04 airports 05 bac introduces hala bahrain weekly-issue-3… · signed a memorandum of...
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OMRAN LAUNCHES NEW MARRIOTT HOTEL PROJECT
RAS AL KHAIMAH POPULAR AMONG INDIAN TRAVELLERS
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29 APRIL 2017 ISSUE 390
BAC INTRODUCES HALA BAHRAIN
AIRPORTS04
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InternationalHotel Performance
Photo Album
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
29 APRIL 20172
MARKET UPDATE www.traveltradeweekly.travel
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COUNTRY CURRENCY USD1=
27.4.2017as ofMENA EXCHANGE RATES
ATM to Highlight Cultural Tourism
Under its Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is ready to invest USD2 billion to boost its cultural offering, one off the highest commitments in the region. This will see the number of museums grow from 155 to 241 as well as the total UNESCO World Heritage Sites increase from four to 10, among others.
Meanwhile, in 2015, Oman pledged USD2.5 billion for Omagine Project, a mixed-use complex that will add to the country’s growing cultural tourism sector. Upon completion, Oman will boast 18 muse-ums and Royal Opera House Muscat, to name a few.
Record March for Cyprus Tourist Arrivals
According to the March Passengers Survey, Cyprus recorded the highest volume of tourist arrivals ever during that particular month.
Arrivals reached 140,873 in March, compared to 137,013 for the corresponding period in 2016, an increase of 2.8 percent.
Visitors from Russia were particularly high, with a year-on-year boost of 55.1 percent, while significant increases were also recorded from Israel and France, up 94.9 percent and 15.9 per-
cent, respectively. Despite a 7.9 percent decline in travellers from the UK, it remained as one of the lead-ing source markets, accounting for 38.7 percent of all arrivals.
The survey further indicated that 68.3 percent of tourists visited the island for leisure, 15.5 percent for spending time with friends and family, and 16.1 percent for business.
According to Colliers International, Saudi Arabia and Oman will lead the GCC’s investments in cultural tourism, a segment which was heavily featured at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) on April 24 – 27.
Royal Opera House Muscat
Cyprus
Hotstats has released its latest report, MENA Chain Hotels Market Review February 2017, revealing mixed results across the region, with effective cost cutting in Abu Dhabi, falling revenue in Doha and signs of recovery in Sharm El Sheikh.
I n February, properties in Abu Dhabi saw a 7.7 percent boost in total revenue, which converted to a 29.4 per-cent increase in profit per room, a result of hoteliers
successfully slashing costs.In the face of a 22.4 percent year-on-year increase in
RevPAR, declining non-room revenues, including a 9.4 percent drop in food and beverage, along with an 11.3 percent fall in conference and banqueting, resulted in a 7.7 percent plummet in total RevPAR, down to USD237.09.
However, this was overcome thanks to stringent cost-cutting, including a 3.4 percentage point reduction in pay-roll, to 27.1 percent of total revenue, meaning that profit per room reached USD92.64, up 29.4 percent over the cor-responding period in 2016.
Cutting Costs Drove Profit in Abu Dhabi
H otels in Doha recorded a 20.4 percent year-on-year decrease in profit per room in February, further contributing to the 24 percent fall in this measure
in the 12 months to February.In addition to a 6.9 percent drop in rooms revenue,
properties also experienced a 9.8 percent drop in total RevPAR to USD313.31, driven by declines in food and bev-erage as well as conference and banqueting, down 11.6 percent and 19.1 percent, respectively.
Addresses in the capital continue to be affected by the economic impact of the oil prices. Due to this, on a rolling 12-month basis, profit per room has plummeted 34.3 per-cent in the last two years.
Challenges Continue in Doha
A lthough hotels in Sharm El Sheikh achieved a 57 per-cent year-on-year boost in total revenue in February, profit per room remained in negative territory, with a
loss of USD1.33.Nevertheless, recovery is underway with a 112 percent
surge in RevPAR in the first two months of the year, as well as an 8.7 percentage point boost in occupancy compared to the same period in 2016. Furthermore, hoteliers reported a 61.5 percent increase in achieved average room rate, to USD34.84.
Despite these successes, profit per room was offset by high costs, including payroll as well as overheads, account-ing for 39.7 percent and 56.2 percent of total revenue, in that order.
