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THE professional perspective for the hospitality industry APRIL 2017 | WWW.HOTELNEWSME.COM How Marriott’s merger with Starwood has given it an edge over the OTAs April 2017 | WWW.HOTELNEWSME.COM Meet the Judges ATM and AHIC in focus The Leaders in Hospitality Awards judging panel is announced A preview of the biggest dates on the hospitality calendar
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April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 3 Contents 30 10 | NEWS A round-up of regional and global news 14 | Checking in MGM’s first properties in the Middle East; St. Regis Polo Resort opens in Dubai; Hilton opens Dead Sea resort 22 | GM Leaders Preview We unveil the agenda for our GM Leaders Conference on 3 May 24 | Leaders in Hospitality Awards The judging panel for the second edition of Hotel News Middle East’s annual awards ceremony is announced 30 | Cover story How Marriott’s merger with Starwood has given it an edge over the OTAs News Checking in GM Leaders conference Leaders in Hospitality Awards 10 14 22 24 Contents April 2017
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 4 Contents Contents April 2017 42 S U B S C R I B E c o n t r i b u t o r s subscriptions@bncpublishing.net CEO Wissam Younane Wissam@bncpublishing.net Managing Director Walid Zok Walid@bncpublishing.net Director Rabih Najm Rabih@bncpublishing.net Group Publishing Director Diarmuid O'Malley dom@bncpublishing.net Group Sales Director Fred Dubery Fred@bncpublishing.net Group Editor, Hospitality Crystal Chesters Crystal@bncpublishing.net Editor Patrick Ryan Patrick@bncpublishing.net Art Director Aaron Sutton Aaron@bncpublishing.net Marketing Executive Mark Anthony Monzon Mark@bncpublishing.net PO Box 502511 Dubai, United Arab Emirates P +971 4 4200 506 | F +971 4 4200 196 For all commercial enquiries related to Hotel News ME contact dom@bncpublishing.net T +971 50 55 97339 All rights reserved © 2014. Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors. Hotel News ME and all subsidiary publications in the MENA region are officially licensed exclusively to BNC Publishing in the MENA region by Hotel News ME. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher. Printed by Raidy Emirates Printing Group LLC www.raidy.com Marouane Al Mandri P h o t o g r a p h y Hayder Al Zuhairi 38 | Brand new Hotel News is on location in Doha with Hilton’s first Curio- branded property in the Middle East 42 | Hard hat tour We take a first look at the Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai 50 | ATM preview Experiential travel is on the agenda at the Middle East’s international travel & tourism event at Dubai World Trade Centre 58 | The kids are all right We speak to students from The Emirates Academy of Hospitality management about industry trends ahead of Arabian Hotel Investment Conference
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 6 B usy doesn’t begin to describe the calendar that April and May present for the hospitality industry in the Middle East. Hotel News Middle East has a number of events on the horizon. First up is the GM Leaders Conference taking place on 3 May at the W Dubai Al Habtoor City and we have an in-depth preview of the event in this month’s issue. We are also previewing our Leaders In Hospitality Awards, which will be taking place on 17 May at The St. Regis Dubai. There are 16 awards up for grabs on the night and it’s an opportunity for the industry to allow its best and brightest to let their hair down and celebrate their achievements, so we thought it only right to have a Great Gatsby theme for the evening. The deadline for nominations is 13 April so it’s not too late to get your nominations in to us. Remember if you’re not in it... you can’t win it. Other major events taking place this month are Arabian Travel Market (ATM) which kicks off on 24 April at Dubai World Trade Centre and we preview the event in this issue, examining this year’s theme of experiential travel. We also preview the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC), which is taking place from 25-27 April at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah. It’s another event that’s a must for anyone in the industry. We speak to some of the students at Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management in patrick ryan Editor The shows must go on Follow us on our social media pages @hotelnewsme /hotelnewsme hotelnewsme @ThatPaddyRyan It’s a packed agenda this season with two major Hotel News events, ATM, AHIC, HOTEC and The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia this issue to get their thoughts on the future challenges facing the industry ahead of AHIC. In addition to this, April will see the return of Hotec Middle East, which brings together hotel purchasing managers with key domestic and international suppliers. This year, the event is taking place in Azerbaijan and Hotel News Middle East, as Exclusive Media Partner of the event, will be on-site moderating the panel discussion. We take a look at the programme in detail in this issue. The fifth edition of The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia is another major hospitality event to take place this month in Jeddah and will provide industry professionals working on hotel projects in the kingdom with an opportunity to source the latest products, innovations and resources. As Media Partner for the event, we take a look at some of the major areas of growth in Saudi Arabia’s hotel industry. It’s such a packed issue that I just about have time to tell you about our cover feature. I sat down with Marriott International Middle East and Africa president Alex Kyriakidis who spoke at great length about how the merger with Starwood has transformed, not just his own company, but the entire landscape in the region. I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we did putting it together. Regards, Patrick Ryan On the web Keep up to date with all the latest news, features and much more on our website. www.hotelnewsme.com
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 10 Regional News For News, features and more, Visit www.CBNme.com Follow us on twitter for breaking news: @cbn_ME Follow us on Instagram to see what we’re up to: @Hotelnewsme Follow us on Facebook for up-to-the-minute breaking news Read the latest issue on: issuu.com/hotelnewsme The Rezidor Hotel Group has made history by appointing the first female general man- ager in Saudi Arabia. Maram Kokandi has been confirmed as the general manager of a new Park Inn by Radisson Hotel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, scheduled to open later this year. The Rezidor Hotel Group CEO and president Wolfgang M Neumann said: “We are very proud to be part of this Saudi Arabia appoints first female GM NEWS historic appointment. We are committed to empower- ing our women in leader- ship at Rezidor, and this an- nouncement is a momentous achievement, not only for our group but for the hospitality industry worldwide. “We are confident that this milestone, the appoint- ment of the first Saudi female general manager, will inspire other women across the re- gion to pursue their career aspirations in hospitality.” His comments were echoed by The Rezidor Hotel Group area vice president for Turkey and the Middle East, Mark Willis, who said that female leadership is absolutely essen- tial for growth of the group. “Today, we celebrate an incredible success of a Sau- di Arabian woman and rec- ognise her potential to lead in one of the most impor- tant and fast growing busi- ness sectors for the coun- try,” he said. “This announcement is a testimony of how the kingdom is progressing in this direction. We have already come a long way, from six female employ- ees in 2014 to 84 today, with 12 in leadership positions.” Willis added that he be- lieves Kokandi will go on to become a role model for Saudi women in the Middle East and across the world.
