QATAR AIRWAYS TOUCHES DOWN IN SYDNEY

ALOFT ARRIVES AT DUBAI’S PALM JUMEIRAH

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19 MARCH 2016 ISSUE 332

BAHRAIN TARGETS USD1 BILLION IN TOURISM RECEIPTS

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Niche TourismWho's MovedAgent Corner

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS

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Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel

ASSISTANT EDITORMaria Kazeli

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19 MARCH 20162

MARKET UPDATE www.traveltradeweekly.travel

OVER TWO MILLION PASSENGERS AT ABU DHABI AIRPORT

AMADEUS: STRONG 2015 PERFORMANCE

After a record-breaking 2015, Abu Dhabi International Airport registered a 14.1 percent year-on-year surge in passenger traffic in January, with 2.15 million people travelling through the hub.

Amadeus recorded an adjusted profit of EUR751.8 million (USD824.7 million) in 2015, marking a 10.4 percent year-on-year rise, supported by a revenue increase of 14.5 percent to EUR3.91 billion (USD4.3 billion). Earnings before interest, taxes, interest, depreciation and amortisation grew 12.2 percent to EUR1.47 billion (USD1.6 billion).

According to Ahmad Al Haddabi, chief operations officer, Abu Dhabi Airports, this is mainly due to the ongoing expansion of Etihad Airways’ operations.

“[The airline’s] strategic partnerships have also made a significant impact, as highlight-ed by the recent announcement by Etihad Airways of a 63 percent increase in annual pas-

senger traffic between India and Abu Dhabi with partner Jet Airways,” said Al Haddabi. Moreover, aircraft movements reached 14,514, up 2.7 percent compared to January 2015.

Luis Maroto, president, Amadeus, commented, “Both our distribution and IT solutions busi-nesses delivered increases in revenues. Revenue growth in distribution of 11.5 percent was underpinned by growth in North America and Asia Pacific. In IT solutions, revenue growth was 22.1 percent, driven by the continued migration of large carriers in Asia Pa-

cific, as well as upselling and contribution from new areas such as airport IT and payments.”

Bahrain (BHD)

Jordan (JOD)

Oman (OMR)

Qatar (QAR)

Saudi Arabia (SAR)

UAE (AED)

Algeria (DZD)

Egypt (EGP)

Iran (IRR)

Iraq (IQD)

Kuwait (KWD)

Lebanon (LBP)

Libya (LYD)

Morocco (MAD)

Syria (SYP)

Tunisia (TND)

Yemen (YER)

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18.3.2016as ofMENA EXCHANGE RATES

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WEEKLY NEWS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

19 MARCH 2016

SCTDA Trains Hotel Department

Managers

Ras Al Khaimah: Sharp Increase in

Occupancy

S harjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCT-DA) launched Marhabtain Pro-

gramme for Innovators to guide depart-ment managers in the emirate’s hotel sector.

The initiative aims to develop in-terpersonal skills and enhance the knowledge of industry specialists. Con-sequently, it will also contribute to im-proving the quality of services in the sector.

H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman, SCTDA, said, “The programme will reflect positively on the performance of the ho-tel facilities and contribute to the devel-opment of internal systems and services provided to guests. This will lead to in-creased occupancy and profit rates.”

T he year is off to a good start for Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism sector, driven by strong de-

mand from Germany, Russia, the UK, India and Finland.

Occupancy levels in January rose 23.7 percent year-on-year to 62.2 percent, while RevPAR was up 10.3 percent.

As Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Au-thority, pinpointed, guest numbers from Russia, for example, jumped 30 percent, leading to a significant growth in room nights and aver-age daily rate. Notably, figures from Germany and Finland skyrocketed 167 percent and 153 percent, respectively.

Cairo Planning for Growth

ReceiptsWITH AN EXPANDING HOTEL AND TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE, BAHRAIN’S TOURISM SECTOR IS EXPECTED TO CONTRIBUTE USD1 BILLION TO THE NATIONAL ECONOMY BY 2020, ACCORDING TO ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET (ATM) DATA.

“B ahrain [ventured into] a much-needed USD1.1 billion airport expansion, and also has plans to expand its current exhibition centre to accommodate large-scale events across all categories,” Nadege Noblet-Segers, exhibition manager, ATM, fur-ther enlightened.

In addition, a new USD3 billion road and rail crossing is being planned for com-pletion in 2018 in a bid to reduce the congestion on the existing King Fahd causeway to Saudi Arabia.