Profit Loss Despite Revenue Uplift in Sharm El Sheikh
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WEEKLY NEWS AIRPORTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel
29 APRIL 2017
Hala BahrainAIMING TO ENHANCE PASSENGERS EXPERIENCE AT BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (BIA), BAHRAIN AIRPORT COMPANY (BAC), OPERATOR AND MANAGING BODY OF BIA, HAS RECENTLY UNVEILED PLANS TO LAUNCH HALA BAHRAIN, A NEWLY FORMED COMPANY WHICH WILL PROVIDE BOTH PASSENGERS AND AIRLINES WITH LOUNGE AND CONCIERGE SERVICES AS WELL AS AIRSIDE AND LANDSIDE TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS.
M ohamed Yousif Al Binfala, CEO, BAC, commented, “This announce-ment complements BAC contribu-tions to the Airport Modernisation Programme, which is an extensive
regeneration programme of BIA resulting in the transformation of the airport into a modern and ef-ficient regional hub equipped to sustain the healthy growth in the aviation sector in Bahrain and aligned to fulfil Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030.”
BAC Introduces
Al Mahatta Museum Enriched its Collection
Sharjah International Airport recently do-nated the first ambulance ever used at the hub to Al Mahatta Museum, joining
the other permanent exhibits. H.E. Manal Ataya, director general, Shar-
jah Museums Department, enthused, “We are proud to receive this vehicle that represents the long history of Sharjah International Air-port. Each piece in the museum is considered significant, characterised by its own tale and history and showcased alongside other exhib-its allowing visitors interested in the world of aviation to enjoy viewing them.”
Launched in 1932, Al Mahatta Museum was the headquarters of the first airport in the UAE and was initially used as a staging post for com-mercial flights from the UK to India. In 2000, it was transformed into a museum, showcasing the history of aviation in the country.
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During the 12th Airports Council International Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly which took place in Doha on April 11, Hamad International Airport (HIA) received Level 3 Opti-
misation status for its environmental protection policy. Launched in 2015, HIA’s Carbon Management Strategy pro-
vided the framework for energy reduction initiatives throughout the airport, resulting in a 14.2 percent improvement in carbon ef-ficiency in 2016, compared to 2015.
Badr Mohammed Al Meer, chief operating officer, HIA, com-mented, “This accreditation acknowledges HIA’s commitment to tackling climate change, and was achieved by continuing to meas-ure the airport’s carbon emissions. […] Central to this commitment is HIA’s target to improve carbon efficiency per passenger by 30 percent by 2030, against a 2015 baseline.”
HIA Received Level 3 Optimisation Status
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WEEKLY NEWSwww.traveltradeweekly.travel
Ras Al Khaimah Popular Among Indian Travellers
A iming to further promote the emirate and its offerings to the Indian mar-ket, RAKTDA recently conducted a media and trade roadshow in India and signed a memorandum of understanding with Outbound Tour Operators
Association of India to organise a three-day convention in Ras Al Khaimah.Expected to bring more than 220 delegates to the destination in September,
the event will offer a platform to discuss the growth of India’s outbound tourism and future marketing strategies.
According to Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the number of Indian visitors to the emirate during the first quarter of this year grew 35 percent, while the number of guest nights
taken by Indian tourists soared 47.9 percent year-on-year.
Dahab Enjoyed Tourist Influx
O n April 17, Dahab Mu-nicipality reported that as many as 4,469 tourists
visited the South Sinai town in 24 hours.
The destination, which is popu-lar among divers and independent travellers, attracted some 3,646 Egyptians along with international tourists on the aforementioned date. Furthermore, hoteliers wel-comed the boost to business with hotel occupancy reaching 64 per-cent according to Tareq Lotfy, head, Dahab Municipality.
Among others, the tourist hot-spots which received the highest attention during the period were Al Twailat and Blue Lagoon villages, nature reserves in Abo Jalom and the safari in Wadi Qena. Ra
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A iming to promote the destination and its diverse offerings, Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) has successfully participated in this year’s Riyadh Travel Fair, held on April 07 — 10 at Al Faisaliah Hotel.
A good number of consumers visited the STB stand confirming the destination’s popularity in the market.
Ahmed Fathallah, regional manager, Dubai, STB, commented, “In the three years that we have participated in the Riyadh Travel Fair, we always receive immense support to carry out our mission and attain our goals of increasing the awareness about the destination in Saudi Arabia through the inquiries and bookings.”
Considered as a significant venue for leading travel and tourism companies in Saudi Arabia, the event welcomed nearly 30,000 visitors.
The Seychelles Promoted at Riyadh Travel Fair
Sharjah to Lead the Arab Business Scene
A iming to emphasise the emirate’s importance in the Middle East’s finance and business sectors, Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), in collaboration with the Jordanian Business Coun-
cil, has recently announced plans to host the first Sharjah-Arab Busi-ness Roundtable.
