28 MARCH 2015 ISSUE 281

DUBAI TROLLEY ARRIVES TO DOWNTOWN

H.H. SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM, RULER OF DUBAI AND ABDUL FATTAH EL-SISI, PRESIDENT, EGYPT, ATTENDED THE SIGNING CEREMONY OF A DEAL TO BUILD EGYPT’S NEW ADMINISTRATIVE AND BUSINESS CAPITAL. 12

AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION DEBUTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

14 IN THIS ISSUE

MARKET UPDATE 02 CRUISING 05 TOURISM AUTHORITIES 08 ACCOMMODATION 14 AIR 16 RENDEZVOUS 21 AGENT CORNER 23 TRAVEL TALK 24

TRAVEL CHANNELS 25 WHO’S MOVED 26 EGYPT TO BUILD NEW PHOTO ALBUM 27 NEWS & EVENTS 28 ADMINISTRATIVE CAPITAL 6 MARKET UPDATE

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS Dubai: Over 11.6 Million Guests Dubai’s hotel establishments welcomed 11,629,578 guests in 2014, marking an MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi increase of 5.6 percent over 2013. [email protected]

ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli ased on Dubai Department of Tourism & Com- SENIOR JOURNALIST merce Marketing’s data, the destination’s top Rita Kasziba source market remained Saudi Arabia, followed CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou by India, the UK, the US and Iran, while China Ana Mladenovic moved from the 10th position to the seventh. Consequently, guest nights rose 7.4 percent to 44.66 PRESS B Maria Demetriadou million with average length of stay growing to 3.84 days, re- Pauline Shahabian sulting in a 9.8 percent surge in total revenues to AED23.9

DESIGN & LAYOUT billion (USD6.5 billion). The improvement was achieved de- Elena Stylianou spite the emirate’s room inventory expanding from 84,534 units across 611 properties to 92,333 keys across 657 estab- WEB DEVELOPER / IT Dubai Soteris Constantinou lishments.

DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS Jazeera Airways: 22 Percent Rise in T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 Passenger Numbers WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel Jazeera Airways recorded a 22 percent year-on-year surge in flown passengers for

EMAILS January, following consecutive improvements in November and December 2014. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] he growth was mainly driven by in- creased demand on the Beirut and Amman services, up 32 percent, as well as on the Istanbul route. Pas- MENA EXCHANGE RATES senger numbers also rose by a fifth Ton routes serving Egypt, despite the temporary As of 27/3/2015 closure of Assiut International Airport. Currencies shown in blue In addition, Dubai, Bahrain, Jeddah and Ri- are fixed against the US Dollar yadh also proved popular with traffic jumping 20 percent. COUNTRY CURRENCY 1USD= Bahrain (BHD) Dinar 0.37 Jordan (JOD) Dinar 0.71 Oman (OMR) Rial 0.39 Did you know... Qatar (QAR) Rial 3.64 Nearly 150,000 Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal 3.75 Dubai is expected to have as many as UAE (AED) Dirham 3.67 Rooms under Contract 160,000 rooms by 2020? Algeria (DZD) Dinar 96.75 Egypt (EGP) Pound 7.63 The Middle East and Iran (IRR) Rial 27,987.69 Africa (MEA) region Iraq (IQD) Dinar 1,173.20 has 633 hotels and Kuwait (KWD) Dinar 0.30 he upper upscale segment accounts for the lion’s share at 36 percent with 53,257 keys and two other segments each present more than 15 Lebanon (LBP) Pound 1,503.49 147,953 units under percent of rooms under contract, including the upscale segment with Libya (LYD) Dinar 1.38 contract, based on over 30,700 units and the luxury segment with 27,820 keys. Morocco (MAD) Dirham 9.86 STR Global’s The upper-upscale segment made up the largest portion of rooms Syria (SYP) Pound 188.93 construction pipeline in the under contraction category as well at 40.3 percent or 29,770 units, followed Tunisia (TND) Dinar 1.95 T by the luxury segment with close to 16,450 keys and the upscale segment with Yemen (YER) Rial 215.06 report for January. almost 14,700 rooms.

2 28 MARCH 2015 TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS

Dadabhai Travel and Sabre Renew Agreement

adabhai Travel has renewed its con- compete more effectively and grow faster in products that help us do our job effectively tract with Sabre Travel Network Mid- the region. and efficiently. [...] Their leadership in emerg- dle East, securing continued access Aziz Gilitwala, managing director, Dad- ing technologies such as mobile, personalisa- Dto Sabre’s portfolio of innovative technology abhai Travel, said, “Sabre listens to our needs, tion and data will play a critical role in helping which enables it to differentiate its offering, understands our challenges and designs us achieve our expansion plans.”

Improved Destination Website for Abu Dhabi

ith a revamped website showcasing the very best of the emirate, Abu WDhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) is hoping to in- spire more travellers to experience the destination’s expanding tour- ism products portfolio. The online facelift includes around 300,000 words and 4,000 images in support of various products and experi- ences that can be enjoyed in the UAE capital. “With this new site, we can now showcase the destination through thematic experiences that reflect our diversity in landscape, culture, heritage, attractions and accommodation referring consum- ers directly to our industry part- ners,” said Mouza Al Shamsi, acting executive director, marketing and communications, TCA Abu Dhabi.