BAHRAIN TARGETS USD1 BILLION IN TOURISM

Bahr

ain

H. E. Hisham Zaazou, tourism minister, Egypt, unveiled the Cairo Tourism Declaration at

a recently-held conference in the capital, which gathered 200 senior industry rep-resentatives from 25 countries.

The declaration sets out four main themes that will be key to growing Egypt’s tourism sustainability this year and beyond: security, cultural tourism, resorts and telling the country’s story to the world.

Zaazou made a commitment to hold the event on an annual basis to also in-clude a progress review of the set-out actions.

“This declaration reinforces our commitment to ensure Egypt reclaims its rightful position as one of the most sought-after places to visit in the world,” stated Zaazou.

http://www.bbc.com/

19 MARCH 20166

WEEKLY NEWS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Azerbaijan Eases Visa Rules

Ras Al Khaimah TDA Holds Strategy Gathering

In a bid to receive feedback and strengthen rela-tionships, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (TDA) hosted a strategy meeting for the

emirate’s industry stakeholders, addressing 31 local professionals and government entities during two ses-sions, one in Arabic and another one in English.

The tourism body shared its three-year plans to drive Ras Al Khaimah’s growth and maximise its offer-ing, also focussing on the development of the destina-tion’s heritage and historical sites.

Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah TDA, not-ed, “This [was] the first of many meetings we will be holding to discuss plans, as we believe the best way to make the most of our emirate’s opportunities is through collaboration.”

V isa requirements have been lifted by Azerbaijan for citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and a number of Asian countries.

Speaking of the waiver, Abulfas Garayev, culture and tourism minister, Azerbaijan, described the move as a his-torical milestone in the countries’ relationship.

“The distance of two and a half hours’ fight from the GCC region, daily served by Azerbaijan Airlines, flydubai and Qatar Airways, makes Azerbaijan a perfect destination to discover,” added Garayev.

SCTH Showcased at

Heritage Festival

Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH)’s pavilion welcomed over 190,000 visitors at

the recently concluded National Festival for Heritage and Culture Al Janadriyah 30.

The tourism body’s stand, themed Tourism and Heritage Oasis, also received a number of international delegations and public officials.

The area featured the latest tech-nologies, including an expansive display screen, playing films on the Kingdom’s heritage and tourism sites and SCTH’s achievements. It also housed small and large display screens with infographics, as well as a special hall showcasing the win-ning films of Saudi Arabia Colors Award Forum.

Limo Service for Visitors to Dubai

Discerning travellers heading to Dubai can now travel with deluxe vehicles following the

launch of 24/7 limousine offering by Dubai Taxi Corporation and Roads and Transport Authority.

“This service is provided in an ex-cellent environment characterised by luxurious and exclusive services; dif-ferent from the standard taxi service,” commented Yousef Al Ali, CEO, Dubai Taxi Corporation.

A personal welcome is extended to guests upon arrival at Dubai In-ternational’s terminals, who can then enjoy the comfort of a VIP lounge be-fore continuing their journey to their selected destination.

DID YOU KNOW...

This year, 85 million

passengers are expected at Dubai

International?

Baku

Ras Al Khaimah

http://www.rotana.com/

19 MARCH 20168

WEEKLY NEWS NICHE TOURISM www.traveltradeweekly.travel

GCC MICE Tourism in Focus

O n the occasion of MICE Arabia Congress held in the emirate in early March, Mikael Lambotte, assistant man-ager, guest relations, Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski

München, Munich, commented that there are still challenges to overcome.

“We truly think that the easiness of access via direct airline connectivity is key. Time is too important for people and chang-ing flights three times is not acceptable for business travellers,” he analysed, adding that security is also another concern.

According to a study conducted by Strategy&, business tourists represented one third of all

visitors to the GCC in 2015, indicating that the segment is growing rapidly with Dubai alone

holding nearly 27 percent of the USD1.3 billion MICE Gmarket. Speaking at the 10th Middle East Yachting

Conference, Robert van Tol, director of oper-ations, Superyacht Builders Association, re-

minded that due to the increase in the number of ultra high-net-worth individuals in the Middle East, the area remains very important for the industry.

“The 55 percent propensity to buy [...] is the highest of all the regions,” he said.