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 11 Regional News BNC Publishing’s portfolio continues to go from strength to strength with two ma- jor hospitality events taking place in the coming months. On 3 May, at The W Dubai Al Habtoor City it’s the third annual GM Leaders Confer- ence, which will see expert panels and discussions on such topics as battling the OTAs, attracting new mar- kets and adapting to changing guest demands. The Leaders In Hospital- ity Awards returns for a sec- ond year at The St. Regis Dubai on 17 May. Awards that will be keenly con- Hotel News Middle East to host two major events this season tested on the night include Leading New Hotel, Lead- ing General Manager, Lead- ing IT Manager and Lifetime Achievement Award. To find out more about speaking opportunities at our conferences or how to nomi- nate your colleague/ hotel for a Leaders In Hospitality Award, contact patrick@bnc- publishing.net or if you’d like to confirm your attendance then please email mark@ bncpublishing.net. For sponsorship opportu- nities contact: dom@bncpub- lishing.net or fred@bncpub- lishing.net. ELEGANT LIGHTING SOLUTIONS sales@DesertRiver.com | +971 4 323 3636 GM Leaders conference2017
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 12 Regional News Sharp rise in hotel bookings with tablets and mobile phones Nakheel awards contract for second hotel at Ibn Battuta Mall There has been a sharp in- crease in the number of travellers from the GCC making hotel bookings with their mobile phones and tablets. That is according to fig- ures released by accom- modation comparison plat- form, HotelsCombined. According to HotelsCom- bined, over 70% of actual bookings in January this year were made using mo- bile devices, compared to 54% during the same pe- riod in 2016. HotelsCombined MENA regional manager Amer Al- Halabi said: “Today’s trav- ellers from the GCC are moving away from desktops or laptops when making their travel plans because of quick and easy access to their mobiles and tablets. “Travellers rely on their devices as they offer them simpler search and easier steps when booking. It is particularly convenient for booking short holidays, therefore, we see an increase in the number of mobile bookings especially in desti- nations from our region.” It was also noted that the number of travellers who use their mobile devices and tablets when searching for hotels rose to 82% at the beginning of this year, against 73% during the same period last year. He added that travel companies relying on web- based services must devel- op or upgrade their own ap- plications or mobile sites to cater to travellers’ demands and stay competitive in the travel industry. Developer Nakheel has awarded a construction con- tract worth AED184.5 million for a second hotel at Ibn Bat- tuta Mall to Parkway Interna- tional Contracting. The 375-room hotel has a total project value of AED240 million and forms part of Na- kheel’s AED3 billion hospital- ity expansion under which the developer is bringing 16 new hotels and serviced apart- ment complexes – with 5,300 rooms – to Dubai. The new hotel, which will be operated by Thailand’s Minor Hotel Group under its Avani brand, complements Nakheel’s first hotel at Ibn Battuta – a 372-room Premier Inn that opened last October. With a built-up area of 278,000 ft2, the 15-floor Avani Ibn Battuta Mall features an all-day restaurant, pool, gym and car park for 135 vehicles. It is located next to the recent- ly-opened link connecting the mall to the Dubai Metro. Hotels in the Middle East reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics according to February 2017 data from STR. US dollar constant currency, year-over-year comparisons: Middle East Occupancy: +3.2% to 71.7% Average daily rate (ADR): -1.8% to US$176.07 Revenue per available room (RevPAR): +1.3% to US$126.25 United Arab Emirates Occupancy: +6.0% to 84.0% ADR: +1.4% to AED714.04 RevPAR: +7.5% to AED599.94 GO FIGURE
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 13 Regional News The biggest hospitality show in the world Rikan has been confirmed as the presenting sponsor for BNC Publish- ing’s GM Leaders Conference for the third time in a row. Rikan managing director Riaz Khimani said: “We are an established brand in the hotel industry, but we strongly believe in staying in touch with the industry at every level. Right from the grass roots to the top leadership. “This conference offers the right platform to be in touch with the lead- ers. We as a company are always very keen to learn from our clients and study the ever changing trends in the market. At the same time we use our study to create new products to suit the highly demanding mar- ket. Budget hotels is a new growing market segment in this region and worldwide. Looking at this trend, we have specially created an economy range called Rikan Silver Line to ca- ter to this growing segment.” Rikan General Trading specialises in a wide range of services including leather accessories for rooms like guest folders, blotters, tissue boxes and remote holders. It also supplies metal and resin accessories for bathrooms, such as amenity trays, soap dishes and flower vases. Its F&B range includes custom designed menus, fruit trays, bread baskets, customised buffetware and table top accessories. “This conference allows us to study and understand the trends of the industry from the leaders, and for us to offer them new creations,” said Khimani. “We sponsored the same event in 2015 and 2016 and we are de- lighted be associated with the event this year.” For sponsorship opportunities at the GM Leaders Conference contact dom@bncpublishing.net or fred@ bncpublishing.net. To attend the conference contact mark@bncpublishing.net and for speaking or panellist opportunities email patrick@bncpublishing.net. Rikan confirmed as presenting sponsor of GM Leaders Conference
