi Island Resort is collaborat- with al fresco decking over- all aspects of hospitality are successfully launched several ing with WiseOceans, the looking a glimmering pool and polished to perfection, includ- luxury islands in the Mal- marine conservation and lagoon, and includes a compre- ing the sought-after person- dives and is on the constant education specialists. hensive shisha selection. alised service and attaining look out for new angles FAMILYALBUM MAY 2017 TRAVTALK 29 New summer announcements by Disney Disney Destinations hosted an event in Dubai to celebrate new announcements for Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line and Disneyland Paris. The invitees got a glimpse of what’s new and what’s next across the three Disney Destinations. 30 TRAVTALK MAY 2017 MOVEMENTS

La Verda Global Hotels Management LLC Sabre to reveal UAE Dubai Siddharth Mehra has been appointed General Manager Rula Khulaif has been appointed to the post of Head of Sales & Marketing at La Verda Suites and Villas Dubai Marina & Managing for La Verda Global Hotels Management. With over two decades of market trends Director La Verda Globalbal Hotels ManagementManagement.. experience in the region, Khulaif will implement In his career spanning over 25 years, Mehra strategic plans to enhance guest experience Sabre is set to showcase the has worked for some lelegendarygendary hoshospitalitypitality and increase revenue of the hotel. Meanwhile brands in India and Southouth East AsiAsia,a, like developing La Verda Brand in the Middle latest innovations and the Middle Four Seasons, Aman RResortsesorts and OOberoiberoi East first. She worked with International Hotels & Resorts. Hee hahass wworkedorked in chains including IHG, Taj and Dusit. Khulaif’s Eastern travellers’ behavioural competitive geographicc markets in toutoughgh last position was Global Director of Sales business environments and has developed for Rotana hotels handling hotels in GCC, trends that travel stakeholders strong sense of businesssiness ME, Africa and East Europe total of should watch out for at ATM. by being revenue andnd 24 hotels in 15 cities. topline driven.

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he New Sabre Red Work- Tspace, one of the key highlights for Sabre this year, will be demonstrated at their ATM stand #TT1550. Consid- TRYP by Wyndham Wyndham Dubai Marina and TRYP ered to be the next-genera- tion travel agency platform, Dubai by Wyndham Jo-Ella Moore has been appointed hotel manager for Tryp by the system comes with new Dubai decision support tools, pre- Wyndham. With 20 years of global hospitality expertise, Moore has workedworked iinn AAustralia,ustral UK, Thailand, Maldives, Rogier M. Hurkmans has been appointed as dictive data insights and mer- DanielDilN Naoumovitch ith Cluster General Manager for overseeing Sabre Travel Network OmanOman and the UAE.U Prior to joining Wyndham chandising capabilities that Middle East HotelHotel Group,Group, MMoore worked for IHG, Armani more than 400 hotel associates for bring agents and suppliers to- HotelsHotels anandd Six Senses including the Wyndham Dubai Marina and TRYP by gether to create personalised to talk about what matters pre-openingspre-openin for the latter two. Moore Wyndham Dubai, both part of hospitality experiences for travellers. It is to their business and how takes on the hotel manager position at giant Wyndham Hotel Group. Hurkmans has developed to help customers Sabre can help. the 650-key650 TRYP by Wyndham after more than 20 years of experience serving meet the new, more empow- holdingholding the same role at Wyndham global hotel chains including InterContinental ered travellers who demand “Travellers are willing to DubaiDuba Marina. Hotels Group, Hilton, Steigenberger, Swissôtel personalisation, choice and pay extra to get additional and FRHI Hotels & Resorts in the ability to unbundle every value and service that is leadership and management roles component of a ticket and customised specifically to including Managing Director and dynamically re-bundle it to meet their needs and re- General Manager. match their needs. quirements,” said Daniel Naoumovitch, Sabre Travel Executive speakers from