Under the theme Investing for the Future, De-fining Future Strategies, the conference brought together global experts industry authorities and boating enthusiasts, to address the latest trends, technologies, plans and regulations affecting the marine leisure sector in Dubai and beyond.

Middle East Remains Key for Yacht Industry

Yasmin Mall Launched in Jeddah

A rabian Centres opened Yasmin Mall the 18th commercial centre in the company’s retail real estate portfolio, on Jeddah’s Al Harameen Road.

“With an estimated annual footfall of nine million, Yasmin Mall is a fantastic destination for retailers seeking to build or further expand their brand in the Kingdom,” commented Simon Wil-cock, CEO, Arabian Centres.

The developer owns 11 other shopping malls currently under development, in the country.

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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATIONwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

Aloft Arrives at Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah

S cheduled to launch in 2017, Aloft Dubai, The Palm will be the brand’s first resort in the region, complete with beach access.

“The UAE remains our strongest growth market in the Middle East, and this deal reinforces the demand for midmarket hotel development in the region,” said Michael Wale, president, Europe, Africa and Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.

Featuring an urban-influenced design, the property will comprise 192 rooms, including 10 suites, with platform beds, walk-in showers and many complimentary amenities.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide will open a 192-room Aloft on Palm Jumeirah.

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Meliá to Debut in Iran

M eliá Hotels Internation-al is to enter the Iranian market with a five-star

property in Salman Shahr, a pop-ular holiday destination on the shores of the Caspian Sea.

The 319-unit Gran Meliá Ghoo Hotel will be part of Ghoo, Mid-dle East Diamond, a large mixed residential, commercial and hos-pitality complex which will also feature two residential towers, a sports centre and a mall, which is already open to the public.

Gabriel Escarrer, CEO, Meliá Hotels International, stated, “We have always been pioneers in the development of new markets in the travel and tourism industry […]. We firmly believe in Iran’s tourism potential.”

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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group plans to bring its life-style select brand Radisson RED to Dubai in the third quarter of 2018 with the 171-room Radis-

son RED Dubai Silicon Oasis. The property will boast a number of restaurants, an

outdoor terrace and a number of reading rooms. Given its convenient location at the centre of Silicon

Park in the city’s Silicon Oasis, guests will enjoy easy ac-cess to a promenade dotted with various dining outlets along with a business centre and dedicated meeting fa-cilities connected to the hotel.

Radisson RED to Enter Dubai

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Action Hotels Debuts in Brisbane

U AE-based Action Hotels formally opened ibis Styles Eliza-beth Street in Brisbane, Australia.

The 368-room new-built property is located in the city’s central business district, benefiting from exposure to both tourist and corporate areas. The hotel boasts a restaurant, bar and meeting space with an outdoor terrace.

Mat Finch, general manager, ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street, noted, “ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street is set to be a flagship ibis hotel for the region. It is striking, vibrant and playful design really sets a new benchmark for premium economy hotels and our team is excited to begin delivering unique and memora-ble experiences for each and every guest.”

Riyadh’s Marriott Properties Break

Ground

Under the patronage of H.R.H. Faisal bin Bandar, prince, Riyadh, Dur Hos-

pitality laid the foundation stone of the upcoming Marriott hotel and Marriott Executive Apart-ments at the city’s Diplomatic Quarter.

Both properties are expected to open in 2018, adding to Marri-ott International’s existing offer-ing in the Saudi capital.

The project incorporates an 80-room five-star hotel and 140 luxury apartments, high-end restaurants, meeting space and a business centre that extends over an approximate area of 25,000m2. Br

isba

ne

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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATIONwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

City Centre Rotana Doha Enhances Dining Offering

City Centre Rotana Doha un-veiled Boston’s restaurant and lounge, featuring American

and English cuisine and live music.Guests can also watch various

sporting events while enjoying their meal.

Lana Jwainat, cluster director, marketing and communications, City Centre Rotana and Oryx Rotana, com-mented, “Here, patrons will find their favourite beverages and delicious food in a welcoming, lively atmos-phere, theme nights, happy hour pric-es, ladies nights and the very latest in music hits selected by the in-house DJ. Moreover, this restaurant will offer the highest level of services character-ising the Rotana brand.”

Boston’s

Millennium Airport Dubai Showcased in Berlin

Following the launch of additional rooms, leisure and MICE facilities at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, the property highlighted its upgraded offerings to European travel professionals at the recently-concluded ITB Berlin exhibition.

