QR Codes helping hotels track advertising effectiveness

In a modern twist to advertising, forward-thinking Dusit International has introduced a smart phone app



that will give readers instant access to more information about the hotel offers they see in the group's



latest advertising campaign and the company's collateral.



The application enables customers to scan Quick Response (QR) codes assigned to ads in magazines and



newspapers. This will allow Dusit International to track interaction with its advertising, to determine the



effectiveness of each medium.



"Today's traveller want their information faster, and are increasingly relying on mobile technologies,



especially smart phones, to bring it to them" said Sam-Erik Ruttmann, Dusit International regional



vice president Middle East. "Hotels cannot ignore the power of mobile technology, as people will use



mobiles more and more to communicate with hotels in the area they need"



QR codes are so called for they offer a "Quick Response" for readers with mobile phones and



membrane-enabled smart phones. All that is needed is for the user to download the QR app on the



smart phone and take a scan of the QR-Code. Code software decoder then transforms the data held



within the QR-Code to a meaningful action for the mobile phone, such as connecting to a website or



bringing up an email address for immediate response.



"QR codes are becoming increasingly attractive to the hospitality industry because they function as a



powerful form of information exchange. Ads are used more actively by users both online and offline,



allowing us to track the interaction and effectiveness of each ad campaign" said Ruttmann.





This initiative has been launched by the Dusit International corporate office and the new ads with the



QR-Codes are already appearing in publications in the Middle East, as well as UK, Europe and Asia


Dusit International has gained more than 60 years experience in the hotel and hospitality field. Founded in 1948 by

Honorary Chairperson, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, whose first hotel was the Princess on Bangkok's New Road; Dusit has since

acquired a unique portfolio of deluxe hotels, building upon Thai culture and tradition to create a personalised welcome for all guests,

made distinctive under the Dusit brand promise: the delivery of an ‘experience that enlivens the individual spirit no matter what the

journey.’



Dusit International comprises five hotel brands: Dusit Thani Hotels & Resorts, Dusit’s second generation dusitD2 hotels & resorts,

Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts, Dusit Devarana Hotels & Resorts, and Dusit Residence Serviced Apartments. It also operates its

own signature Devarana Spa.



THAILAND:



Dusit Thani Hotels & Resorts:



dusitD2 hotels & resorts:



Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts:



Dusit Thani Bangkok

Dusit Thani Hua Hin

Dusit Thani Pattaya

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai

Chatrium Suites Bangkok, A Dusit Thani Hotels Partner



dusitD2 chiang mai

dusitD2 baraquda pattaya

B-Lay Tong Resort, Phuket - managed by dusitD2 hotels & resorts



Dusit Princess Srinakarin, Bangkok

Dusit Princess Koh Chang

Dusit Princess Korat

Royal Princess Larn Luang, Bangkok

Royal Princess Chiang Mai

Pathumwan Princess, MBK Centre, Bangkok

Bel-Aire Princess, Sukhumvit, Bangkok

Grand China Princess, Chinatown, Bangkok



OUTSIDE THAILAND:



Philippines:



United Arab Emirates:



Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo



Dusit Thani Manila



Dusit Thani Dubai

Dusit Princess City Centre, Dubai

Dusit Residence Dubai Marina

Pearl Coast Premier Hotel Apartments, Dubai



Corporate PR & Communications Department

The Dusit Thani Building, 946 Rama IV Road, Bangkok 10500, Thailand

Tel: +66 (0) 2200 9999 l Fax: +66 (0) 2636 3547



OPENING SOON:



Saudi Arabia:



United Arab Emirates:



Dusit Thani Dilmunia Bahrain



Dusit Thani Sanya



Dusit Devarana New Delhi

Dusit Devarana Jaipur

Dusit Devarana Rishikesh

Dusit Thani Goa

dusitD2 new delhi



Dusit Thani Jeddah



Dusit Devarana Resort - Phang Nga



Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

ARAB TRAVELLERS FLOCK TO SRI LANKA AS M.E. TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE BY 58% IN TEN MONTHS; “Sri Lanka emerging as a tourism hotspot” - Ms Al Mansoori

Arab travellers to Sri Lanka increased by 58% in the first ten months of the year according to Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office. Statistics compiled by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority indicate that the growth from the Middle East is higher than the overall growth in arrivals to Sri Lanka which is pegged at 43.5%

“Sri Lanka is witnessing a dramatic rise in visitors which in turn has enabled vast development of Sri Lanka's existing tourism infrastructure with new hotels and better road networks currently underway island-wide to cope with the destinations increasing popularity,” remarked Ms Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB.

Ms Al Mansoori noted that several hotel giants are undertaking expansion, refurbishment and major re-development plans in order to meet increased demand for hotel rooms. “All this will help accommodate the exponential increase in tourist arrivals.”

Several development projects in the East are currently underway which was previously inaccessible. Three areas which are of focus are Pasikudah, Kucheveli and Kalpitiya. Many hotel projects are in progress and by the year 2011/2012 we hope to have added 1,000 rooms.

In addition other development is also in progress in the rest of the island. We just opened the new Port in the South of the country and a new Airport will be soon opened as well in the South. 

SLTPB opened its office in Dubai in May 2008 to maximize the opportunities emerging throughout the Middle East while strengthening support for the travel trade in the region.

Since the opening, the Dubai office has co-ordinated all of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotional activities in the Arab markets including exhibition participation, marketing visits, presentations and road shows, brochure distribution, public relations, as well as familiarization visits to the island for influential business and travel journalists. The office also functions as the preliminary contact point and enquiry processing centre for travel trade companies and tourists in the region.

Sri Lanka is now on the threshold of developing to its full potential as a prime tourism destination with diverse offerings for members of the whole family whether it is beaches, shopping, visits to wildlife reserves, heritage and culture sites, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying the cuisine.

Skies More Open Than Ever; 10 more liberalised aviation agreements for Emirates in 2010 to pass 60 deal milestone

DUBAI, UAE - 8 December 2010- The UAE, Dubai and Emirates Airline have now secured over 60 open or highly liberal aviation agreements, following further recent liberalisation success in Latin America, Africa and Europe.

The 60th and 61st agreements, with Brazil and Panama, the latter concluded last month, are the latest negotiations in 2010 that allow carriers of each partner country to offer largely open services between each market.

