Market Update 2Accommodation News 4Air Travel News 6International News 8Agents’ Corner 10Travel Tips 11Travel Talk 12Who’s Moved 14Rendezvous 15Events 16

Middle East and North Africa Edition

SEPTEMBER 4, 2010 ISSUE 43 www.traveltradeweekly.travel

77

44QATAR’S INDIA PUSHQatar Airways has flagged an expansionthroughout India, in an attempt to furthercapitalise on its largest individual market.India accounts for 10 percent of all QatarAirways destinations, with the airlineincreasing frequency to the country by 57percent in the past year.

In This Issue

IRAQ IN RANGERange Hospitality has launched a newdevelopment in the pilgrimage centre ofIraq, Karbala. The Al Rawdatain Gardensproject is aimed at the 18 million annualpilgrims who visit Karbala during peakseason.

Beach GamesBeach Games

Tourism investment and development company Omran hasbegun the handover of its Asian Beach Games project to the

Muscat Asian Beach Games Organising Committee(MABGOC), ahead of the December event. Following the

games, the site will be transformed into a mixed-usedevelopment for tourism, commercial and residential operators.

33ASIANASIAN

A ccording to Al Tameer, theMENA region reported thehighest average daily rates(ADR) and revenue peravailable room (RevPAR) of

any region in the world for the first half of 2010.ADR for the MENA region averaged USD201,while RevPAR was around USD125.However, Al Tameer observed a huge boost inhotel construction across the region and notedthat the rate that new rooms were flooding the

market would soon outstripdemand.MENA wide, the rate of capacityincrease averaged 10 percent,compared with an eight percentgrowth rate in demand.

Abu Dhabi was identified as particularlyvulnerable to a shakeup of market conditionsdriven by a succession of new hotels.Approximately 7,500 new rooms are expectedto go online in the city by 2012; an increase of75 percent over current availability.Despite consistent reports from Abu DhabiTourism Authority of increasing numbers ofvisitors, Al Tameer predicted the city wouldcontinue to experience declines in occupancy,ADR and RevPAR.Key Middle Eastern markets, Saudi Arabia,Egypt and the UAE had mixed fortunes.Egypt grew in all three hospitality measures(occupancy, ADR, and RevPAR), while theUAE declined and Saudi Arabia grew only interms of ADR.

Al Tameer Reports Mixed Returns forMENA Hospitality Sector in H1 2010Al Tameer Real Estate Investment Company, a major Kuwaiti real estate firm,has released data that indicate mixed returns for Middle Eastern and NorthAfrican (MENA) hospitality operators in the first half of 2010.

SEPTEMBER 4, 20102

COUNTRY CURRENCY 1USD=UAE (AED) Dirham 3.69Egypt (EGP) Pound 5.70Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal 3.75Lebanon (LBP) Pound 1501Bahrain (BHD) Dinar 0.37Jordan ( JOD) Dinar 0.70Syria (SYP) Pound 46.9Kuwait (KWD) Dinar 0.29Qatar (QAR) Riyal 3.64Oman (OMR) Rial 0.38Tunisia (TND) Dinar 1.48Morocco (MAD) Dirham 8.64Iran (IRR) Riyal 10,008Yemen (YER) Rial 237.5Algeria (DZD) Dinar 75.23Libya (LYD) Dinar 1.29

MENA Exchange RatesAccurate as of 02/9/2010Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLYDeputy EditorLaura Warne

JournalistLouis Dillon Savage

Design & LayoutElina Pericleous

Sales & MarketingMarianna TsiamasEvelina Hadjigeorgiou

DirectorsAndreas ConstantinidesMary Kammitsi

HeadquartersP.O. Box 25255Nicosia 1308 CyprusTel: +35722820888Fax: +35722318958

Websitewww.traveltradeweekly.travel

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Non Oil Industries Continue to Grow in UAENon-oil industries, including tourism, are playing an increasingly importantrole in the UAE economy, Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister for theEconomy in that country, has declared.Speaking at a Ramadan gathering at the Mina Salam Hotel in Dubai, AlMansouri noted that non-oil income had increased its share of GDP byapproximately 4.5 percent.“The UAE GDP in 2009 reached AED914.3 billion [USD249 billion],” he said.“Non-oil sectors accounted for about 71 percent in the country's 2009 GDPcompared to 66.5 percent in 2008.”He said that the diversification of the UAE economy had helped bolster thecountry against recent financial difficulties.According to Al Mansouri, the UAE economy experienced 1.3 percent growthin 2009, and could achieve a growth rate as high as 2.5 percent in 2010.

Non-oil sectors accounted for about 71 percent in the country's 2009 GDP

T he event, established by the Olympic Councilof Asia, is expected to draw 5,000 athletes,officials, media and volunteers from 45countries. This will be the second event of its kind, with

the inaugural Asian Beach Games held in Bali in 2008. Oman is capitalising on its role as host nation to attract sportingtourists to the country, while building on infrastructure for the future. Following the games, Omran will transform the site into amixed-use residential, commercial and tourism destination. Wael Al Lawati, CEO of Omran, said the company was on trackto fully hand over the site to MABGOC by November. “This has been a very challenging project,” admitted Al Lawati.

“Only two years ago, this site was completely untouched. Omranhas been trusted to develop this crucial project, which representsa significant and exciting opportunity for Oman.”The Asian Beach Games are one of several high profile events onthe radar for Oman, with the Dubai to Muscat Offshore SailingRace and the International Conference on Responsible Tourismalso coming up on the calendar. Omani government officials recently highlighted predictions bythe World Travel and Tourism Council that expect Oman’stourism sector to post the highest growth in the Middle East andthird highest growth in the world by the end of 2010.

3SEPTEMBER 4, 2010

Omran Delivers First Phase of Asian BeachGames Development in Muscat, OmanTourism investment and development company Omran has begun the handover of its Asian Beach Gamesproject to the Muscat Asian Beach Games Organising Committee (MABGOC), ahead of the December event.

Wael Al Lawati

After years of refurbishment, the Marina El Alameinarcheological site on Egypt’s north coast is set to reopen inlate September.According to the Egyptian Tourism Authority, the site wasthe most significant port in the region during the Greco-Roman period.The site preserves a diverse collection of Greco-Romanremains, including villas and baths, markets, a church and aRoman theatre.As part of renovations, a modern lighting system has beeninstalled, making the location accessible at both day and night.Marina El Alamein is the first archeological site on the northcoast to be developed as a tourism attraction and opened tothe public.

Cover Image:MABGOC and Omran executives (L-R): Hilal bin Ali Al Sinani;Nasser Al Maqbali; and Wael Al Lawati.

New Archeological AttractionOpened on North Coast of Egypt

SEPTEMBER 4, 20104

- Accommodation

New Hospitality Development for Iraq PilgrimsRange Hospitality has launched a new development in the pilgrimage centre of Iraq, Karbala.

A JOD17 million (USD23.9 million)renovation project at InterContinentalHotel Jordan has been completed, withthe opening of the hotel’s new premiumwing. The newly renovated wing features 172rooms, more than half of which arededicated club rooms. A host of suites arealso available, with 25 suites to choosefrom.

The hotel’s new club lounge is thelargest in the InterContinental group,featuring a reading library, breakfastand cocktail area, fully equippedworkstations and a conference room. Steps have also been made toincorporate environmental practicesand technology into the hotel, with theinstallation of a greywater system torecycle soft water.

Rotana has announced plans for thefirst two Centro hotels in Saudi Arabia,targeting business travellers in Riyadhand Al Khobar. Selim El Zyr, president of Rotana, saidthe brand’s essential service strategyappealed to large corporate entities, aswell as small to medium business ownersand individual travellers.“We are redefining the conventionalconcept of economical comfort andoffering affordable superior class

accommodation and hospitality,” he said.Centro Riyadh will feature 160 roomsand suites, situated in the city’s businessdistrict of Al-Olaya.Centro Al Khobar is situated on thecorniche and will feature 235 rooms andsuites. “Rotana is working towards the opening of25 Centro Hotels by Rotana propertiesacross the MENA region by 2014,introducing a unique out-of-the-boxsolution for the mid tier market,” said El Zyr.

The Al Rawdatain Gardensproject is aimed at the 18million annual pilgrimswho visit Karbala duringpeak season.

The company has attracted global interestwith the development; Mohammed Asaria,vice chairman of the company, said RangeHospitality had recently appointed severalnew members to its board of directors fromcountries as diverse as Saudi Arabia, Ugandaand the UK. “The board of directors comprisesindividuals from various parts of theMuslim world which will ensure a widercatchment area for our offering,” saidAsaria. Initial funding for Al Rawdatain Gardens

was provided earlier this year by AbuDhabi based investment company, NoorCapital PSC. The project will feature a mix of fullyfurnished and serviced studios, onebedroom and two bedroom suites. “We are receiving independent approachesfrom some of the world’s leading hoteloperators to manage Al RawdatainGardens,” said Asaria.“We are in the process of operatorselection and the calibre of the companiesapproaching us is clear evidence of theimportance of Karbala within new Iraqand the wider MENA region.”Range Hospitality has committed todonate 20 percent of its annual profits tovarious charities.

InterContinental Jordan Opens Premium Wing

Rotana Brings Centro Brand to Saudi Arabia

InterContinental Hotel Jordan

We are receivingindependent approaches

from some of the world’s leading hotel operators

Al Rawdatain Gardens

Selim El Zyr

SEPTEMBER 4, 20106

- Air Travel

Air Arabia Increases Share of Regional Travel MarketAir Arabia has reported continued growth in the intra-regional travel market, with a 16.4 percent year onyear increase in travel between Sharjah, UAE and other GCC destinations.

Oman Air has expanded its presence inSaudi Arabia, adding Dammam to itsnetwork of destinations.Dammam is the third largest city inSaudi Arabia, following Jeddah andRiyadh, and according to Peter Hill,CEO of Oman Air, it is the second mostimportant business destination in the

country.“Dammam is not only a major oilproducing and exporting area, but also acommercial and shipping centre,” hesaid.“Since Saudi Arabia welcomes millionsof professional migrants every year,Dammam is the most preferred

destination after Riyadh.”Hill said the connection would boosteconomic relations between Oman andSaudi Arabia and increase the former’sattractiveness as an aviation hub foroutbound Saudi Arabian travellers.“Apart from boosting the bi-lateral tradebetween Saudi Arabia and Oman, theservices also open a range of short andlong haul connection options for airtravellers in Saudi Arabia flying viaOman Air’s home base in Muscat todestinations around the world,” he said.Flights will operate daily to betweenMuscat and Dammam, adding to OmanAir’s existing routes between Muscat,Jeddah and Riyadh.

The figures are based on acomparison of the firstsix months of 2009 and2010. Air Arabiareported load factors

averaging 81.8 percent throughout thisperiod, carrying a total of 551,041passengers (up from 471,828 in 2009).Adel Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia, saidthe higher numbers reflected his airline’sincreasing share of the regional travelmarket, driven by its low cost businessmodel.“These encouraging results are ademonstration of Air Arabia’s superiorservice and value-for-money offerings,further reinforcing the carrier’s ability tocontinuously deliver sustained growth,”he said.

“Based on strong business fundamentals,Air Arabia has embarked upon a phase oforganic growth and we remain committedto providing affordable low-costalternative to travel in the wider region.”

Oman Air Adds Dammam to Network as Third Saudi Route

Air Arabia has embarked upon a phase

of organic growth

Air Arabia

Dammam is the mostpreferred destination

after RiyadhPeter Hill

7SEPTEMBER 4, 2010

Flydubai Connects to Russia, Yekaterinburg Named as First Destination

Qatar Airways has flagged anexpansion throughout India, in anattempt to further capitalise on itslargest individual market.Flights to Amritsar, Delhi andCochin will all increase in frequency. From the beginning of September,flights to Amritsar became daily andtwo additional flights have beenadded to the current schedule ofdaily flights to Cochin.A further two flights will be addedto Cochin from November 5.Delhi will be serviced twice dailyfrom October 31.India accounts for 10 percent of allQatar Airways destinations, makingit the country with the most routesfrom that airline.Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar

Airways, stressed the importance ofthe Indian market to his airline.“India is a very important market forus, as we are able to offer a largeselection of destinations and veryconvenient connection times tonumerous global cities that QatarAirways serves from Doha,” he said.“Since last year and taking intoaccount the new upcomingfrequencies, we will have stepped upcapacity to India from 56 to 88services a week, which represents aremarkable 57 percent increase infrequency to and from India.”

Trade between Russia and the UAE has grown

considerably in recent years

Flydubai has commenced flights to the Russian city ofYekaterinburg, located east of the Ural Mountain range.According to flydubai, the city was chosen as that airline’s firstRussian destination on the basis of its well established heavyindustry sector.Ghaith al Ghaith, CEO of flydubai, said growing economicties between Russia and the UAE would be helped by the linkwith Yekaterinburg.“Trade between Russia and the UAE has grown considerablyin recent years and the addition of a direct air link with thecommercially important city of Yekaterinburg will helpstrengthen the relationship between the two countries,” he said.However, he pointed out that the city had a rich history, andhad potential as a leisure destination also.“Yekaterinburg has a special place in Russian history but isalso very forward looking. Visitors to the city will be sure toexperience a taste of the rich culture of this fascinatingcountry, both past and present,” he said.

Qatar Airways Targets India with Increased Frequencies on Key Routes

India is a very important

market for usAkbar Al Baker

SEPTEMBER 4, 20108

- International

South American Hotel and Tourism Investment ConferenceHVS Buenos Aires will celebrate its tenth anniversary this month by hosting SAHIC 2010 – South AmericanHotel and Tourism Investment Conference.

Langham Place Opens atBeijing Capital AirportOne of the latest in a string of Chinese hotel developments,the first Langham Place to enter the country has opened atBeijing Capital Airport.The hotel is targeting a modern, tech-savvy market, with DJsin the lobby, loft style apartments and a range of in-roomgadgets such as iPod docks and internet protocol phones.Langham Place also features an art gallery showcasingcontemporary Chinese artwork. The hotel is located next to Terminal 3 of the airport andhas 372 rooms and suites.

The conference will takeplace in Colombia fromSeptember 27 to 28,bringing together keyplayers from the

hospitality investment industry aroundthe world. The event has attracted major sponsorsand patrons from around the world,including Hilton Worldwide, Marriott,Accor, Jumeirah Group and DolphinCapital Investors. Key speakers at the conference said theindustry in South America was seeing astrong upturn, with solid results in thefirst quarter of 2010 and good predictions

for 2011. A growing middle class in Brazil isexpected to further stimulate mid andupscale projects in the region, with Hiltonconfirming that it is keen to invest in thecountry. However, countries such as Venezuela arestill seen as a risky investment, due toongoing instability. Brazil, Peru, Colombia and Chile areamong the strongest countries in SouthAmerica, according to HVS. During SAHIC 2010, a series of awardswill be presented to various projects,events, organisations, companies andindividuals who have contributed to the

development of the hotel and tourismindustry in South America.

Langham Place, Beijing Capital Airport

Buenos Aires

SEPTEMBER 4, 201010

Agent’s InsightName: Kamel AlsalahPosition: Quality Control ManagerCompany: Malhas TravelLocation: Jordan

Al Tayyar Pushes Domestic TourismAl Tayyer Travel Group is set to launch a range of programmesand services to support domestic tourism in Saudi Arabia, in linewith the country’s government-led efforts to boost the industry.A partnership has been set up between the public and privatesectors to encourage investors with exclusive tourism projects. Rashid Abdullah Al Mugait, chief executive for businessdevelopment at Al Tayyer, said recent statistics from the GeneralAuthority for Tourism and Antiquities identified 21,000 touristestablishments throughout 22 cities in Saudi Arabia.“These include 7,219 restaurants and coffee shops, 4,231 furnishedresidential units, 1,148 hotels, 477 markets, 347 theme parks andzoos and 65 museums,” he said.“However, there are still a great deal of prospects for tourisminvestment in the kingdom and there are many opportunities forinvestors at various levels.”Al Mugait also highlighted a drive among government and privatecompanies to attract more Saudi nationals to the tourism industry. Al Tayyer’s new domestic tourism programmes will focus mainlyon family tourism and pilgrims, in the hope of extending thepopular summer tourism period.

Who travels more – expats or locals?Definitely expats for us – we don’t really focus on the localmarket. Most of the expats that we deal with come fromMalaysia and other areas in the Far East.

What are your biggest challenges as a travel agent?We face major problems booking accommodation atPetra. Getting four and five star hotel rooms in this areacreates the biggest headaches for us, because it is very busyand there is not enough supply. Also, many of the hotelsthere do not obey contracts, which makes our businessmore difficult and we often lose the competition there.

When is your slowest selling period?There are low seasons in both summer and winter for us.From the end of May to the beginning of September isusually quiet, then from September to the Christmasholidays in December we have a high period. January toFebruary is low again, then it picks up from February toMay. All in all, we have a maximum of five to six monthsof high season per year.

Where do you expect the popular winter destinationsto be this year?For our main market, many are travelling to the Far Eastfor the winter. Within Jordan, the Dead Sea is our firstdestination, mainly due to spa tourism, then Petra is thesecond most popular.

Why do people travel to your destination?I often ask myself that question! The fact is that Jordan isa very expensive destination and we face greatcompetition from Eygpt, Lebanon and Syria. It is possibleto stay in Sharm El Sheikh for five days for aroundUSD300, but that would only cover one day on the DeadSea. I think the reason that we are popular, despite thisfact, is that we have very good marketing campaigns – weare successful in this field. The government does its bestto stimulate tourism, but private companies are also veryactive in their marketing, so thankfully we are still apopular destination.

There are many opportunities for investors at various levels

Saudi Arabia

11SEPTEMBER 4, 2010

Short Breaks to Top Sellers – Post-Summer Strategies Across the Middle East, travel agents are steeling themselves for a post-summer lull in travel, once the rush ofRamadan and Eid holidays subsides.

Short break holidays areone way to keep the ballrolling in the monthsleading up to longerend of year trips.

For example, Etihad Holidays iscapitalising on its top sellingdestinations by launching a range ofweekend short breaks designed forresidents living in the UAE. Top destinations include Malaysia,Egypt, Jordan and Greece - PeterBaumgartner, chief commercialofficer at Etihad Airways, noted thatmany of the top spots were within afour hour flight of Abu Dhabi.“We are seeing more and more

couples and families looking for ashort break to a destination that’sclose to the UAE,” saidBaumgartner.“With that in mind we have createdthis unique array of ten deals thatincludes the Mediterranean, theLevant, Middle East and the FarEast.“Again, we have chosen a selectionof our favourite hotels in these cities,which we are sure will be a hit withcustomers.”Specific destinations that Etihad hashighlighted include Athens, Cyprus,Thailand, Kuala Lumpur, Oman,Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt.

We are seeing more and morecouples and families looking for a short break to a destination

that’s close to the UAE

Greece

SEPTEMBER 4, 201012

Travel Talk is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

John KailathTours Manager, Omeir Holidays UAE“I think that Japan is such a uniquedestination where traditional and culturalvalues are still practiced while living inmodern times. It is truly a luxuriousdestination, a destination meant for theselected few (those who can afford it), anda destination where quality is assured.Whilst on the Blossom Japan buyerprogramme, I hope to learn more on thedestinations and products as well asobtain contacts of suppliers. [Our clients]look for quality of products and services,theme parks and other activities for family,shopping, halal food and nightlife.”

Elaine WatsonGeneral Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community “Marriott hotels around the world are doing a great deal to conserve natural

resources and preserve the environment. From trash removal and recycling toconserving energy and water, Marriott hotels are constantly employing methodsthat preserve the natural surroundings. One of the key areas of the company’s Spiritto Preserve programme is wildlife preservation and going green. We are responsibleneighbours and seek ways to preserve our natural habitat by going green and at thesame time encourage our associates and guests to appreciate the unique and fragileaspects of the local environment. We are honoured that Marriott has received twoDubai Go Green Awards for the first time from DTCM.”

Luca Di MontezemoloChairman, Ferrari“Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a great project among friends driven by a commonpassion. The people of Abu Dhabi, in particular Aldar Properties, have done anincredible job creating this spectacular theme park, where you can feel theMaranello spirit. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is dedicated to many different guestsfrom young children to adults, families and motoring fans. Guests will be able tohave a very special and unique Ferrari experience.”