Acting as a platform for investment in Sharjah’s different sectors including trade, industry and real estate, the event will be attended by ministers from the region’s leading economies, Sharjah’s government representatives and UAE-based Arab investment entities and business councils.
Mohammed Juma Al Musharrakh, director, Invest in Sharjah, com-mented, “[...] Investors have found Sharjah an extremely business-friendly environment with an excellent infrastructure, and this round-table is another step that elevates the emirate’s status and promotes it as an Arab business capital.”
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATIONwww.traveltradeweekly.travel
DUKES Dubai Launched Women Only Area
T he initiative was conceived by Debrah Dhugga, managing director, DUKES Collection. “As somebody who travels regularly either for business or for lei-sure with friends and female relatives, I could clearly see a gap in the market
for a women’s only area in a luxury hotel. The Duchess Floor combines the safety and security of a private residence, [...] in order to provide female guests with a sense of sanctuary when they stay at DUKES Dubai,” stated Dhugga.
Featuring 20 rooms furnished with Liberty fabrics as well as a tea lounge, the area is located on the third floor of the property and can be easily accessed via private lifts.
DUKES Dubai has recently unveiled its new Duchess Floor, an area dedicated to female visitors.
Meraas Widens Dubai Hospitality
Offerings
A iming to deliver world-class hos-pitality experiences, Meraas has recently unveiled plans to launch
four new hotel brands in Dubai.Boasting luxurious rooms and apart-
ments along with an array of amenities and services aiming to cater to the spe-cific needs of both leisure and corporate travellers, EVADO, RE VERA, VIVUS and MQ will offer a plethora of novel experiences. Located on Bluewaters Island, the hotels are scheduled to open their doors in 2018.
Abdulla Al Habbai, group chairman, Meraas, commented, “In line with our commitment towards contributing to Dubai Tourism Vision 2020, [...] we have identified a unique opportunity to intro-duce new, home-grown hotel brands, across different segments.”
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Seven Tides Adds Tesla Chargers in Dubai
Hospitality and property developer Seven Tides has in-stalled six Tesla destination charging connectors at three of its Dubai properties, offering more convenience to
Tesla-driving residents and guests.Two environmentally friendly battery chargers are located
at the entrances of Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, DUKES Dubai and Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai, providing an easy option to pull up and plug in.
While noting that sustainability is integral in every area of the organisation, Abdulla bin Sulayem, CEO, Seven Tides, said, “We want to reduce our carbon footprint and help others to do the same. So to promote a more environmentally-friendly life-style and transition to alternate transport solutions, we are hap-py to offer these charging stations across our properties for free.”
StayWell Hospitality and Cristal Teamed Up
Aiming to develop business with a focus on the Middle East, StayWell Hospitality Group and Cristal Group have recently announced a strate-
gic alliance.As part of the agreement, StayWell Hospitality Group
is entitled to use Cristal Group’s brand on hotels outside the Middle East, and vice versa on properties within the region.
Simon Wan, CEO, StayWell Hospitality Group, high-lighted, “[...] This partnership will bring our combined portfolio to 13 hotels with approximately 2,600 rooms in the Middle East region. This, coupled with the recently announced strategic partnership with the Manhatton Hotel Group in China, has significantly increased our global hotel network which is now in excess of 73 prop-erties across Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, the UK, China and the Middle East.”
Hilton Expands North African Portfolio
After unveiling plans to launch Hilton Garden Inn Casablanca Sidi Maarouf, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has announced the establishment of a second project in Casablanca.
The company, which has identified North Africa as a focus area for further growth, is planning to open a dedicated development office in the Moroccan city.
Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East and North Africa, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, commented, “Having a dedicated presence in the market is important for us in order to sustain further growth. [...] We have almost 5,000 rooms under development in North Africa at this stage but with the ma-jority of those being in Egypt there is a great opportunity for us to expand our presence more widely across the region.”
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From left: Kamal Fakhoury, CEO, Cristal Group and Wan
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O man Tourism Development Company (Omran) has signed a OMR38 mil-lion (USD98.69 million) deal for the development financing of the JW Marriott-branded hotel in Muscat, scheduled to open by the end of this
year.Located within the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) precinct
and part of phase one of the emerging Madinat Al Irfan urban development, the five-star property will boast 304 keys and will offer state-of-the-art food and bev-erage outlets, meeting facilities as well as a health and leisure club.
Saif Al Hinai, acting CEO, Omran, noted, “[...] This development, once com-pleted, will stand as the most prestigious and exclusive of the quartet of hotels planned for the OCEC precinct, [...], whilst adding significant guest capacity to the hospitality offering [...].”