It follows eight other open deals successfully concluded during the course of this year.
The US, UK, Spain, Thailand, Singapore, Switzerland, Malaysia, Chile, New Zealand and Lebanon are among the 60 countries that have signed highly liberal or completely open agreements with the UAE and Dubai.

The UAE, through the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has a policy of open skies and its aviation market is one of the world's most open and competitive. Dubai in particular is one of the true pioneers of aviation liberalisation having adopted an open skies policy as one of the cornerstones of its economy long before Emirates was established in 1985.

"Open skies secured by the UAE and Dubai Civil Aviation Authorities with key economies now represent the majority of Emirates Airline's air services access worldwide, with an average of six new open or liberalised deals now being signed a year," the President of Emirates, Tim Clark said.

"The world, often led by emerging markets, is liberalising faster than many believed possible. This is good news for consumers, traders, exporters and travellers generally," he said.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has indicated liberalising 320 of the world's bilateral aviation agreements would create 24.1 million jobs and generate an additional $US490 billion in world GDP.

The UAE's new open agreements signed in 2010 recognises that unrestricted access to Dubai, one of the world's largest and fastest-growing hubs, allows carriers of the world to grow their services in the prosperous Middle East and Gulf region and also boost exports and trade to their own markets thanks to existing or future Emirates services.

The recent deal with Brazil now means the two countries' aviation policies are even more closely aligned and will deliver further benefits to both economies through increased tourism, exports and trade. In 2010 traffic between the Dubai and Sao Paulo will exceed 170,000 passengers.

Albano Franco, a Member of Brazil’s Parliament and a former President of the Commission of Tourism of the Chamber of Deputies, Governor of the State of Sergipe and President of the Brazilian Confederation of the Industries, said: “The new agreement between Brazil and the UAE is a strong example of what is being achieved - since Emirates commenced services to Sao Paulo, the trade relationship with the UAE has grown to US$6.3 billion and is now the largest partner in the region".

In 2010, Emirates has carried over 9,000 tonnes of high-valued Brazilian exports including auto parts, machinery as well as temperature and time sensitive agricultural exports to the UAE and beyond. Emirates commenced Dubai-Sao Paulo services in 2007.

Economic analysis by InterVISTAS on Brazil’s 2007 traffic found their liberalised aviation policy had boosted Brazil’s 2007 passenger traffic by 47%, boosting GDP by US$10.5 billion and created 242,000 jobs.

"The connectivity, economic, tourism and trade benefits are clear. Open skies improves consumer choice, enhances productivity and creates real, high-quality job opportunities," Mr Clark said.

"There are some pockets of resistance, but these are a shrinking minority compared to those economies choosing the liberalisation option. Aeropolitical protection is an artificial handbrake on economic growth and the world is increasingly wise to this outdated way of thinking. Emirates, Dubai and the UAE will continue to promote real open skies with any willing aviation partner."

“With the full support of Emirates, the UAE's GCAA and Dubai's DCAA have been successfully pursuing and securing open and liberalised deals with many like-minded countries. The UAE is also a signatory to IATA’s Agenda for Freedom framework which is another example of how slowly but surely the international aviation landscape is being changed,” Mr Clark said.

IFA Hotels & Resorts Secures US$115 Million in Funding for Fairmont Palm Jumeirah; First New Foreign-bank Debt for a Dubai Hotel Development since Downturn

Dubai, 07 December 2010: IFA Hotels & Resorts, through its asset management subsidiary company, IFA Hotel Investments (IFA HI), announced today that it has secured financing of US$115 million for its Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel project structured and arranged by Standard Chartered Bank. The agreement, which speaks to reemerging confidence in the Dubai real estate development sector, will allow IFA Hotels & Resorts to expedite the project’s completion to Q1 2012.

Talal Jassim Al-Bahar, Vice Chairman and CEO of IFA HR stated: “We are pleased to announce our second agreement with Standard Chartered Bank. The agreement not only demonstrated the strengthening of our relationship with the bank and is therefore great news for our company, for our investors and for the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel, but will also have a positive impact on the UAE real estate industry as a whole.”

The announcement comes as a surprise to an industry that has been told debt funding was largely unavailable. In fact, less than two months ago, executives at the Reuters Middle East Investment Summit agreed that financing for real estate projects in the country had all but dried up, stating that they didn’t see major real estate lending by banks happening anytime soon. IFA HR’s US$115 million deal could indicate a faster recovery for the sector than expected.

Joe Sita, President of IFA HI, which leads IFA HR’s acquisitions and oversees its operational hospitality assets, continued, “This is the first new foreign-bank funding for a Dubai hotel real estate development we have seen in a very long time. It is evidence of renewed confidence in the region and the industry and confirmation of ongoing confidence in the IFA Group and its projects on the Palm Jumeirah.”

In fact, the Palm Jumeirah has provided much of the company’s news this year with the successful launch of IFA HR’s 562 luxury residences, which are adjacent to the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah, and its recent announcement regarding the signing of international brands to its prestigious Golden Mile retail development.

Sita added, “As the largest foreign investor on the Palm Jumeirah we have been committed to realising Dubai’s vision for the island as the pre-eminent location in Dubai since our initial investment in 2003. We have a huge footprint across the trunk as well as a 200,000 sqm plot on the crescent where we are building the Kingdom of Sheba. The company has been integral to the island’s development and we look forward to contributing even further with the completion of the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel.”

IFA HR’s record of producing successful mixed-use developments in the world’s most sought-after destinations played a pivotal role in its ability to secure the US$115 million loan financing at a time where there is a dearth of debt funding available in markets across the globe.

Paul Jurie, Standard Chartered Global Head of Alternative Investments, said: “Banks like ours are being judicious about arranging financings; we will only back projects, and ultimately companies, in which we believe all the necessary fundamentals are in place for a successful outcome. The Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel is already well underway and is backed by a customer with a successful track record, both in the region and in other parts of the world. This is the second loan we have facilitated for the Group with the first being a US$165.9 million loan to finance The River by Thai developer Raimon Land, in which IFA HR is a major stakeholder. This comes as part of Standard Chartered’s approach to deepen its client relationships through an in-depth understanding of their business and requirements. This approach has enabled us to be there for our clients and fill the gap that other banks have left in the market throughout the crisis.”

