New stylish Hotel from Starwood Hotels opens in Dubai

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, Starwood Hotels’ newly-built 294-room relaxation spot, is set to lure tourists and visitors with its interior neoclassical style and tranquil setting facing the Arabian Gulf. A complete converged network from Nortel was deployed by Alpha Data, the UAE’s leading systems integrator.

Located at the Jumeirah Beach, the new five-star resort offers a rejuvenating experience for the whole family to enjoy following its opening last month. Alpha Data deployed the telephony, data networking and wireless solutions; the installations were completed in April ahead for the resort’s official opening.

“The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina is another product of Starwood Hotels’ continuous goal of building top-of-the-line hotels for people and tourists,” said Allam Shalabi, Complex Director of Engineering of Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina. “The Westin Beach Resort is the new place to go to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty in a cosmopolitan city.”

A common network was also made with both The Westin and its neighboring hotel, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, which is also managed by Starwood Hotels. Operating under the same administration department; telephony and data networking are now connected for the two hotels.

Commenting on the project with Alpha Data, Shalabi added, “Alpha Data’s track record with the hospitality sector and their level of expertise is why we selected them and the results so far are excellent.”

“We are extremely proud that Starwood selected Alpha Data to install the network for their newest resort in Dubai. Alpha Data has worked as a systems integrator for the vast majority of the key landmark hotels across UAE over the past ten years. Our engineers worked closely with the team at the resort to integrate all the systems based on the instructions and policies required by Starwood Hotels,” said Sandeep Nair, Account Manager at Alpha Data Dubai.

About Alpha Data

Founded in 1981, Alpha Data is one of the largest IT and Telecom Solutions companies in the Emirates with revenues in excess of $120 Million and offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Alpha Data strives to build long term client relationships based on mutual trust and respect. With a team of over 650 qualified personnel, Alpha Data provides complete end-to-end solutions in the following areas of expertise: Telecommunications & Radio, Networking & Security Solutions, Infrastructure Cabling, Enterprise Computing, Audio Visual Systems and Applications. Each of our specialist areas are backed up by highly qualified presales and post sales support teams who handle both project implementation and post-sales support. Beyond our offering, what counts most to our clients is the technical skills of our staff. Alpha Data's people have both high level industry certification & in depth experience in their respective fields.

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Lebanese fashion guru to design signature hotel

The Paris-based Lebanese designer, Elie Saab, and a Dubai government-owned company, Tatweer, launched Monday a 163- million dollar project to build a boutique hotel overlooking the Tiger Woods golf course.

The 360,000-square feet boutique hotel would be designed by Saab, bear his name and reflect his style, a statement released by Tatweer said.

The company is a member of Dubai Holding, which was set up by the government to manage its assets and investments.

The hotel, which will overlook the world's first golf course designed by US professional golfer Tiger Woods, will have 89 suites and 14 bungalows in different sizes to cater for the top-tier clientele.

'It is indeed no coincidence that the world's first golf course designed by the world's number one golfer Tiger Woods in Dubailand will host the first hotel to be designed by the world's top designer Elie Saab,' said Saeed al-Muntafiq, Tatweer chairman.

Tatweer has mega projects in the leisure and entertainment business, including the Universal Studios Dubai.

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Dubai hotels to get new ratings system

A revised ratings system that will reflect enhanced international standards is to be announced soon for Dubai hotels as the booming hospitality sector gears up to attract as many as 10 million tourists by 2010.

Khalid bin Sulayem, Director-General Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), said the current ratings system had been under review for some time and now was time for a change as the number of hotels and hotel apartments in Dubai is set to rise to 488 in the next two years compared to 452 in 2007.

Dubai's hotel rooms will climb to 64,179 in 2010 from 51,168 last year. According to industry experts, the number of hotel rooms is expected to increase by 32.7 per cent annually until 2011.

Sulayem said Dubai's buoyant hospitality sector, which has been recording spectacular growth over the past several years, can sustain the extra capacity. The upcoming mega projects including The Atlantis at the Palm would add an extra 2,000 rooms by the end of 2008, he said.

The new hotel rating system, which will replace the classification system introduced 1998, is expected to be in force soon, and will reflect international standards in terms of service and facilities. It will encompass several areas of hotel operations, including new medical and disability access requirements, and applying standards to a property's conference and banqueting, spa and leisure, and business centre facilities.

Informed industry sources said international classification systems were studied in the creation of the new system. Hotels will be classified as either leisure, city/business or ‘other' properties, with separate sub-sectors covering niche accommodation products such as theme park hotels, boutique hotels, budget hotels, wellness and spa hotels and heritage hotels. Also, hotel apartments will be classified as either leisure or city/business apartments. Under the changes, existing hotel criteria could be upgraded to meet new minimum standards. Sulayem, speaking at the launch of the Hotel Show, which opened yesterday at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, said DTCM has been holding consultation meeting across all sectors from developers to hotel management companies. "With new projects coming on stream all of the time we feel there is time for a review."

Dismissing suggestions that room rates prevailing in Dubai are relatively higher, he said Dubai hotels offer higher quality and service levels compared with other destinations. He also welcomed the entrance of budget hotels into the market as they have a place in the overall portfolio of properties in Dubai on offer to the traveller. Overall, he said, the market remains robust, exemplified by the products and services on offer at the show.

According to the World Tourism Organisation international travel to the Middle East will grow at a significantly faster rate than other competing global destinations. In the year 2020, Middle Eastern destinations will receive 68.5 million arrivals (compared to 46.4 million in 2007), representing a growth rate of 7.1 per cent over the period 1995-2019. The global average for the same year is expected to be 4.1 per cent.

According to Hospitality consultancy HVS International approximately 253 hotels will be entering the regional market in the next fours years, adding an additional 120,000 guestrooms to current supply — not including the massive but unconfirmed 'Dubailand' project in the UAE.

“The UAE accounts for nearly 75 per cent of the new supply, followed by Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman.

Approximately 25,000 rooms are set to enter the Dubai market in 2008, 20,000 in 2009, 25,000 in 2010 and 20,000 in 2011.

A recent study confirmed the Middle Eastern region’s position as the current world’s top performer in average rate and occupancy.

The study, compiled by analysts at Deloitte, reveal a chart-topping average rate of $18, and an overall occupancy of 74.3 per cent.

Absolute RevPAR (revenue per available room) in the region for first quarter grew 19 per cent year over year.

“With the strongest occupancy and average room rates in the world, hotel performance in the Middle East is off to a very good start in 2008. If the rest of 2008 follows the pattern already set for the first quarter, hoteliers could enjoy a remarkable five-year run of double-digit growth,” analysts said.

/Khaleej Times/

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Raffles Dubai sets precedent for hospitality technology systems

Raffles Hotels & Resorts, ranked one of the top hotel groups worldwide, are opening their doors in Dubai with a landmark property next to Wafi Mall. Well known for their pursuit for excellence, Raffles Hotels & Resorts have made every possible effort to ensure that their Raffles Dubai is set to be a market leader and a new landmark. In line with their mission, Alpha Data was selected to implement the latest in hospitality technology at Raffles Dubai.

“The growth in Dubai, not only in terms of numbers of hotels, but in levels of service excellence is phenomenal,” said Ravi Veerasawmy at Raffles Dubai. We were looking for a technology partner who is at the very leading edge to ensure that the systems we installed would provide our guests with the very best in facilities.”

“Alpha Data is one of the only ICT companies in the country who were able to work with us as a systems integration manager to seamlessly link our telephony networks, networking systems, interactive television, building management systems and room managements systems. We needed that level of experience and skill set to ensure that Raffles Dubai sets a new standard in the local hospitality sector,” added Veerasawmy.

“There’s no shortage of exciting, innovative technologies available to help hoteliers create unique, positive guest experiences. Such solutions can establish and reinforce guest loyalty while maximising the profit potential of each guest,” said Anil KJ, a Hospitality Consultant at Alpha Data. “Integrating numerous systems and devices to work together and exchange information is the number one challenge for many hoteliers and that’s where we come in.”

“One of the key requirements was for fully integrated room management and guest access systems. As this had not been done before in the UAE, we worked closely with our manufacturing partners to develop the panels, integrate them and install the systems throughout the hotel,” Anil KJ added.

“Alpha Data has worked as a systems integrator for the vast majority of the key landmark hotels across UAE over the past ten years and we are very proud to have been part of the development of Raffles Dubai,” said KSN Prasad, General Manager of Alpha Data Dubai.

About Alpha Data

Founded in 1981, Alpha Data is one of the largest IT and Telecom Solutions companies in the Emirates with revenues in excess of $120 Million and offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Alpha Data strives to build long term client relationships based on mutual trust and respect. With a team of over 700 qualified personnel, Alpha Data provides complete end-to-end solutions in the following areas of expertise: Telecommunications & Radio, Networking & Security Solutions, Infrastructure Cabling, Enterprise Computing, Audio Visual Systems and Applications. Each of our specialist areas are backed up by highly qualified presales and post sales support teams who handle both project implementation and post-sales support.

Alpha Data is a leader in hospitality technology solutions. With over 15 years of working with over 200 top hotels Alpha Data has both the solution range and the technical expertise to provide technology across an entire property.

Alpha Data is at this year’s Hotel Show, Dubai World Trade Center, Zaabeel Hall from the 8th to the 10th of June, 2008.
For more information, please visit www.alpha.ae

About Raffles hotels & resorts

Raffles is a collection of luxury hotels and resorts worldwide, each distinguished by its luxury, elegance and residential charm. Each hotel is a landmark in its respective city, positioned at the top of its local market and rated among the very best in the world.

Raffles’ relentless pursuit of service excellence has earned for its hotels and resorts a legion of international accolades, including Condé Nast World’s Best Places to Stay and Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards. Its flagship Raffles Hotel Singapore was named Best Hotel in Asia by readers of Ultratravel magazine by The Daily Telegraph and Best Luxury Hotel 2006 by Travel Trade Gazette Asia. Raffles Hotels & Resorts was ranked second among the world’s top hotel brands in the 2006 Condé Nast Traveler Business
Travel Awards. For more information, please visit www.raffles.com

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Brad Pitt to Help Design America-Themed Dubai Hotel

Brad Pitt, the star of ``Fight Club'' and ``Ocean's 11'' who professes a passion for architecture, will be a design consultant for an 800-room hotel and resort Zabeel Properties plans to build in Dubai, the developer said.

Zabeel, based in Dubai, hired architecture firm Graft LLC to design an America-themed hotel in the United Arab Emirates city, the closely held developer said today in a statement. Los Angeles-based Graft, which has worked with Pitt on rebuilding efforts in New Orleans, will include the 44-year-old actor on its Dubai design team, Zabeel said.

``Acting is my career, architecture is my passion,'' Pitt said in the statement. As ``my first major construction project,'' the Dubai hotel will feature ``environmentally friendly architecture, but also embrace my career in entertainment.''

Detailed plans for the hotel and resort will be made public in the next few months, Zabeel said. The developer didn't give the project's exact location or say how much it would cost to build.

The company's properties comprise about $5 billion of residential, commercial and hotel projects, including Tiara Residence and Tiara Hotel, which are part of the Palm Jumeirah artificial-island development.

Graft is one of the architecture firms Pitt began working with in 2007 to rebuild New Orleans's Lower Ninth Ward neighborhood, which was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Pitt's New Orleans-based Make It Right organization is working to build affordable homes in the area.

Pitt has long been an admirer of Scottish architect and designer Charles Rennie MacKintosh and American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, BusinessWeek magazine said in a 2005 profile of the actor. He became friends with Frank Gehry during a home- renovation project in 2001, and studied computer-aided design at the architect's Los Angeles offices, the magazine said.

/Bloomberg/

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Seven Tides plans three 5 star hotels in Dubai

Seven Tides, an independent Dubai-based holding company, is planning to set up over 20 five-star hotels in the region in 2009 alone. Three exclusive five-star multi-use developments will be opened in Dubai in the first half of 2009.

Along with its international strategic partners, Seven Tides is committed to offering its clientele an innovative approach to integrated developments and five-star projects in Dubai. Established in 2004, Seven Tides partnered with prestigious international brands including Nakheel, Asteco Property Management, Anantara, Movenpic Hotels & Resorts, Rixos and Campbell Gray Hotels which manages Seven Tides’ Dukes Hotel in the heart of London in the UK.

Malcolm Ross, chief operating officer, Seven Tides Hospitality, said, “Our developments are designed for an exclusive lifestyle catering to individual needs. Our aim at Seven Tides is to create destinations moving away from the ordinary by adding an element of sophistication and finesse to our final precut; making our developments and hospitality offerings one-of-a-kind.”

Of the three five-star multi-use developments that Seven Tides is opening in 2009, two of these premier projects are on Palm Jumeriah. Oceana, comprising a five-star resort, located on the Trunk of the Palm, will offer apartments with a unique array of amenities and is accessible to the finest shopping and entertainment on Palm Jumeirah. Alternatively, The Royal Amwaj on the Crescent is an Asian inspired five-star resort and spa with apartments. Finally, the third five-star establishment is the Ibn Battuta Gate, strategically located next to the IBN Battuta Mall. This development with its landmark Gate offers office suites and services apartments in addition to the luxury hotel and spa.

Ross continued, “With the launch of Seven Tides in the region and with these three projects we aim to demonstrate our commitment to premier, tailored, sophisticated developments that will attract clientele who believes in individuality. These are the personal touches that are the natures of Seven Tides’ brand and philosophy.”

In addition to the projects opening in 2009, Seven Tides will embark on projects in The World, Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira. It has also complied a significant restoration of the Dukes Hotel in London, which upon completion was awarded five-star classification.

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Singapore consulate appoints one more visa processing agency

In order to provide better and efficient services to the public, the Consulate General of Singapore has announced the appointment of VFS GLOBAL as its third visa processing agency to accept applications for Singapore visas, commencing from 11 May 2008.

Visitors now have a choice of three agencies for them to submit their visa applications and will benefit from a new user-friendly web-based application “Submission of Application for Visa Electronically” (SAVE) which the agencies will use to forward the applications to the Consulate.

SAVE will also help boost security by enabling the Consulate to issue visa stickers with security embedded features that can pre-empt forgery and electronically link all stored information to immigration checkpoints and other Singapore Consulates and Embassies around the world.

The outsourcing by the Singapore consulate to processing agencies to accept applications for Singapore visas had proved a great success in facilitating the visa application process in Dubai. The appointment of this additional agency will provide more options for the public to submit their applications and to cater for the anticipated increase of visa applications for visitors to Singapore for the summer vacations.

There will now be three visa processing agencies that can accept applications for Singapore visas, namely:

1 VSA Versatile Service Agency
#1407, Al Safa Tower
Sheikh Zayed Road
PO Box 119390, Dubai
Tel: 04 3329133

2 Uranus Travel & Tours (LLC)
Sultan Business Centre
PO Box 8611, Dubai
Tel: 04 3355559

3 VFS Global
Al Telal Building # 7
No 15, Al Karama (Behind Ministry of Health)
PO Box 114100, Dubai
Tel: 04 3571223

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Dubai to become world's most sought out marine tourism destination

With an addition of over 51000 new marinas and a number of large harbours and ports waiting to be built in the emirate, Dubai is destined to become the world's most sought out place for marine sports and tourism, according to an industry official.

Director of Marinas at Nakheel and Managing Director of Dubai International Marine Club Saeed Hareb said that the colossal projects like Nakheel and the World, the largest cluster of man made islands in the Arabain sea, are testimony to the strong base of resources and expertise in Dubai.

Speaking at the final day of the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) which concluded in Dubai yesterday, Hareb said that a number of new marinas are being planned as per the demand of the evolving Dubai landscape.

Nakheel properties launched a number of new projects during its participation in the ATM. /WAM/

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Hotel industry seeks separate standards for resort and city properties

While the city’s existing five-star properties expect to see no changes to their eminent status, it may not be the same for hotels lower down when Dubai’s new rating system for the hospitality sector comes into effect.
Another key area of uncertainty, at this stage, is whether the star rating system will differ significantly between business/city hotels and those, which more leisure-in-clined, sub-categories are proposed in the draft.

Senior industry officials are insistent there should be a fine line separating the two. “The new five-star rating should embody luxury and service standards with separate classifications for resort and city properties,” says Michael Nugent, General Manager of Moevenpick Bur Dubai, wondering how cutting-edge business services can be compared with a property featuring multiple swimming pools.

“It must be commensurate with the target market the hotel is designed for, as in leisure versus business.”

Government agency

The Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is the government agency spearheading the process towards a new classification regime, which is expected to the made public shortly. A draft of the proposed version was aired before industry personnel last month.
“Ideally, the DTCM should address the service and ambiance of a property, although this can be subjective, in addition to tangible products and services offered as it is often the service delivery which makes for a five-star experience,” adds Nugent. “Food quality is another area to be highlighted.”

By that as it may the international majors’ ones. Says Philippe Baretaud, Development Director of Accor Hospitality M E, which owns the Ibis brand, “The Ibis concept and identity are so strong that the brand goes unaltered by the fact that its ranking can change from one country to another.”

The DTCM’s draft highlights security, health and safety, and first aid to be at hand 24 x 7. While two-star properties could do away with a pool, disabled access and spy holes, the higher stars need to offer that and plenty of leisure and entertainment.

A 24-hour information services in English and Arabic via a reception is a minimum for all. Internet becomes an option below the four-star category, which means international brands will easily subject to continuous improvement and refinement over decades in a number of different markets,” notes John Podaras, Operations Manager at TRI Hospitality Consulting. “Naturally these standards will require modifications to specific national and cultural norms. In many ways, the classifications standards stipulated by the statutory authority should and do focus more on the minimum levels for a particular class.”

How budget hotels, also mentioned as a sub-category in the draft, would operate in the new classification regime is an interesting point. They would have to contend with DTCM’s requirements for a minimum number of F & B outlets, unless exempt, to be eligible for the lower star ratings should only affect the mid-market and upward,” Podaras points out.

Sticking point

Another potential sticking point relates to bathtubs. “We are aware of international and mid-market brands in the GCC that only merit a two-star because their brand standard doesn’t include the required ration of bathrooms with bathtubs featuring show cubicles instead,” says Podaras.
“We are not aware of consumer studies carried out in the Middle East. However, they were in the US, which seemed to indicate preference for showers instead of baths among corporate travelers,”

The DTCM draft does not seem to indicate any changes, depending on how one interprets ‘en-suite bathroom with bath and overhead shower or separate shower cabin’ for three stars.
“Our Traders is better than a four-star, but DTCM told us we only had enough bath tubs for a two-star and simply did not put the plaque up,” informs Sascha Land, Development Director for Shangri-La. “It is not unique to Dubai, some regulations require 100 per cent bath tubs for a four-star, whilst other extras like a flat screen and hairdryer do not count.”

“The fact that rooms include showers only with no bath tubs result in a two-star classification in some countries in the Middle East, while others will still rank as three-star. But experience proves that there is no consequence at all on the commercialization of the brand and the primary choice it represent for travelers in the segment of the market.”

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Visa for six Schengen countries made easy

The French, German and Italian missions in the emirate opened a “joint visa application centre” yesterday at Al Mina Road to handle and process visa applications to six Schengen countries initially.

The centre, which would be operational from 9am today, is the first of its kind in the Middle East and would process visas of nationals and expatriate residents from Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The Netherlands and Switzerland are also expected to join the centre.

Johann-Adolf Cohausz, Consul-General of Germany in Dubai, told Khaleej Times, “This centre will facilitate visa issuance. Earlier, we were in a very constrained and limited space. Now there are more counters and better parking facilities available for applicants. The waiting period to submit applications will also be considerably reduced.”

He said he was convinced that other Schengen countries would also join the centre as it can accommodate more European countries. The German consulate alone receives over 40,000 visa applications each year.

The centre, which will work from 9am to 5pm, has about 17 counters and is equipped to handle over 60,000 applications each year. It will accept applications for travel to France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Malta and Slovenia. The services have been outsourced to VFS LLC, which will collect and check applications for completeness and forward it to the respective consulates.

Roberto Vagni, Head of the Italian consulate in Dubai, said the consulate processed 10,000 visas annually and the numbers were steadily increasing every year. “It is good to work with other European countries and we expect the Netherlands to also join us in soon,” he added.

Nada Yafi, French Consul-General in Dubai, noted that working longer hours would mean that applicants could submit applications any time. “We have more time to work on applications. It would also make it easier for potential travellers,” Yafi added.

Applicants, on the other hand, hope the new centre would improve the efficacy of the consulates. “Usually, we have to wait in long, winding queues all morning to submit applications and come back to collect them another day. Also, consulates usually accept applications only in the morning. Now, things should hopefully ease and we could look forward to faster and friendlier services,” said John Smith, an expatriate. The centre can also arrange interview appointments with consular officers where applicable. Applicants can have their passports couriered or collect it themselves. They can also track the status of the centre.

Though it will be a common point for collection of visa applications for the Schengen countries, the decision to issue visas will remain with the respective consulates. The time for processing would also remain the same as before and would take anywhere between 24 hours and three weeks depending on the type of visa and nationality of the applicant.

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Hyatt hotels committed to hiring and keeping the best talent

Training and Recruitment Strategies to Make Leading International Hotelier First Choice Among Job Seeking Candidates

Exponential growth in the world’s hospitality industry has led Hyatt to embark on a new, innovative strategy to hire and retain the sector’s best talent, according to company executives.

Hyatt’s ambitious expansion plans for the Middle East and South West Asia – where it intends to open more than 15 new properties over the next five years – have led the hotelier to partner with leading recruitment firms and consultancies from around the world to help Hyatt’s HR staff source and recruit suitable hospitality professionals for a number of job opportunities spanning from entry level and trainee level to junior management and general manager positions.

Hyatt International Corporation’s VP Human Resources, Katie Carter, said: “Attracting, retaining and developing key talent in our company continues to be a key strategic issue for us as we face the anticipated growth over the next three to five years and beyond. As part of our global recruitment efforts, we have recently partnered with several international recruitment agencies to assist us in identifying talent for both our entry and junior management level positions.

In addition to recruitment partnerships, Hyatt has a very structured and comprehensive approach to training, which includes advanced orientation, skills training, and leadership and management education, all of which is a combination of classroom training, on the job and e-based trainings.

About Global Hyatt Corporation

Global Hyatt Corporation, one of the world’s premier hotel companies, offers today’s travellers more than 750 hotels and resorts (more than 140,000 rooms) in more than 45 countries. The company’s affiliates own, operate, manage and franchise Hyatt-branded hotels and resorts under Park Hyatt™, Grand Hyatt™, Hyatt Regency™, Hyatt Resorts™, Hyatt®, Hyatt Place™ and Hyatt Summerfield Suites™ brands, as well as the company’s newest global luxury brand, Andaz™, which recently opened its first property in London. Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., operator of Hyatt Vacation Club and fractional residential properties, and U.S. Franchise Systems, Inc., which franchises Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns and Suites. From the U.S. and Canada, reservations for any Hyatt hotel worldwide may be obtained by calling 1-800-233-1234, or logging on to www.hyatt.com.

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Expatriates from the UAE and other Middle East countries need no visa to travel to Malaysia, and transit passengers may be granted transit visas for 1

Expatriates from the UAE and other Middle East countries need no visa to travel to Malaysia, and transit passengers may be granted transit visas for 120 hours or five days free of charge, Dato’ Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Director-General of Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, has said.

Global tourism groups have ranked Malaysia as the number one destination for travellers from the Middle East and GCC with Emiratis coming in second to Saudi Arabians in the top three Arab nationals regularly visiting Malaysia.

Taiyab revealed this in an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times yesterday at the opening of the four-day Arabian Travel Market 2008 (ATM) at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Taiyab said that Malaysia is participating in this ATM to target some 400,000 more Arab tourists this year to further boost the quarter million tourists going to Malaysia from Arab countries.

Taiyab said Malaysia is vigorously campaigning for more tourists from the UAE and Saudi Arabia because of all the Arab tourists. Saudis top the list with 78,000 followed by Emiratis with 38,000.

He said that Iranians come close with 37,000, followed by Omanis 19,000; Kuwaitis 17,000; Syrians, Libyans and Jordanians come next with 12,000 each; and, Qatar, 11,000.

“We are also targeting the expatriates from this region who may choose Malaysia as their destination for holidays,” he said.

He said that expatriates, with valid work permits in this region, have no knowledge that they can come to Malaysia without visa, which they can get upon arrival at the Malaysia airport with only RM100 ($33.33).

Malaysia is welcoming transit passengers from the UAE, particularly Filipinos, because they spend a lot and most of them are on transit there, on their way back home to the Philippines.

Taiyab said that for the last eight years, while tourists have kept coming to Malaysia, the government has come up with packaged promotions to bring in more tourists.

This tourism campaign has paid off and in the first quarter of this year alone, Malaysia has registered a total of 47,000 tourists from the Middle East and GCC, of whom 10,000 are Emiratis.

“Earlier, we were targeting holiday travellers, but now, we are the favourite destination of the honeymooners too,” he said.

Taiyab said that among the major reasons why tourists make Malaysia as their preferred holiday destination is, first, Malaysia can offer something different, with its lush vegetation and green scenery.

Second, he said, the tourists can shop at reasonable prices, and third, they can enjoy their stay with cultural dances performed in hotels and restaurants.

Fourth, Malaysia is very much liberal and, fifth, hotels are too cheap, Taiyab added. /Khaleej Times/

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Singapore’s Formula 1 Grand Prix Draws

Replica of First-Ever F1 Night Circuit Steals Spotlight at Exhibition

The Singapore stand at Arabian Travel Market has been making a splash with travel trade and racing enthusiasts alike, as visitors are being given an exciting sneak preview of the first night race in F1 history.

Expected to draw thousands of visitors to the city-state, the 2008 FORMULA ONE™ SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is the world’s first-ever F1 night race and has created a buzz of excitement among Middle East travellers heading to Singapore in the fall for one of the most anticipated events on the international racing calendar.

The historic race is a part of an exciting line-up of events and attractions which form an integral part of Singapore’s unique transformation strategy, designed to draw tourists to the island nation by offering new and interesting experiences.

“Singapore is entering an exciting phase of development in its tourism landscape. The Formula 1™ night race will add to our credentials as a world-class destination offering some of the most unique and trailblazing experiences,” said Jason Ong, Area Director, Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.

Set against a mock-up of the city’s skyline, the 1.4 x 2 meter F1 display at Singapore’s pavillion at ATM is a model of the 5.067 km street circuit. This street circuit poses new challenges for drivers with numerous overtaking opportunities as well as challenging corners, and is one of only three races in the 2008 F1 calendar to run anticlockwise.

Visitors to the stand also have the opportunity to simulate their own F1 race with two F1 model cars that race on the city circuit.

To provide the most memorable experience for visitors, Singapore has introduced the ‘Singapore GP Season’, a series of Formula One™ themed activities and entertainment to be held over three weekends from 20 September to 5 October to gets fans and visitors revved up for the race.

Taking place from 25 August – 1 October, motorsport fans can also visit the Formula One™ Great Design Race at the National Museum of Singapore, an acclaimed exhibition from London’s Design Museum which traces the technology and engineering secrets of F1 cars over the sport’s 50-year history.

Singapore is also one of just five Formula One™ race destinations selected to host the ultra exclusive Amber Lounge (27 – 28 September) party at the Conrad Centennial Singapore – a premium event is a veritable magnet for race drivers, team principals, team sponsors and international models and celebrities from the worlds of television, fashion, music and sport.

As part of its campaign to reach out to the region’s travel trade, the largest-ever delegation of Singapore travel and hospitality companies are exhibiting at this year’s Arabian Travel Market, running at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) this week.

About Singapore Tourism Board

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is an economic development agency for one of Singapore's key service sectors - tourism. The mission of the Board is to develop and champion tourism, so as to build the sector into a key driver of economic growth for Singapore.

With its strategic tourism units covering the key purposes of visit by tourists, the STB will work towards revitalising traditional segments ranging from sightseeing and attractions to business travel, as well as actively tap into emerging segments such as healthcare and education services.

These initiatives will be reinforced by STB's international operations which cover the key markets in Asia, Oceania, Europe and Americas, with expanded resources to capitalise on growth markets like China and India.

STB's goal is to create exciting and innovative experiences for our visitors, in close partnership with the trade industry, thus etching forever in visitors' minds an image of Singapore as a unique and compelling destination.

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Hyatt hotels will dramatically increase number of global proprties

Hyatt Hotels and Resorts, one of the world’s premier hotel companies, is set to significantly expand its properties over the next five years, opening a series of landmark properties across South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, according to senior company executives.

The fifty year-old, Chicago-headquartered hospitality company currently operates 735 hotels and resorts in 45 countries around the world, and employs approximately 90,000 employees.

Hyatt has built a solid industry reputation for consistently high-quality and global representation across its three main brands – Hyatt Regency, Grand Hyatt, and Park Hyatt – and maintains that brand preference for Hyatt properties is growing among discerning travellers with each passing year.

But changing travel demands, liberalizing economies, and a surplus of liquidity has also meant that the privately held Global Hyatt Corporation is now in a position to dramatically accelerate the pace of its international growth, provided it is able to find a secure suitable locations for properties and adequately staff them to the international standard of excellence for which the company is universally known.

“Hyatt will substantially increase the number of properties under its management over the next five years, if all things go according to plan,” said Peter Fulton, Hyatt’s Managing Director of South West Asia, speaking at an Arabian Travel Market press conference in Dubai.

“We envision our South West Asia region, which includes the Middle East and India, to be the fastest growing in our portfolio of properties, with several key properties opening this year in the Gulf,“ added Fulton.

Hyatt currently operates eight properties in the Middle East and five in India, but has plans for several more in each of the two markets which, together, compose the company’s South West Asia region.

Global Development

Major Global Hyatt Corporation announcements of late include: launching its new luxury brand, Andaz™, and reaching the 100-hotel milestone of Hyatt Place hotels in the United States.

Hyatt has more than than 60 full-service hotels in the pipeline, with 16 hotels under development in greater China alone, five hotels in Russia/CIS, and other high-profile properties to open in Europe, Middle East, and the Americas.

“Hyatt will continue to grow significantly over the next decade, the number of worldwide properties expected to double in the next five years,“ said Stephen G. Haggerty, Global Hyatt Corporation’s Global Head of Real Estate and Development.

Hyatt currently operates more than 750 hotels and resorts worldwide.

Human Resources

Exponential growth in the world’s hospitality industry has led Hyatt to embark on a new, innovative strategy to hire and retain the sector’s best talent, according to company executives.

Hyatt’s ambitious expansion plans for the Middle East and South West Asia – where it intends to open more than 15 new properties over the next five years – have led the hotelier to partner with leading recruitment firms and consultancies from around the world to help Hyatt’s HR staff source and recruit suitable hospitality professionals for a number of job opportunities spanning from entry level and trainee level to junior management and general manager positions.

Hyatt International Corporation’s Vice President Human Resources, Katie Carter, said: “Attracting, retaining and developing key talent in our company continues to be a key strategic issue for us as we face the anticipated growth over the next three to five years and beyond.”

About Global Hyatt Corporation

Global Hyatt Corporation, one of the world’s premier hotel companies, offers today’s travelers more than 750 hotels and resorts (more than 140,000 rooms) in more than 45 countries. The company’s affiliates own, operate, manage and franchise Hyatt-branded hotels and resorts under Park Hyatt™, Grand Hyatt™, Hyatt Regency™, Hyatt Resorts™, Hyatt®, Hyatt Place™ and Hyatt Summerfield Suites™ brands, as well as the company’s newest global luxury brand, Andaz™, which recently opened its first property in London.

Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., operator of Hyatt Vacation Club and fractional residential properties, and U.S. Franchise Systems, Inc., which franchises Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns and Suites. From the U.S. and Canada, reservations for any Hyatt hotel worldwide may be obtained by calling 1-800-233-1234, or logging on to www.hyatt.com.

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Dubai Hotel visitors to cross Ten Million by 2010

The Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has projected the number of hotel visitors to Dubai to rise to ten million by 2010, from about seven million in 2007. The projections have been released on the eve of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2008, which will be held at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 6 to 9.

The number of hotels and hotel apartments is expected to increase to 488 by 2010, up from 452 in 2007. Dubai's room strength will also rise to 64,179, a dramatic increase from 51,168 room units in 2007.

"As the key driver in boosting tourism in Dubai, DTCM will continue to exploit the tourism potential through strategic initiatives and focused policies," said Mr. Khalid Ahmed bin Sulayem, DTCM Director General.

"We are on track to move Dubai up the ladder on the global tourism map, and continue to provide direction to consolidate the emirate's position as the tourism hub not just of the region but of the world." DTCM is highlighting its achievements and future plans at its largest-ever showing at the 15th edition of Arabian Travel Market at the Dubai stand spread over an area of 1,080 square meters, with 132 co-participants and 90 booths.

"The visionary and iconic projects currently underway in Dubai are guaranteed to surpass our estimates for tourism growth by 2010. The next three years will see the most dramatic developments in tourism projects in Dubai, and DTCM is poised to play a crucial role in ensuring that Dubai continues to a front-runner in the region's moves to attract tourists from around the globe," he added.

Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, Director, Overseas Promotion, DTCM, said: "ATM has always served as a strategic platform for DTCM to showcase its initiatives and Dubai's tourism potential to the target market. This year, once again, under the combined Dubai stand, DTCM brings together all stakeholders who are playing a role in taking Dubai tourism to new heights. V ''isitors to our pavilion will be able to literally feel the pulse of Dubai through tools and facilities created specially for the event." Dubai and UAE Heritage displays at the Dubai Stand will enhance awareness about the UAE's old legacy and will act as attractions to the stand.

Some 23,449 prominent players from over 100 countries are attending ATM 2008, the industry's leading travel and tourism exhibition dedicated to unlock the business potential within the Middle East and pan Arab region. The Dubai stand in hall 3, under the helm of DTCM, is expected to be one of the most visited stands at ATM 2008. WAM

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Nakheel and Jafza sign deal on new budget hotel offering in Dubai

Dubai-based real estate developer Nakheel cemented its partnership with Jafza to pave the way for the opening of one of several innovative budget hotels under the easyHotel brand.

The partnership between Jafza and Nakheel Hotels, both Dubai World companies, sets in motion the development of an innovative budget hotel in the up and coming area around the free zone.

The easyHotel, located close to Shaikh Zayed Road in Jafza will be a 216 room budget hotel that will deliver an absolutely first class 'sleep and shower' experience at an affordable price for visitors to the area.

Construction is scheduled to begin at the end of May 2008 with a completion date of June 2009.

Salma Hareb, CEO Jafza and Economic Zones World said: "This agreement reflects the strong relationship between Jafza and Nakheel, two of Dubai World's leading companies. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Nakheel and to be the site of one of the first easyHotels in Dubai. Jafza is one of the world's most services driven, customer centric free zones. The success of Jafza is driven by our ability to continue to provide innovative services for our customers."

Nakheel Hotels owns the master franchise for easyHotels in the MENA region.

The easyHotel in Jafza will be one of several easyHotels being developed by Nakheel to open in Dubai starting in June 2009. Source

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‘Singapore’s Unique Transformation’ on Display at Arabian Travel Market 2008

A strong Singapore delegation is set to make its mark at the upcoming Arabian Travel Market 2008 to demonstrate the transformation of Singapore’s tourism landscape.

‘Singapore’s Unique Transformation’ - driven by a collection of strategic tourism developments and attractions - is set to consolidate the island-nation’s position as Asia’s travel destination of choice, reinforcing its reputation as a vibrant, exciting and a ‘must-visit’ city for every traveler.

Taking place in Dubai 6-9 May, Arabian Travel Market is the region’s leading annual travel and tourism exhibition.

The Singapore Tourism Board is confident that Singapore’s pavilion will draw a high level of interest from the travel trade industry as it hosts representatives from Singapore’s major attractions, leading hotels and travel agents, including a number of first-time exhibitors.

Plans are even underway to showcase a model of the Formula 1tm Singtel Grand Prix street circuit to ATM – creating a high level of buzz in anticipation.

“Our ever increasing range of diverse activities, high-profile events and world-class attractions are key to enticing both new and repeat visitors from the Middle East to come to Singapore,” Jason Ong, Area Director for Middle East & Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.

With billions of dollars invested over the past few years, Singapore’s tourism industry has been a key driver of the country’s strong economic growth, generating an estimated US$ 9.7 billion in tourism revenue in 2007 alone.

Exhibitors at the Singapore stand include major attractions such as the recently launched Singapore Flyer, the world’s largest observation wheel, the upcoming Marina Bay Sands due to open in end 2009, as well as favourites Sentosa Leisure Group and Underwater World Singapore.

Renowned hotels and resorts including the Swissotel, Pan Pacific and Amara Resort will be present, while new luxury brands such as the St. Regis Singapore will make their ATM debut.

Middle East focused travel agents including Uniglobal Holidays, Discovery Holidays and The Traveller, Millennium Tours & Travel, Look Asia Holiday and Tradewinds Tours & Travel will be present to network with the estimated 23,449 travel trade from the region expected at the event.

Singapore’s exhibition stand at Arabian Travel Market 2008 will be located in the Zabeel Hall (# AS450) of the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.


About Singapore Tourism Board

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is an economic development agency for one of Singapore’s key service sectors – tourism. The mission of the Board is to develop and champion tourism, so as to build the sector into a key driver of economic growth for Singapore. The STB aims to differentiate and market Singapore as a must-visit destination offering enriching experiences through the “Uniquely Singapore” brand. For more information, please visit www.stb.com.sg or visitsingapore.com.

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Opportunities in local hospitality sector attract major chains

Lease Contracts will continue to rule supreme for major chains casting and eye on opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
“You don’t have freehold in the best locations as a foreigner, that’s for sure,” says Sascha Lang, Director of Project Development Europe & Middle East, Shangri-La.
“But I think it will change, especially in Dubai. In the long run more and more owners are looking for lease contracts. For example in Dubailand foreign investors want to have land.
“But the land cost is tremendously high, so are building costs. That is why they are looking to go in with lease contracts.

Across prime Middle East destinations, the hospitality sector now operates mainly on management contracts and for good reason. “In the EU with management contracts you go nowhere as you don’t have such powerful companies anymore like here,” comments Lang.

“Here it is similar to Asia – you have a lot of financially powerful owners. They want to have an icon, they want to be proud of saying that they have a Shangri-La, Four Seasons, as my operator, but it is my building.
“It is still a bit of prestige thing, which helps companies of five stars deluxe to get nice management agreements.”

In addition, it is easier to operate in new markets with a local partner. Shangri-La goes for that option in India and the Middle East.
“Egypt wouldn’t work by owning ourselves. Lebanon can, but it is better to be in bed with someone who is locally established,” comments Lang. “For sure management contracts in this part of the world are still recommended.”

Accor Hospitality records a similar experience. “Local partners have more ability to retain land rights which speeds up our development. Otherwise you have problems of ownership and investment,” Says Phillipe Baretaud, the Development Director for the region.

“In Qatar even for an Emirati it is difficult to invest. The GCC has huge amounts of liquidity – so we do not need money but focus mainly on management contracts.
“And not franchise because we need to keep control over quality.”

The group still owns 25 percent of its hotels, primarily in Europe. This is despite a Continental trend of the last couple of years with an ‘asset light’ policy being adopted by the larger hotel groups such as the InterContinental Hotel Group.

“They sell the brand and the franchise under pure management without investment in the property. It is about listed companies which need to have more liquidity, a better debt ration and focus on management,” adds Baretaud.

Accor has seen a reason to lighten its ‘load’ to a lesser extent. Its 2010 development plan calls for just over 60 per cent franchise or management contracts worldwide.

“It puts worldwide pressure on development because your portfolio has to live on franchise or management revenues, and losing a lot of revenue generated by owning hotels,” the official adds.
“You need five managed hotels to offset what you have lost by selling another property in terms of revenues. You get the fees but you don’t get the bottom line.”

In other words, more liquidity is great, but it puts pressure when it comes to competing. “Hotel companies today are beaming brand sellers with huge investment in marketing as you have to convince investors that your brand provides the value you need to outperform the market,” adds Baretuad.

Asset Right vs. Asset Light

Accor therefore went for what Baretaud calls the ‘Asset Right vs. Asset Light’ policy. It uses the money ‘won back’ from sales wisely.

“We sell a lot of our hotels in Europe and America for variable leases or longterm management contracts. We then refinance by pumping this cash into strategic developments and acquisitions, equity shares and complementary opportunities in emerging countries,” he explains.

One strategy is to take advantage of joint ventures, as is the case in Pakistan. “We are willing to invest through partnership and manage on a joint venture basis, not franchise for quality control. Our investment is based on brand strategy, which means that we invest mostly in the budget segment but go for management in the four-and five-star segments,” Baretaud.

Shangri-La, meanwhile, prefers to own. Only about 13 out of around 50 hotels forming its portfolio are managed. “Owning ourselves means that we are not under pressure to just sign to grow like other companies with management contracts,” Lang explains.

“As our head office is in Hong Kong it is difficult to manage contracts with different owners. So where we do have to manage we keep it as simple as possible with least owners.” Lang explains. The Shangri-La properties in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for instance, have the same owner.

In addition, owning hotels as an operator can also makes specific sense depending on the circumstances. “We used to manage our hotel in the Maldives, but then the owner had financial difficulties and we took it over, he explains.

Other hotel group with intentions to expand in the Middle East might ‘mix and match’ between these strategies.

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du is Exclusive ICT Provider at Global Travel and Tourism Summit

du, the integrated telecom service provider in the UAE, has been selected as the exclusive communication technology provider at the first ever Global Travel & Tourism Summit in Dubai. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the event will run from April 20-22 at Madinat Conference Hall, Madinat Jumeirah Resort.

du will provide full telecommunications services, including wired and wireless internet (WiFi), IP Telephony and mobile telephony. Furthermore, du will host the summit’s Business Lounge, a place for delegates to work comfortably or simply relax. The business lounge will be open to all trade visitors, speakers and delegates attending the three day event. The integrated telecom operator will also host and broadcast the summit’s webcast, and audio and video recordings of the session’s highlights and conclusions.

Osman Sultan, CEO, du, said: “This is an ideal platform for du to showcase our quad-play capabilities, since tourism and communication have something in common – they bring people together and bridge divides. We are very proud to be part of such a high-level gathering which will bring world leaders from the industry to Dubai, the most exciting travel destination in the Middle East.”

The Global Travel & Tourism Summit is organized by the World Travel & Tourism Council and is considered the highest level gathering of Travel & Tourism leaders in the world. The Global Travel & Tourism Summit has been held previously in Portugal, USA, India and Qatar. (PR)

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Global Travel and Tourism Summit

Government and industry leaders will converge in Dubai from 20-22 April for the annual Global Travel and Tourism Summit. The niche industry gathering will once again provide participants with the opportunity to debate, exchange ideas, build new relations, and reflect on the progress of Travel and Tourism, while mapping out its future path.

The Travel and Tourism sector's ability to look to the future and adapt to changing consumer trends have contributed to shaping its current profile. The same holds true for forward-looking destinations such as Dubai. However, in a scenario when the challenges faced by the industry are as manifold as the opportunities, there is an urgent need for a more deliberate and strategic commitment to working for the future of the sector and of the global community, organisers said.
The Summit comes at a crucial time when industry observers are increasingly analysing the vision of company heads. Questions are being asked on what the Travel and Tourism and nations worldwide have charted for the industry's future course.

In today's instantaneous world, vision and long-term judgment are crucial. Over two days of intensive presentations and discussions, the Global Travel and Tourism Summit will address key global challenges facing the industry, such as infrastructure, industry and government partnerships, economic influences as well as environmental and social concerns. Participants will also seek to unlock the potential for sustainable, responsible growth.

Discussions will highlight best practice case studies - some derived from other industries - as well as demonstrate the innovative responses of mature and emerging destinations to new opportunities, pressures and changes. The outcomes of the Summit will help formulate transferable concepts and strategies to assist the industry in addressing the current and anticipated complex challenges confronting the Travel and Tourism sector over the coming years.

With a clear remit to look to the future, the Global Travel and Tourism Summit in Dubai will develop key messages and conclusive objectives at the end of each session, inspiring participants and worldwide leaders to move from dialogue and discussion to decisive action. WAM

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