Ferrari World

Abu Dhabi is dedicated

to manydifferent guests

from youngchildren to

adults

meant for the selected few(those who can afford it),and a destination where

quality is assured

[Japan is] a destination

Japan

Luca Di Montezemolo atFerrari World Abu Dhabi

Marriott hotels are constantly

employing methodsthat preserve the

naturalsurroundings

Dubai’s Marriott team, with Elaine Watson (bottom right)

mailto:sales@traveltradeweekly.travel

SEPTEMBER 4, 201014

Ahmed AdamRadisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City has promoted Ahmed Adam to senior salesmanager. Adam joined the property in 2009 as sales manager. In his new role, Adamwill focus on the development of the hotel’s MICE and leisure segments.

Giuseppe RessaLe Méridien Amman has appointedGiuseppe Ressa as general manager.Ressa has more than 27 years ofexperience in the hospitality industryand holds a degree in hotelmanagement. He has previously heldmanagement roles at Le MéridienNirwana Bali, Sheraton LangkawiBeach Resort and Sheraton MooreaLagoon Resort and Spa.

Mark GillingsLandmark Hotels and Suites hasappointed Mark Gillings as CEO. Gillingswill manage the group’s portfolio ofproperties, which currently features sevenhotels in the Middle East. He has morethan 17 years in the hospitality industryand has held management positions withvarious international chains, includingCrowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday InnExpress and Thistle Hotels.

Imran SheikRamada Hotel and SuitesAjman has appointed ImranSheik as sales manager.Sheik has worked with arange of hotel groups in theMiddle East over the pastfive years. In his new role, hewill develop sales strategiesto increase traffic, focusingon new potential markets.

Biya Levy

Rezidor Hotel Group hasappointed Biya Levy as regionalresponsible business co-ordinator for the Middle East.Levy has more than 15 years ofexperience in the hospitalityindustry and a solidbackground in responsiblebusiness activities. Levy joinedRezidor in 2005 as executivesecretary at Radisson Blu Hotel,Dubai Media City. In additionto this role, she also acted asresponsible business trainer andco-ordinator for the hotel,before moving on to similarpositions at Radisson BluHotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island. Inher new role, Levy will co-ordinate responsible businessactivities across Rezidor’s 25hotels in the Middle East.

Biya LevyMark Gillings

Imran Sheik

Travel Trade Weekly: Please outlineyour career history – where did youwork before joining One to One?Ulrike Andorff: I discovered mypassion within the hospitality industry asa receptionist during my school dayswhile assisting a small B&B in my hometown. After graduating from school Ienrolled in a traditional hotelapprenticeship learning the basic tradeincluding kitchen, food and beverage,housekeeping, accounts, reception etc. Achallenging career followed with diversepositions such as receptionist, reservationmanager, assistant front office manager,front office manager, and director ofrooms. I had exposure in banqueting,accounts and revenue, however mypreference has always been a hands onrole in hotel openings and refurbishmentswhich are consistently changingenvironments. The hospitality industryhas been developing rapidly worldwidewhich has enabled me to work in severalinteresting destinations such as China,Vietnam, Guam and Mauritius and Dubai.

Travel Trade Weekly: What are yourimmediate and long term plans inyour new role? Ulrike Andorff: To continuouslydeliver value to our guests, associates,

partners and owners with the support ofthe associates at the One to One Hotel –the Village. [I plan to do this by] creatingbrand ambassadors, by distinguishingguests’ uniqueness in making One to OneHotel – the Village the preferred hotel tostay in Abu Dhabi.

Travel Trade Weekly: Do you envisageany particular challenges in thisposition? Ulrike Andorff: No, I do not predictany particular challenges and as Joshua JMarine states: “Challenges are what makelife interesting; overcoming them is whatmakes life meaningful.”

Travel Trade Weekly: What is it aboutthe hospitality industry that you enjoy? Ulrike Andorff: The hospitality industryis one of the few industries in which youconstantly work with people, associates andguests. It is in our hands to make peoplehappy day-in, day-out and there is nothingmore rewarding for me than beingsurrounded by smiling and satisfiedcustomers, associates and guests. It is anindustry which brings cultures together,especially here in the UAE. An industry,which allows travelling and exposure. It is aninnovative ground without set boundarieswhich makes life exciting and vivid.

Travel Trade Weekly: How is businessin this industry following the downturn– have you had to be more innovative? Ulrike Andorff: Yes, relevantadjustments are required regularly toremain competitive with strong emphasison personal service.

Travel Trade Weekly: In such acompetitive market, what sets your newhotel apart from others in the region?Ulrike Andorff: One to One Hotel –the Village, emphasises the distinctivehospitality catering to the individual in aunique boutique hotel setting which is thepreference of a growing audience. Istrongly believe that this hotel concept isa successful one where I can utilise myexpertise and add values. Further, it isexciting to be part of a young, energeticand expanding company such as One toOne Hotels and Resorts.

15SEPTEMBER 4, 2010

Q&A with Ulrike AndorffUlrike Andorff has recently joined Abu Dhabi’s One to One Hotel – the Village as hotel manager. With morethan 26 years of experience in the industry, Andorff has worked in a range of hospitality roles across threecontinents, with former employers including Hilton, Kempinski, Starwood and HMH (Coral Hotels andResorts). In this issue, she discusses her rise to the top position with Travel Trade Weekly, as well as her plansfor this new role and observations on the industry in the UAE.

Ulrike Andorff

Relevant adjustments are required regularly to

remain competitive

[Hospitality] is anindustry which brings

cultures together,especially here

in the UAE

SEPTEMBER 4, 201016

EventsBusiness Travel Show – DubaiDubai, UAE, October 25-26 (www.businesstravelshowdubai.com)Dedicated event for buyers and bookers of corporate travel in the MiddleEast, focusing on small and medium sized organisations that book businesstravel.

World Travel MarketLondon, UK, November 8-11 (www.wtmlondon.com)Global event for the travel industry – four day business to business eventpromoting a range of destinations and industry sectors to internationaltravel professionals.

World Green Tourism Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi, UAE, November 22-24 (www.worldgreentourism.ae)Inaugural eco-tourism exhibition, featuring tourism authorities, urban cityplanners, hotels and resorts, property developers, airlines, tour operators,green product suppliers, universities, museums and heritage siteorganisations.

EIBTMBarcelona, Spain, November 30 – December 2 (www.eibtm.com)Global event for meetings and events industry, including networkingopportunities, professional education seminars and a trade show platformfor exhibitors, hosted buyers and trade visitors.

Blossom JapanTokyo, Japan, January 18-21,2011 (www.blossomjapan.com)A new invitation-only luxury travel exhibition focusing on theJapanese market.

India International Travel Mart Mumbai, India, September 3-5 (www.iitmindia.com )Travel and tourism exhibition to market products from Indiaand abroad to the travel trade, corporate decision makers andend users.

Medical Tourism and Global Healthcare CongressLos Angeles, US, September 22-24 (www.medicaltourismcongress.com)Forum for the global medical and wellbeing tourism industry.

International Conference on Responsible Tourism in DestinationsMuscat, Oman, October 10-12 (www.rtd4.om)Organised by Oman Ministry of Tourism, UNWTO andInternational Centre for Responsible Tourism, LeedsMetropolitan University. Conference for government, privatesector, academic institutions and decision makers to discussnew directions for the principles and practice of responsibletourism in global destinations.

Arab Tourism Bourse Travel and Tourism FairDamascus, Syria, October 19-22 (www.abtfair.com)Aimed at promoting the Syrian tourism industry, attracting newvisitors and developing tourism in the region.

Hotex Fair SyriaDamascus, Syria, October 19-22 (www.hotexfair.com)Fair for Arabic and foreign companies in tourism and travel,including hotels, restaurants and equipment suppliers.

More than 150 ministers and senior aidesare expected to attend the 2010 WorldTourism Organisation’s (UNWTO)Ministers’ Summit at World TravelMarket in November. The summit will focus on governance andbusiness models for the future of thetourism industry, with an inauguralstatement of intent, outlining the futuredirection of the industry as compiled by

the ministers and private sector leaders. Mike Greenacre, managing director ofCo-operative Travel Group, will lead thesummit’s speakers, who will also includeJean-Claude Baumgarten, president ofWorld Travel and Tourism Council, andChristopher Brown, managing director ofAustralian industry body TTF. “The Ministers’ Summit is a great vehiclefor the public and private travel sector

leaders to meet together and debate someof the key issues facing the industry,” saidGreenacre.The summit’s main panel debate will focuson three key issues, including:mainstreaming tourism in the politicaland economic agendas; creating acompetitive framework for tourismdevelopment; and climate change and thegreen economy.

Public and Private Sector to Join at UNWTO Ministers’ Summit, WTM 2010