Network, Middle East. “The Sabre and guest customers travel industry in the Mid- Wyndham Dubai Marina Jan Siddiqi has been promoted to Cluster Director of Sales for The Middle Eastern traveller is high adopter of Wyndham Dubai Marina and TRYP by Wyndham Dubai. Siddiqi latest technologies and expect travel providers to Dubai brings 25 years of hotel sales and marketing experience, with Hyatt, be up to date with their solutions and technology, Tarek E. Shehata has been appointed hotel manager and brings IHG and Marriott International, and six years with Wyndham Hotel therefore we are talking to our customers in ATM 25 years of industry knowledge to the post at Wyndham Dubai Group. Prior to his new appointment Siddiqi Marina. Previously, Cluster Director of Sales & was the Director of Sales & Marketing at to reveal some of the trends and behaviours that Marketing, Shehata brings a wealth of Wyndham Dubai Marina. His new role will be can help them provide more personalised service, experience in the industry, having worked to lead the hotels’ sales strategies. generate revenue and create a loyal customer in the UAE, Qatar and USA. Prior to joining Wyndham Hotel Group, Shehata worked for Hyatt, Four Seasons and Fairmont Hotels will also participate in the dle East is unique and has including two pre-openings for Park Hyatt seminar programme high- its own specifications that Abu Dhabi and Grand Regency Doha. lighting insightful topics and should be looked at while discussions. A panel discus- designing travel solutions. sion by Sabre on ‘Blurring The Middle Eastern travel- lines in online and offline ler is high adopter of latest travel’ will be held on April technologies and expect 25, 2017, from 12:50 hours travel providers to be up to to 13:50 hours at Technology date with their solutions and Theatre. ‘The Most Common technology, therefore we are Pitfalls of Hotel Websites’ will talking to our customers in be on April 26, 2017, from ATM to reveal some of the Travelport Millennium Airport Hotel 15:15 hours to 15:45 hours trends and behaviours that at the Showcase Theatre. can help them provide more EMEA Dubai Another panel discussion personalised service, gen- Jasmeen Kaur joins Travelport in the role of Head of Product and Sheryl Aquiatan has been appointed as the new Assistant Marketing ‘Power up with Sabre’ has erate revenue and create a Solutions EMEA. Formerly Director of Regional Product & Strategy Manager at Millennium Airport Hotel DubaiDubai. She has over a decade of been scheduled for between loyal customer.” forfor NNorthernorthern EuEurope, Kaur is now responsible eexperiencexperience in the tradetrade, having begun her career 14:00-15:00 hours where Sa- for pprovidingrovidi product support and in the Philippines bebeforef moving to the UAE in bre experts will offer in depth ATM brings together technical ssolutions and consultancy to 22007.007. SheShe got her first hospitality experience demonstration for the New players from the travel thethe cocommercialmm teams across EMEA. aatt Ramada Hotel BBuru Dubai then she joined the Sabre Red Workspace, every and tourism industry from With oveover two decades of professional MMillenniumillennium Plaza HHotelo in 2011 as Sales and day during ATM in addition to around the world. It is ex- experienceexperienc in the travel industry, Kaur MarketingMarketing Executive and took the position of enhanced corporate technol- pecting more than 23,500 has held several senior management ClusterCluster Assistant MarComMar Manager for Ramada ogy solutions and business visitors and 2,700 exhibitors positions aand joined Travelport in 2012. PlazaPlaza JBR and RaRamada Sharjah in 2013 up to 2017. AquiatanAqu is a graduate from intelligent. Special power up from technology companies, PriorPrior ttoo joining Travelport, she was DirectorDirec of Revenue Generation of BatangasBatangas StateSta University in Philippines sessions will be offered to travel agencies, airlines, ho- EMEAEM at Pegasus. holding a BachelorBa of Science degree in customers to catch up with tels, tourism authorities, and ComputerComputer Science. Sabre experts and leaders many other suppliers from from different business units the travel industry.