The new website

28 MARCH 2015 3 WEEKLY NEWS AIRPORTS

Dubai to Welcome Partnership to Limit Advanced Detection 126 Million Passengers Carbon Footprint Equipment in Abu Dhabi

ubai Airports, operator of Dubai ubai Airports partnered with bu Dhabi Airports signed an International and Al Maktoum Dubai Electricity and Water AED458 million (USD125 mil- DInternational at Dubai World DAuthority (DEWA) to erect a A lion) deal with Smiths Detec- Central, revised its projections for 2020 solar array at Al Maktoum Interna- tion to equip the Midfield Terminal to over 126 million passengers. tional at Dubai World Central (DWC) Complex with new systems aimed As Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Air- to limit its carbon footprint and allow at detecting threats from chemical, ports, explained at the Future of Bor- the power generated to be fed direct- biological, radiological, nuclear and ders Conference in Dubai, the ambi- ly into DEWA’s power grid. explosive substances. The purchased tious forecast is without the availability “The solar array is just one of high-speed explosives detection sys- of further infrastructure development several projects across our airports tems deploy a combination of X-ray or space to build at Dubai International. aimed at adopting ways to limit our technologies to produce high-resolu- “We will have to come up with environmental impact while safe- tion images of baggage contents. other solutions to satisfy Dubai’s con- guarding the significant economic “The safety and security of pas- tinued thirst for growth. In Dubai, we and social contributions the aviation sengers, crew and aircraft is our top are building, not talking about build- sector provides Dubai. Initiatives priority, so it is vital that we should ap- ing,” stressed Griffiths, adding that by such as these take us a step closer to ply the very best and most innovative 2030, some 200 million travellers are achieving that ambition,” said Majed technology available to achieve this,” expected to be handled by Dubai’s air- Al Joker, senior vice president, opera- said H.E. Ali Majed Al Mansoori, chair- ports annually. tions, DWC, Dubai Airports. man, Abu Dhabi Airports.

4 28 MARCH 2015 CRUISING WEEKLY NEWS

Royal Caribbean Inspires with Oceania Cruises Rolls New Cruises for 2016/2017 out New Schedule Royal Caribbean International’s 2016 Europe vacations encompass eight ceania Cruises unveiled ships, sailing from six European homeports and calling at 80 destinations its summer and fall 2016 throughout the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Scandinavia and the Baltics. O schedule which includes the maiden voyage of Sirena, the new 684-passenger ship that will first be in service in April 2016 on the Barcelona – Venice itinerary. The upscale line’s new sched- ule features 121 sailings; 90 new itineraries, 50 of which are ex- tended journeys; and 20 new ports. All in all, Oceania Cruises will sail to more than 240 ports in our ships will be new to the region, while Harmony of the Seas will sail its inaugural over 70 countries. season from Barcelona. Independence of the Seas returns to Southampton while Ex- New destinations include plorer of the Seas will make history as the largest cruise ship to ever sail in Alaska, join- ports in Mexico, France, the US, It- Fing Radiance of the Seas for the cruise line’s 27th consecutive season in the Great Frontier. aly, Dominican Republic, Canada, The company also opened bookings for its new 2016/17 Adventure Collection which Denmark, Sweden, Costa Rice and Bermuda Islands will take vacationers along the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska and beyond aboard 15 ships, the Netherlands. sailling from nine US homeports.

28 MARCH 2015 5 WEEKLY NEWS

EGYPT TO BUILD NEW Mourjan Marinas – ADMINISTRATIVE CAPITAL Lusail City Launches Event Space H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and Abdul Fattah el-Sisi, president, Egypt, attended the sign- oha’s premium yachting desti- nation, Mourjan Marinas – Lu- ing ceremony of a deal to build Egypt’s new administrative and D sail City launched three pictur- business capital at a cost of EGP150 billion (USD19.7 billion). esque on-water lounge areas totalling more than 1,600m2, which can accom- modate events for up to 130 persons. he project, which is to stretch Mohammed El Newishy, operations across 700km2, will be devel- manager, Mourjan Marinas – Lusail oped along Ain Al Sokhna road City, said, “As one of the first facilities to east of Cairo, and will house open in the prestigious Lusail City, our about seven million residents unique space offers a fresh, new and Tupon completion. modern venue that is fully equipped to The new administrative and business cater to Doha’s ever-growing calendar capital will host ministries, official institu- of events.” tions and embassies, headquarters of com- He added that the spaces can be panies and private sector firms. It will also tailored to suit individual events and include resorts, modern shopping centres H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (centre) and tastes. Abdul Fattah el-Sisi and residential areas.

6 28 MARCH 2015

WEEKLY NEWS TOURISM AUTHORITIES

Chinese Arrivals to Abu Dhabi to Triple by 2023 Abu Dhabi is poised to welcome more than 177,000 Chinese travellers by 2023, a rise of more than 300 percent from 44,000 in 2013, according to a new research by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG).