The 341-room hotel is hailed as a contemporary MICE and leisure destination, ideal for overseas and local corporate and private events of various scale.

“Conveniently located just five minutes’ drive away from Dubai International and downtown, the ho-tel has top-notch MICE facilities suitable for meetings and corporate events, as well as extensive leisure amenities for the ultimate comfort of our leisure guests,” commented Hossam Nabil, director of sales and marketing, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. M

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR www.traveltradeweekly.travel

G ulf Air increased its Riyadh service with the addition of four afternoon flights per week, supplementing

the carrier’s recent upgauge of its Jeddah operations.

“The enhanced Gulf Air service gives trav-ellers an additional afternoon flight, supple-menting our existing, multiple daily schedule,” said Ahmed Janahi, acting chief commercial officer, Gulf Air. “This not only helps us fur-ther satisfy passenger need, but also creates improved connections for those passengers connecting to and from Gulf Air’s network of onwards destinations across the globe.” Emirates is gearing up to launch a daily service from Dubai

to Yangon, Myanmar, and Hanoi, Vietnam, effective from August 03.

Utilising a Boeing 777-300ER in a three-class configuration, the new route is expected to strengthen the airline’s network of desti-nations in Southeast Asia.

Adnan Kazim, divisional senior vice president, strategic plan-ning, revenue optimisation and aeropolitical affairs, Emirates, com-mented, “Emirates’ first air service to Myanmar supports the coun-try’s Tourism Master Plan to target 7.5 million tourists arrivals by 2020, and for Hanoi, the service will provide additional options for Vietnamese to travel to Dubai and on Emirates’ global network of destinations.” H

anoi

Riyadh

Gulf Air Boosts Saudi Operations

Emirates Enhances Southeast Asia Network

Qatar Airways Touches Down in Sydney

The carrier deploys a Boeing 777-300 aircraft on the route which was deemed an important milestone by Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways.

The new service, which will also provide 84 tonnes of cargo capacity per week, is expected to generate an esti-mated 3,000 jobs in New South Wales and contribute more than AUD240 million (USD175.5 million) to the local economy.

Qatar Airways commenced daily services between Doha and Sydney, the airline’s third gateway into Australia after Melbourne and Perth.

19 MARCH 2016 13

WEEKLY NEWS AIRwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

Emirates has enhanced its partnership with S7 Airlines to improve connectivity and services by codesharing on Russian routes.

The two carriers have been in an interline agreement since 2003, which was further expanded in 2008.

The new deal sees Emirates‘ code added to more than 30 itineraries operated by its partner across Russia, as well as on the twice-weekly flight between Dubai and Novosibirsk. It also allows the Russian company to reciprocally put its code on the Dubai – Moscow route operated by the UAE carrier.

Emirates Joins Forces with Russian Partner

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Gulf Air Displayed in Saudi Arabia

Gulf Air participated in the recently- concluded Saudi Aramco Travel Fair, in Dhahran, promoting some of its

key products and services alongside 50 other travel and hospitality exhibitors.

Ahmed Janahi, acting chief commercial officer, Gulf Air, commented, “Events such as these allow us to further consolidate our posi-tion in the [Saudi] market. We are delighted to provide superior travel solutions that cater to the travel needs of our Saudi passengers and showcase our tailored offering to meet their requirement.”

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Gulf Air recently conducted a seminar for frontline and sales staff representing 30 travel agen-cies in Thailand.

The event helped participants familiarise with the airline’s latest developments, en-hanced schedule and modified connections to various European destinations, promotional fares as well as future plans with regards to its fleet.

Yahya Ali Buali, senior manager, sales, Gulf Air, commented, “We are committed to facilitating travel for Thai passengers across Gulf Air’s extensive network and partnering with travel agents to realise this.”

Gulf Air Holds Industry Meeting in Bangkok

Qatar Airways Partners with KidZania Singapore

Qatar Airways was officially unveiled as KidZania Singapore’s latest industry partner during a special preview of the KidZania Singapore establishment

on Sentosa Island.The airline will create a branded airport terminal, complete

with check-in desks and personnel dressed in Qatar Airways uniforms. Kids will also be able to experience flying the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A380 via state-of-the-art flight simulators.

Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, commented, “Through KidZania Singapore, we hope to introduce today’s budding aviation enthusiasts to the airline environment, helping them on their journeys into an aviation-related career when they grow up.”E tihad Airways received a

new Boeing 777 freighter, the 11th aircraft in Etihad

Cargo’s collection. Part of a USD67 billion fleet

order, it is the first of two cargo planes signed at 2015’s Dubai Air Show, with the second ex-pected to be delivered this month.