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 14 Checking in Rixos Hotels and AccorHotels have announced they are teaming up for a long-term joint venture which will see both companies managing Rixos branded hotels and resorts across the globe. The agreement will see AccorHotels integrating 15 hotels into its network in markets including Turkey, UAE, Egypt, Russia and Europe. Rixos will, in turn, reflag five city-centre hotels to AccorHotels brands which will also be managed by AccorHotels. Founder and chairman of Rixos Fettah Tamince said: “Our collaboration is part of Rixos’ objective for further expansion and growth globally with a strong partner in the hospitality industry. “Combined with our partner’s strong brand port- folio, reservation and sales network supported by a wide range of digital marketing activities, Rixos will expand its current geographic footprint and customer base.” CEO and chairman of AccorHotels Sébastien Ba- zin said: “This new partnership has many benefits for us. It enables us to become a leading resort operator in a growing market and to complement our offer with attractive leisure destinations to our guests and loyalty members. “And moreover, we are going a step further in our ambition to be the best provider of multi- nature services to guests by operating hotels in major entertainment complexes which offers new opportunities both in terms of customer experi- ence and development strategy.” AccorHotels and Rixos Hotels team up Anantara opens first property in Europe Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas is opening its first property in Europe. The operator and developer of luxu- ry hotels, resorts and spas in Asia, the Indian Ocean, Africa and the Middle East, is preparing to launch Anantara Vilamoura Algarve. Located along southern Portugal’s Al- garve coast, Europe’s first Anantara will offer a retreat overlooking the Arnold Palmer-designed Oceânico golf course. The property is currently operating as Tivoli Victoria, with a number of key renovations being undertaken prior to relaunching as Anantara Vilamoura. 280 guest rooms and suites will be available and the refurbishment includes the main lobby, the spa and the gym. The resort will offer venues for nu- merous events from VIP dinners and weddings, to product launches and large scale conferences. The stand-alone conference centre can hold up to 800 people.
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 15 Checking in PO Box 82424 Mob: +971 50 1653920, +971 50 6561050 Email: sales@dubaibusrental.ae www.dubaibusrental.ae Emaar has unveiled Miami-inspired residences by Vida Hotels and Resorts in Dubai Marina. Vida Residences Dubai Marina con- sists of one to four-bedroom apart- ments and shares a range of ameni- ties with the Vida Hotel, an upscale, contemporary hotel brand. Emaar Properties managing director Ahmad Al Matrooshi said: “Vida Resi- dences Dubai Marina offers a distinc- tive lifestyle choice for residents who prefer waterfront living in a central location. With its focus on the nautical heritage of Dubai Marina, the homes are ideally suited as first homes for long-stays or as a holiday home, thus appealing to both UAE-based and in- ternational investors. “Dubai Marina is one of the vibrant lifestyle destinations in the city and our new residences bring exceptional value for customers.” As part of the Vida Dubai Marina Hotel, Residences and Yacht Club, the residences reflect Vida’s trendy and chic boutique-style approach aimed at a new generation of busi- ness executives, entrepreneurs and leisure travellers. Emaar launches Vida Residences Dubai Marina Six Senses sets sights on Turkish Riviera Six Senses is taking over the running of the Kaplankaya Resort on the Turkish Riviera. The resort includes residen- tial villas, resort accommoda- tion, a 250-berth marina and yacht club, a retail precinct plus additional dining, sport and leisure facilities. Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas president Bernhard Bohnenberger said: “Over the next year, the design, environmental and wellness operations will be enhanced to bring the blessings of Six Senses to the beaches of Ka- plankaya.” The resort, which is owned by Capital Partners of Turkey, has a total of 141 guestrooms and suites in the main com- plex, plus 154 private resi- dences located adjacent to it. Each guest room has been designed to complement the landscape using natural and responsibly-sourced materi- als. Capital Partners’ chief ex- ecutive officer Erkan Erkek said: “We welcome Six Sens- es to the Aegean Coast and look forward to their con- tribution towards the grand vision of Kaplankaya, as the world’s premier coastal living community.” Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas operates 11 resorts and 29 spas in 20 countries under the brand names Six Senses, Evason and Six Senses Spas. Plans are afoot for the com- pany to triple its portfolio in the next five years.