Did you know... - IHG’s HUALUXE Hotels and Restau rants brand is dedicated to the Chinese market?

he Future of Chinese Travel report, produced in partnership with Oxford Economics, showed that favourable economic and demographic trends shaping the Chinese travel T market are to fuel huge increases in the number of Chinese travellers visiting the UAE over the next decade. The research also projected a 97 percent surge in Chinese arrivals for Dubai, totalling more than 540,000 travellers in 10 years.

ATDD Launches Nearly 153,000 New Classifica- Guests in tion System Palestine

jman Tourism De- velopment De- A partment (ATDD) introduced three tourism classification systems in the emirate which focus on travel agencies, tour- Palestine ist restaurants and tourist transportation, according to Yamina Aoucher, direc- uring the fourth quarter (Q4) of tor, tourism licensing and 2014, a total of 152,531 guests standards, ATDD. D stayed in hotels in West Bank The systems are the according to the Palestinian Central Bu- result of the second stage reau of Statistics (PCBS). Over a quarter of a major project on clas- of all guests were from the European Un- sification of tourism instal- ion, while 10 percent were Palestinians. lations in Ajman, which The number of hotel guests is 53 per- saw a comprehensive sur- cent higher than in the previous quarter, vey being conducted with but 20 percent lower than in Q4 of 2013. representatives of the Guest nights reached 406,394 while new sectors, along with room occupancy stood at 25 percent. local and international In December 2014, 109 out of 123 benchmarking, field op- hotels operating in West Bank respond- erations, interviews with ed to PCBS’ survey, representing a total stakeholders and more. of 6,691 rooms and 14,857 beds.

8 28 MARCH 2015

WEEKLY NEWS TOURISM AUTHORITIES

Surge in Ajman′s Saudi Tourism Builds on TCA Abu Dhabi Launches Tourism Performance Growth Potential e-shopping Service

jman′s tourism revenues audi Arabia is looking to promote he National Library, a divi- reached nearly AED300 million and build upon its domestic and sion of Abu Dhabi Tourism & A (USD 81 million) in 2014, com- S religious tourism potential at this T Culture Authority (TCA Abu pared to AED220 million (USD60 mil- year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM). Dhabi), unveiled a new e-shopping lion) in 2013, according to Ajman Tour- “Our partners on the ground are website, dedicated to selling and de- ism Development Department (ATDD). eager to discuss how this year’s ATM livering publications to readers across The number of hotel and hotel can showcase sector growth to more the Arab world. apartment guests increased to 850,000 than 33,000 expected participants,” The new e-bookstore, available on- from about 600,000 recorded in 2013, commented Nadege Noblet, exhibi- line and via a mobile app, features more and average hotel occupancy rates tion manager, ATM, World Travel Market than 1,500 titles, with the most popular stood at 65 percent. portfolio, Reed Travel Exhibitions. ones listed in the best sellers section. Top markets in terms of occupancy According to new MEED intelli- “The new e-shopping website will were Russia, the CIS, the UAE, Arab gence, Saudi Arabia currently has 55 provide highly efficient services to de- countries, the GCC and Asia and Europe, planned or under-development pro- liver books to readers wherever they according Dalal Al Marzouqi, research jects including four museums and li- are, helping the process of book distri- and development executive, ATDD, braries, 39 hotels and resorts, one mall, bution which currently faces consider- who highlighted that about 100,000 Eu- seven sports stadiums and leisure com- able difficulties in the Arab world,” said ropeans visited Ajman in 2014, 30,000 plexes, two theme parks and two con- Abdullah Majid Al Ali, director of library of which were German citizens. vention centres. management, The National Library.

10 28 MARCH 2015

WEEKLY NEWS

Dubai Visa Processing Centre Offers Dubai Trolley Arrives to New Categories

ubai Trolley, the game-chang- ing hop-on hop-off trolley D system featuring ’s first hydrogen-powered trolley trams, is currently being tested in Downtown Dubai. To eventually span 7km, Dubai Trol- ley’s first phase will cover a distance of ubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC) now offers short- 1km, passing by , The Dubai and long-term visas for up to 30-day or 90-day vis- Mall, , Souk Al Bahar D its, both valid for multiple entries into the UAE for and Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. the purpose of vacation, business or attendance of seminars Ahmad Al Matrooshi, managing di- and exhibitions. rector, , commented, “DVPC is honoured to be associated with Emirates in fa- “With so many world-class attractions cilitating the UAE visa application process for travellers to in 1km2, visitors and residents need- Dubai, globally,” enthused Vinay Malhotra, chief operations ed a convenient mode of transit that officer, DVPC, VFS Global. provides them seamless connectivity DVPC now operates 33 Dubai visa application centres in while assuring a leisured pace. […] The 16 countries across the globe. Dubai Trolley will be a fascinating at- traction for people of all ages.” Dubai Trolley

Expo Centre Sharjah CEO Takes up IAEE Role

aif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah (ECS), has been elected chairman of the Arabian Gulf Chapter of the In- S ternational Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE). “It is the regional chapters that spearhead the front-line opera- tions of the IAEE and offer superior networking and educational opportunities to members. We will now be able to play a signifi- cant role in extending benefits in education, research, statistics and general exposure for members of the chapter,” explained Al Midfa. The recognition comes just months after he was chosen as the first vice chairman for the Middle East and African chapter of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.