“In [2015], we have been expanding into South America, Africa and Asia and the new air-craft will enhance capacity and enable us to increase frequency across our scheduled network, but importantly, also increase our charter opportunities to growth areas of the world,” said Kevin Knight, chief strategy and planning officer, Etihad Airways.

Etihad Cargo Fleet Enlarged

Qatar Airways cabin crew with KidZania mascots

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DID YOU KNOW...

Etihad Airways operates a number of

freighter-only destinations including

Bogota, Guangzhou, Dakar, Hanoi, Houston, Sharjah and Tbilisi?

https://www.sunrise-resorts.com/

19 MARCH 201616

WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL www.traveltradeweekly.travel

S tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide launched Four Points Seattle Airport South, marking the brand’s second hotel in greater Seattle, Washington, US.

The newly-constructed property boasts 225 rooms, in-cluding two-storey loft suites, 557m2 of meeting space, an outdoor swimming pool and patio, restaurant, a 24-hour fit-ness centre as well as a business area.

“The debut of Four Points Seattle Airport South gives us a second convenient location within greater Seattle, in close proximity to [Seattle-Tacoma International Airport], leading businesses and top attractions,” said Brian McGuinness, sen-ior vice president, specialty select brands, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.

F ollowing a multimillion-dollar renovation of rooms and public spaces, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group re-opened Radisson Hotel Cheyenne in

Wyoming, US. The 249-room property features over 1,672m2 of

meeting and event space, an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant featuring a range of traditional American cui-sine, state-of-the-art fitness centre and a business unit.

“As one of our first openings for the brand [this year], Radisson Hotel Cheyenne represents our con-tinued dedication to further expand throughout the Americas,” noted Javier Rosenberg, chief operating of-ficer, Americas, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.

O ld Montreal will welcome a new gem this summer with the opening of a new luxury hotel, William Gray.

Inspired by modern-day Montreal, the 127-key property is spread across eight floors and encom-passes two historic buildings atop of which sits a new glass tower.

Located close to the Old Port and Place Jacques-Cartier, it offers 930m2 of event space, a 180-seat restaurant, rooftop terrace, a spa with an outdoor pool, shopping outlet and a café. All of its guestrooms feature local art, rich wood and floor-to-ceiling windows, among other perks.

H ungary is to compete with the larg-est destinations on the global tourism scene with the development of what is

hailed as the world’s biggest indoor water park. The EUR5 billion (USD5.5 billion) project, to

be built on a 110ha land on the shores of Lake Balaton, will include an underwater luxury ho-tel, cave bath, waterfalls, surfing, kayaking and scuba diving facilities, a mega-aquarium, vari-ous swimming pools and thermal baths, among others.

Open 24 hours a day, AQUA Regnum Hun-gary is set to become a year-round attraction. Se

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Four Points Expands in Seattle

Radisson Hotel Cheyenne Boasts Refreshed Look

Montreal Awaits William Gray Hotel

World’s Largest Water Park to Be Built in Hungary

19 MARCH 2016 17

RENDEZVOUSwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How is social media transforming the ways we communicate and engage with others?

ELAINE NETTLETON: Social media and online communication are continu-ously evolving and changing, providing consumers around the world a plethora of meaningful ways to engage with people, brands and events that matter to them. Today, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How does the group utilise social media?

ELAINE NETTLETON

Q & A

with

AREA PUBLIC RELATIONS, DIGITAL COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER, THE REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP

TRAVELLERS ARE INCREASINGLY RELYING ON ONLINE REVIEWS AND TIPS AND ELAINE

NETTLETON, AREA PUBLIC RELATIONS, DIGITAL COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA

MANAGER, THE REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP, ENSURES THE COMPANY MAKES THE MOST

OF THESE NEW AGE CHANNELS.

ELAINE NETTLETON: Social media is becoming an increasingly important way for guests to find out information about our hotels. More than ever be-fore, consumers are looking up brands online before making a purchase, potential guests are reading reviews from peers and experts on hotels and brands, and guests are writing reviews and sharing moments of their stays on various social media networks. As such, it is crucial we utilise and have a strong presence on the relevant social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and that we build strong and lasting relationships with bloggers and online influencers.

