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Middle East and North Aica Edition AUGUST 6 2011 ISSUE 91 www.traveltradeweekly.travel August 6, Issue 91 Market Update 2 Weekly News 3 Accommodation News 4 Air Travel News 7 International 9 Who’s Moved 11 Travel Talk 12 Agents’ Corner 13 Travel Channels 14 Rendezvous 15 Events 16 2 2 MENA SUITES HOTEL TO BE LAUNcHED MENA Hotels & Resorts corporation is to launch the first MENA Suites Hotel property in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, scheduled to open in summer 2012. In is Issue 4 4 INDIGO TO FLY TO DUBAI IndiGo, India’s largest low-cost carrier is to launch its first international service upon commencing flights to Dubai on September 1. 8 Dubai International has recorded the busiest half year (H1) of its history with record passenger traffic registered in the six-month period. Dubai International: Busiest Six Months Ever Dubai International: Busiest Six Months Ever
Transcript
Middle East and North Africa Edition
AUGUST 6 2011 ISSUE 91 www.traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA SUITES HOTEL TO BE LAUNcHEDMENA Hotels & Resorts corporation isto launch the first MENA Suites Hotelproperty in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia,scheduled to open in summer 2012.
In This Issue
44INDIGO TO FLY TO DUBAIIndiGo, India’s largest low-cost carrier isto launch its first international serviceupon commencing flights to Dubai onSeptember 1.
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Dubai International has recorded the busiest half year(H1) of its history with record passenger traffic registered
in the six-month period.
Dubai International:Busiest Six Months EverDubai International:Busiest Six Months Ever
W ith 24.6 millionpassengers passingthrough the terminals,up 8.9 percent from22.6 million in the
corresponding period in 2010, the world’sfourth busiest airport for international travellersexperienced the highest passenger volume of its50-year history. With an impressive growth of 10.4 percent,passenger volume registered in June grew from3.68 million in 2010 to 4.07 million. The averagemonthly passenger traffic in H1 rose from 3.76million in 2010 to 4.09 million, while the averagedaily volume stood at 135,700 compared with124,600 between January and June 2010. Aircraft movements registered in June accountedfor 26,101, an increase of five percent from
24,847 in the correspondingperiod in 2010. Year to dateaircraft movements totalled159,372, up 6.2 percent on150,095 registered in H1 2010. The steady addition of newservices operated from DubaiInternational has beeninstrumental to the solid growthof passenger volume, noted Paul
Griffiths, cEO, Dubai Airports. “As thenumbers clearly suggest, robust passenger trafficgrowth continues despite high fuel prices andgrowing economic uncertainty in Europe andthe US. This is being driven by the addition ofnew routes and frequencies, more wide-bodiedaircraft as well as by the attractiveness of Dubaias a tourist destination and an efficient transitpoint. Our planned USD7.8 billion expansionof Dubai International is well-timed toaccommodate the expected average annualgrowth of 7.2 percent over the next 10 years.”In the first half of the year more than 200 weeklyflights were launched to 19 new destinationsacross Asia, Europe and Africa by variousairlines, including Emirates and flydubai.currently 150 airlines operate services to morethan 220 destinations from Dubai International. Year to date, the list of the top five destinationsserved by the airport with the greatest passengervolumes includes India, the UK, Saudi Arabia,Pakistan and Iran. The ranking of the fastestgrowing regions is topped by Eastern Europe(+302.4 percent), followed by AGcc (+28.2percent), Russia and cIS (+20.8 percent),North America (+16.8 percent), Asia Pacific(+13.2 percent), and the Indian subcontinent(+8.3 percent).
MENA Exchange RatesAccurate as of 4/8/2011currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
Dubai International: Busiest Six Months EverDubai International has recorded the busiest half year (H1) of its history withrecord passenger traffic registered in the six-month period.
Wyndham: Strong Results, Increased GuidanceThe solid performance across all of Wyndham Worldwide’s three businesses,lodging, vacation exchange and rentals and vacation ownership, resulted in strongsecond quarter (Q2) results. During the three-month period, the company’srevenue increased 13 percent to USD1.1 billion. Net income rose 20 percent to USD114 million, or USD0.67 per diluted share.Stephen Holmes, chairman and cEO, Wyndham Worldwide, elaborated on theresults. “Wyndham Worldwide once again delivered strong results across all threeof our businesses, which are each well-positioned to deliver profit growth in thefuture. In addition, we continue to generate significant and growing levels ofsustainable free cash flow that we are deploying to drive shareholder value.”The Q2 performance prompted the company to increase its full-year guidance, andpredict revenues to account for USD2.32-2.40 million.