12 28 MARCH 2015

WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION

Autograph Collection Debuts Emirates Grand Hotel in the Middle East Adds Hotel Apartments

Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai has joined Autograph Collection, mirates Grand Hotel has un- Marriott International’s exclusive global portfolio of independently owned veiled Emirates Grand Hotel E Apartments, a 346-key fully properties. serviced apartment building along Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road. Developed to provide medi- um- to long-term stay options, the property offers an alcohol free fam- ily friendly environment, and fur- ther diversifies Dubai’s hotel scene as Tarek Aouini, general manager, Emirates Grand Hotel Apartments, he new partnership is to elevate the five-star beachfront property’s iconic noted. status throughout the region by participating in the collection’s global Boasting views of the Arabian T sales and marketing channels as well as the Marriott Rewards frequent Sea and Burj Khalifa, the property travel programme. offers studio and one- and two- “The combination of distinct leisure and culinary experiences and an iconic bedroom units, and an indoor location in Dubai provides guests and travellers with a truly unique travel expe- swimming pool and various restau-

rience that fits perfectly with Autograph Collection,” said Julius Robinson, vice Beach Resort Grand Habtoor & Spa rants are also available. president, Autograph Collection, Marriott International.

First St. Regis Polo Resort to Open in 2017

tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and Al Hab- ResortPolo & Club toor Group are to develop the first-ever St. Regis S polo resort, slated for completion early 2017. The DubaiHabtoor Regis Al St. The 136-room The St. Regis Dubai Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club will be the centrepiece of a 557,000m2 equestrian sports complex in Dubai. As Michael Wale, president, Starwood Hotels & Re- sorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East, noted, the brand has long been associated with the world of polo. Mohammed Al Habtoor, CEO, Al Habtoor Group, also revealed that guests will be able to watch polo from their rooms and suites, as well as the restaurants.

14 28 MARCH 2015 ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS

Ayla Hotel Officially Millennium Resort Mussanah Inaugurated Promotes Facilities

illennium Resort Mussanah recently showcased its facilities, including the new Zayna Spa, to over 110,000 tourism professionals at ITB Berlin. MMaurice de Rooij, general manager, Millennium Resort Mussanah, nurtured both new and existing relations at the Millennium Resort Mussanah event, meeting with international tour operators, travel agencies and market-based representatives from Europe

Ayla Bawadi Hotel Bawadi Ayla to update them on the resort’s latest developments. “As a destination, Oman continues to capture the global tourism market with its ever-increasing popularity owing much to world-class events such as Mussanah Race Week, Tour of Oman and Oman Bike Week,” commented de Rooij.

yla Hotels & Resorts launched Ayla Bawadi Hotel in Al Ain, UAE, situated adjacent to Bawadi Mall. The com- pany’s second property features 90 rooms and suites, Aa restaurant, café, meeting rooms, fitness and wellness facili- ties, a rooftop swimming pool and a children’s pool. “We aim to provide the highest standards of quality ser- vice and to become the first choice of all travellers coming to Al Ain,” said Mohamed Soussan, group general manager, Ayla Hotels & Resorts. The company is gearing up for the launch of its third pro- ject and there are plans for further expansion in the UAE and internationally.

Region’s First YOTEL Project to Open in Dubai

OTEL, an affiliate company of Kuwait-listed IFA Hotels & Resorts, signed a long-term agreement with Dubai Invest- ment Properties to operate the brand’s debut property in Dubai.Y Slated for completion in 2018, the 42-storey hotel will be part of a major development on Sheikh Zayed Road and will boast 438 cabins, exclusive club lounge, as well as multi-function working and recreational space. In addition, 127 serviced apartments, also managed by YOTEL, will also be available. According to Talal Al Bahar, group CEO, IFA Hotels & Resorts, the brand has increasing global potential in delivering attractive returns to investors.

28 MARCH 2015 15 WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Qatar Airways Welcomes Second A350 Qatar Airways took delivery of its second Airbus A350 XWB aircraft that commenced double-daily flights to Frankfurt on March 7.

kbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar airways, said, “The A350 XWB has proven to be a wonderful aircraft, both technologically and from a passenger Aperspective, and we are confident, that this will continue as we introduce more and more A350 XWBs into our fleet. As the A350 is setting new bench- marks in terms of both comfort and passenger experience, we look forward to welcoming our passengers on board our A350 XWBs, to enjoy our renowned five-star service.”

Etihad’s Second Boeing 787 Flies to Washington Inauguration ceremony

tihad Airways has introduced its second Boeing 787 into commercial service, deploying it on the Abu Dhabi – Washington, D.C. route. EThe new aircraft features eight First Suites, 28 Busi- ness Studios and 199 Economy Smart Seats, as well as vast entertainment options and in-flight connectivity. On-board décor and lighting has been inspired by con- temporary modern Arabian design.