At Rezidor, we are making a signifi-cant push to improve our digital and so-

cial media capabilities and presence to enable us to tell our story and engage online.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How can a hotelier make the most of social me-dia and effectively manage negative comments?

ELAINE NETTLETON: In the hospitality industry, we are blessed with the fact that we have a rich resource of material on hand that is perfect for social media. From the people behind the scenes of the hotel and the events we host, to the dishes that our chefs pro-duce – there are many op-portunities for us to share what we do in an intimate way that helps us connect with our fans.

On the other hand, dig-ital media has significantly influenced the pace at which crises evolve, and so, digital crisis preparedness is paramount to protecting a company’s reputation and its ability to compete

in the marketplace.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How will so-cial media trends change in the near future?

ELAINE NETTLETON: The social media world of the current year will look a lot like that of 2015, but with a greater ac-celeration in some areas.

User-generated content is not a new phenomenon, but in 2017 it will take on an even greater significance as organisations adapt their strategies to include a lot more curated content from key influencers and interesting posts.

In 2015, we saw the launch of live streaming tools such as Periscope and Facebook’s Livestream, and experts pre-

dict that these tools will form the central part of social media campaigns this year as the appetite for visual content grows. Content on social media that contains video is proven to be more engaging, but what will be key this year is personal-isation of these videos. Consumers want a real insight into brands and those who lead organisations.

We will see the continued rise of visually dominated platforms such as YouTube, but we will also see a greater number of videos on Facebook.

19 MARCH 201618

WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL www.traveltradeweekly.travel

A new 58-suite boutique property, located on one of the last parcels of land in Seminyak, Bali’s most prestigious oceanfront district, is launch-

ing in April.Katamama aims to offer guests a taste of real luxury

and Indonesian culture through inviting architecture, modern artisanal design and international brand col-laborations for design, fashion, music, art, mixology and the culinary arts.

All suites boast outdoor spaces, be it balconies, se-cluded gardens or individual pools, and are complete with ocean views, a spa bath and rain shower, and so are dining and lounge areas.

I nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is to debut on Thai-land’s largest island, having penned a deal with Proud Resort Phuket to develop InterContinental Phuket

Resort.The property, which will feature a mix of villas and ho-

tel rooms, is to open in 2019. It will be located on Kamala Beach, and is planned to include extensive leisure facili-ties, food and beverage outlets and more.

Khun Pasu Liptapanlop, executive director, Proud Real Estate, elucidated, “The resort itself will be within the ex-clusive development of MontAzure and will include a so-phisticated beach club, luxurious private residences and lifestyle mall surrounded by a protected forest reserve.“

M inor Hotel Group (MHG) an-nounced Anantara Ubud Bali Re-sort, scheduled to open in 2019.

The new-build property will offer 70 suits and villas, a collection of 30 Anantara-brand-ed residences, several restaurants, a bar and a pool lounge, meeting facilities, a gym and a spa.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, MHG, commented, “We are confident in the longevity of the is-land as a hugely popular tourism destination and the addition of Anantara Ubud will per-fectly complement our existing resorts.”

H ard Rock International revealed plans for a second hotel and casino in the Dominican Republic with

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Santo Domingo, slated to open in 2017.

Located in the heart of the capital city, the full-service hotel will feature 400 rooms and suites, a 2,137m2 casino outlet, screen-ing room, nightclub, 2,137m2 of meeting space, a swimming pool and a myriad of dining and bar options, including a cigar lounge and a celebrity-chef specialty restau-rant, among others.

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IHG Lands in Phuket with InterContinental Resort

Minor Expands Bali Footprint

Hard Rock Enriches Dominican Portfolio

Minor Expands In Bali

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ROLAND DEBS is the new general manager of Cristal Erbil Hotel.A maven hotelier with 20 years of experience across three continents, Debs spent a big part of his career with Inter-Continental Hotels Group in Europe and the Middle East. His expertise spans all aspects of the industry, from hotel openings to revamping and rebranding, mounting hospi-tality divisions as well as con-sulting. In Iraq, he aims to establish Cristal Erbil Hotel as a pre-ferred address for both busi-ness and leisure.

SHERIFA ISSA has been pro-moted to senior director of sales and marketing at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts in Egypt.Issa’s career with the company spans 17 years and includes progressive roles, such as director of sales in 2006, fol-lowed by the position of direc-tor of sales and marketing in the same year. In 2011, she took on the re-sponsibility of leading the sales and marketing functions for Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza and Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano. In her new capacity, in addi-tion to the aforementioned properties, Issa will also be in charge of Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence and Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh.