Omran Launches New Marriott Hotel Project
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A t Arabian Travel Market (ATM), R Hotels introduced the latest ad-ditions to its growing portfolio.
Along with unveiling two hotels slat-ed to open this year, the group showcased all five of its properties in the UAE.
Ahead of the event, Sumair Tariq, managing director, R Hotels, commented, “[...] The Retreat Palm Dubai Mgallery by Sofitel will cater to the growing global de-mand for spa and wellness tourism, which is also one of the highlights of this year’s ATM. Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche is set to accommodate the rising number of visitors in the emirate, and to boost our presence in the Northern Emirates with the largest room inventory in Ajman.”
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R Hotels to Present Newest Properties
A head of its opening this summer, Mondrian Doha has partnered with ESPA to launch what is expect-ed to become one of the largest ESPA-branded
spas in the world and the first of its kind in Qatar.The 1,950m² wellness area will feature separate male
and female spaces, a heat experience garden and a tradi-tional Turkish Hammam. A selection of exclusive holistic treatments customisable to each guest will be offered, along with signature refreshments.
Matt Balcik, general manager, Mondrian Doha, com-mented, “ESPA is a world-renowned spa brand and together with Mondrian Doha’s outstanding design features and the impressive space the spa encompasses, we know our guests are in for an incredible experience.”
Mondrian Doha Set to Impress with ESPA
Rendering of Mondrian Doha
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Nakheel Enhances Jumeirah Islands
A iming to expand its portfolio on Jumeirah Islands, Nakheel, one of Dubai’s largest developers, has recently opened a waterfront retail pavilion in the heart of Dubai.
The development, which is part of Jumeirah Island’s Townhouse community, is set to serve 8,000 residents and features 14 shops, a wide range of cafes and restaurants com-plemented by a medical clinic, beauty salon, pharmacy and dry cleaners.
During the inauguration ceremony, held on April 13, Ali Rashid Lootah, chairman, Na-kheel, stated, “Today marks the delivery of pavilion number five in our growing collection of community centres [...]. With its picturesque setting and spacious grounds, this new facility blends perfectly with Jumeirah Islands’ overall look and feel.”
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Mafraq Hotel & Resort Promoted in Saudi Arabia
M afraq Hotel & Resort has successfully participated in the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority promotional tour, which was held on April 11 — 13 in Saudi Arabia.
During the tour, Osama Mustafa, director, sales and marketing, Mafraq Hotel & Resort, together with Abu Dhabi-based delegates, participated in several tourism road shows, taking place in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, where they showcased the emirate along with its diverse destinations and attractions.
Mustafa highlighted Saudi Arabia’s significant role as a top source market for the luxury hotel and unveiled the property’s summer plans and offerings.
Through the road show, the hotel received a positive reception among key oil companies and travel agencies and reached an agree-ment with oil magnate Saudi Aramco.
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WEEKLY NEWS AGENTSwww.traveltradeweekly.travel
Thomas Cook Enhances Summer Offering
P assengers will also be able to travel to Bourgas in Bulgaria and Gerona on Spain’s Costa Brava, as well as the Greek island Kos and Paphos in Cyprus.
Moreover, Thomas Cook Group will offer customers three new own-brand hotels to choose from, including new smartline and Sunconnect resorts.
Chris Mottershead, managing director, UK, Thomas Cook Group, said, “We are ex-pecting a revitalisation in the traditional package holiday destination of Costa Brava and we have worked hard to secure some of the best quality hotels for our customers.”
Thomas Cook Group has unveiled its summer 2018 programme for Bristol Airport, with seven new destinations, including Preveza in
Greece and Hurghada in Egypt, exclusive to the carrier from the UK hub.
Sabre Demonstrated its
Latest Technology
A t this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM), Sabre show-cased the new Sabre Red
Workspace, a next-generation travel agency platform, developed to help customers meet the new, more em-powered traveller, seeking person-alisation, choice and the ability to unbundle different components of a ticket.
In addition, through a series of lec-tures, Sabre experts discussed industry challenges including the latest trends in the travel and hospitality sectors.
Visitors were also offered special sessions to catch up with Sabre lead-ers from different business units, and to talk about how technology can help them meet their business goals.
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www.traveltradeweekly.travelWEEKLY NEWS AIR
SalamAir Increases Connectivity
Oman’s budget carrier also plans to further boost frequencies in Saudi Arabia by introducing direct links from Muscat to Taif and a through flight from Salalah to Taif via Muscat, along with extra schedules to Medina during Ramadan, in line with increased religious trips during the period.