16 28 MARCH 2015

WEEKLY NEWS AIR

SAUDIA Steps Up Bahrain Operations

audi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) has expanded its operations to Bahrain, adding 29,000 seats on its scheduled flights from Jed- Sdah and Riyadh to Manama, revealed Abdulrahman Al-Fahad, acting vice president, public relations, SAUDIA. The number of flights from Saudi Arabia to Bahrain jumped to 38 weekly frequencies, registering a 33 percent rise. SAUDIA increased its Jeddah – Manama direct flights from seven to 10 weekly during February while services between Riyadh and the Bahraini capital will be offered nine times per week as of May 3.

Did you know... Emirates Opens LAX Lounge The new lounge offers seating for up to 1572 ? customers covering an area of 840m

mirates unveiled its 37th dedicated lounge at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The USD6.2 million facility ensures seamless luxury and comfort for the airline’s first class and business class customers, as well as Platinum and Gold members of the Emirates Skywards frequent Eflyer programme. “Our third dedicated airport lounge in the US underpins our commitment to providing our premium

′ new lounge Emirates customers with a great travel experience, and delivering on the high standards they have come to expect from Emirates,” commented Mohammed Matter, divisional senior vice president, airport services, Emirates.

18 28 MARCH 2015 AIR WEEKLY NEWS

flynas to Link Riyadh Mahan Air Connects Gulf Air Partners and Cairo Tehran with Munich with Rail & Fly

lynas is to commence direct services n March 11, Tehran-based Mahan ulf Air has teamed up with Rail & Fly, between Riyadh and Cairo, effective Air commenced flights to Munich allowing complimentary travel to from April 29. The route will be oper- from the Iranian capital. and from Frankfurt Airport and 15 fated by an Airbus A320 aircraft, offering OThe route is the airline΄s second in Ger- GGerman destinations via Deutsche Bahn Ger- 164 seats in a two-class configuration. many after Düsseldorf. man railway. “Given the proximity of Egypt to Saudi Tehran – Munich flights operate twice a Gulf Air passengers can now purchase Arabia and the number of Egyptians work- week, on Sundays and Wednesdays. Rail & Fly tickets when booking online to the ing in the Kingdom, this new connection following destinations; Berlin, Munich, Stutt- between Riyadh and Cairo is a logical ad- gart and Düsseldorf. dition to our schedule and will greatly ben- Commenting on the new offering, efit both the flying public and flynas,” noted Ahmed Janahi, acting chief commercial offic- Bander Al Mohanna, CEO, NAS Holding. er, Gulf Air, said, “We are delighted to enhance The Egyptian capital is the Saudi car- movement across Germany whether it be for rier’s seventh destination in the North Af- business or tourism in line with our mission rican country. to facilitate travel across our network.”

Cairo

28 MARCH 2015 19 WEEKLY NEWS AIR

The Residence by Etihad to Fly to New York The Residence by Etihad by Residence The

tihad Airways’ new Airbus A380 service featuring the ultra-luxurious The Residence by Etihad will be available on the Abu Dhabi – New York route, effective from De- E cember 1. The airline will continue to operate double daily flights to the American city and with the introduction of the A380, travellers will have the option to take advantage of the pri- vate three-room suite, hailed as a first of its kind in commercial aviation. Describing the US as a strategically important market, James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, noted that New York marks the first US destination where customers will experi- ence the A380 products and services.

Cargolux Airlines Adds Bahrain to Its Network

ahrain Airport Company (BAC), operator of Bahrain In- ternational Airport (BIA), welcomed Europe’s largest all- B cargo carrier Cargolux Airlines into the country with an inauguration ceremony. Cargolux will be transporting spare parts, machinery, per- ishables and food and consumer goods including textiles be- tween the US and the European markets and Bahrain. Sharon Vaz Arab, regional manager, Middle East, Cargolux Airlines, commented, “The addition of Bahrain to our global network opens up significant opportunities resulting from the Kingdom’s thriving economy.” Cake-cutting ceremony