3AUGUST 6, 2011
Passenger demand remainson an upward trajectory,but at a slower pace thanthe post-recessionrebound, which reached an
annual rate of close to 10 percent. Passenger demand for June was up 4.4percent compared to June 2010, whilefreight demand was three percent lower.The slowdown reflects slower economicgrowth and increased costs resulting fromhigher jet fuel prices, and raised taxation(in some countries).Middle East passenger carriers recorded a6.4 percent increase in demand forpassenger services against a capacity rise of
8.4 percent for a load factor of 74.8 percent.For the second consecutive month, bothdemand and capacity increases by MiddleEast carriers have fallen behind those ofEurope and Latin America. While freight carriers in Asia Pacific,European and North American marketsrecorded a decline in international anddomestic demand, carriers in the MiddleEast, Latin America and Africa showedyear-on-year growth for June, recordingdemand increases of 3.7 percent, 2.8percent and 0.3 percent respectively. Tony Tyler, director general and cEO,IATA, remarked on the market changes.“With high load factors and an upward
growth trend, the passenger business isdoing better than cargo. But regionalgrowth patterns are shifting. The MiddleEast carriers have moderated to a singledigit expansion and tighter economicconditions have slowed china’s growth.Meanwhile, Latin America is leading theindustry expansion followed by Europewhich is growing strongly despite itscurrency crisis. North America isunderperforming the industry on growthbut leading on load factors.”IATA forecasts an industry profit of USD4billion for the current year, amounting toa 78 percent decrease from the USD18billion that the airlines made in 2010.
Passenger Demand Slows While Freight Remains Stagnant Report IATAThe International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that traffic results for June indicate a slightalleviation in demand for both air travel and freight markets.
AUGUST 6, 20114
MENA Suites Hotel to be LaunchedMENA Hotel & Resorts Corporation is tolaunch the first MENA Suites Hotel property inAl Khobar, Saudi Arabia, scheduled to open insummer 2012. Located in Al Khobar’s prime commercial area,MENA Suites Hotel Al Khobar will provideguests with easy access to the city’s landmarks,main business centres and major attractions. Thelifestyle boutique hotel with its homely residentialenvironment will offer an ideal base for extended-stay travellers and families. Upon completion, the hotel will feature 70 roomsand suites, a cafe-restaurant, two meeting rooms,a swimming pool area, a gym and a spa. Fadi Mazkour, director, MENA Hotels & Resorts,commented on the partnership. “MENA Hotels & Resorts, a hotel managementcompany established in 2008 by Al Hokair Groupand hotel professionals has made its debut on theopening of the first MENA hotel brand in theKingdom of Saudi Arabia, MENA Hotel Riyadh.In addition, MENA Hotels & Resorts hassuccessfully taken over the management of thefive-star MENA Grand Khaldia, Riyadh, a towerof 400 rooms and suites with 18 meetings roomsand a 600 persons ballroom, MENA Suites Olaya,Riyadh, scheduled to open by November andMENA Hotel Muscat, Oman. Other locations arescheduled to open in other major cities by 2012.”The launch of the new brand is in line with thegovernment’s long term strategy to furtherdevelop the Kingdom’s tourism industry, notedIbrahim Asmael, owner, ASMAEL, one of theleading contracting company.“We are extremely pleased to be partnering withMENA Hotels & Resorts in developing the firstMENA Suite Hotel in the Kingdom. The SaudiGovernment commission for Tourism andAntiquities has a robust plan in place to increasethe tourism industry's share in the country's grossdomestic product from six to 16 percent by 2020.We are proud to be contributing to that plan withour partner MENA Hotels & Resorts whom wecan rely on and certainly will make this venture asuccess and the start of our long time partnership.”
Sheraton Doha Gets a FaceliftSheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel is to undergo majorrenovation.
The pyramidal landmark on the shores of Doha’s bay willembark on an extensive renovation process this year. The 371-room property’s major renovation elementsinclude the pool and landscape behind the hotel, therestaurant, the lobby, the ballroom and several suites.
The ballroom, a preferred venue for prestigious events, will also undergo amajor upgrade this year, while the restaurant on the top of the pyramid willembark on its renovation in December, to welcome guests with a brand newdesign by October 2012. Steven Kalczynski, general manager, Sheraton Doha Resort & conventionHotel, commented on the announcement.“It truly is an exciting time here at Sheraton Doha, the premier hotel inDoha. As we try to keep many of the traditional elements of our originaldesign, we will also be upgrading the restaurants and public areas. This willbegin to occur in 2012-2013. Five of our premier suites will also beundergoing complete re-design and renovations.” Upon the completion of a one-year process (between March 2012 andMarch 2013), guests will enjoy a newly designed pool area. “This beautiful75-acre (303,514m2) plot of land directly behind the Sheraton Doha willbegin transforming this summer. This will include the addition of a pool andwill continue on with complete refurbishment of the existing pool area,including the terrace restaurant and all of the landscape and beach areas,”explained the general manager.