François Bouteiller, CEO, SalamAir, said, “It has been a busy period since our launch in January and the introduction of these new destinations reflects our determination to keep the momentum up.”
I n cooperation with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Author-ity, Royal Wings has launched a scheduled service between Aqaba and Cairo. The route commenced on April 21 with twice-weekly flights
operated on Tuesdays and Fridays.Following the introduction of the Aqaba – Beirut itinerary,
the new schedule is the carrier’s second regular service depart-ing from Aqaba and elevates the common efforts to strengthen the destination’s international and commercial tourism status. Providing a strategic link between Jordan and Egypt, the route will offer more convenience and flexibility for leisure, business and religious travellers.
Royal Wings Links Aqaba and Cairo
SalamAir has announced the addition of services to Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, starting on April 16 with daily flights to Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport, soon to be followed by new
schedules to Medina along with Pakistani destinations Multan, Sialkot and Karachi.
Oman Air Showed Significant Growth in 2016
B ased on its annual financial report, Oman Air demonstrated positive performance in 2016, with stable growth and continued ex-
pansion.As revealed by H.E. Darwish Bin Ismail Bin Ali Al
Balushi, chairman, board of directors, Oman Air, the growth of the carrier’s fleet generated a 20 percent year-on-year surge in available seat kilometres, along with a nine percent rise in flight movements over 2015. Consequently, the airline saw a 21 per-cent jump in passenger numbers, with over 7.7 mil-lion travellers in 2016.
Despite regional economic challenges, the company achieved revenue of OMR472 million (USD1.23 million), up one percent over 2015. Fur-thermore, the company concluded 2016 with the launch of the first cabin crew training centre in the region, Oman Air Flight Training Centre.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIRwww.traveltradeweekly.travel
Saudia Airlines has expanded its network by launching the first regular direct service from Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport to Port Sudan New International Airport on April 06.
The airline now offers six weekly flights between the destinations, operated on board an Airbus A320, with 132 seats in a business and economy class configuration, bringing the overall weekly seat capacity to 792.
The new itinerary boosts the carrier’s network of international destinations to 59, in addition to the 27 domestic services that it operates, served with the airline’s fleet which currently comprises of 129 wide-bodied jets.
Saudia Takes-Off to Sudan
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL www.traveltradeweekly.travel
I nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the opening of Candlewood Suites Celaya, the second Candlewood Suites-branded property in
Mexico.Located in Celaya’s eastern commercial area, the
102-key hotel offers studios, one- and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens as well as ameni-ties such as a fitness centre, swimming pool and Ga-zebo Grill.
Following a USD10 million investment, the prop-erty joins Candlewood Suites Queretaro-Juriquilla, which opened in November 2016.
Gerardo Murray, regional vice president, brands and marketing, Mexico, Latin America and Caribbe-an, IHG, enthused, “Celaya has recently seen tremen-dous growth in both business and leisure tourism so this new hotel is the perfect option for extended stay travellers visiting the city.”
S omerset Jeju Shinhwa World opened on April 25, marking The Ascott’s fourth property
in South Korea. Expanding the brand's network
beyond Seoul and Busan, the 344-unit address is part of an integrated resort that includes a theme park along with gaming venues, high-end retail out-lets as well as MICE facilities.
In addition, guests can enjoy a wide range of cultural, gastronomical and wellness activities through The Ascott Lifestyle programme.
Max Phillips, country general man-ager, South Korea, The Ascott, com-mented, “With The Ascott’s experience in operating award-winning serviced residences globally and in Korea, this is an exceptional opportunity for us to open the first international-class property on Jeju Province.”So
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IHG Expands Mexican Offering
The Ascott Extends South Korean Footprint
Walk for a Cause 2016
A fter signing an agreement with Orient Group of Companies, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has un-veiled plans to expand its footprint in Pakistan with a new 310-key property.
Set to open in 2021, Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Lahore is expected to become one of the tallest buildings in Pakistan and will feature meeting facilities, a spa and fitness centre, five restaurants and lounges along with a kids club.
Additionally, the group’s third address in the country, part of the Finance and Trade Centre project, will be ideal for both leisure and corporate travellers due to its close proximity to the Lahore International Expo Centre, the Bank Square financial precinct as well as shopping malls.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONALwww.traveltradeweekly.travel
C arlson Rezidor Hotel Group now has 10 op-erating hotels in South Africa, following the opening of the 214-key Radisson Blu Hotel
& Residence in Cape Town.Set within a towering residential building,
which has won several awards for its architectural design, the address is within walking distance of the city’s main tourist attractions and just a kilome-tre away from the Cape Town International Conven-tion Centre.