20 28 MARCH 2015 RENDEZVOUS

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the project’s main strengths? TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: DWC is ex- pected to transform the region into an RASHED BU QARA’A: The initiative in- economic super power. What are the volves a purpose-built, master-planned Q & A with next developments to look out for? city, spanning about 145km2, built around Al Maktoum International Air- RASHED BU QARA’A: DWC is position- port (AMIA), which will be the world’s Rashed Bu Qara’a ing itself to support the progress of largest when complete. countries in the Middle East and Africa At full build, DWC will support a (MEA) region, many of which contain population of some one million people. CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, DUBAI AVIATION CITY the world’s fastest growing as well as Aviation, aerospace and logistics CORPORATION youngest populations. Citizens of the are the defining pillars of DWC’s core region also enjoy rising levels of per- activities, but DWC is, above all, a smart sonal income – a surge that has driven and self-sustained urban ecosystem – spending and demand. The MEA’s com- an attractive and futuristic destination bined population is projected to reach in which to work, do business and live. 1.8 billion inhabitants by 2030, with an DWC is a city built for speed. Every- average age of just 23.4 years. Such de- thing in and around it – [...] - are integrat- mographics necessitate rapid delivery ed to provide unparalleled ease of doing of essential goods and services related business, unmatched connectivity and to food, healthcare, education and tour- seamless efficiency. Take, for instance, ism with greater speed and efficiency the Dubai Logistics Corridor that links than ever before. Organisations look- sea, land and air, and spans an area of ap- ing to capitalise on such opportunities proximately 200km2. The corridor links will clearly see the value-proposition in DWC to Port and Jebel Ali Free making DWC their base […]. Zone, and facilitates rapid movement of cargo from sea-to-air and air-to-sea. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How will Goods offloaded at Jebel Ali Port can DWC benefit Dubai in the long run? swiftly become airborne from the AMIA runway within a few hours, en route to RASHED BU QARA’A: DWC is aligned their final destinations. We are working with the Dubai Strategic Plan 2021 and to further shorten this time frame. will contribute to achieving its objec- DWC is also home to the much-an- tives – to become a city of happy, crea- ticipated World Expo 2020. tive and empowered people, a preferred place to work, live and visit, a smart and TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Over , a pivotal hub for the past years, DWC has played a ma- global economy, and a destination that jor role in Dubai’s development as a RASHED BU QARA’A, CHIEF OPERATING OFFIC- boasts excellent governance. hub for global aviation and logistics. ER, DUBAI AVIATION CITY CORPORATION, TALKS DWC will consolidate Dubai’s image What achievements stand out? as the world’s leading aviation and aer- ABOUT HOW DUBAI WORLD CENTRAL (DWC), ospace hub. As per the Dubai Airports RASHED BU QARA’A: Of course, the A STRATEGIC INITIATIVE OF THE GOVERNMENT Strategic Plan 2020, international pas- milestones that prominently stand out OF DUBAI, SEEKS TO LEVERAGE THE DESTINA- senger and cargo traffic at both Dubai in the public eye relate to AMIA. The air- International and DWC will increase at port, when fully operational, will have TION’S UNIQUE ADVANTAGE AS A VITAL CONNEC- an average annual rate of 7.2 percent five runways, and is projected to move TION POINT BETWEEN EAST AND WEST. and 6.7 percent respectively. By 2020, 200 million passengers annually – in ef- Dubai’s aviation industry is projected to fect tripling Dubai’s current level of pas- account for 22 percent of the emirate’s senger traffic – and 16 million tons of employment and a third of its GDP. [...] cargo. In a bid to accelerate the expan- center that will be operated by Falcon District are also noteworthy with activi- The fact that DWC is the venue for sion at AMIA, the Dubai government in Aviation. It will be the only facility of its ties in this district giving DWC its strong Expo 2020 also carries its own economic September 2014 sanctioned a USD32 kind in the region. In the same month, logistics edge. […] pull. Around 25 million visitors, of which billion fund for the project. we signed an agreement with STTS [This February], the Aviation District 70 percent will be international, are ex- In June 2010, AMIA opened to cargo Group, a major player in aircraft painting, welcomed Lufthansa Technik, one of the pected to attend. Estimates indicate that flights. Our partner Emirates Sky Cargo which will build a multi-purpose facil- leading maintenance, repair and over- the economic impact generated by the now operates at DWC from its own ded- ity to service various aircraft. A 6,000m2 haul players in the world. In the same Expo between now and 2021 will be icated terminal building. The landing of executive terminal is also scheduled for month, the district also announced the some USD26.5 billion - much of this val- the first passenger flight at AMIA in Oc- completion by the fourth quarter, host- development of new aerospace sup- ue is expected to be retained within the tober 2013 was also historic. ing key business aviation players includ- ply chain facilities as part of its efforts UAE. Over the next six years, more than In November 2014, DWC’s Aviation ing Jet Aviation, XJet and Jetex. in shaping a comprehensive ecosystem 275,000 jobs are set to be created in and District broke ground for a completion Developments in DWC’s Logistics dedicated to the aviation industry. around the UAE to service the Expo.

28 MARCH 2015 21 WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL

- Choice Hotels Supports BWI Restructures Riu Plaza Debuts a Safe House International Operations in the US

hoice Hotels International is work- est Western International (BWI) is ex- IU Hotels & Resorts has celebrated ing with Phoenix-based non-profit panding its regional operations of- the opening of Riu Plaza Miami C organisation, Rebuilding Together B fices in Thailand and Turkey. R Beach, Riu Plaza brand′s debut pro- to refresh the apartments of De Colores, a Under the new strategy, the company’s ject in the US. programme of Chicano Por La Causa (CPLC), Middle Eastern hotels and projects will now Formerly known as Hotel Riu Florida which currently offers the only bilingual safe be spearheaded by the Turkish office. Beach, the converted property has been un- house for women and children subject to do- The Bangkok team, which was previously veiled following a USD20 million (EUR17.7 mestic violence in Phoenix. also in charge of the Middle East, will contin- million) refurbishment and investment. Be- “Providing support to local communities ue to supervise BWI’s growth in Thailand, as sides 284 redesigned rooms, the hotel also that Choice Hotels has close ties to such as well as the neighbouring countries. offers a chill-out area, a new Capital Take Phoenix is a big priority for our associates. According to Ron Pohl, senior vice presi- Away in the lobby as well as a new poolside Our work with Rebuilding Together contin- dent, international operation, BWI, the en- snack bar. ues to be a humbling experience, and we are hancements made to the international op- Located on Miami’s Collins Avenue with looking forward to lending a helping hand erations in Asia will enable the company to direct access to the boardwalk and just min- to those in need at De Colores," said Steve cater to the specific needs of this diverse and utes from the renowned Ocean Drive, the Joyce, president, Choice Hotels International. dynamic region. hotel is ideal for leisure visitors to the city.