As we try to keep many of the traditionalelements of our original design, we will also be
upgrading the restaurants and public areas
Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel
- Accommodation
AUGUST 6, 20116
- Accommodation
Hilton Opens Egypt ResortHilton Hotels & Resorts has opened Hilton Marsa Alam NubianResort, its 17th property in Egypt.
Starwood Brands to Increase Spa OfferingsStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwidehas revealed plans to expand Sheratonand Westin’s portfolio of hotel spasacross Asia and the Middle East.Sheraton will increase its spa portfolioby almost 50 percent this year, with 10openings, while Westin will add six spas,increasing the Heavenly Spa portfolio byalmost 20 percent. Jeremy Mccarthy, director of global spadevelopment and operations, Starwood,commented on the company’s spaexpansion.“We continue to bring our hotel brandsto life through specially designed andcurated brand experiences. TheHeavenly Spa by Westin and Shine Spafor Sheraton concepts are extensions ofthe individual brand philosophies andthe success of our signature, branded spaexperiences is driving demand forcontinued expansion, especially in keyglobal emerging markets.”Sheraton and Westin will open its in-house, signature spa concepts in existingand new hotels with a primary focus inAsia. Shine Spa for Sheraton will make itsdebut at Sheraton Yantai Golden BeachResort, Sheraton Guangzhou Hotel,Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng Hotel,Sheraton Qinqyuan Resort and five otherproperties across Asia.
Additionally, Shine Spa will open thisyear at Sheraton Baku Airport Hotel inAzerbaijan. Heavenly Spa by Westin willopen at The Westin Abu Dhabi GolfResort & Spa and four hotels acrosschina including The Westin WuhanWuchang.
We continue to bring ourhotel brands to life through
specially designed andcurated brand experiences
The 370-room resort,with its designreflecting the ancienthistory and heritage ofthe Nubian culture, is
part of an integrated mixed-use projectwhich includes an entertainment village,a congress centre and a residential town. Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotels& Resorts, commented on theimportance of the location. “As the largest international brand inEgypt, we take great pride in openingour latest Hilton Resort in this region.Marsa Alam is a fantastic location fortravellers seeking rich local culture andauthentic experiences. The area is anideal gateway for tourists seeking theever popular Nile cruise, ancient sitesand temples.”Hilton’s arrival into the region willfurther rise its profile, emphasised,Hamada Aboul Enein, chairman,concord co. for Tourist Development,the owners of the hotel.“The Red Sea Riviera, and Marsa Alamin particular, is famous for its beaches,coral reef barriers and the abundance ofmarine life found in its waters. We’reproud of our region and extremelypleased that Hilton, Egypt’s most
recognised hospitality brand, will nowplay a part in helping to promote MarsaAlam to a worldwide audience.”
Besides an array of sporting and leisurefacilities, the hotel features a fitnesscentre, a diving lodge, four outdoorswimming pools, a tennis court, a kidsclub and nine restaurants and bars. Rudi Jagersbacher, area president forMiddle East and Africa, HiltonWorldwide, expressed his delight atopening the new hotel.“Egypt and our Hilton Hotels & Resortsbrand enjoy a long and successful historyand I’m delighted that our latest hotelwill be located in such a beautiful anddiverse area of the country. This is thesecond hotel we have opened in Egyptthis year and we look forward towelcoming tourists from all over theworld as they explore the best of whatEgypt has to offer.”
As the largestinternational brand
in Egypt, we take greatpride in opening
our latest Hilton Resort in this region
Hilton Marsa Alam Nubian Resort
7AUGUST 6, 2011
- Air Travel
Indian airline Jet Airways is to launch daily flights fromSharjah to Thiruvananthapuram, effective from October 30. The route will represent the 10th daily service from the UAEto India in the airline’s operation, and the 22nd flight fromthe Gulf to India. Jet Airways, which already offers flightsfrom Sharjah to Kochi, will deploy its Boeing 737-800 on thenew route. The additional services will enhance the options of theincreasing number of business passengers flying between thetwo countries, and it will further consolidate Jet Airways’position in the highly competitive market, noted NikosKardassis, cEO, Jet Airways.“Jet Airways has established itself as a prominent brand in theintensely competitive Indo-Gulf sector for its service andquality of its in-flight product. We are confident that the newservice from Thiruvananthapuram to Sharjah will proveimmensely popular with our guests. We believe that this newroute has a potential to serve the needs of our corporate andbusiness travellers, especially from the South.”Jet Airways’ routes between India and the Middle Eastcurrently include Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait,Muscat, Sharjah, Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam.
Qatar Airways Flies Daily to KolkataQatar Airways has broadened its passenger flight network in India by launching daily, non-stop services fromDoha to Kolkata.
Jet Airways to Connect Sharjah and Thiruvananthapuram
W ith an extensivenetworkthroughout theworld, QatarAirways’ newest
passenger route is expected to appeal toexpatriates returning to Kolkata, as well asto international business travellers.Akbar Al Baker, cEO, Qatar Airways,highlighted the convenience of the newservices. “Introduction of our latestdestination has been well timed tocoincide with the busy holiday season asfamilies travel to and from India, one ofour most important markets. As our 12thIndian gateway, the addition of Kolkatademonstrates Qatar Airways’ commitmentto one of the world’s fastest growing
economies with India’s rapid pace ofdevelopment prompting the need formore flights to serve rising demand for airtravel to and from the country.”
The inaugural flight QR 294 arrived atKolkata’s Netaji Subhash chandra BoseInternational Airport on July 28, to atraditional water salute welcome.The airline’s 2011 expansion programme
has so far seen the launch of 10 newroutes, including Bucharest (Romania),Budapest (Hungary), Brussels (Belgium),Stuttgart (Germany), Aleppo (Syria),Shiraz (Iran), Venice (Italy), Montreal(canada), Medina (Saudi Arabia) and,now, Kolkata. Qatar Airways nowoperates 95 flights a week across 12destinations in India.
Qatar Airways
The addition of Kolkatademonstrates Qatar
Airways’ commitment toone of the world’s fastest
growing economies
The launch of daily-directservices between Dubaiand Delhi will mark notonly the carrier’s foray intothe UAE but also its
international debut. Effective from October2, the fast growing airline will also connectDubai with Mumbai, providing theincreasing number of leisure and businesspassengers travelling between the twocountries with even greater options. Following commencing flights from DubaiInternational Airport, IndiGo is to moveeast and launch services to Bangkok andSingapore, before adding Kathmandu andMuscat to its enhancing network. connecting India and the Middle Eastholds enormous potential for the airline,noted Aditya Ghosh, president, IndiGo.“We wish to thank our customers for theirenduring trust and support and areextremely excited about the upcominginternational launch. Dubai is a key marketfor us and launching operations in thismarket is in line with our growth strategyoutlined for the Middle Eastern skies.IndiGo will keep its promise of providinglow fares on international routes as well. We
hope to provide the much needed avenuefor countless Indians to explore widerhorizons and at the same time open up thedoors to more and more overseas travellersto experience India.”
The fastest growing low-cost carrier in theworld, according to centre for Asia PacificAviation, currently operates 259 dailyflights connecting 26 destinations acrossIndia, and hopes to prolong its success inthe international market. “We hope to create the same magic andsuccess in the international market and lookforward to a great experience with ourcustomers. It is our consistent endeavour tomake the journey hassle free for ourcustomers and provide them high qualityexperience at the best yet affordable prices,”concluded Ghosh.
AUGUST 6, 20118
- Air Travel
flydubai launched operations to the cityof Dammam in Saudi Arabia on July 17,with the aim of catering to the growingnumber of business travellers betweenthe UAE and Saudi Arabia.Ghaith Al Ghaith, cEO, flydubai,remarked on the new route’s importance.“Development of the travel and tourismindustry is a core focus for the Saudigovernment as it increases its non-oilGDP and diversifies the economy. Withthe launch of this route we hope tofurther strengthen bilateral traderelations between the two countries and
open up new areas of partnership.”Saudi Arabia also has one of the region’smost dynamic travel markets driven bydomestic tourism, business travel andreligious tourism. Inter-country relationsin non-oil sectors such as science,industry and telecommunications, which
are growing year-on-year, are expected toraise visitor volumes significantly.Visitor numbers are forecasted to grow6.7 percent annually until 2015.The new Dubai-Dammam service willrun daily, departing from Dubai’sTerminal 2.
IndiGo to Fly to DubaiIndiGo, India’s largest low-cost carrier is to launch its first internationalservice upon commencing flights to Dubai on September 1.
Oman Air IncreasesSalalah FlightsOman Air has increased frequencyon its Muscat-Salalah route to betterserve passengers that visited theannual Salalah Tourism Festival lastmonth. The national carrier of the Sultanatehas upgraded the route with 32additional services and offered up toseven flights daily. The airline is alsoin the process of implementing anadditional flight frequencyprogramme to further increaseoperations in the sector. Salalah Tourism Festival celebratesthe history, culture, traditions andlandscapes of the Governorate ofDhofar, and its capital, Salalah. Italso coincided with the Khareef, themonsoon season unique to this partof Arabia. Each year thousands ofvisitors attend the event, takingadvantage of Oman Air’s seasonalfares. As part of Oman Air’s initiative topromote domestic tourism, theairline introduced special fares onseveral of its services and plans toreview the fares and frequencies, andsustain them if justified by demand.
flydubai Debuts Daily Flights to Dammam
Dubai is a key market for us and launching
operations in this market is in line with our growth
strategy outlined for the Middle Eastern skies
umeirah Frankfurt welcomed itsfirst guest on August 1, while thegrand opening celebrations areslated for September. Located in the centre of
Frankfurt, in close vicinity to the businessdistrict and shopping streets,the five-star hotel spreads over25 floors, enticing guests withstunning views. It features 218of the largest rooms and suitesin the city, all with state-of-the-art equipment. Taking in-room technology tothe next level, instead ofconventional air-conditioning,the hotel’s hybrid roomtempering system uses bodyheat detectors and motionsensors to regulate energyconsumption. Besides its signature restaurantand a lobby bar, the hotel offersspacious meeting rooms, aballroom and a spa.
9AUGUST 6, 2011
- International
Jumeirah Debuts in Continental EuropeJumeirah Group, has opened its latest hotel in Frankfurt, Germany, marking the Dubai-based luxuryhospitality company’s foray into continental Europe.
J
Jumeirah Frankfurt
AUGUST 6, 201110
- International
Dusit International to Debut in the MaldivesDusit International is to open its first resort in the Maldives, Dusit Thani Maldives, Mudhdhoo Island, BaaAtoll, in mid December.
IHG Opens First Holiday Inn Hotel in Colombia
L ocated northwest of thecapital city of Malé, theresort will feature 46beach villas, two beachhouses, 30 water villas, 20
ocean villas and two ocean houses. It willalso boast the largest (50m) swimmingpool in the Maldives, a pool bar, over-water and grill restaurants, tree top spas,tennis courts, a dive centre and extensivewater activities in and around the resort. chanin Donavanik, cEO, DusitInternational, commented on thecompany’s entry into the Maldives.“This new project is our first foray into theMaldives, arguably one of the mostbeautiful destinations on earth. This is avery exciting addition to our growingportfolio and represents a great milestonefor the Dusit brand. Dusit Thani Maldiveswill combine the rich flavour of Thaihospitality stunning tropical beauty of theMaldives.”The investment totals some USD77million, with Dusit International beingthe main shareholder.
The sale of the island was transacted byMaldives Resort Island Investments, andthe Mudhdhoo Island Resort will bedeveloped my coastline Hotels &Resorts.
Ahmed Umar Maniku, chairman andmanaging director, coastline, expressedhis delight at welcoming Dusit to theMaldives.“coastline is extremely pleased with thesale of Mudhdhoo Island Resort, to sucha highly respected and established brandsuch as Dusit International. We believeDusit will bring not only a sizeablefinancial investment into the Maldives butwill add significant value to the trainingand development of Maldivians throughits outstanding hospitality trainingschools and colleges.”
Mudhdhoo Island, Maldives
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)opened Holiday Inn Bogota-Airport onJuly 26, debuting the brand to colombia.The property marks IHG’s sixth propertyin the country, across four brands.
In addition to the new Holiday Inn hotel,there are two Intercontinental Hotels,one crowne Plaza, and two Holiday InnExpress properties.Alvaro Diago, chief operating officer,IHG, Latin America and caribbean,commented that the opening is part of aHoliday Inn expansion plan in the LatinAmerican country. “We are excited to open the first of twoHoliday Inn hotels that will open thisyear in colombia, a market that IHGknows well.”The newly built Holiday Inn Bogota-Airport, located in the city’s modern
business district of El Salitre, near to ElDorado International Airport,encompasses eight storey’s and features191 rooms. The property is part of amixed-use business centre and is withinclose proximity to the corferiasconvention centre, the US Embassy,Bogota’s main industrial district and thedowntown.The new property features eight elegantlydesigned meeting rooms, totaling 4,842square feet (450m2) and with a 400-person capacity, as well as a 24-hour gymand full-service restaurant.
This is a very excitingaddition to our growingportfolio and represents
a great milestone for the Dusit brand
Holiday Inn Bogota-Airport
11AUGUST 6, 2011
Francois KassabFrancois Kassab has been appointedas director of finance for theKingdom of Saudi Arabia atIntercontinental Hotels Group(IHG). In his new role, Kassab willspearhead the financial operations ofIHG’s 23 hotels across the Kingdom,a key market for the company.Kassabb was recruited internally afterholding the position of director offinance, Gulf region. He has beenwith IHG for more than five years.
Mohammed KeshrehMohammed Keshreh has been appointed as revenuemanager of Radisson Blu Residence, Dubai Marina.Having worked for major hotel chains for the last sixyears, Keshreh brings with him a wealth of experience.He began his career in 2006 as guest service agent ofSheraton Kuwait. His next positions included frontoffice shift leader, sales executive and sales manager ofvarious Sheraton hotels in Syria and Libya. Keshrehtook on his first revenue manager role in 2009 afterbeing promoted at Sheraton Aleppo in Syria. He movedto the UAE early this year as revenue manager of WestinGolf Resort & Spa in Abu Dhabi.
Philippe BonnotPhilippe Bonnot has been appointedas general manager of Ibn BattutaGate Hotel, managed by MövenpickHotels & Resorts. Prior to taking onhis new role at the five-star propertyin Dubai, he held the position of thegeneral manager at MövenpickTower & Suites Doha. He has vastexperience that spans over 25 yearsand a number of countries includingFrance, England, French Polynesia,Switzerland and Qatar. Previously heworked as general manager at severalLe Méridien properties includingcochin & convention centre inIndia, Hôtel Le Méridien Heliopolis,Egypt and Hôtel Le MéridienBruxelles, Belgium. During his 10years with Le Méridien he was involved in a wide range of major projects ranging fromeffective cost saving plans, tackling new markets and achieving high scores at bothemployee and guest satisfaction indexes. In Dubai he aims to continue growing thehotel in its feeder markets and enhancing guest satisfaction. In addition he also plansto arrange various cultural events.
Louis ArnaudLouis Arnaud has been appointed as regional business solution manager, MENA,at Amadeus. Arnaud will be responsible for ensuring improved understanding ofthe region’s travel agencies’ major business and IT needs, including design, andoffering the best IT solutions for each customer. He has 10 years of experiencewith Amadeus, having dealt previously with IT solutions and sales and projectmanagement. In addition, he has a solid background in software systems sellingand consulting from leading European IT companies.
Mohammed Keshreh
Philippe Bonnot
Francois Kassab
AUGUST 6, 201112
Travel Talk is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hearfrom you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to [email protected]
Ghaith Al GhaithCEO, flydubai
“We are the world’s fastest growingstart-up airline and a significantcontributor to our success has beenour young, efficient and expandingfleet. The range and capabilities ofour 18 Boeing 737-800 NG aircraftallows us to provide our customerswith high-quality, low-cost links todestinations in the Gcc, theMiddle East, North Africa, theIndian sub-continent, Asia and thefringes of Europe. The new aircrafthas gone straight into service justin time to support the new cISroutes launching in September, aswell as the upcoming busy Eidholiday.”
Omar JahamehCEO, RAK Airways
“RAK Airways re-launched its operations less than a year agoand has surprised and delighted the market with its successover this short period. We have witnessed fast-growingdemand for RAK Airways flights from all sectors of the UAEcommunity locally and beyond the borders of Ras AlKhaimah. As a consequence we have quickly grown our routenetwork to six destinations which include: calicut, Jeddah,cairo, Dhaka, Doha and chittagong”
We havewitnessed
fast-growingdemand for
RAK Airwaysflights from allsectors of the
UAE
We are the world’s fastest growing start-up airline and a significant contributor to our success has been
Name: Ashok RavalPosition: President and CEOCompany: Al Aseel Travel & TourismLocation: Oman
Agent’s Insight
Who are you?I am Ashok Raval, founder and cEO of Aseel Travel. The AseelTravel business concept is to act as a travel consultant, rather thana mere agent. I would like to give an example. If you are sick, yougo to a general practitioner. If you have a sickness that is notcontrolled over a few days, you will go to a specialist or aconsultant, who will run various tests. After this diagnosis, youare assured of recovery and not suffering again or any longer.Although this is a little expensive, it is obviously worth the visit,and so is Aseel Travel. We look after high-end clients, travelling on first or business class,staying in five-star and luxury hotels, and whose needs andrequirements are different. The amount of time, money andenergy invested, is the same for high-end clients, but your yieldis higher. At the same time the quality and quantity never goesparallel, therefore we are into quality business. Furthermore, our business is beyond the geographical boundariesof Oman. Our corporate clients originate from very differentcountries, such as France, Switzerland, India, the US, and placeslike Dubai, London, Monaco or Amsterdam. The wide range ofour client base well typifies our broad reputation and dedication. Therefore, we are probably the last in terms of price, and ourprices will never be the lowest in the market. If you throw peanut,you get monkey, not an elephant.
What is your favourite thing about working in the travelindustry?This field is highly challenging and every change is a new lesson.It is really self-motivating, and last but not least you come acrossdifferent cultures and nationalities.
When is the best time to visit Oman? I would say between October and March.
Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday?To the Maldives and I already know that I would like to stay atFour Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru.
Why should people come to you for travel advice?As stated above, as a consultant we find the solution within theframework of rules the trade and give clients the best solution.
Holiday Autos and TripAdvisor Announce Joint VentureTripAdvisor and Holidays Autos have announced aninnovative partnership aimed at illustrating the wealth ofoptions available to travellers.Launched at the end of July, the Tank of Gas venture seesHoliday Autos enable TripAdvisor users to discover daytripsand getaways from a specific destination, just a tank of petrol,or less, away.The user’s starting location is pre-populated (or can be easilyedited to a different one) and very quickly, a selection of thefurthest destinations they can travel to is presented, based oneither a quarter, half or full tank of petrol. The search results pagepulls in TripAdvisor location suggestions.By clicking on a location within the Tank of Gas results page,users will be driven to a destination specific Quick Guide – astreamlined guide with top hotels, attractions and restaurantscompiled specifically for that destination.Darren Hughes, senior sales executive, TripAdvisor,commented on the new offering. “As the world’s largest travelsite we aim to provide travellers with everything they needto plan the perfect trip. Partnering with Holiday Autos meanstravellers can quickly and easily view driving distances,providing that additional layer of inspiration for travellerslooking for their next trip.”
As the world’s largest travel site we aim to provide travellers with everything they need
to plan the perfect trip
AUGUST 6, 201114
Mövenpick Dead Sea: One of the healthiest havensMövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea was recognised as one ofthe world’s healthiest hotels by accommodation providerhotels.com.
R epresentatives of the website examined the globe to findthe best havens for pampering minds, bodies and souls.Among the 12 awarded hotels, Mövenpick Resort & SpaDead Sea was recognised as a top leading destinationwithin the Middle East. Located on the northern shores of
the Dead Sea, the 346-room resort and its spa represent a unique traditionalsetting, offering a true oasis of tranquillity. With numerous uses of the Dead Sea’s beneficial natural salts and minerals,the award-winning Zara Spa’s extensive menu of treatments and thelocation’s oxygen-rich air have all been instrumental to the resort’srecognition. With its unique climate, rich natural sources and a peaceful natural setting,the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, located some 400m below sea level,offers a true sanctuary for the body and soul. To further add to the place’speerless beneficences, guests can enjoy a therapy skin centre and pools withsaline concentrations, including an indoor Dead Sea flotation pool. Otherfacilities include two private pools, a Jacuzzi, solariums, tennis courts, beachvolley ball and a large fitness centre.
Qatar Airways CompletesTour de FranceAs the official airline of the Tour de France,Qatar Airways has further consolidated itspresence in one of its key European markets. Qatar Airways took centre stage on the final day ofthe prestigious race, after flying many of the world’sleading cyclists from Grenoble in south-east Franceto Paris. All competing cyclists, team managers,support staff, numerous representatives of theinternational media as well as Akbar Al Baker,cEO, Qatar Airways, were onboard the specialcharter flight to the last stage of the race. Tour de France, the third most watched sportingevent in the world, is the latest sporting initiativein the airline’s sponsorship scenario.“On behalf of Qatar Airways, it is with delight tobe able to support this great sporting event,attracting the world’s leading cyclists for arguablethe best cycling event in the world,” noted AlBaker. “Sport is integral to Qatar Airways’sponsorship strategy and the Tour de France is anexcellent way of reinforcing our passion for one ofthe world’s most popular sports. For the youngmen who competed in this year’s race, theircommitment and dedication is what is an arduoussport, is highly commendable.”
With scheduled flights between Doha and Parisfor more than a decade, Qatar Airways has a longestablished presence in France, where, with itsinvolvement in this year’s Tour de France, it hasfurther consolidated its position.
Sport is integral to Qatar Airway’s
sponsorship strategy
Mövenpick Dead Sea
Travel Trade Weekly: What is thebenefit to buyers and sellers ofattending Blossom Japan?Jay Martens: Blossom Japan is theclosest you will get to the prefect tradeevent. The aim is to offer sellers andbuyers an environment in which everysingle detail has been planned in advanceto give them the best return on theirinvestment. No time is wasted andbecause of the vigorous selection process,no time-wasters are allowed to attend. Theevent is run as a private club, by invitationonly, and only senior decision makers willbe allowed to participate.Our pre-scheduled appointment systemoffers all participants the opportunity tochoose who they want to meet prior to theevent, so that during the event realbusiness can be discussed instead of mereintroductions.
Travel Trade Weekly: How willBlossom Japan differ from othertravel exhibitions?Jay Martens: We have created a platformwhere every single detail has beenplanned and arranged so that the needs ofevery participant are met. Our startingpoint has been to create the best possiblereturn on investment. Our rigorousvetting process will guarantee that whoyou meet during the event is reallyrepresenting one of the best products oragents servicing their region.A lot of attention has been paid to makingthe destination experience a key part of
the event. Our role is to gather the leadingfigures in the luxury travel industry andcreate the perfect new market place.Blossom Japan has a transparentparticipation policy and there are nohidden costs to the event. Participants payone fee and everything is included; thismakes it easy for brands to plan moreefficiently and focus solely on buildingnew business with the delegates they aremeeting during the show.
Travel Trade Weekly: What feedbackdid you get from the first edition ofBlossom Japan?Jay Martens: In 10 years of doing tradeshows, we have never received suchpositive and excellent feedback as thatwhich we experienced from the firstedition of Blossom Japan. A very wellrespected figure in the travel industryadvised that it was the best travel tradeevent he has attended in the past 20 years. A large number of our clients have donedirect business on site and have seenreturns in the first month after the show. Asa result of this, they have already rebookedfor the second edition of the event.One of our goals was to offer a newperspective into the Japan and Asia Pacificmarket, to find new players in the marketand to offer access to very uniquenetworks; this is what our clients are afterand the event delivered it.
Travel Trade Weekly: Why did youchoose to host the event in Japan?Jay Martens: The Japanese spirit andsearch for perfection is a key element here.We would challenge anyone in the worldto match the incredible service level andattention to detail you find all over Japan.
As a travel specialist, we believe that Japanhas only one key issue to solve and that isits brand positioning.
Japan aims to be an exceptional luxurytravel destination in the world. Bypositioning ‘Brand Japan’ in this way, thecountry anticipates becoming a key playerin the international market, taking on aleading role in the Asia Pacific region. Thebenefits will be incredible for theeconomy.Japan does not need to re-invent itself, butfind the right strategy to sell the destinationand speak to the right audience.
15AUGUST 6, 2011
Q&A with Jay MartensTravel trade exhibitions have increasingly been recognised as important platforms for procuring relationships,strengthening networks and acquiring knowledge of the industry. Jay Martens, CEO, Lucioles, the organisersof Blossom Japan, talks to Travel Trade Weekly about the event’s unique attributes and how it meets decision-makers’ demands for further efficiency and rewards.
Jay Martens
One of our goals was to offer a new perspectiveinto the Japan and Asia
Pacific market, to find newplayers in the market and
to offer access to veryunique networks
Blossom Japan is theclosest you will get to the
prefect trade event
AUGUST 6, 201116
EventsChina Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings ExhibitionBeijing, China, August 30-September 1, 2011 (www.cibtm.com)A leading event for the meetings, incentives, business traveland the events industry in china and Asia.
PATA Travel MartNew Delhi, India, September 6-9, 2011 (www.pata.org)Asia Pacific’s premier travel trade show with networking andcontracting opportunities.
Top Resa, International French Travel MarketParis, France, September 20-23, 2011 (www.iftm.fr)An international travel and tourism trade fair for networking,doing business, innovating and keeping abreast of marketdevelopments.
Cityscape DubaiDubai, UAE, September 26-29, 2011 (www.cityscape.ae)A B2B networking exhibition and conference for emerging realestate markets globally.
Kazakhstan International Tourism ExhibitionAstana, Kazakhstan, September 27-29, 2011www.leisure.kzThe eighth Kazakhstan International Tourism Exhibition inAstana, which caters for both the B2B and B2c markets andfeatures a vibrant mix of inbound and outbound destinations.
CIS Travel MarketSt. Petersburg, Russia, October 12-14, 2011(www.restec.ru)An event focusing on cIS countries, attended by airlines, tour operators,travel agencies, accommodation providers and tourist associations.
China MICE Event to be the Biggest of its KindChina Incentives, Business Travel &Meetings exhibition (cIBTM) 2011, willbe the biggest event of its kind, accordingto the organisers.More than 300 exhibitors are expected toattend it, along with 300 hosted buyers.There has also been a 21 percent increasein event space since 2010, and more than5,500 appointments have beenprescheduled.Jeffrey Xu, project manager, cIBTM,explained that the exhibition is of benefitto the worldwide meetings market. “Ourgoal once again, is to help connect thechina meetings market with the rest ofAsia and the world. The huge success of lastyear’s professional education programme
is expected to attract huge numbers as thethirst for industry knowledge andinformation grows. We will bring the verylatest international, regional and localtopics and debates from world casespeakers helping the delegates to developtheir careers in this sector through up tothe minute news, topics and trends.”
There is no doubt that china’s meetingsindustry has huge potential with industry
analysts HelmsBriscoe, predicting that thesector is worth a USD150 billion marketwith annual growth of 20 percent. “Thisyear’s event is clearly following the trend ofgrowth. The impact that cIBTM will haveon both inbound and outbound MIcEbusiness will clearly establish it as the annualbusiness forum. It is also the only eventendorsed and supported by the chinaNational Tourism Organisation,” Xu added.
Our goal once again, is to help connect the China
meetings market with the restof Asia and the world