The property is set to take advantage of the forecasted influx of corporate travellers, as the region gears to cement its position as one of the world’s leading conference and exhibition capi-tals, offering a state-of-the-art executive business lounge and a range of modern meeting and con-ference rooms, all featuring the latest technology and amenities.
A s part of its strategic expansion plans for Africa, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has recently unveiled plans to open its first
hotel in Ethiopia.Slated to open in 2019, Mövenpick Hotel Ad-
dis Ababa will be located in the city’s exclusive Bole district, 2.5km from Addis Ababa Interna-tional Airport. The property will boast world-class dining and leisure facilities, an outdoor swim-ming pool, a sports bar, a spacious fitness centre and a spa. In addition, the resort will offer an ex-pansive ballroom and a state-of-the-art meeting space with a 1,200-seat capacity making it ideal for both leisure and corporate travellers.
With the signing of the new property, the company is continuing its rapid expansion, bring-ing the total development pipeline to 35 hotels worldwide. Ad
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Cape Town Welcomes Radisson Blu
Mövenpick Hotel Addis Ababa Announced
Walk for a Cause 2016
Dusit International has signed a management consultancy agreement with Sanguantas Development Company to operate dusitD2 Chaengwattana, an upscale corporate hotel in Bangkok in close-proximity to Don Mueang Airport, amid a range of key business, leisure and MICE destinations.
Designed to meet the needs of today’s technologically inspired and hyper-connected business travellers, the hotel will boast 200 guestrooms and suites spanning 23 floors, and will feature a rooftop restaurant and bar, infinity swim-ming pool, fitness centre, and a large banqueting facility offering panoramic views of the capital.
The property is the group’s first dusitD2-branded hotel project in Bangkok, complementing the company’s two existing hotels.Re
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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How valuable is the MICE segment to your property?
MATHIEU VAN ALPHEN: Typically at Beach Rotana, we can expect 20 – 30 per-cent of hotel guests to be attending meetings or conferences, both citywide and residential. Source markets vary, with the GCC being most prevalent. In 2016, we noted a decrease in this market. However, it is not all doom and gloom! An in-creasing amount of MICE organisers are recognising Abu Dhabi’s excellent price and value point, its diverse offerings for attendees, and appreciate its ease of use factors. Abu Dhabi is emerging as a destination of choice, thanks to its premium air and ground transport services, excellent selection of lodging choices, ever-growing culinary landscape, and superior amenities such as Abu Dhabi National
MATHIEU VAN ALPHEN
Q & A
with
HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER, BEACH ROTANA ABU DHABI
WITH ABU DHABI HAILED AS THE FASTEST GROWING MICE DESTINATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST, MATHIEU VAN ALPHEN, HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER, BEACH
ROTANA ABU DHABI, EXPLAINS WHY THE EMIRATE IS LIKE NO OTHER.
At Beach Rotana, we do many famil-iarisation trips to encourage explora-tion of our own extensive facilities; as stated, we work closely to support the TCA Abu Dhabi efforts, and utilise every opportunity to showcase our property and our city.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What makes Abu Dhabi an ideal MICE destination?
MATHIEU VAN ALPHEN: As stated above, the modernity of Abu Dhabi, cou-pled with its ease of transportation and superlative lodging and meeting oppor-tunities make it a complete win for any MICE planner. The city excels at ensur-ing its cultural heritage is sublimely well represented, while offering world-class service. Abu Dhabi optimises the busi-ness and leisure travel opportunity; and its price-value point is spot on. MICE is critical to the emirate’s tourism industry as the best way to build understanding of the emirate and its many appeals. From beaches to desert sands; from the Grand Mosque to the Louvre, and all the amazing opportunities in between. Abu Dhabi is big enough to amaze yet small enough to charm.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How can in-dustry stakeholders continue to sup-port the development of the emir-ate’s MICE sector?
MATHIEU VAN ALPHEN: Abu Dhabi should continue as it has been doing, with the leadership and innovation of TCA Abu Dhabi and partnerships with its many hotels leading the charge. MICE will return to healthy levels once the global economy stabilises, but it re-mains a strong segment player and one should not look at this downturn as an-ything other than opportunity to push more and expose more for future MICE business. This unique moment in time offers providers a chance to think dif-ferently and seek business in new areas.
Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Saadiyat Is-land, and Yas Island.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What facilities and services do you offer to accommo-date MICE events and travellers?