SEEMA PANDE has been ap-pointed in a consultancy ca-pacity as director of sales at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Pande most recently worked as group director of sales and marketing for Emaar Hospitality Group, overseeing The Address Hotels + Resorts, Armani Hotels and Resorts and Vida Hotels. Earlier in her career, she served at Southern Sun Hotels and Fair-mont Hotels and Resorts. Pande will now spearhead the hotel’s sales efforts and com-mercial strategy for a three-month period, while the hotel completes the recruitment for a full-time director.

Pande will spearhead the hotel’s sales effort

for three monthsDebs has worked in

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ALI HADDAD has been chosen as International Trade Holding Company’s new director of op-erations for its owned hotels in Kuwait City. Haddad, who has been serv-ing as Swiss-Belhotel Plaza Kuwait’s general manager for the past five years, will now be in charge of The Conven-tion Center & Royal Suites and Mövenpick Hotel Kuwait as well. All in all, Haddad has more than 15 years of experience in sales and marketing, strategic planning and operation, as well as financial management.

SAM IOANNIDIS will lead the upcoming Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island as general manager.A Four Seasons veteran, Ioan-nidis is hailed as one of the most experienced and suc-cessful hoteliers of the com-pany, with this being his sec-ond assignment as a general manager.He joins the property from Four Seasons Hotel Baku in Azerbaijan. Since he first joined the company in Toronto 18 years ago, he has held Four Seasons positions throughout Canada and the US.Ioannidis will be assisted by a senior executive team which includes a host of industry expects.

RUSSEL STOREY has been named general manager at Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay. Storey moves to Egypt from Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa, where he served as general manager. Prior to that, he held the same position at Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club in the UK. He relocates to the Red Sea with a broad spectrum of hospitality experience span-ning over two decades with different international chains. Storey started his career with Regent Palace and Sheraton, moving on to Westville-, Hil-ton- and Marriott-branded hotels.

RAZA ABBAS has been ap-pointed director of business development at Fujairah Ro-tana Resort & Spa – Al Aqah Beach. Abbas, a versatile senior man-ager and seasoned sales pro-fessional, joins the property with 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Previously he worked in Swit-zerland, the UK, Pakistan and the UAE, where he held vari-ous positions, including sen-ior sales manager, sales and marketing manager, assistant front office manager and res-taurant manager. He brings extensive interna-tional and multicultural knowl-edge within local market research, competitors analysis, marketing plan, budgeting, pricing strategy, rate struc-ture and overseeing all sales segments.

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When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? My love for travelling the world and interacting with different cultures and people was my inspiration to get in-volved in this industry. So far, it has been a wonderful 25 years of this nev-er-ending journey and I look forward to many more years. What are the most important at-tributes of a good travel agent/tour operator?

T ravelport rolled out the LIVE Spotlight on Innovation Roadshow across Saudi Arabia.

The travel agency-focussed event, which gath-ered owners, managers and frontline tourism consultants from agencies, airlines, hotels and car rentals, featured a se-ries of interactive sessions which showcased the solutions and technologies redefining the way travel is being searched, shared and booked by the Kingdom’s industry players.

Delegates in Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam had the op-portunity to discuss topics pertaining to air, hospitality, cor-porate, mobile and customer support, and learn how to take full advantage of Travelport’s booking technology.

Travelport Caters to Saudi Professionals

AGENT’S INSIGHT

Fazal Baig

Managing director

Tanya Tours

Canada

www.tanyatours.ca

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Attention to detail is the most important attribute and that is what sets us apart. What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers?Can we do more? Customers love what Canada has to offer and always ask for more. What are the must-visits and must-dos in Canada that no one should miss? Algonquin Park in Ontario is a must-visit and if you are around, do not miss a ca-noe and kayak camping trip. The park offers many adventurous activities and is surrounded by the nature. Which destination is on your bucket list? It is a long list but Iceland is one desti-nation I am looking forward to explore sometime soon.

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Tourism can play a pivotal role in reducing poverty and securing peace as participants of the First World Conference on Tourism for Development will examine between May 18 – 21, in Beijing.

Under the theme Tourism for Peace and Develop-ment, the event will aim to kick-start a high-level de-bate on the industry’s contribution to the sustainable development goals, with a special segment Sustain-able Development through Tourism being dedicated to the topic.