Did you know...

BWI has more than 4,000 hotels in over 100 countriesthe world? around

Riu Plaza Miami Beach

22 28 MARCH 2015 AGENT CORNER Agent’s Insight

NAME: Dinto Akkara

POSITION: Head of marketing

COMPANY: houseoftours.com

LOCATION: UAE

WEBSITE: www.houseoftours.com

Who are you? I am Dinto Akkara, head of marketing at houseoftours.com, a travel and tours management company based in the UAE and focussed on corporate travel and international holidays. We also have presence in the aviation and financial report- ing segments.

What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? It is the passion to meet with people, ideas and technology.

When is the best time to visit the UAE? It will be a treat if you visit between mid-November and the end of February.

Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? Next time I would like to go to Paris.

Why should people come to you for travel advice?. It is the easiest way for them to get the right guidance with the best options.

28 MARCH 2015 23 TRAVEL TALK

Airewards [...] [is] a major Luxury travellers come step forward in how we to the Middle East with engage with our customers higher expectation

“Air Arabia is proud to unveil Aire- wards, the region’s first-ever low- cost carrier loyalty programme “Luxury travellers come to the and a major step forward in how Middle East with higher expec- we engage with our customers. tation and are willing to spend Air Arabia has always used in- more than what they would novative products and cutting spend in other destinations ADEL edge technology [...]. The launch MICHELE seeking a different experience of Airewards falls in line with and a memorable time whether ALI the airline’s commitment to put FRIGNANI they are coming on holidays, value for money proposition at stop-overs or on business. The the heart of its business model. experience starts with the high Group CEO, Air Arabia This programme not only sets General manager, quality of the hotel rooms and the standard for the low-cost amenities, the variety of luxury aviation industry, it also allows us Ajman Saray, a Luxury culinary concepts and the most to say a big thank you to the mil- Collection Resort valuable element is the high lions of loyal passengers [...].” quality of service.”

We are delighted to bring The Ritz-Carlton has recognition [...] to launched real-time service Bahrain requests “We are delighted to bring recog- nition [with the best Business Ho- “In line with our commitment to tel in Bahrain accolade by the Busi- stay relevant to our customers ness Destination Travel Awards] and taking into consideration not only to our hotel, but also to the ever-increasing number of Bahrain as a business friendly des- smartphone users, 2014 saw an tination. Our team, through our introduction of the enhanced Yes I Can philosophy and the sup- capabilities of The Ritz-Carlton PANOS port of the government, engaged PEP App […]. In addition to mo- with guests throughout the year bile check-in and check-out, PANAGIS to provide the service business LOZANO The Ritz-Carlton has launched travellers deserve. […] The fault- real-time service requests, food less combination of traditional and beverage ordering, The General manager, style, modern facilities and com- General manager, Ritz-Carlton Rewards account mitted engagement with The Dip- review, folio review, and access The Diplomat Radis- lomat Radisson Blu’s guests are The Ritz-Carlton to exclusive local content, con- son Blu Hotel, Resi- the secret that keep this hotel in a Abu Dhabi, Grand cierge tips and offers at all ho- dence & Spa leading position.” Canal tels.”

TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to [email protected]

24 28 MARCH 2015 TRAVEL CHANNELS

Busiest Year Ever for Emirates Middle East Fuels

Global Air Traffic Cabin Crew Training Growth

Emirates Aviation College (EAC) – Crew Training reported a record-breaking he Middle East has retained its po- year for 2014, with over 33,000 attendees in several courses covering various sition as the world’s fastest-grow- ing region in terms of passenger disciplines, such as safety and emergency procedures and medical training. Ttraffic, having registered an 11 percent year-on-year rise in January, well ahead of the global average of 4.5 percent. uring the year, Emirates invested about Based on data compiled by Airports AED73 million (USD19.9 million) in Council International, the Middle East cabin crew training, with 4,280 new also continued to lead in freight traffic, cabin crew members graduating from having posted a 9.6 percent increase for the facility and thousands pursuing an the month under review, contributing Dupgrade. EAC – Crew Training operated at an aver- significantly to the three percent global age of 17 hours per day, conducting 3,994 courses. surge. As Catherine Baird, senior vice president, cab- In terms of passenger demand, all re- in crew training, Emirates, revealed, the company gions witnessed improvement. Growth, concluded the year with nearly 20,000 cabin crew however, slowed in China and Russia; In- and this year, up to 120 new recruits join the col- dia, on the other hand, is now catching lege each week. up. Exercise at Emirates Aviation College

Grand Millennium Dubai Supports Children with Special Needs

n line with its corporate social responsibility initiatives, Grand Millennium Dubai extended its support to the Al Noor – Sam- sung Hope for Children Family Fun Fair, organised by Al Noor ITraining Centre for Children with Special Needs in Dubai. As Peter Mansourian, general manager, Grand Millennium Dubai, noted, the hotel has been collaborating with the centre for the past five years, raising funds, attending family day events and sponsoring a subsidy of one student every year. “We will continue to support the significant work done by the centre in future because such partnerships are vital in helping the centre meet its expenses,” added Mansourian.