MATHIEU VAN ALPHEN: Beach Rotana is ideally equipped for MICE events. Firstly, the hotel’s Al Thuraya ballroom, pre-function areas, and adjacent break-out rooms, complete with private en-trances, make it ideal to host events for groups of up to 1,000 people. Beach Rotana is unique as it can host product launches ranging from automobiles to helicopters! Second, this is Abu Dhabi’s city resort – the beach and its gardens lend unique opportunities for team building, meeting space, and gala din-ners. One of our most unique signature events, the White Garden Party, is a big seller; we transform the waterside gar-dens of the hotel to a dreamlike out-door venue like no other.
Our sales team here in the UAE and abroad work diligently to promote and grow opportunities within the MICE segment through tradeshows, relation-ships, and personalised packages to maximise the MICE purchaser’s return on investment. The support from Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) remains fantastic, as they bring plenty of familiarisation opportu-nities to the city, as well as aggressively promoting the destination in all major source markets. Beach Rotana is proac-tive in supporting the TCA Abu Dhabi at all tradeshows and various initiatives.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Abu Dhabi has been named as the fastest grow-ing MICE destination in the region. In your opinion, what has driven this demand?
MATHIEU VAN ALPHEN: TCA Abu Dha-bi has done a wonderful job exposing our destination opportunities to the MICE buyers and influencers, especially within key target markets such as Chi-na, India, and Eastern Europe. Abu Dha-bi provides a smart alternative to many regional destinations, with its world class airport, many cultural and enter-tainment attractions, and a large variety of five-star hotels and meetings facili-ties. Certainly key to Abu Dhabi’s MICE success is ADNEC. ADNEC is attracting more and more events annually from across the globe, across a spectrum of industries and interests.
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Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
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Sharjah Girl Guides (SGG), a non-profit volun-teer-driven organisation aiming to inspire and nurture future generations of girls, re-cently organised Amazing Chef, a five-day seminar dedicated to healthy lifestyles.
With the assistance of experts from School of Culi-nary and Finishing Arts Dubai, 20 girls between 12 – 15 years old had the opportunity to learn about healthy eating and different methods of cooking using nutri-tious ingredients.
Shaikha Al Shamsi, assistant director, SGG, stated, “[...] It was an opportunity for the guides to prepare and share meals together, symbolising the important act of building and nurturing the values of friendship and community at SGG, one dish at a time.”
During the annual Careers UAE event, Dubai Corporation of Tourism & Com-merce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) joined forces with private sector partners to promote career opportunities to young Emirati nationals.
Dubai Tourism highlighted two of Dubai College of Tourism’s major initia-tives, Medyaf and UAE Tour Guide Programme, aimed at training nationals for a
future career in the tourism industry in line with the Emiratisation strategy.Essa Bin Hadher, general manager, Dubai College of Tourism, said, “Young Emirati men
and women are being encouraged by the leadership of the country to participate in all aspects of development of this nation and contribute towards economic growth. [...]”
Dubai Science Park (DSP) recently hosted its fourth annual career fair for uni-versity students and professionals within the life sciences, energy and envi-ronment sectors.
The one-day event saw 16 industry-leading companies showcase their businesses, along with vacancies for aspiring graduates and university stu-
dents.Momentum Coaching and Consulting held a workshop covering topics like proactive
job searching, networking for career opportunities, as well as CV writing and interview preparation tips.
Marwan Abdulaziz, executive director, DSP, expressed, “Our annual career fair helps to bridge the gap between business and academia as we support our business partners in finding the right talent to support their growth and development.”
The 13th annual UAE Healthy Kidney 10K run took place on April 09 at New York’s Central Park, with a high number of elite-level athletes as well as fun run-ners taking part.
Aiming to raise awareness of kidney health and disease as well as benefit the National Kidney Foundation, the 10km race was sponsored for the second consecutive year by Al Habtoor Group.
Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, chairman, Al Hab-tour Group, who participated in the event, also vis-ited a children's hospital in Washington, D.C. where he met youngsters suffering from kidney diseases and had the opportunity to learn about relevant groundbreaking research.
SGG Delivered Lessons on
Healthy Lifestyles
Dubai Tourism Boosts Emiratisation
DSP Promotes Job Opportunities
Al Habtoor Group Promotes Kidney Health
UAE Healthy Kidney 10K
Careers UAE 2017
SGG Amazing Chef
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WHO’S MOVED / TRAVEL TALK www.traveltradeweekly.travel
AZEL CASIANAN has been named as the new assistant director of sales at Millen-nium Airport Hotel Dubai.Casianan has more than 10 years of experience in the hos-pitality industry and has held positions across a variety of hotel groups including Rotana Hotel Management Corpora-tion, AccorHotels along with Starwood Hotels and Resorts. In her new role, Casianan will be responsible for strength-ening business ties with existing clients as well as generating leads for new accounts. Furthermore, she will assist with numerous sales activi-ties to maximise business opportunities and revenue for the property.