How to better integrate marginalised and disad-vantaged groups, particularly youth and women, into the global tourism value chain will be on the agenda along with the links between tourism and the build-ing blocks of peace.

From July 07 – August 31, London’s Hotel Cafe Royal will launch an exclusive Middle Eastern lounge, available to suite guests or by invitation only; out-side visitors will be welcomed at the discretion of the hotel.

Its Pompadour Ballroom, which will be transformed for the occasion, will feature regional drinks and delicacies, Arabic newspapers and magazines

and shisha pipes, among other perks.Renowned for its Muslim-friendly service, the hotel offers Halal food, Arabic-speak-

ing staff, female butlers, private praying areas and more.“[Hotel] Cafe Royal is establishing itself as the home away from home for guests

coming from the MENA area,” said Rohit Gupta, director of sales, Hotel Cafe Royal.

Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel, Abu Dhabi is hosting a painting exhibi-tion by Alia Lootah, which will continue until the end of this month.

The show is part of Emirati Expressions, which features the work of 15 other local artists whose projects oscillate naturally between design and fine art.

Artwork includes wearable textiles, photography, furniture design, interactive in-stallations, paintings, illusions, large-scale sculptures and more.

Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas opened its latest con-cept, OUTDOOR, the first open-air VOX Cinemas address in the region.

Located on the rooftop of Galleria Shopping Mall in Dubai, the new out-door entertainment facility can host up to 111 film fans.

“At VOX Cinemas, we are always looking for new ways to innovate and offer our customers experiences that go beyond their expectations,” com-mented Cameron Mitchell, CEO, VOX Cinemas.

TOURISM TO FORGE DEVELOPMENT

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Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman opened The Experience Spa, in partnership with the

operator Al Shifa Spa International

City Seasons Suites Dubai won second place in the Arabian feast category at the

Gulf Food Exhibition

JA Resorts & Hotels honoured Desert Adventures for their collaboration

VFS Global employees joined Walk for Education in support of child education

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Sharjah Investment and Development Authority visited Mleiha Archaeology Centre

and signed a memorandum of understanding

Turkish Airlines honoured travel agencies in Dubai for their contribution to passenger growth in 2015

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NEWS & EVENTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

WTM AFRICA

Cape Town, South AfricaApril 06 – 08 www.wtmafrica.comThrough its industry networks, global reach and regional focus, WTM Africa creates personal and business opportunities.

IBTM AFRICA

Cape Town, South AfricaApril 08 www.ibtmafrica.comThe show evolved from a table top event to a content-driven education programme which focusses on technology, future trends, procurement and consolidation.

RIYADH TRAVEL FAIR

Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaApril 12 – 15www.riyadhtravel.netAttracting leading travel and tourism companies from Saudi Arabia and the GCC, the event is a platform for introducing new tourist products and services, and making investments.

ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET

Dubai, UAEApril 25 – 28www.arabiantravelmarket.comA major event where global tourism destinations showcase a diverse range of accommodation options, tourism attractions, travel technology and key airline routes.

EVENTSFirst Aviation Week in Abu Dhabi Held

UNWTO Shines Spotlight on Snow

and Mountain Tourism

Six key aviation sector events took place during the inaugu-ral Abu Dhabi Aviation & Aero-space Week.

The second Unmanned Systems Ex-hibition & Conference and the first Sim-ulation Conference & Exhibition kicked off the programme, which then contin-ued with the Global Aerospace Summit, the fourth Abu Dhabi Air Expo and the Middle East Aviation Career Conference & Exhibition, before finishing it with the Red Bull Air Race.

As Mubarak Al Shamisi, director, Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau, noted, the event helped cement the UAE capital’s role as a hub for stakeholders across the regional and global aviation industry.

Challenges and opportunities in snow and mountain tour-ism were the key topics of the ninth World Congress on Snow

and Mountain Tourism, which was or-ganised by the World Tourism Organi-zation (UNWTO) in Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra.

Participants at the event also evalu-ated new business models and the need to incorporate innovative and sustain-able practices in this tourism niche.

“Snow and mountain tourism con-stitutes an added value to destinations and an opportunity for the develop-ment of local communities; neverthe-less, we should never forget the im-portance of promoting the sustainable management of the natural resources considering that this type of tourism takes place in direct contact with na-ture,” reminded Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO.