08 MALLS 06 MAJID AL FUTTAIM TO INAUGURATE …...2017/03/04  · MAJID AL FUTTAIM TO INAUGURATE MALL OF EGYPT 08 MALLS 14 10 19 Air Technology Photo Album TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS

EMAAR PROPERTIES REVEALS 28 PERCENT GROWTH IN PROFIT

MAMSHA AL SAADIYAT REACHES 20 PERCENT COMPLETION

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MARKET UPDATE www.traveltradeweekly.travel

MANAGING EDITOR

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JOURNALIST Ellen Petty

CONTRIBUTORS Panayiotis Karanicholas Maria Sabova Anna Spyrou Dominique Christou

SALES & SALES SUPPORT Maria Demetriadou Magda Christou Raluca Apostolescu

DESIGN & LAYOUTElena Stylianou

WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis

DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi

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Challenging January for Abu Dhabi Addresses

STR’s preliminary data for January has revealed that hotels in Abu Dhabi experienced a 1.4 percent year-on-year decline in occupancy to 74.2 percent, a 10 percent fall in average daily rate (ADR) to AED465.80 (USD126.82) and an 11.2 percent plummet in RevPAR to AED345.68 (USD94.12).

While demand had risen 2.4 percent during the respective month, supply was also up 3.9 per-cent when compared to January 2016, which had a significant impact on ADR.

Thanks to Global Space Congress, on January 31 there was 23.6 percent boost in RevPAR over the same day in 2016, while occupancy on January 30 and January 31 reached 90.2 per-

cent and 89.8 percent, correspondingly.

Marriott International Records Growth in Q4, 2016

Marriott International has posted its 2016 fourth quarter (Q4) results, which has shown net income to have totalled USD244 million, a year-on-year increase of 21 percent, with Q4 adjusted net income reaching USD344 million, a 15 percent rise over Q4 2015 combined results.

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation grew to USD756 million in Q4, an 11 percent jump over the same period in 2015.

During 2016, the group added more than 68,000 keys to its portfolio, with a worldwide devel-opment pipeline increased to 420,000 rooms, 34,000 of which are approved but not yet subject to

signed contracts.Furthermore, in the respective year, the company repurchased eight million shares of its common stock

for USD573million, including 4.3 million shares for USD348 million in Q4.

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Hotstats’ MENA Chain Hotels Market Review December 2016 has revealed how properties in Doha, Dubai and Kuwait attempted to overcome a challenging period.

I n 2016, profit per room at hotels in Doha dropped 23.3 per-cent compared to 2015, marking the second consecutive year of significant decline, in spite of reducing both labour

and overheads, down 1.9 percent and 3.8 percent, respec-tively.

Overall, 2016 proved challenging for properties in Qa-tar’s capital, with a 18.2 percent plummet in RevPAR, along with declines in food and beverage, which fell 11.2 percent and conference and banqueting, down 14.6 percent. Com-bined, these measures contributed to total RevPAR falling to USD297.41, a decline of 13.5 percent.

Hoteliers attempted to overcome this by slashing un-distributed operating expenses, such as administration and general, sales and marketing as well as property and mainte-nance, reduced 15.9 percent, 11.7 percent and 18.2 percent, correspondingly, compared to 2015.

Doha Addresses Struggle to Overcome Profit Loss

A lthough hoteliers in Dubai reported an overall 6.8 percent decline in profit in 2016, by the fourth quarter, properties achieved a 0.7 percent in-

crease in profit per room, even with a 4.4 percent decrease in RevPAR during the three month period.

Due to the addition of supply in the emirate and a shift in demand to three-star addresses due to a dip in oil prices, in the first half of 2016, profit per room plummeted 13.2 percent, driven by a 11.3 percent drop in RevPAR. How-ever, costs reductions were observed, saving 1.7 percent in labour and 2.8 percent in overheads.

Hotels in Dubai Finish 2016 with Profit Rise

I n 2016, profit per room at Kuwait properties fell 18.7 per-cent when compared to 2016.

While addresses managed to maintain achieved aver-age room rate, this was at the expense of a 3.7 percentage point year-on-year decrease in occupancy during the first half of 2016. In the second quarter of 2016, the strategic rate re-duction enabled hoteliers to recover loss and report a 3.2 per-centage point rise in occupancy, which reached 47.4 percent.

In particular, the commercial segment suffered during 2016, with residential conference declining 15.5 percent year-on-year, along with an 11.9 percent plummet in the corporate segment. Furthermore, ancillary revenues also decreased, comprising just 46.1 percent of total revenue, compared to 54.1 percent in 2015.

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WEEKLY NEWS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

4 MARCH 2017

Based on a survey conducted by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Saudi Arabia’s travel and tour-

ism sector is expected to contribute more than 81 billion to the country’s GDP by 2026.

Domestic tourism is a major source of income for the country. In 2016, more than 47.5 million local tourists trips were record-ed, signalling a 2.3 percent rise compared to 2015. Based on Vision 2030, the government is planning to invest in cultural projects and entertainment activities inside the country.

These plans will be presented at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) which will take place in Dubai from April 23 – 27.

Simon Press, senior exhibition director, ATM 2017, stated, “Vision 2030 also seeks to double the number of UNESCO heritage sites to encourage more domestic tourism, while both Holy Mosques have large expansion plans […] that would assist with travel to and within these religious sites.”

Saudi Arabia Invests in Domestic Tourism

Boost in German Bookings to Egypt

E gypt’s State Information Service has unveiled that the country ranked as the number one choice for German tourists on February 13, with the most

number of bookings recorded by Check 24, a German comparison website.

Along with being the most popular destination on the aforementioned date, the number of travellers who have booked trips to Egypt in the first six weeks of the year has skyrocketed 84 percent when compared to the same pe-riod in 2016.

This achievement follows the lifting of restrictions, the reinstatement of flights along with Egyptian Tourism Of-fice’s efforts to attract visitors during a recent meeting in Berlin.

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The UAE Launches Mars 2117 Project

The first phase will concentrate on education, with the hope of nurturing a group of specialists to develop a breakthrough to facilitate the arrival of humans. Faster means of transportation to and from the red planet will also be a focus, along

with understanding how life will be.Al Maktoum noted, “The new project is a seed that we plant today, and we expect

future generations to reap the benefits, driven by its passion to learn to unveil a new knowledge.”

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai and H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince, Abu Dhabi unveiled the UAE’s Mars 2117 Project, which aims to establish the

first inhabitable human settlement on the Mars by 2117.

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WEEKLY NEWS TOURISM DEVELOPMENTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Mamsha Al Saadiyat Reaches 20 Percent Completion

D ue to be finished during the second half of 2018, the AED1.25 billion (USD340 million) project is being developed in a joint venture between SANJOSE Con-tracting and Pivot Engineering & General Contracting.

Set within Saadiyat Cultural District, the beachfront mixed-use offering will feature nine low-rise residential buildings with 461 units, ranging from one- to four-bedroom apartments and nine five-bedroom penthouses. Additionally, it will boast a selection of leisure and retail outlets and a 1.4km promenade with walking and cycling paths and children’s playgrounds.

Nakheel has appointed Dar Al-Handasah for infrastruc-ture design, engineering

and site supervision services at Ma-dinat Al Arab, 522ha site with 266 mixed-use plots.

Situated at Waterfront in Jebel Ali, the infrastructure design for four of the five zones is reaching completion, while the construction tender is due to be released in the second quarter of this year.

Strategically located within reach of the Expo 2020 site, Al Mak-toum International Airport and re-cently-opened attractions, theme parks and Abu Dhabi, the project reinforces Nakheel’s commitment to the area and its investors.

Nakheel Moves Forward with Madinat Al Arab

Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) has unveiled that the construction of Mamsha Al Saadiyat is well underway, with 21.9 percent of the development works now complete.

AKOYA by DAMAC Becomes DAMAC Hills

D AMAC Properties has unveiled DAMAC Hills, previous-ly known as AKOYA by DAMAC, a premiere golf master community, featuring Trump International Golf Club

Dubai.The 390ha site will also boast golf-facing villas and low-ride

apartments offering panoramic views of the fairways amongst a residential, retail, hospitality and leisure community.

Niall McLoughlin, senior vice president, DAMAC Proper-ties, said, “The launch of DAMAC Hills marks our evolution into becoming a successful master developer. The complexity and size of such a large-scale project is testament to our ability to deliver from start to finish a fully-integrated community and for this reason we are pleased to put our name to it.”

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WEEKLY NEWSwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

Emirates Wildlife Society Creates

Partnerships

T he Emirates Wildlife Society in association with World Wildlife Fund has unveiled

Give2UAE strategy, launching envi-ronmental programmes for public and private sectors to actively con-tribute to national sustainability goals.

Responding to the UAE’s 2017 vision of the Year of Giving, the strategy involves partnership pro-grammes based on corporate social responsibility, volunteering and serving the nation. Various stake-holders are encouraged to join corporate membership natural con-servation agendas, a wide range of volunteering programmes and cli-mate change educational activities.

International Property Show Unveiled by DLD

D ubai Land Department (DLD) has announced that the 13th edition of Inter-national Property Show will be held on April 02 – 04. Around 100 exhibi-tors from 40 countries, along with 16,000 visitors, are expected to attend the

event which will be held at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The show is hailed as the only of its kind that allows direct real estate deals with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency’s authorisation.

Majid Saqer Al Marri, senior director, real estate investment management and promotion centre, DLD, said, “This show provides the perfect environment for devel-opers to operate and grow. Our support also gives greater credibility to the special offers and helps reassure clients.”

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WEEKLY NEWS MALLS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Mall of EgyptOPERATOR OF MULTIPLE OUTLETS’ MAJID AL FUTTAIM HAS ANNOUNCED THE OPENING OF THE LONG-AWAITED MALL OF EGYPT, SET TO WELCOME THE PUBLIC FOR THE FIRST TIME ON MARCH 02. T he two-level venue boasts what is said to be a hallmark of the

company’s presence across the region, featuring VOX Cinemas, Ski Egypt, Carrefour, Little Explorers and Magic Planet entertainment. The mall spans a gross leasable area of 165,000m² and will provide 6,500 parking spaces.

With EGP6.3 billion (USD386.5 million) of investments, the super-regional mall promises to introduce new concepts to the Egyptian market, ranging from creative architecture to exceptional customer experiences, unparal-leled dining, retail and entertainment options.

Majid Al Futtaim to Inaugurate

Mall of Egypt rendering

Yas Mall’s Philanthropic Initiatives

A ldar Properties through its flagship Yas Mall has commited to the vision of Abu Dhabi’ s de-clared Year of Giving by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with a non-profit organisa-tion Make-A-Wish UAE to support meaningful causes.

Make-A-Wish UAE was established to grant wishes to children in the UAE who are living with life-threatening illnesses. Under the partnership, the mall will support the organisation by engaging with its retailers and facilitating the fundraising activities that will be announced in due course.

H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, CEO, Aldar Properties, commented, “[…] The Year of Giving is an opportunity for us all to identify more ways in which we can contribute to our communities and our company is proud to demonstrate its commitment to the initiative through this partnership.”

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WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY www.traveltradeweekly.travel

S abre will be the first technology provider to introduce FlightGlobal’s live data feeds into its global distribution system and travel booking

platforms, offering a real-time air shopping experi-ence and smarter connectivity.

FlightGlobal, the industry’s database of airline schedules from over 900 carriers worldwide, will ena-ble more than 425,000 of Sabre’s travel agents to have a live access to flight changes and up-to-the-millisec-ond flight schedules. All data will update dynamically at the time the members shop for flights.

“As the first to integrate FlightGlobal’s data with a core travel agency reservation system in the industry, Sabre provides the highest level of schedule reliability to our global agency network for virtually every pas-senger flight around the world,” said, Wade Jones, in-terim president, Sabre Travel Network.

E xpo 2020 Dubai has announced its first international pre-mier partner, a global software solutions provider SAP, that will co-innovate on real-time technology platforms to fa-

cilitate the event’ s cutting-edge technology experience. SAP is expected to run more than 20 real-time solutions with

a potential to enable organisers and exhibitors to identify visitors’ trends and preferences and to help participants with smart navi-gation to their preferred pavilions.

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman, higher committee, Expo 2020 Dubai, said, “We are building a tremendous base of technology enablers that collectively provide thoughtful, connected experiences. SAP has a long track record of providing trusted, best-in-class enterprise solutions that are essential to the planning and operations of Expo 2020 Dubai.”

Sabre First to Enable Real-Time Data Access

SAP to Deliver Platforms for Expo 2020 Dubai

Travelport Hotelzon Upgrades Booking App

The new version allows users to search, book, amend and cancel hotel stays within their corporate travel policy, while ensuring they secure the best available rates, including companies’ negotiated deals.

Daniel Guillou, managing director, Hotelzon, commented, “The Travelport Hotelzon app provides the convenience and hotel choice travellers seek, whilst keeping hotel bookings within policy and providing better clarity on spending to the company.”

Travelport Hotelzon, a business-to-business hotel distribution technology provider, has redesigned its booking application, with additional content and new features to meet the increasing demands

of the ever-connected corporate traveller.

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Travelport and Trailfinders Announce Collaboration

T railfinders and Travelport have signed a new long-term agreement, building on a 25 year relationship between the two companies.

As part of the partnership, Trailfinders expert consultants will have access to Travelport’s Travel Commerce Platform, with branded fares and ancillaries from more than 400 air-lines and 650,000 hotels to ensure customers can book tailor-made itineraries.

Paul Broughton, regional managing director, the UK and Ireland, Travelport, noted, “To maintain their leadership in their field, Trailfinders needs access to both extensive global travel choice as well as the very best travel booking technol-ogy and this has remained our focus and an area in which we have continued to invest and lead.”

Avis Budget Group and Travelport Extend Partnership

A vis Budget Group and Travel-port, have announced the signing of a new, multi-year

partnership contract.Through the agreement, Avis

Budget Group will have continued access to Travelport’s Travel Com-merce Platform enabling the com-pany to continue to showcase its available vehicle inventory and suite of ancillary products and services for its portfolio of brands, including Avis Car Rental, Budget Car Rental, Pay-less Car Rental, Apex Car Rentals and Maggiore.

Travel agencies, including those online, travel management compa-nies and corporate customers will continue to be able to reserve a rent-al vehicle easily and conveniently.

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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Radisson Blu Debuts in Dhahran

T he Rezidor Hotel Group has inaugurated the first Radisson Blu Residence in Dhahran, to

be followed by opening of another property in 2019.

Targeting corporate and leisure guests, the 92-key residence located in the Aramco business district, fea-tures guest rooms as well as two- and three-bedroom apartments, along with a fitness centre and a restaurant offering selection of international cui-sine.

“We are delighted to open our first residences in Dhahran [...] and we are confident that the combination of high quality serviced apartments and the globally recognised Radisson Blu brand will prove to be a compel-ling proposition, popular in demand,” said, Mark Willis, area vice president, Middle East and Turkey, The Rezidor Hotel Group.

D eutsche Hospitality continued on its path of expan-sion having launched its 100th hotel to operate under the Deutsche Hospitality brand, namely, The

Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir. The expansion is in line with the company's aim of tap-

ping into new markets and strengthening its brand pres-ence at existing locations. In accordance with this strategy, the company has signed 14 contracts for new hotels on three continents over the past year.

Located in the Egyptian metropolis of Cairo, the new property offers guests 300 furnished rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with the latest in technology. Fur-thermore, the hotel boasts five conference rooms, a large banqueting hall, a spa as well as a health and beauty centre and gym with swimming pool.

The address extends the brands presence to 11 hotels and three Nile river ships.

Deutsche Hospitality Marks

100th Property

The Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir

Eight Percent Rise in Profit

for Aldar Properties

Emaar Properties Reveals 28 Percent Growth in Profit

R evenue increased 14 percent compared to 2015, reaching a total of AED15.54 billion (USD4.23 billion), with recurring revenue from shopping malls, hospitality, entertain-ment and leisure business accounting for 38 percent of total revenue, at AED5.98 bil-

lion (USD1.63 billion).Moreover, 2016 saw the unveiling of The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour as well as the

opening of Dubai Opera and two Rove Hotels addresses.Commenting on the year ahead, Mohamed Alabbar, chairman, Emaar Properties, said,

“As the nation sets new milestones in futuristic developments, Emaar will continue to invest in next-generation technology to deliver modern lifestyles that meet the lifestyle aspirations of our youth and future generations.”

In 2016, Emaar Properties achieved a net profit of AED5.23 billion (USD1.43 billion), a year-on-year jump of 28 percent.

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In 2016, Aldar Properties achieved a net profit of AED2.8 billion (USD762 million), a year-on-year

increase of eight percent.Highlights of the financial year

include total development sales value of AED3.5 billion (USD953 million), led by Yas Acres, Mayan and West Yas, while Yas Island con-tinued to build momentum.

In terms of the company’s asset management, 2016 saw the recur-ring revenue net operating income of AED1.6 billion (USD436 million), Yas Mall maintained occupancy, with 94 percent of units trading. Mean-while, as of December 31, 2016, Al-dar Properties residential, office and hotel portfolios recorded occupancy of 92 percent, 95 percent and 77 per-cent, correspondingly.

Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort

Unveils Chalets

A s part of Danat Hotels and Resorts’ expansion and aim of attracting more Europe-

an, CIS and GCC guests, 24 newly-built beachfront chalets have been inaugurated at Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort.

In the past few years, the Abu Dhabi-based resort has focussed on the corporate segment, but now in-tends to broaden its customer base with increased leisure guests.

Commenting on the addition to the property, Kevin Lawless, ho-tel manager, Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, said, “The new chalets with elegant contemporary details that blend the comfort of life with coast-al charm will also cater to the next generation of travellers and families who want to combine work and relaxation as well as demand style and substance.”

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Qatar Airways Expands to Skopje

The itinerary connecting Doha with the Macedonian capital will be operated on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, onboard Airbus A320 aircraft featuring a two-class cabin configuration with 12 seats in business and 132 seats in economy class.

H.E. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, commented on the inauguration, “Our new service to Skopje is a much anticipated addition to our global route map, connecting leisure and business passengers to and from the Republic of Macedonia. Those travelling on Qatar Airways from this destination onwards to our global network will be able to connect seamlessly to destinations such as our recently launched gateways of Auckland, Sydney, Krabi and Windhoek.”

F or the first time, users of Travelport’s Travel Commerce Platform will be able to select and pay for Emirates seats in advance according

to the Emirates Fare Brand chosen, following an en-hanced partnership agreement.

Previously only available through the airline’s website, the advanced paid seating option supports Emirate’s ongoing investment in improving inflight customer experience.

Commenting on the announcement, Derek Sharp, senior vice president, air commerce, Travel-port, noted, “[Emirates’] decision to launch ad-vanced paid seating through Travelport – in an in-dustry – first move - is a testament to how we are able to help Emirates market their unique offerings to the global travel trade and end travellers. “

Travelport and Emirates Launch Advanced Paid Seating

Qatar Airways confirmed the start date of its long-awaited direct service to Skopje Alexander the Great Airport, with four-weekly flights from Hamad International Airport beginning July 17.

Turkish and Pakistan Airlines Expand Codeshare

Turkish Airlines and Pakistan International Airlines strength-ened their codeshare cooperation and from February 01, new routes have enabled both airlines to enter additional

global markets for the first time.Pakistan International Airlines in now able to sell Turkish Airlines’

services to Atlanta, Johannesburg, Atina, Amsterdam, Tashkent, Mos-cow, Miami, Boston, Houston, Washington, Los Angeles, San Fran-cisco and Chicago while Turkish Airlines markets Pakistani carrier’s operating flights from Karachi and Islamabad to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Muscat and from Lahore to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Bernd Hildenbrand, CEO, Pakistan International Airlines, com-mented, “Pakistan and Turkey are brotherly countries and have close cultural and business cooperation in various areas including aviation. Our airline values its commercial relations with Turkish Air-lines and the expansion of this codeshare adds more value to our commercial ties and is equally beneficial for our customers.”

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WEEKLY NEWS AIRwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

Royal Jordanian and Turkish

TechnicTeam Up

According to a recent agreement between Royal Jordanian and Turkish Airlines, the former carrier is expected to receive Line

Replaceable Unit (LRU) components by Turkish Tech-nic, the maintenance, repair and overhaul centre of Turkish Airlines.

The services and spares that will be provided within the framework of the agreement will take place in Turkish Technic’s Istanbul base and sup-ply stations throughout the world. The contract is expected to strengthen business relationships be-tween the two parties and will expand Turkish Tech-nic’s network in the Middle East region.

Ahmet Karaman, CEO, Turkish Technic, enthused, “We are glad to be reaping the fruits of our labour with this win-win cooperation model. Turkish Tech-nic has reached a fleet size of about 800 aircraft in the component pool market with the signing of this agreement.”

On February 11, 2016, EgyptAir launched its first B737-800 Next Generation aircraft. The inaugural delivery took place at the Boeing delivery centre in Seattle after an

agreement signed between Egypt’s national carrier and Dubai Aerospace Enterprise leasing company. According to the agreement, seven more B737-800NGs are expected to be delivered this year.

EgyptAir Received its First B737-800NGs

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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What differentiates Wyndham Hotel Group from other international hotel brands in the region?

IGNACE BAUWENS: A hotel giant with an unmatched global presence of nearly 8,000 hotels, Wyndham Hotel Group is a leading hotel brand franchisor and hotel management services provider. Our global portfolio consists of [...] approximately 689,800 rooms in 76 countries, with brands including Rama-da, Wyndham Grand, Wyndham Garden, TRYP by Wyndham, Hawthorn and

IGNACE BAUWENS

Q & A

with

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA, WYNDHAM HOTEL GROUP

WYNDHAM HOTEL GROUP HAS SETS ITS SIGHTS ON EXPANDING ACROSS

THE MENA REGION, IGNACE BAUWENS, REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA, WYNDHAM HOTEL

GROUP, EXPLAINS THE REASONS BEHIND THE STRATEGIC GROWTH.

sure and business guests, together with an improved midscale and budget hotel offering, have created a lot of opportu-nity in the region. For owners and inves-tors the financial returns of these hotel investments are also more attractive compared to the luxury offering.

The increased number of people travelling to the MENA region – due to cheaper airfares and the growing con-nectivity of budget airlines to this re-gion – means that, although we are still seeing healthy growth within the luxury market, the real opportunity lies in mid-scale and budget developments. There-fore the introduction of the Wyndham Garden, TRYP by Wyndham, Super 8 and Days Inn brands to the MENA mar-ket are aimed specifically at this grow-ing market.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the upcoming developments for the group in the region?

IGNACE BAUWENS: 2016 was a busy year in the region, and this year is set to be even bigger. We have a number of new hotels set to open across MENA, including TRYP by Wyndham Dubai, Wyndham Grand Manama, as well as three new openings in Saudi Arabia. Looking further ahead, we are opening an additional 15 properties between 2018 and 2020, and are, of course, al-ways working closely with local teams to identify more opportunities to bring our iconic brands to both emerging and established destinations.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How do you forecast the coming year to be?

IGNACE BAUWENS: We are certainly optimistic about the opportunities in the region this year. We are working hand in hand with the tourism boards and authorities in the various countries to promote their destination to differ-ent types of travellers, to help boost vis-itors to the region as a whole. By devel-oping calendars of the major events in the cities we can attract guests from all backgrounds, all of whom will be look-ing for different types of accommoda-tion which our portfolio is best placed to provide.

We are also expecting to see an increase in visitors to the region as a direct result of our regional marketing campaigns around our Wyndham Hotel Group branded hotels and their desti-nations.

Super 8 – offering both our investors and guests an unrivalled variety. Wynd-ham Rewards, our industry-leading guest loyalty programme, offers more than 48 million members around the world the opportunity to earn and re-deem points at thousands of hotels, helping to drive brand loyalty and re-peat business for hotels.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are your most popular brands within the region?

IGNACE BAUWENS: Ramada has been our most popular brand in the region for some time, but Wyndham Grand, Wynd-ham Hotels and Resorts and Wyndham Garden are all brands we are seeing rapidly growing in the area. Having said that, our extensive portfolio of brands means there are no limits. Each one ca-ters to a specific customer need, with all of our iconic brands united by the richest and simplest rewards programme in the business, Wyndham Rewards.

[...] With a strong and growing foot-print around the world, including many hotels conveniently located near ma-jor airports, Wyndham Garden brings a carefree convenience and peace of mind to both business and leisure trav-ellers. Now that the market has matured in this region, we are able to successful-ly introduce more of our fastest grow-ing brands, such as Wyndham Garden.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Why is there a focus on development in the Mid-dle East and North Africa region?

IGNACE BAUWENS: Despite all the challenges of the last few years, political as well as economic, the MENA region has proven its resilience in many ways. The region remains dynamic with many opportunities for growth. Dubai has certainly taken the lead in the hospital-ity industry within the MENA region, however there are many other coun-tries and cities with vast opportunities. History has proven the importance of tourism – and therefore hospitality - in countries like Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Tunisia to name just a few, and they will all bounce back at some point.

The lower oil prices in GCC countries over the past year have also presented many opportunities. Owners and de-velopers have seen the value and pros-pects of upper and midscale hotels as well as those at the budget end of the scale. The evolving budgets of both lei-

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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONALwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

H ard Rock Hotels International has revealed its expansion plans to China by opening the first Hard Rock Hotel in Shenzhen.

By blending pop culture and first-class hospitality, the new property promises to offer an alternative accommodation experi-ence to the modern traveller. Guests will be able to enjoy a wide range of dining and entertainment options while listening to their favourite music.

Featuring 258 rooms, a fitness centre and a rock shop, the new hotel will be located 45 minutes from Shenzhen’s International Air-port. Peter Wynne, vice president, operations, Asia Pacific Hotels, Hard Rock Hotels, commented, “While Hard Rock Hotel Shenzhen will offer a one-of-a-kind luxury experience [...] as our brand has proven over the years, nothing is more universal than a love of mu-sic and having a great time”.

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The First Hard Rock Hotel in China to Open

T he second edition of World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) took place at the Swissôtel The Bosphorus Istanbul, between February 13 – 14.

This year’s forum focused on the different ways corporations can foster open innovation and deliver more value through partnerships with angel investors.

The event also introduced new collaborations between Subject Matter Experts, entrepreneurs and public organisations to address equity gap challenges and solu-tions. Hailed as a global organisation, WBAF is brought key players of the market together to debate the benefits and challenges for the angel investment community and to discuss what more can be done to connect the early-stage market ecosystem. Sw

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WBAF at Swissôtel The Bosphorus Istanbul

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NEWS & EVENTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Lionel Messi, footballer of Barcelona FC, has signed on to become the ambassador of Tour n' Cure, an initiative by Egyptian companies Pharco and Prime Pharma. The football icon is set to arrive this year to promote the campaign,

which offers worldwide hepatitis C victims a customised treatment plan by utilising, whats is said to be, the most advanced therapies.

Serving as part of medical tourism, inspired by Egypt's mission to completely eradicate the disease, the package entails one week treatments in international, multi-award winning hospitals in addition to five-star hotel relaxation completed with visits to the region’s historic sites.

Viajes El Corte Inglés has signed the Private Sector Commitment of World Tour-ism Organization’s (UNTWO) Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, a core element of tourism entities efforts in the field of corporate social responsibility.

UNWTO’s code is an important roadmap to guide the increasing respon-sibility of all stakeholders in the preservation of the environment, culture

and local communities.Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, commented, “The addition of Viajes El Corte

Inglés to the roster of companies committed to the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism is one of the most significant milestones of 2017, particularly when we are celebrating the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.”

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), the French embassy and the French Institute have col-laborated with the French National School of Dramatic Arts in the context of an Emirati-French Cultural Pro-gramme with a concentrated theatre training TRANCE-

FORMS.The performing arts project, designed to inspire a novel genera-

tion of theatrical artists in the UAE, concluded with four shows titled I Am My Language, which took place in the end of February at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi.

H.E. Mohammed Al Mubarak, chairman, TCA Abu Dhabi, com-mented, ”[…] It is part of our mandate to foster a cultural atmosphere for the growth of local talent and programmes with such profound creative expressions, which would assume the capacity to reflect the flourishing artistic spirit in Abu Dhabi to the rest of the world.”

Tour n’ Cure Signed Lionel

Messi as Ambassador

Viajes El Corte Inglés Commits to Ethical Tourism

Emergence of Experimental Theatre in

UAE

Lionel Messi

From left, Juan Luis Vassallo Saavedra, director, legal affairs, Viajes El Corte Inglés, and Rifai

Manarat Al Saadiyat

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PHOTO ALBUMwww.traveltradeweekly.travel

From left, Viktor Jordan, senior manager, corporate finance, Etihad Airways; Vasgen Edwards, global head, aviation and transport, National Bank of Abu Dhabi; Fawaz Abusneineh, head, debt capital markets, National Bank of Abu Dhabi; and Souhail

Mahjour, director, debt capital markets, HSBC, collected lslamic Deal of the Year Award

For the second year running, InterContinental Cairo Semiramis joined InterContinental Hotel Group’s Ten Club, making it one of the top

achievers among 270 properties in Asia, the Middle East and Africa

H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal Al Qassimi, chairman, MANAFA and Faisal Al Nuaimi, general manager, Ajman Tourism Development Department, inaugurated The Ajman Palace Hotel Wedding Fair

The Address Dubai Marina celebrated at the Service Olympian Awards ceremony after winning Best Employee Engagement and

Best Customer Experience Delivery

Ileshaa Nijhawan and Ekta Kapoor were named as Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre’s new groups and

events sales managers

City Seasons Hotel Muscat received Agoda Golden Circle Award for 2016 in recognition

of its outstanding service and maximum use of Agoda’s Yield Control System

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NEWS & EVENTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

ITB Promotes Youth Travel

DSCD at The National Career Exhibition 2017

Hailed as the world’s largest tourism trade fair, Interna-tional Travel Trade Show Ber-lin (ITB), will take place from

March 08 – 12. A special exhibition will be hosted

this year in Hall 4.1 aiming to approach young people who are keen to travel. During the event the new generation will have an opportunity to be in-formed on the latest travel trends and get updated on new language courses abroad, events and festivals.

Exhibitors will be presenting digi-tal innovations such as virtual real-ity headsets (VR goggles). In addition, events will be organised by the travel network, featuring high-ranking fig-ures from politics and business who will inform visitors on the latest trends in the youth travel market.

Sharjah's Department of Statis-tics and Community Develop-ment (DSCD) had announced its participation in the National

Career Exhibition 2017, which took place February 15 – 17 at Expo Centre Sharjah.

During its participation at the fo-rum, DSCD accepted applications from candidates interested in employment within the department and used the op-portunity to answer any questions they had. The Sharjah governmental depart-ment said that the interaction enabled prospective Emirati job seekers to start the process of applying for available va-cancies at DSCD, considering a match between their academic qualifications and job requirements.

Commenting on the participation in the exhibition, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdullah Al Thani, chairman, DSCD, point-ed out that all of the department’s vacant positions last year were filled by Emiratis who applied for jobs during the National Career Exhibition 2016.

ITB BERLIN

Berlin, GermanyMarch 08 – 12 www.itb-berlin.deIndustry professionals from 187 countries are expected to attend one of the world’s biggest travel trade fairs.

MITT

Moscow, RussiaMarch 14 – 16 www.mitt.ruThe 24th edition of one of the leading business-to-business travel events will offer a wealth of opportunities for partnerships within Russia, CIS, and beyond.

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA

Cape TownApril 19 – 21 www.africa.wtm.comNearly 5,000 travel industry professionals are expected to attend one of the leading business-to-business exhibitions for the inbound and outbound Africa tourism market.

EVENTS