Globally, IFA Hotels & Resorts has developed a distinguished portfolio of award-winning luxury resorts, from its multi-award winning Pine Cliffs resort in the Portuguese Algarve to the newly opened Fairmont Zimbali Resort in South Africa.

Chris Cahill, President, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and COO, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, said: “We are extremely pleased with the news that another one of our projects with IFA Hotels & Resorts is moving ahead as planned. We look forward to adding the elegance of the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah to our distinctive collection in early 2012.”

The property will be the fifth project IFA HR has completed on the trunk of the iconic island, following The Palm Residence (Al Nabat & Al Haseer); the Al Shalal Beach Club; Golden Mile, Palm Jumeriah and The Residences (North & South). Construction is also well underway on the Kingdom of Sheba, which is situated on the Palm’s crescent adjacent to Atlantis. Off the island, the company is also putting the finishing touches on Laguna Tower Dubai – a mixed-use tower that includes the Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Jumeirah Lakes Towers, hotel condominiums, a private residence club and loft and duplex apartments.

Al-Bahar concluded: “News that’s good for the country, the sector, its companies and its investors is news worth celebrating. This is also a part of our company’s legacy. As we move more and more of our assets from construction to completion we leave behind iconic developments, such as those on the Palm, which will shape Dubai’s hotel and residential market beyond the current economy and well into the future.”


IFA Hotels & Resorts is a leader in real estate development, specialising in premium mixed-use hotel and tourism resort projects throughout the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, North America and the Indian Ocean region. IFA Hotels & Resorts offers exclusive branded residential, resort and hotel properties in exotic locations, with sound appreciating investment opportunities including hotel condominiums, vacation clubs and private residence clubs. IFA Hotel & Resorts’ current portfolio consists of 42 projects in total, of which 20 are hotels, with 13,750 keys across 12 countries in four continents. http://www.blogger.com/goog_1485906054


Standard Chartered – leading the way in Asia, Africa and the Middle East

Standard Chartered PLC is a leading international bank, listed on the London, Hong Kong and Mumbai stock exchanges. It has operated for over 150 years in some of the world's most dynamic markets and earns around 90 per cent of its income and profits in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. This geographic focus and commitment to developing deep relationships with clients and customers has driven the Bank’s growth in recent years.

With 1,700 offices in 70 markets, Standard Chartered offers exciting and challenging international career opportunities for more than 80,000 staff. It is committed to building a sustainable business over the long term and is trusted worldwide for upholding high standards of corporate governance, social responsibility, environmental protection and employee diversity. The Bank’s heritage and values are expressed in its brand promise, ‘Here for good’.

For more information on Standard Chartered, please visit http://www.standardchartered.com/  

MIDDLE EAST TOURISTS FLOCK TO SRI LANKA AS H1 2010 TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE 102%

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office reported an enormous surge of Arab travellers as Middle East Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka rose by an unprecedented 102 per cent in the first six months of 2010 compared to the same period last year, according to statistics compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

“Regardless of apprehensions of an unsteady global economy, Middle East’s discerning travellers are spending time and money on travel and Sri Lanka has been one of the preferred destinations of choice with a meteoric rise in tourists during H1 2010,” observed Ms Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB.

"We have just closed in on the results of the first six months of 2010 and we're up 102% as compared to H1 2009," Ms Al Mansoori said. "While 2009 was when the recovery process started, with the end of three decades of war, the rebound has been robust and rapid and the recovery is being driven and led by the Middle East with strong growth from key markets including the UAE up by 209%, Saudi Arabia up by 96% and Kuwait up by 50%."

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is resilient and the government is sparing no efforts to revitalize the tourism industry as they recognize that tourism has a key role to play in the country’s economic recovery and stability.

“Our outlook remains positive for the rest of the year as we have successfully built a relationship of trust with both regional consumers and the travel trade and will continue to reap benefits with the gradually improving economic situation,” Ms Al Mansoori stated.

Apart from the Middle East, regions that proved to be a major source market for Sri Lanka and recorded growth in H1 2010 included North America (up by 70%), Western Europe (up by 45%), Eastern Europe (up by 22%), Africa (up by 18%), East Asia (up by 44%), South Asia (up by 53%) and Australasia (up by 44%).

While commenting on SLTPB’s Middle East marketing drive, Ms. Al Mansoori said, “We have had to adapt to the changing needs of the consumers and capitalize on trends such as late booking, increasing use of the internet to look and book by increasing Sri Lanka’s presence in the web domain regionally.”

Ms. Al Mansoori noted that in the Middle East in particular, travelling closer and for shorter periods of time and demanding value for money, seem to have been accentuated during the post crisis period. “The regional outbound market is evolving and inescapably requires changes as we need to know and understand consumers better to be able to market to them,” she said.

SLTPB opened its office in Dubai in May 2008 to maximize the opportunities emerging throughout the Middle East while strengthening support for the travel trade in the region. Since then the Dubai office has co-ordinated all of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotional activities in the Arab markets including exhibition participation, marketing visits, presentations and road shows, brochure distribution, public relations, as well as familiarization visits to the island for influential business and travel journalists. The office also functions as the preliminary contact point and enquiry processing centre for travel trade companies and tourists in the region.

Sri Lanka is now on the threshold of developing to its full potential as a prime tourism destination with diverse offerings for members of the whole family whether it is beaches, shopping, visits to wildlife reserves, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying the cuisine.

MAJOR SRI LANKAN HOTEL CHAINS ARE PUMPING IN APPROXIMATELY USD 5 BILLION INTO NEW PROJECTS

The double-digit growth of inbound tourism to Sri Lanka has sparked a massive hotel expansion drive by several hotel giants, including refurbishment of existing hotels and major development plans in the pipeline announced Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office.

Total hotel expansion and development spending is estimated at AED 18 billion (USD 5 Billion) while projected inbound tourism arrival is expected to cross 2.5 million by 2016.

The boom in tourism is projected in the wake of increased demand for hotel rooms post conflict resolution. All this will help accommodate the exponential increase in tourist arrival expected.

In the Middle East alone, tourism arrivals for the first six months of 2010 reported an enormous surge in the number of Saudi Arabian travellers to Sri Lanka, according to figures compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office. “Arrivals rose by an unprecedented 96 per cent in the first six months of 2010 compared to the same period last year,” said Ms. Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB based in Dubai. According to recent statistics compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, the total number of travellers from the Middle East region reflected a phenomenal upsurge with arrivals increasing by 102 per cent over the same period.

“Regardless of apprehensions of an unsteady global economy, Middle East’s discerning travellers are spending time and money on travel and Sri Lanka has been one of the preferred destinations of choice with a meteoric rise in tourists during H1 2010,” observed Ms Al Mansoori.

John Keells Holdings (JKH) invested AED 13 million (400 million LKR) to upgrade and rebrand Club Oceanic to Chaaya Blu in Trincomalee. The group has currently undertaken an AED 65.4 million (2 billion LKR) investment on a new 4 star 190-room hotel in the Beruwela area. Coral Gardens in Hikkaduwa, Bentota Beach and Habarana Lodge are all being given a facelift with the total renovation costing up to AED 49 million  (1.6 billion LKR).  The chain also has lands in Ahungalla, Wirawila and Nilaweli, upon which new properties are planned.

Amaya Resorts and Spas development process is to be carried out in 4 stages. This includes to firstly developing the existing properties which is estimated at AED 36.7 million (USD 10 million). Next step would be to develop the available land bank. The identified areas are – Wadduwa at a cost of AED 55 million (USD 15 million), Kalpitiya at a cost of AED 55 million (USD 15 million), Mirissa at a cost of AED 110 million (USD 30 million), Negombo at AED 110 million (USD 30 million). The total investment that is projected for this 2^nd stage of development is approximately AED 330.5 million (USD 90 million)

Jetwing is all set to spend AED 23 million (LKR 700 million) on rebranding and refurbishing Blue Oceanic as Jetwing Blue. Besides this the chain will spend approximately AED  16.3 million (Rs. 500 million) at Sea Shell which will be converted to Jetwing Sea and AED  13 million (Rs. 400 million) will be spent at Blue Lagoon. Jetwing Blue and Jetwing Sea are slated to open their doors for business in December this year.

“Given the rapid growth of tourism in Sri Lanka, Jetwing seeks to refurbish its current properties and expand its room stock through new ventures. In respect of refurbishment, Jetwing has made a conscious effort to upgrade all its properties gradually to a 4 -5 star (small luxury) properties. Already the Jetwing Blue & Jetwing Sea is underway! As regards new hotel ventures, Jetwing has planned to occupy ‘white spots’, by locating and developing new similar standard hotels in the East Coast, Yala, Kandy, Jaffna and Colombo, while offering to manage several other properties in the island”, states, Hiran Cooray, Chairman Jetwing Group.

Tourist arrivals have increased to nearly a staggering 48 percent for the month of July alone when compared with June 2009. The first half of 2010 has registered a 48.4 percent increase in inbound tourism when compared to the same period in 2009. 

Germany’s popularity among GCC travellers unabated

Dubai, 01 September 2010 – The number of overnight stays by GCC nationals in Germany increased by 16.4% during the first five months of 2010. During this time 243,759 overnight stays were recorded. Compared to the same period of 2008, that is before the economic downturn, the number of overnight stays by GCC travellers in Germany recorded a 30,3% increase, from 187,004 to 243,759. With the central European country as popular as ever with tourists from the Gulf region, Germany is gearing up to welcome Arab guests who will be visiting the country during Eid Al Fitr holiday. As Germany is home to a large Muslim population, it offers tailor-made holiday packages that are suitable for every taste. Visitors are guaranteed to enjoy a memorable holiday experience during “Eid Al Fitr”.

“Germany is the second most visited European country by travellers from the Arabian Gulf,” said Antje Roeding, Director for the Gulf countries at the German National Tourist Office. “Germany has wonderful nature, picturesque towns, excellent hotels, high-class restaurants and varied shopping opportunities. Most importantly, we offer our guests from the GCC region our German hospitality, which shows itself both in the famous German quality of service as well as in the warmth of the welcome we extend to each and everyone who is visiting our nation,” she added.

Over the past few years, there has been a rapid increase in the number of GCC tourists who spend their holidays in Germany. Statistics recently published by the German Federal Statistics Office show that the number of overnight stays by GCC nationals in Germany during the first five months of 2010 has reached 243,759 nights. In comparison with the same period in 2009, this number indicates a 16.4% increase in overnight stays. In comparison to the same period of 2008, before the economic crisis, the number of overnight stays by visitors from the GCC to Germany rose by 30,3%.The increase in tourism from the Arabian Gulf region was among the highest of all regions in the world.

There are plenty of sights to see and things to do in Germany this Eid holiday. Germany boasts 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The country encompasses a rich ensemble of historical sites, architectural monuments as well as swaths of natural reserves and river landscapes.

Special offers for Arab guests include luxury hotels that do not only employ Arabic-speaking staff, but also offer special menus and reserve entire floors for their regular visitors from the Gulf region. This has made Germany one of the preferred destinations for travellers from the Gulf region.

The Eid holiday in Germany is destined to be especially attractive, as there are many possibilities to celebrate in an Islamic atmosphere in cities all over the country. Similar to Muslim countries, mosques in Germany are usually decorated with lights, and various restaurants offer Halal food. Nice promenades with all kinds of cafés and restaurants are considered a wonderful gathering spot for families to celebrate the Eid Holidays while they can enjoy a nice "Kaffee und Kuchen" (Coffee and Cake), a typical German tradition when celebrating a festival.

A whole-day trip to amusement parks is a traditional Eid celebration for Arab families with children. Europa-Park in Rust, close to Freiburg, is Germany’s biggest theme park. It awaits visitors with a concept of thirteen different European areas that offer more than 100 attractions and shows. Europe´s biggest non-profit children, youth and family centre “FEZ Berlin” or the “Legoland Discovery Centre” in Berlin, are also among the country’s various attractions. Another popular destination for families is the Phantasialand amusement park  in Brühl near Cologne which attracts approximately 2 million visitors annually. Many theatres and museums across Germany’s largest cities arrange extra events for families as well.

For youngsters, Germany’s various clubs are a must-visit this holiday season. They can enjoy the musical night scene and celebrate the Eid holiday with friends.

The increase in the number of GCC visitors to Germany over the past few years has enabled the organization to identify their needs and adapt accordingly. For instance, many of Germany’s major cities have begun to offer guidebooks in Arabic and to rent out furnished apartments for families, as an alternative to hotel rooms.

Germany’s efforts are greatly aided by its almost 30 representative offices throughout the world. Of those, the GNTO in Dubai is responsible for promoting Germany in all the major markets of the Gulf: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Whether seeking cost-efficient or luxury vacations, travellers to Germany have a variety of itineraries from which to choose. The picturesque German scenery includes lakes, forests and snow-capped mountains, making it ideal for a wide range of outdoor pursuits including hiking, rowing, horse-riding and skiing. Its modern cities offer an eclectic mix of cultural activities and are home to some of the most popular shopping districts in Europe, while families with small children can enjoy exploring the country’s many amusement and leisure parks.

Some people believe that the respect for personal freedom in Germany has contributed immensely to increasing the number of Arab tourists flocking to Germany. Moreover, Germany is the most affordable luxury tourist destination anywhere in Western Europe. The country has an excellent quality-price ratio in hotel accommodation, with rates for overnight stays in German cities relatively low compared to other European destinations. In 2009 the average price for a hotel room in Germany was 80 Euros, whereas in the rest of the European Union one would need to pay 94 Euros on an average.

MIDDLE EAST TOURISTS FLOCK TO SRI LANKA AS H1 2010 TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE 102%

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office reported an enormous surge of Arab travellers as Middle East Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka rose by an unprecedented 102 per cent in the first six months of 2010 compared to the same period last year, according to statistics compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

“Regardless of apprehensions of an unsteady global economy, Middle East’s discerning travellers are spending time and money on travel and Sri Lanka has been one of the preferred destinations of choice with a meteoric rise in tourists during H1 2010,” observed Ms Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB.

"We have just closed in on the results of the first six months of 2010 and we're up 102% as compared to H1 2009," Ms Al Mansoori said. "While 2009 was when the recovery process started, with the end of three decades of war, the rebound has been robust and rapid and the recovery is being driven and led by the Middle East with strong growth from key markets including the UAE up by 209%, Saudi Arabia up by 96% and Kuwait up by 50%."

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is resilient and the government is sparing no efforts to revitalize the tourism industry as they recognize that tourism has a key role to play in the country’s economic recovery and stability.

“Our outlook remains positive for the rest of the year as we have successfully built a relationship of trust with both regional consumers and the travel trade and will continue to reap benefits with the gradually improving economic situation,” Ms Al Mansoori stated.

Apart from the Middle East, regions that proved to be a major source market for Sri Lanka and recorded growth in H1 2010 included North America (up by 70%), Western Europe (up by 45%), Eastern Europe (up by 22%), Africa (up by 18%), East Asia (up by 44%), South Asia (up by 53%) and Australasia (up by 44%).

While commenting on SLTPB’s Middle East marketing drive, Ms. Al Mansoori said, “We have had to adapt to the changing needs of the consumers and capitalize on trends such as late booking, increasing use of the internet to look and book by increasing Sri Lanka’s presence in the web domain regionally.”

Ms. Al Mansoori noted that in the Middle East in particular, travelling closer and for shorter periods of time and demanding value for money, seem to have been accentuated during the post crisis period. “The regional outbound market is evolving and inescapably requires changes as we need to know and understand consumers better to be able to market to them,” she said.

SLTPB opened its office in Dubai in May 2008 to maximize the opportunities emerging throughout the Middle East while strengthening support for the travel trade in the region. Since then the Dubai office has co-ordinated all of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotional activities in the Arab markets including exhibition participation, marketing visits, presentations and road shows, brochure distribution, public relations, as well as familiarization visits to the island for influential business and travel journalists. The office also functions as the preliminary contact point and enquiry processing centre for travel trade companies and tourists in the region.

Sri Lanka is now on the threshold of developing to its full potential as a prime tourism destination with diverse offerings for members of the whole family whether it is beaches, shopping, visits to wildlife reserves, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying the cuisine.

DTCM TO HOST DUBAI SUMMER SURPRISES ROAD SHOW IN GCC STATES

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), in cooperation with the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) Office, will host a series of workshops to promote the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS-2009) in three GCC states of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar from June 1 to 10.

The workshops attracted 39 co-participants from Dubai’s hotels and tourism companies. The workshops will facilitate networking with the GCC travel trade industry and media and also allow them the opportunity to learn about various promotions and attractions planned for the summer holidays from June to August.

The workshop series will kick off in Kuwait on June 1 followed by Doha on June 3 and Jeddah on June 6. It will be held in Riyadh on June 8 and conclude on June 10 in Al Khobar.

The workshops will be attended by DTCM officials, including Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, Director Overseas Promotions, Mr. Talal Al Suwaidi, Head of India, Middle East and North Africa Region, Overseas Promotions Department, and Mr. Nayef Ibrahim, Head of Australia and Asia, Overseas Promotions Department.

The department organized a pre-event meeting for the co-participants of the road shows to brief them about its efforts to boost hotel occupancies and visitors’ numbers to the emirate during the summer season.

The department will also organize Press conferences in the three GCC countries along side the workshops to create awareness about the DSS and other summer season-linked promotions and initiatives.

DSS, the region’s biggest and most awaited summer shopping and entertainment event, unveiled a series of exciting activities for the twelfth edition, under the slogan ‘Surprising Dubai’. The DSS Office announced 13 key sponsors for the DSS-2009. With a budget of AED70m, DSS 2009 will go on for 65 days, from June 11 till August 14 under the slogan 'Surprising Dubai'.

DUBAI PARTICIPATES IN IMEX-2009

IMEX-2009 SEES PARTICIPATION OF 3500 EXHIBITORS FROM 157 COUNTRIES
For the seventh consecutive year, Dubai is having a strong presence at the Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel, Meetings and Events (IMEX) which is underway in Frankfurt until May 28.
The IMEX-2009 edition sees 43 co-participants from Dubai’s expanding tourism industry sharing 355-square-metre Dubai stand with 28 booths under the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) umbrella.
The DTCM invited the Business Tourism industry decision-makers, the co-participants and the Media representatives for a “Dubai Starter Snack” at the Dubai Stand on May 26 and 27.
The DTCM delegation is led by Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development, and includes Mr. Hamad Bin Mejren, DTCM Executive Director Business Tourism, Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, DTCM Director Overseas Promotions, Mr. Mohamed Al Muhairi, DTCM Head of Overseas Promotions’ Canada and USA Region, Mr. Jerad Bachar, Director Dubai Convention Bureau, and Mr. Abdulla Yousef, Sales Executive Dubai Convention Bureau.
The strong commitment of DTCM in promoting Dubai as the leading convention and meeting hub in the Middle East region ensures that the Business Tourism sector has a promising future in Dubai.
Mr. Eyad said Dubai’s strong participation in IMEX over the years reflects the keenness of DTCM in promoting Dubai strongly in key source markets, including tapping the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. Germany, he said, has remained a major source market for Dubai’s tourism industry.
Mr. Hamad Bin Mejren, DTCM Executive Director Business Tourism, said: “Dubai has risen in the ICCA ranking from 93 in 2007 to 50 in 2008. This is a great achievement and the results reflect our efforts to bring Dubai to the top destinations worldwide in the Business Tourism market.”
Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, DTCM Director Overseas Promotions, said the department has given a major boost to its already aggressive marketing and promotional drive in order to boost visitors’ numbers to the emirate and enhance hotel occupancy levels.
The IMEX-2009 showcases the best of Dubai in terms of facilities for the Business Tourism Industry. The co-participants are highlighting various conferencing and exhibition infrastructure in the emirate.
For the first time a delegation from the Dubai Police, comprising of Lt. Colonel Nasser Abdul Wahed Al Awar, Lt. Colonel Hassan Mohammad Tamim and Sergeant Jaber Abed Mohammad Jaber, is participating at IMEX and promoting the launch of a specialized department which will be exclusively engaged in protection of tourism in Dubai.
Over 3,500 exhibitors from 157 countries are attending IMEX 2009. A rise in the number of hosted buyers attending IMEX 2009 combined with hundreds of new exhibitors, a total of 70 educational events & forums and 14 new vision industry initiatives; mark this year’s show out as one of the most business-centered and exciting to date. As many as 43 stands have increased their space at IMEX 2009 with high demand experienced from all corners of the globe.

DTCM, TOURISM INDUSTRY PLAYERS REVIEW SUMMER PROMOTION

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) organized a meeting with senior representatives of hotels, hotel apartments and tour operators at the One and Only Royal Mirage to review the summer promotional campaign to boost number of visitors to the emirate and hotel occupancy levels.

The meeting was attended among others by Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development, and Mr. Ahmed Mohammed Hassan, DTCM Deputy Director Visitors Information Bureaus.

Mr. Eyad outlined various initiatives launched by the DTCM to increase hotel occupancies and attract more visitors to the emirate during the summer months and the remainder of the year.

He said the department was working on a promotional campaign for the summer targeting visitors from Europe and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states under the titled ‘Visit Dubai During Summer’.

The meeting also discussed a marketing plan for the UK, one of the top source markets for Dubai’s tourism industry.

Earlier last year, the department created a task force with experts and representatives of Dubai tourism industry players, to review the tourism market landscape and take appropriate measures.

Based on the inputs provided by the industry players and experts, the department took measures which reflected in hotel occupancies getting a boost even in the first quarter of 2009.

DUBAI TO HAVE STRONG PRESENCE IN IMEX-2009

For the seventh consecutive year, Dubai will have a strong presence at the Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel, Meetings and Events (IMEX) in Frankfurt from May 26 to 28, the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) announced.
The IMEX-2009 edition will see 43 co-participants from Dubai’s expanding tourism industry sharing 355-square-metre Dubai Stand under the DTCM umbrella.
At a pre-fair meeting held at the DTCM Head Office, Mr. Ali Abdul Wahab, DTCM Head of Overseas Promotions’ East and West Europe Region, the Dubai Stand (D520) at Messe Frankfurt will have 28 booths.
The DTCM delegation will consist of Mr. Mohammed Khamis bin Hareb, DTCM Executive Director Operations and Marketing, Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development, Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, DTCM Director Overseas Promotions and Mr. Mohamed Al Muhairi, DTCM Head of Overseas Promotions’ Canada and USA Region.
The IMEX-2009 will be utilised to showcase the best of Dubai in terms of facilities for the MICE industry.
The co-participants will also highlight various conferencing and exhibition infrastructure in the emirate.
Over 3,500 exhibitors from 157 countries will attend IMEX-2009. Over 3,600 hosted buyers from almost 60 world markets attended IMEX 2008, amongst an overall trade visitor total of 8,751. As many as 43 stands have increased their space at IMEX 2009 with high demand experienced from all corners of the globe.

DTCM, TOURISM INDUSTRY PLAYERS REVIEW SUMMER PROMOTION

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) organized a meeting with senior representatives of hotels, hotel apartments and tour operators at the One and Only Royal Mirage to review the summer promotional campaign to boost number of visitors to the emirate and hotel occupancy levels.



The meeting was attended among others by Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development, and Mr. Ahmed Mohammed Hassan, DTCM Deputy Director Visitors Information Bureaus.



Mr. Eyad outlined various initiatives launched by the DTCM to increase hotel occupancies and attract more visitors to the emirate during the summer months and the remainder of the year.



He said the department was working on a promotional campaign for the summer targeting visitors from Europe and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states under the titled ‘Visit Dubai During Summer’.



The meeting also discussed a marketing plan for the UK, one of the top source markets for Dubai’s tourism industry.



Earlier last year, the department created a task force with experts and representatives of Dubai tourism industry players, to review the tourism market landscape and take appropriate measures.



Based on the inputs provided by the industry players and experts, the department took measures which reflected in hotel occupancies getting a boost even in the first quarter of 2009.

-

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS & RESORTS OPENS PREMIUM RESORT IN MAURITIUS, FIRST IN AFRICAN REGION

Dubai, May 12th, 2009 - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Lateral Holdings opens its first upscale resort on the island, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort is located along the Bay of Balaclava, 20 minutes north of the country’s capital Port Louis and a 15-minute drive from the island’s most popular area, Grand Baie.

“This opening is a significant milestone for us as it is our first hotel resort on the African continent. Mauritius is an extremely popular tourist destination globally and welcomed over 900,000 tourists in 2008,” said John Bamsey, Chief Operation Officer, IHG Middle East and Africa. “Tourism is a major focus for the Government and we are confident that this resort will be a great contribution to Mauritius. “

“InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort offers travellers a truly authentic destination experience,” added Bamsey.

Finished with natural hand-chiselled limestone, volcanic rock, and African timber, the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort comprises of 210 spacious rooms, including 40 family guest rooms and 10 suites, each with a panoramic view of the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches of the Bay of Balaclava. All rooms feature a stone-bathtub, individual bathroom with a 19- inch plasma TV and a separate shower. A wide range of amenities, including a 42-inch plasma TV, broadband internet access, and convenient central bed-side electronic controls, provide guests with the utmost luxury and exceptional comfort, synonymous to the InterContinental brand.

Complementing the island’s natural beauty, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort has two infinity pools located next to the beach and the only lagoon on the island with a natural islet for a salt-water dip. For diving enthusiasts, the resort has an extensive range of water activities that include snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing and deep sea fishing.

Situated on the roof-top, the resort’s Angsana Spa and Health Club, managed by Banyan Tree, offers the ultimate in rejuvenation through steam and sauna rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, relaxation areas and a boutique offering a range of wellness products.

The resort also offers guests a variety of specialty restaurants. Veda, a first of its kind on the island, that blends authentic Indian cuisine with contemporary design; Segala, which is situated on the beach, will serve the Mediterranean Seafood; Noble House that will offer oriental fusion cuisine; Palms that offers light meals and fun food adjacent to the main pool area; and, Senso with a diverse International buffet.

For high profile social and corporate events, the property features the largest hotel banqueting and conference hall in Mauritius. Eight metres tall, the grand ballroom has direct access to the pool, gardens and the beach and accommodates up to 1,000 people. The area spreads over 1,400 meters and includes four meeting rooms and a business centre equipped with modern facilities and amenities.

The opening of the resort also marks a new partnership for InterContinental Hotels Group and Lateral Holdings, whose prime interest is in developing hospitality, retail and residential projects across the Indian Ocean Rim.

Commenting on the opening of the resort, Darryl Sequeira, Executive Director of Lateral Holdings said, “The opening of InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort is quite significant for us as it is our first hotel resort project in the hospitality category and on the African continent. Mauritius is considered an aspirational destination attracting travellers from around the world who seek unique and enriching experiences. InterContintental was a natural choice for us as its core values resonate very well with the destination and type of traveller it attracts. We are looking forward to a long and lasting relationship with IHG and are very confident that InterContinental will make its mark and be very successful in Mauritius,” Sequeira concluded.

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS & RESORTS OPENS PREMIUM RESORT IN MAURITIUS, FIRST IN AFRICAN REGION

Dubai, May 12th, 2009 - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Lateral Holdings opens its first upscale resort on the island, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort is located along the Bay of Balaclava, 20 minutes north of the country’s capital Port Louis and a 15-minute drive from the island’s most popular area, Grand Baie.

“This opening is a significant milestone for us as it is our first hotel resort on the African continent. Mauritius is an extremely popular tourist destination globally and welcomed over 900,000 tourists in 2008,” said John Bamsey, Chief Operation Officer, IHG Middle East and Africa. “Tourism is a major focus for the Government and we are confident that this resort will be a great contribution to Mauritius. “

“InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort offers travellers a truly authentic destination experience,” added Bamsey.

Finished with natural hand-chiselled limestone, volcanic rock, and African timber, the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort comprises of 210 spacious rooms, including 40 family guest rooms and 10 suites, each with a panoramic view of the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches of the Bay of Balaclava. All rooms feature a stone-bathtub, individual bathroom with a 19- inch plasma TV and a separate shower. A wide range of amenities, including a 42-inch plasma TV, broadband internet access, and convenient central bed-side electronic controls, provide guests with the utmost luxury and exceptional comfort, synonymous to the InterContinental brand.

Complementing the island’s natural beauty, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort has two infinity pools located next to the beach and the only lagoon on the island with a natural islet for a salt-water dip. For diving enthusiasts, the resort has an extensive range of water activities that include snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing and deep sea fishing.

Situated on the roof-top, the resort’s Angsana Spa and Health Club, managed by Banyan Tree, offers the ultimate in rejuvenation through steam and sauna rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, relaxation areas and a boutique offering a range of wellness products.

The resort also offers guests a variety of specialty restaurants. Veda, a first of its kind on the island, that blends authentic Indian cuisine with contemporary design; Segala, which is situated on the beach, will serve the Mediterranean Seafood; Noble House that will offer oriental fusion cuisine; Palms that offers light meals and fun food adjacent to the main pool area; and, Senso with a diverse International buffet.

For high profile social and corporate events, the property features the largest hotel banqueting and conference hall in Mauritius. Eight metres tall, the grand ballroom has direct access to the pool, gardens and the beach and accommodates up to 1,000 people. The area spreads over 1,400 meters and includes four meeting rooms and a business centre equipped with modern facilities and amenities.

The opening of the resort also marks a new partnership for InterContinental Hotels Group and Lateral Holdings, whose prime interest is in developing hospitality, retail and residential projects across the Indian Ocean Rim.

Commenting on the opening of the resort, Darryl Sequeira, Executive Director of Lateral Holdings said, “The opening of InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort is quite significant for us as it is our first hotel resort project in the hospitality category and on the African continent. Mauritius is considered an aspirational destination attracting travellers from around the world who seek unique and enriching experiences. InterContintental was a natural choice for us as its core values resonate very well with the destination and type of traveller it attracts. We are looking forward to a long and lasting relationship with IHG and are very confident that InterContinental will make its mark and be very successful in Mauritius,” Sequeira concluded.

Emaar creates 1,600 new jobs in shopping malls and hospitality businesses in Dubai

Dubai, UAE; May 11, 2009: Emaar Properties is creating over 1,600 new jobs in its shopping malls & retail and hospitality & leisure businesses. With the new addition, Emaar will have nearly 4,000 employees on its rolls in Dubai.

The new team-members, to be recruited in the next three months, will be trained for the launch of KidZania®, SEGA Republic and the 22-screen REEL Cinemas – three new leisure attractions in The Dubai Mall – and The Address, Dubai Mall and The Address, Dubai Marina hotels.

The recruitment highlights the job creation potential of Emaar’s diversified business interests, including shopping malls & retail and hospitality & leisure, and its key role in adding vitality to the Dubai economy. Skilled professionals are being hired locally, from several countries in the region and internationally for the new jobs.

Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties PJSC, said: “Our strategy for 2009 is to push for growth in existing subsidiary businesses while the core property business recovers from the global economic challenges. Emaar’s projects have traditionally created several thousand jobs in all markets including in hospitality, shopping malls and education businesses. The new hospitality & leisure attractions at The Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina Mall will further enable us to identify and nurture talented professionals, and in turn, support the Government’s commitment to strengthen market confidence.”

He added: “The unique concept of the leisure attractions and hospitality services at our malls and hotels demands that we have the right human resources for ensuring seamless operation. The current recruitment strategy, coming at a critical time for the global economy, marks our commitment to deliver a quality experience for visitors.”

The Dubai Mall, formally opened on May 8, 2009, by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has already created a new dimension in retailing and family entertainment with overwhelming visitor response to The Dubai Fountain, The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and The Dubai Ice Rink. The mall will soon add KidZania® and SEGA Republic, two totally new leisure concepts to the region, and the 22-screen REEL Cinemas.

KidZania® is an award-winning children’s ‘edu-tainment’ concept that will be introduced to the region for the first time at The Dubai Mall. It is an 80,000 sq ft interactive mini-city that combines play with learning in a fun and innovative approach. Children can choose from 70 ‘roles’ ranging from doctors, engineers, teachers, construction workers, artists and mechanics, among others.

SEGA Republic is a high-adrenaline ride, adventure and gaming zone spread over 76,000 sq ft across two levels. An indoor roller-coaster, thrilling rides and motion simulators, many of which are bespoke attractions for Dubai, are its highlights. It is being developed by Emaar Retail in partnership with SEGA Corporation, Japan’s leading indoor theme park developer.

The 22-screen REEL Cinemas will be the city’s largest cinema complex with a total capacity of 2,800 seats. The highlight of The Dubai Mall Cineplex is the introduction of the Hollywood Chic design concept, which assures a modern cinema experience.

The Address, Dubai Mall, the 5 star premium hotel to be operated by The Address Hotels + Resorts, the hotel management division of Emaar Hospitality Group, is nearing completion and will offer 245 signature rooms, 450 serviced apartments and modern lifestyle amenities. The Address, Dubai Marina, with 200 guestrooms and 442 serviced residences, is part of the Dubai Marina Mall complex, located centrally in the one of the most sought-after waterfront projects in the region.

The Address Hotels + Resorts already operates its flagship hotel – The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai – offering 196 guestrooms including 25 suites, and 626 serviced residences. The Palace – The Old Town, with 242 luxurious guestrooms including 81 suites, is another upmarket 5 star property managed by The Address Hotels + Resorts.

DTCM REVIEW SUMMER PROMOTION WITH DUBAI TOURISM INDUSTRY PLAYERS

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) organized a meeting with senior representatives of hotels, hotel apartments and tourism companies to review the summer promotional campaign to boost number of visitors to the emirate.



The meeting was chaired by Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development. Also present was Arwa Al Ghammai, DTCM Director of Operations and Liaison at Operations and Marketing Division.



He outlined various initiatives launched by the DTCM to increase hotel occupancies and attract more visitors to the emirate during the summer months and the Holy Month of Ramadan and the remainder of the year.



He said Dubai’s expanding hospitality industry has been extending support to these initiatives.



One of the key initiatives is Keep Discovering Dubai, a three-month familiarization programme for travel trade and media representatives launched in March. The programme, conducted in coordination with Emirates Airlines and select Dubai hotels and DMCs, is designed to bring 2000 travel agents, journalists and broadcast reporters from over 60 countries to get acquainted with Dubai and its tourism and business landscape.



Earlier last year, the department created a task force with experts and representatives of Dubai tourism industry players, to review the tourism market landscape and take appropriate measures.



Based on the inputs provided by the industry players and experts, the department took measures which reflected in hotel occupancies getting a boost even in the first quarter of 2009.



A total of 1.89 million guests stayed in Dubai hotels in the first quarter of 2009, a five per cent increase compared with 2008 period The number of operating hotels and hotel apartments rose to 519 in the first quarter of 2009, up from 475 during the corresponding period in 2008. The total hotel rooms available touched 40,864 in the first quarter of 2009, up by 17 per cent from the same period in 2008.



The number of hotel apartments rose to 46,355 in January-March 2009 period, an increase of 30 per cent compared with the corresponding period in 2008. The first quarter of 2009 recorded 5.34 million guest nights.

Emirates’ Dhs1.8billion Park Towers Property On Track; Emirates Awards Hotel Contract to Marriott International

DUBAI, U.A.E., 5th May 2009 – Emirates airline and Group, the largest aviation and travel services provider in the Middle East, has signed a contract to partner with Marriott International, the leading multi-brand hotel management company.

Marriott has been appointed hotel operator of the Park Towers, a 1,614-room twin-tower hotel and apartment property, which Emirates is currently constructing on Sheikh Zayed Road, adjacent to Dubai’s premier Business Bay district.

Under Marriott management, the property will be branded as one of the top-of-the-line JW Marriott Marquis luxury hotels. This will include two guest room towers rising from a six-story building housing lobby and public space. The first 807-room tower is scheduled to open in 2011 and the second tower in 2013.

Both parties have been collaborating on the details of the new hotel’s design, which will see it emerge as one of Dubai’s top properties.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group said: “Emirates has always supported Dubai’s continued growth. The development of this new 1,614 room property reflects our commitment to, and confidence in, the city’s ongoing success.

“As a leading international hotel management group operating several successful brands, Marriott has the track-record and the global infrastructure to maximise the value of our Dhs1.8 billion city centre investment. We believe this property will emerge as one of Dubai’s top hotels and will contribute to attracting both leisure and business travellers to the city. We very much look forward to working together to add to Dubai’s five-star luxury experience.”

“The JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai will be a unique and visually stunning hotel without pretence that welcomes the world to this incredible city,” said Edwin D. Fuller, President & Managing Director, International Lodging, Marriott International. “We are thrilled to be partnering with Emirates. Their recognised commitment to excellence, unparalleled service and exquisite taste all make Emirates the perfect partner to introduce this special hotel. We are confident it will quickly become the finest address in Dubai. Marriott has always had a strong commitment towards Dubai, and we believe this relationship with Emirates cements our position as a regional hospitality leader.”