Grand Millennium Dubai’s team at the family fun fair

28 MARCH 2015 25 WHO’S MOVED

Yousuf Mohammad Ali con- Ulf Hüttmeyer has been tinues as senior vice president named by Etihad Airways as of procurement and logistics the new senior vice president for Emirates Airline and Group of finance equity partners, ef- Services. fective from April 1. Ali became part of the Emirates ULF Hüttmeyern joins the Abu Dha- family in 2011 as vice president bi-based airline from airberlin of procurement and logistics, HÜTTMEYER where he worked as chief fi- taking on the responsibil- nancial officer for the past nine ity for non-aircraft services for years. He was also one of the the Emirates Group. He was in architects of the 2011 transac- charge of planning and imple- tion in which Etihad Airways be- menting the group-wide strate- came a minority equity investor gy for best practices in procure- in the German company. ment and logistics methods. He began his professional career All in all, Ali has over 16 in 1996 at Commerzbank, where years of experience in the he was later appointed to direc- field of asset management. tor. Hüttmeyern joined airberlin Prior to joining Emirates, he in 2006 and was also member YOUSUF held key positions with Majid of the management board from Al Futtaim Group as well as October 2012 onwards. MOHAMMAD Emaar Properties. He was also the first UAE national to hold ALI international accreditation as Hüttmeyer played a key a certified shopping centre role in Etihad Airway΄s manager. investment

Saeed Mohammed has been Lynne McGarvey has been ap- chosen to fill the position of pointed training ambassador CEO at Emirates Flight Catering. at Media One Hotel, Dubai. Mohammed joined Emirates in McGarvey, who has 10 years’ 2001 as general manager of air- experience in hospitality SAEED craft procurement and played management, spanning hu- an active role in the expansion man resources and develop- MOHAMMED programme for the procure- ment, will chalk out a new ment of both aircraft and en- training strategy for the hotel gines. He was then promoted in line with brand guidelines, to lead the procurement and implement scheduled train- logistics department for the ing courses and oversee train- airline and the group as senior ing delivery in the individual vice president, leading a team departments. of over 130 specialists. Having worked as gen- As CEO, he will be responsible eral manager at Frankie & for all business functions at Benny’s Italian restaurant Emirates Flight Catering, hailed in Scotland, McGarvey has as the world’s largest flight ca- experienced both opera- tering facility. LYNNE tional and training roles. Mohammed was the first Arab She then moved to Dubai national to be awarded a fel- MCGARVEY with Wafi Hospitality in 2010 lowship at the Chartered Insti- as bar and restaurant manag- tute of Purchasing and Supply, er, and she later also worked and was the first Arab on its as area manager in Dubai and board. Abu Dhabi.

26 28 MARCH 2015 PHOTO ALBUM

Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.

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

Canadian teacher Desiree Belter is the lucky winner of InterContinental Doha The Centro Capital Centre by Rotana participated in the Annual Sports City's Take a Trip to Canada promotion Day of the Future Centre for Special Needs

Hamad International Airport was handed the Best Airport in the Emergency exercise at Emirates Aviation College Middle East award at the Skytrax award ceremony in Paris

Actor Vin Diesel revealed Etihad Airways' Hundreds of classic cars and motorbikes were on display at luxury Fast & Furious 777 airliner just in time Emirates Classic Car Festival in Downtown Dubai for the world premier of Fast & Furious 7

28 MARCH 2015 27 NEWS & EVENTS

Dubai Marks Strong EVENTS Presence at ITB Berlin

AZERBAIJAN INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL & TOURISM FAIR ubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Baku, Azerbaijan more than 80 of its partners from April 02 – 04 D www.aitf.az across the emirate took part in ITB Berlin, A main event in Azerbaijan’s where they promoted Dubai’s enhanced fast-growing tourism market destination content. DTCM used a 526m2 attracting a large number of stand to showcase Dubai 360, its new international participants. online interactive tour, and highlight the emirate as a year-round destination. According to Nasif Kayed, managing di- rector, Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cul- tural Understanding, ITB offered an amaz- ing chance for interested visitors to engage with the Emirati culture.

Bringing Together RIYADH TRAVEL FAIR Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Social Media Pioneers April 14 – 17 www.riyadhtravel.net Held since 2009, in 2014 the event witnessed a strong increase he Arab Social Media Influenc- of 18 percent in the number of ers Summit in Dubai, held be- exhibitors compared to 2013. T tween March 17-18, brought together the influential pioneers of social media channels to explore the latest trends, highlight the positive use of social media networks and honour the best practices in the field. H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, noted that the Arab youth have shown distinct talents on social me- dia channels.

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA

Cape Town, South Africa April 15 – 17 www.wtmafrica.com It creates personal and business opportunities providing customers with quality contacts, content and communities.

KAZAKHSTAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM & TRAVEL FAIR

Almaty, Kazakhstan April 22 – 24 www.kitf.kz A major tourism forum in Central Asia presenting resorts, upscale hotels and convenient air connections.

28 28 MARCH 2015