LAURENT VOIVENEL has been appointed as senior vice presi-dent of operations and devel-opment for the Middle East, Af-rica and India at Swiss-Belhotel International, where he will be responsible for the group’s strategic expansion in this key growth market.With more than 30 years of international hotel and as-set management experience, Voivenel joined the company from Hospitality Management Holding, where he served as CEO. Having worked in the Middle East for the last 16 years, Voivenel has developed a strong network of ties with professionals in the region and has a proven track record of success in terms of corporate mergers and acquisitions.
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“Establishing a presence in Qatar is an important strate-gic move for us. It brings with it access to a market of signifi-cant potential, as the coun-try's preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 continue apace. [...] The honour of be-ing the first events company to establish itself in Qatar under the new initiative from the Qatar Financial Centre and Qatar Tourism Authority [...] brings [...] considerable responsibility to contribute to the development of the nation’s events sector [...].”
Establishing a presence in Qatar is an important strategic move […]
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“It has been an honour to host the 12th Airports Coun-cil International (ACI) Asia Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in the State of Qatar. Together with ACI Asia Pacific, we have enjoyed providing our guests with a platform to come to-gether and make a difference to the future of aviation. We hope you got a taste of Qa-tar’s warm hospitality and culture during your stay in our country and we look for-ward to welcoming you back very soon.”
[...] We have enjoyed providing [...] a platform to come together [...]
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From left: Anwar Abu Monassar, destination director, strategy and operation, The Vision; Thierry Antinori, executive vice president, Emirates; Simon Press, senior
exhibition director, Arabian Travel Market; Issam Abdul Rahim Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing and Olivier Harnisch, CEO, Emaar Hospitality Group, provided an update ahead of Arabian Travel Market
For the 11th consecutive year, InterContinental Cairo Citystars, Holiday Inn Cairo – Citystars and
Staybridge Suites Cairo – Citystars welcomed 200 children on Orphans Day
Kerrie Mather, president, Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific, centre, handing Badr Mohammed Al Meer, chief operating officer,
Hamad International Airport, a trophy of appreciation in the presence of Patti Chau, regional director, ACI Asia-Pacific, second from left
Bidwa craftswomen demonstrated traditional craft skills during the 15th edition of Sharjah
Heritage Days
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PHOTO ALBUMwww.traveltradeweekly.travel
From left: H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, crown prince, Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai, and Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, at Arabian Travel Market
29 APRIL 201720
NEWS & EVENTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Malta’s Strong Presence at Shar-jah Heritage Days
Expo 2020 Dubai Connects
Minds
Aiming to promote diversi-ty, culture and tradition in the UAE, the 15th edition of Sharjah Heritage Days
was inaugurated on April 04 at the Cultural Heritage Events Centre.
During the event, Malta Tour-ism Authority (MTA), together with Heritage Malta and the Arts Council Malta, showcased Maltese culture, folklore, traditions and products.
Highlighting the importance of participating in similar events, Paul Bugela, CEO, MTA, stated, “This is in line with our efforts to diversify our source markets and go beyond those territories from where our tourists traditionally originate. [...]. A festival such as the one in Sharjah presents a unique opportunity for Malta to reach out to the lucrative UAE market [...].”
Expo 2020 Dubai reinforced its commitment to promot-ing cultural exchange to-wards positive social devel-
opment at the CultureSummit 2017. The event has gathered 300 lead-
ers from more than 80 countries to dis-cuss joint solutions to address global challenges. As a part of the summit, a panel session was held, unveiling the expo’s theme Connecting Minds, Cre-ating the Future to highlight its role in enhancing cultural exchanges.
Hayat Shamsuddin, senior advi-sor, culture, Expo 2020 Dubai, said, “We believe the connection of peo-ple leads to progress through the sharing of ideas and the exchange of cultures, which is why events such as the CultureSummit and Expo 2020 Dubai are moments that help to shape a better world.”
IMEX
Frankfurt, GermanyMay 16 – 18www.imex-frankfurt.comA one-stop shop for meetings, events and incentive travel programmes where more than 3,500 exhibitors are expected to showcase their offerings.
INTERCARE INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL TOURISM EXHIBITION
Milan, ItalyMay 25 – 27www.inter-care.itAn opportunity for international medical and tourism operators to forge working relationships.
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON TOURISM TECHNOLOGY
Kochi, IndiaJune 08 – 10 www.icttindia.orgSpeakers from across the industry will share ideas on how to maximise online business.
EVENTS