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 16 Checking in MGM announces first properties in Middle East wasl Asset Management Group Hesham Al Qassim said: “wasl is proud to be working in partnership with such an internationally ac- claimed hotel and resort op- erator; it is a major milestone and we are very excited to be bringing MGM Resorts on our journey to making Dubai the world’s best city to visit, work in and live in. “The collaboration also ful- fills wasl’s mandate to attract global hospitality players to Dubai, where we are constantly striving to raise the bar in the city by offering tourists, resi- dents and visitors ever more sensational hospitality and en- tertainment experiences.” As part of the two million square-foot development, more than a half-million square feet will feature a the- atre, a mix of culinary ven- ues ranging from gourmet to casual dining, specialty retail shops, traditional and interac- tive museums, a beach club and adventure zones for both adults and children. The new property will in- clude 1,000 rooms and feature 10 villas. The first Hilton Hotels and Resorts property has opened in Jordan. Hilton Dead Sea Resort and Spa is a 285-room hotel situated at one of the lowest points on the planet, some 41-metres below sea level. Hilton full service brand manage- ment regional head said: “The Dead Sea is one of the most unique places in the world and has evolved into a major hub of both religious and health and wellness tourism in the region. “As the first Hilton Hotels and Resorts property in the country of Jordan, this project marks an excit- ing addition to the Hilton portfolio as we continue to deliver distinct hos- pitality experiences to travelers from around the globe.” Hilton Dead Sea Resort and Spa is located 45 kilometers from the capital city of Amman. General manager Elias J. Moukar- zel said: “Hilton is a well-reputed brand that has an established pres- ence in the region, and with the opening of Hilton Dead Sea Resort and Spa, we come to the Jordanian market with the highest standards delivering our founder’s promise of ensuring every guest feels cared for, valued and respected. “The new resort comes with a variety of unique offerings and we promise our guests an unparalleled experience coupled with ultimate service levels.” Hilton Opens Dead Sea Resort Le Gray Beirut unveils extension for mice market Le Gray Beirut is aiming to at- tract the MICE market with a new extension opening next month. CampbellGray Hotels has invested significantly in business and events facilities, a new lobby lounge, an exhibi- tion venue and 16 new guest- rooms at its flagship property. Located in the heart of the Lebanese capital on Martyrs’ Square, close to the business district and near to the city’s prime attractions, the hotel will now feature 103 rooms and suites with two presidential suites sharing the fifth floor US-based MGM Resorts Inter- national has announced plans to open two hotels in Dubai. The company has agreed a deal with wasl Asset Manage- ment Group to manage and advise on an MGM and a Bella- gio at a 26-acre “premier desti- nation resort” in Dubai, which it will operate on completion. President of MGM Resorts Bill Hornbuckle said: “We are excited and honored by the opportunity to introduce our incredible brands in one of the world’s fastest growing tourist destinations. This marks the first time we will offer mul- tiple MGM luxury brands at a prime beachfront location. “This agreement, which makes us the development advisor and operator, reflects our commitment to remaining disciplined and focused in our investments while continuing to advance our brand of enter- tainment resorts in markets around the world.” The 26-acre prime beach- front development, which will also house MGM Residences, marks the debut of the MGM and Bellagio brand names in the Middle East region. and featuring private terraces. The hotel’s current facilities include a rooftop restaurant, Indigo on the Roof, PureGray Spa, as well as a state-of-the- art gym. A spokesperson for the property said: “The extended lobby area underneath the atri- um and its new lobby lounge will provide a welcoming space where guests can unwind with family and friends or catch up on work. A new pedestrian entrance will welcome guests into the new space directly on Weygand Street.”
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 17 Checking in St Regis is going Polo The world’s first St. Re- gis Polo Resort has opened in Dubai. Owned by the Al Habtoor Group, The St. Regis Dubai, Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club is the first property of its kind within the group. It promises a range of polo experiences as well as 136 rooms and suites, 25 St. Re- gis branded villas and six cu- linary venues. “St. Regis has a long asso- ciation with polo and we are extremely proud that The St. Regis Dubai, Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club is the very first polo and equestrian resort part of the brand,” said The St. Regis Dubai, Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club general manager Andrew Henning. “Set in a calming environ- ment that represents an es- cape from city life, the resort offers an experience similar to a luxurious country club. The air is clean and the lo- cation is peaceful – the only sounds are those of birds and horses being led from the stable to the field. The St. Regis Dubai, Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club truly presents Dubai from a different per- spective.” The new property features a horse riding school and polo academy with an expert team of fully qualified profes- sional instructors catering to new riders and to seasoned equestrians. The St. Regis brand made its debut in the Middle East in 2011 with The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, before adding to its portfolio in the Middle East with The St. Regis Doha, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, The St. Regis Dubai in Al Habtoor City, and now The St. Regis Dubai, Al Habtoor Polo Re- sort & Club. fififififififififififififififi
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 18 Talent A piece of Cake Describe your first ever role in the hotel industry? My first job was as a cook at a pastry shop in Caen, Normandy. My goal was to ensure the quality of the pastries, taking care of the ordering, making sure it was organised and taking care of my staff. Who has inspired you most in your career? I started my professional career when I was 15 working at a bak- ery and pastry school in Paris. I was learning from people who were older and had a lot of experience in pastry. I am still learn- ing a lot from Kim Gates, executive chef at Sofitel Abu Dhabi. How do you view the hotel scene in the region? The UAE market is very competitive. There are many great F&B concepts and professional chefs in the region. The cus- tomer can choose almost anything they want. What is the biggest challenge of your role? My biggest challenge is to maintain the high Sofitel standards for pastry. At Sofitel Abu Dhabi we offer classic French and Arabic pastries at our restaurants and cafes. What is your favorite aspect of your role? What I love about my job as a pastry chef is that it gives me the opportunity to always be creative and make new pastries and garnishes. I love Sofitel’s interpretation of modern haute cui- sine, which centres around four key themes, each with strong links to France's signature dining culture, such as bread, crois- sants, pastry, grapes, cheese and charcuterie. If you could work in any hotel which would it be? My dream is to work at iconic properties like Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai or Raffles. In the UAE, I would like to work at the Burj Al Arab. Hotel News Middle East catches up with emerging talent Guillaume Destouches, the 26-year-old Parisian assistant pastry chef at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche 2016 to present: assistant pastry chef at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, UAE 2014: Head pastry chef at Frederic Lalos 2013: La pâtisserie des ducs in Falaise. Experience:
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 19 Talent: Appointments He said his mission was not only to ensure Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah continues to be recog- nised as one of the leading luxury hotels in the Middle East but also to expand the brand awareness in a competitive market. The British national graduated with a degree in Hotel Catering and Institutional Management from South Devon College of Arts and Technology. He built his career with experience working in luxury hotels across the world throughout his de- cades in hospitality. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi has ap- pointed Sona Shah to the position of director of marketing. Sona’s previous hospitality market- ing experience includes roles with The Mayfair Hotel London as well as 13 Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotels in the UK, prior to joining Starwood Ho- tels & Resorts in January 2014. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi general UAE based Time Hotels has appoint- ed Mahmoud Al Zaibak to the posi- tion of director of business develop- ment as the company sets its sights on 10 new properties in the Middle East by 2018. The Syrian national has more than 17 years of corporate hospitality ex- perience in senior sales positions having established numerous sales strategies and implemented busi- ness expansion plans for a series of international hospitality brands in the UAE and Qatar. Time Hotels CEO Mohamed Awadalla said: “Mahmoud brings a wealth of sales experience in strate- gy in pre-opening as well as general business acumen to this role, crucial Rotana has promoted Sam El Asmar to the position of corporate vice president – revenue and distribution. El Asmar was previously corporate director of revenue. He joined Rotana in 2012 bringing with him 14 years of experience in hotel revenue man- agement and distribution. COO of Rotana, Guy Hutchinson said:“Sam has been instrumental in putting together a dedicated rev- enue team for Rotana and his lead- ership and strategic insights have helped greatly improve our ability to forecast demand accurately and institute optimal pricing and inven- tory controls, enabling the company New GM appointed at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah St. Regis Abu Dhabi appoints director of marketing Time for a new business development director Rotana’s new corporate vice president – revenue and distribution Alan Stocker has been appointed as general manager of Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. This will be Stocker’s third Waldorf Astoria property since joining Hilton in 2011, having previously managed an island resort in the Maldives and a city hotel in Beijing. Stocker said:“My leadership style is founded on ensuring high service levels and brand stan- dards while maintaining a fun environment. I strongly believe that it is the team that makes the guest experience.” attributes as we aim to add a fur- ther 10 properties to our portfolio in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia by 2018. “Mahmoud’s skill set, paired with a sound understanding of the hospitality industry, will be vital for achieving our expansion goals.” Al Zaibak said he was particularly impressed by Time’s confidence in its growth plans over the next cou- ple of years. to achieve consistent top-line growth and increased market share.” manager Moustafa Sakr said: “It’s a great pleasure to welcome Sona to the team, marketing and innovation have always been a fundamental core focus for our hotel. We are con- fident that her expertise will continue to drive and enhance our awareness and success in Abu Dhabi’s competi- tive hospitality market.” Sona has enjoyed an eventful ca- reer in the Middle East with roles at Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Con- vention Hotel as marketing manager, and complex marketing manager for the conversion of The Westin and Le Méridien Hotels in Bahrain City Centre before she was promoted to director of marketing at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, which opened in February 2016.
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 20 Opinion What makes a company a great place to work? I n March, Hilton was delighted to be placed in the top 10 of Great Places to Work UAE 2017 and to be officially recognised as the top hospitality company to work for in the UAE for the second year in a row. This followed our success at Great Place to Work lists for Saudi Arabia and Turkey last year. I believe there are three key factors that make a company a great place to work: offering a great environment, great careers and great rewards. At Hilton, we are committed to pro- viding an inspirational physical envi- ronment for our team members. In the back of house team member common areas, known as the 'Heart of House', we aim to create a great environment with excellent facilities and food and beverage offerings. The Heart of House is the energy behind our operation and we are elevating the team member ex- perience to equal the care and consid- eration given to guests. We create rewarding careers and meaningful opportunities for team members, and as a business span- ning more than 100 countries there is a world of opportunities for career progression at Hilton. In addition, we offer our team members industry- leading learning and development op- portunities, including access to Hilton University, an online platform offer- ing over five million hours of training through 2,500 courses. Finally, we offer team members world-class rewards and benefits. For example, last year we launched our Team Member Travel Program which al- lows all team members across the world discounted rates at our hotels. This has been a hugely successful initiative since its launch last year. In addition, the amazing culture we’ve built to- gether, all centered on our company’s mission to be the most hospitable company in the world. We currently welcome guests to 41 hotels in the Middle East and have plans to open an additional 75 hotels in the region in the coming years. As we expand our presence, it is vital that we continue to be a great place to work by offering a great environment, great careers and great rewards. Koray Genckul, senior director, HR operations, MEA, Hilton explains how investing in people is reaping dividends for Hilton we pride ourselves in creating a family- friendly environment and this month, we announced that we are introducing a minimum of 12 weeks’ fully-paid ma- ternity leave for female team members in the Middle East and Africa. Staff are at the heart of everything we do. They are the Heart of Hilton because their hard work, passion and commitment are at the core of all our success. The Great Place to Work rec- ognitions are a testament to this, and Koray Genckul, senior director, HR operations, MEA, Hilton. Based in Hilton’s MEA Regional Office, Dubai - Genckul is responsible for human resources management across MEA, overseeing the recruitment, development and retention of team members. He has a wealth of experience in human resources specialising in talent acquisition, talent management and compensation and benefits. About the Author
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HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 22 Event preview GM Leaders conference2017 E xpected to welcome more than 150 hospitality professionals from across the region, the GM Lead- ers Conference will tackle the key topics, trends and challenges impacting the hos- pitality industry in 2017 and beyond. Attendees, sponsors and speakers at the forum will enjoy a morning of thought-provoking panel debates, ex- pert speaker sessions and interactive workshops, with registration and net- working to begin at 8am. Panel sessions include: “Adapting to changing guest demands”; “Battling with the OTAs”; and “Attracting New Rikan. The company’s managing direc- tor Riaz Khimani said: "We are an es- tablished brand in the hotel industry, but we strongly believe in staying in touch with the industry at every level, right from the grass roots to the top leadership. "This conference offers the right platform to be in touch with the lead- ers. We as a company are always very keen to learn from our clients and study the ever-changing trends in the market. At the same time we use our study to create new products to suit the highly demanding market.” Returning for a third edition on Wednesday 3 May at W Dubai Al Habtoor City, the GM Leaders Conference hosted by Hotel News Middle East promises to be a morning of informative expert sessions, networking opportunities and a strong line-up of hospitality industry leaders taking part in thought provoking panels Markets”, with a strong line-up of speak- ers combining a wealth of hospitality in- dustry knowledge and experience. There will also be expert discussions on how mergers and acquisitions are changing the landscape of the hospi- tality industry; how Dubai’s hospital- ity sector will continue to thrive after Expo2020 and how the introduction of VAT will impact the industry. A networking lunch will follow, al- lowing attendees the opportunity to meet with peers and learn more about the best new products on the market. On board as presenting sponsor is Event details DATE and TIME: Wednesday 3 May, 8am – 2.30pm VENUE: The W Dubai Al Habtoor City SPONSORSHIP: Contact dom@ bncpublishing.net or fred@ bncpublishing.net ATTENDANCE: Contact mark@ bncpublishing.net SPEAKING OPPORTUNITIES: Contact patrick@bncpublishing.net
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 23 Event preview Hotel News Middle East’s GM Leaders Conference is sponsored by some of the most influential brands in the industry. Sponsors of the forum will have the opportunity to net- work and get in front of the general managers and corporate hoteliers from the leading hotels and resorts in the region. To find out more about sponsorship opportunities, contact dom@bncpublishing.net or fred@bncpublishing.net Agenda event Sponsors 8.00: Registration and Networking 8.30: Welcome Address from Hotel News Middle East 8.35: Address from Presenting Sponsor 8.40: Keynote Speech: How mergers and acquisitions are changing the face of the hospitality landscape. 9.10: Expert Session: How will Dubai’s hospitality industry continue to prosper post-Expo 2020? 9.30: Panel One: Adapting to Changing Guest Demands Guests are becoming more tech-savvy – doing ev- erything online, from booking, to ordering food and providing feedback – while seeking out per- sonalised service with a warm dose of human- ity. Meanwhile, mobile-connected corporate and MICE travellers are demanding more creative and flexible entertainment options and facilities, and a rising demographic of health-focused consum- ers are seeking out the best wellness offers. How can hoteliers pair digital efficiency with human intelligence? How can they evolve their wellness offers and cater to the changing needs of MICE and corporate travellers? 10.15: Expert session: A snapshot of regional hotel performance. 10.35: Coffee break 11.00: Panel Two: Battling with the OTAs The battle between hoteliers and online trav- el agents (OTAs) will continue in 2017, with each side vying for its piece of the pie. The big hotel operators, such as Hilton and Marriott have invested in major direct booking cam- paigns, however they cannot turn their backs on the huge distribution power of the OTAs. Meanwhile, the OTAs continue to seek hotel chains’ lowest rates so they can offer custom- ers the widest range of choices possible. How can hoteliers reduce their dependence on the OTAs and get better terms? What role does loyalty play? 11.45: Expert Session: How will the introduction of VAT impact the Middle East’s hotel industry? 12.05: Panel Three: Attracting New Markets How can hoteliers ensure they are creating con- tent and delivering experiences that resonate with the lifestyles of new target markets, such as millennials and Gen Z; the rising Chinese market and returning Russians; and a new wave of price- sensitive travellers, attracted to the region due to a growing number of low-cost flights and three- and four-star hotels? 12.50: Lunch and networking 14.30: Close Platinum sponsor An ISO 9001: 2008 & ISO 14001:2004 Certified Green Company In association with Luxury Fleet Partner Hotel of choice Exhibitors
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 24 Event Preview As the nomination deadline approaches, Hotel News Middle East presents the judging panel and categories for the second edition of the Leaders In Hospitality Awards, set to take place on Wednesday 17 May at The St. Regis Dubai Hotel News Middle East has carefully selected the judging panel that will preside over the second ever Leaders In Hospitality Awards, which celebrates the very best that the hospitality industry has to offer in the Middle East. Comprising some of the region’s key experts, the panel has extensive knowledge of the trends, opportunities and chal- lenges associated with the business and a wealth of experience spanning operations, investment, development, education, marketing and consumer trends. Nomination deadline Thursday 13 April Event date and time Wednesday 17 May 7pm - late Venue The St. Regis Dubai Sponsorship and table bookings Contact dom@bncpublishing.net and fred@bncpublishing.net Nomination enquiries Contact patrick@bncpublishing.net Event details
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 25 Event Preview Judge Filippo Sona, director/ head of hotels MENA Region, Colliers Filippo Sona is an investment and development professional with 22 years of hotel operational and advisory experience gained from the UK, Europe, USA and MENA regions. Judge Helen Morris, executive chef / senior lecturer, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management Helen Morris has been a chef in lead- ing five-star hotels and restaurants in the UK and London and she was a head of department in a leading education institute in London before joining Emirates Academy. She has expertise in fine dining restaurants, hotel kitchen management, food safe- ty and hygiene and event catering. Event sponsors Categories and Judges Platinum sponsor Category sponsor Hotel of choice Luxury Fleet Partner An ISO 9001: 2008 & ISO 14001:2004 Certified Green Company In association with
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 26 Event preview Category Leading New Hotel A hotel that has brought an exciting new concept and energy to the Middle Eastern market. This hotel will combine creativ- ity, originality and excellent service and can demonstrate exceptional performance. To be eligible for this award, the nominated ho- tel must have opened on or after 1 January, 2016, and be fully open and operational on the date of submission of the nomination. Judge Hala Mata Choufany, president, HVS Middle East and Africa Hala Mata Choufany has in-depth expertise in regional hotel markets and has had broad exposure to in- ternational markets. She maintains excellent contacts with developers, owners, operators, investment in- stitutions and government entities. Category Leading Serviced Apartment This award will go to a serviced apart- ment that has shown it can deliver guest service that is second to none. The winner will have demonstrated in- novation in customer service, ameni- ties and products. Category Leading Luxury Hotel The winner of this category will have demonstrated outstanding attention to detail and have raised the benchmark for luxury in the region. Customer service will be high on the agenda and the winner will provide guests with an experience that caters for discerning luxury travellers. Category Sustainable Hotel Award This award will go to a hotel that dem- onstrates excellence in sustainable practices across energy efficiency, waste management and social responsibility. Category Leading Mid-Market Hotel The winner of Leading Mid-Market Hotel will provide consistent, comfortable and appealing facilities at affordable rates, in line with the operator’s brand standards. The award will go to a mid-market hotel that shows it can meet the requirements of a wide range of customers and those seeking alternatives to high-end options. Category Leading Hotel F&B Outlet This award will go to an outlet that en- hances the guest experience by provid- ing an original concept and a high-qual- ity food and beverage offering. With an emphasis on being original and creative, the winner will show an ability to com- pete with the best standalone restau- rants on the market. Category Leading Hotel Spa The winner will provide a range of treat- ments, facilities and amenities and put a strong emphasis on an outstanding guest experience. The leading hotel spa will demonstrate a dedication to health and wellbeing for both men and women. Category Leading General Manager This award will go to an inspirational individual who has shown outstand- ing leadership abilities. The Leading GM will demonstrate a strong pas- sion for hospitality, the ability to meet and exceed KPIs and a strong will- ingness to go above and beyond to deliver excellence. Judge Hisham Farouak, CEO, Grant Thornton Hisham Farouak has advised mul- tinational, regional and local family businesses on a wide range of is- sues and has been instrumental in developing the strategic direction of Grant Thornton as well as managing the overall business. Judge Martin Kubler, CEO, SPS Affinity Martin Kubler is a hotel GM turned hospitality and service industries consultant with 20 plus years of executive-level management experi- ence in three, four and five star ho- tels in Europe and the Middle East. Categories and Judges
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HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 28 Event preview Category Leading Hotel Team The winners in this category can dem- onstrate excellent teamwork through efficiency, productivity, quality and com- munication. The judges will give extra recognition to those teams that have de- veloped an innovative system or initia- tive to increase efficiency. Judge Naim Maadad, CEO, Gates Hospitality The man at the helm of Gates Hospi- tality, committed to the development of world-class hospitality, asset man- agement and food & beverage prod- ucts, has over 25 years of experience and has launched and operated inter- nationally renowned hotels, resorts, spas and lifestyle restaurants. Category Leading Procurement Manager The winner in this category will have demonstrated the ability to oversee a procure- ment programme that delivers excellence and value across the board with tangible results in line with the company’s strategy. Category Leading Executive Housekeeper This award is for an Executive House- keeper who showcases excellence in ensuring rooms and facilities are always maintained to the highest standards. He/she will demonstrate superb com- munication and leadership skills, ensur- ing his/her teams share this commit- ment to quality. Category Leading IT Manager This category is for an individual who can show how they have helped their company stay ahead of the game with excellent decision-making abilities and by staying up-to-speed with the latest trends and technologies on the market. Category Rising Star Award An individual aged 30 or under on the day of the awards, who is making waves in the Middle East’s hotel scene. This per- son demonstrates tenacity, creativity and the potential to make a significant impact on the region’s hospitality landscape. Category Leading F&B Manager This award highlights the achievements of an individual who has showcased out- standing ability in exceeding KPIs, de- veloping and enhancing hotel restaurant concepts, streamlining processes and team leadership. Category Leading Hotel Chef Open to executive chefs, this category awards a candidate who can showcase creativity, passion and culinary flair along with exceptional skills in oversee- ing an entire kitchen operation in an ef- ficient, cost-effective manner. Category Lifetime Achievement Award This award will go to a candidate who has dedicated his/her life to the pursuit of excellence across the hotel industry. His/her achievements will have made the industry a better place, not only for those who have worked with him/her, but for the entire sector. Judge Daniel During, principal and managing director, Thomas Klein International Hospitality School Daniel During has 20 years’ expe- rience in the F&B and Hospitality Industry, covering all aspects from product and brand creation to opera- tions managment. Judge Rabih Feghali, director, Roya International This third generation hotelier works for Roya where he is tasked with spearheading business devel- opment activity. Categories and Judges
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HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 30 Regional News The merger between Starwood and Marriott International sent shockwaves through the industry last September. But now that the dust has settled, what exactly has been the impact? Patrick Ryan finds out in an exclusive interview with Marriott International president Middle East and Africa Alex Kyriakidis
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 31 Cover Story T he merger between Starwood and Marriott International sent shockwaves through the industry last September. But now that the dust has settled, what ex- actly has been the impact? Patrick Ryan finds out in an exclusive interview with Marriott International president Middle East and Africa Alex Kyriakidis Marriott International has been the talk of the industry since last year’s historic merger with Starwood. The implications of the merger are huge as Marriott International essentially more than doubled in size overnight going from 25,000 rooms in the re- gion to 52,000. Today that figure is almost 54,000. The company now has 17 brands in the region when, as re- cently as last September, it only had nine. Twenty-nine Marriott Interna- tional properties are due to open in the Middle East and Africa region this year alone. The same merger has led to sug- gestions that one global loyalty pro- gramme will be created with over 100 million members. Kyriakidis says: "We will have updates about timing in the future but right now we can confirm we will not introduce a unified pro- gram this year." “Right now if you were to take the Marriott rewards programme and put it alongside the Ritz-Carlton rewards programme, and the SPG (Starwood Preferred Guest) programme you would come pretty close to 100 million loyalty members worldwide.” The merger, Kyriakidis says, will give guests a range of options like never be- fore, at every price-point whether it be for business or leisure. “That is a very powerful proposi- tion because it means our members can stay with us in our business ho- tels during the week, and through our loyalty programmes, enjoy a weekend away at any of our resorts across the Middle East and Africa,” he says. It’s impossible to speak with anyone in the hotel industry about the busi- ness without the spectre of the online travel agents (OTAs) looming in the background, so it is no surprise that the conversation turns to the impact the merger has had on the relationship between Marriott and the OTAs. He adds that it is important to take a hard look at the relation- ship between hotels and OTAs, especially since the merger has We renegotiated with our online travel agents what we think are industry leading terms for the OTA commissions and that is going to represent roughly a 10% reduction in OTA rates over the next two years and that’s direct bottom line contribution to our owners’ pockets. Alex Kyriakidis Marriott International president, Middle east and africa
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 32 Cover Story strengthened his company’s position. “I need to put the OTA business in context,” he says. “If I look at my region, the OTAs across the board in Middle East and Africa, how many of those room nights are actually coming from OTAs. It’s a very important partnership because we value each and every room, we value the partnership. The OTAs have a role to play, they have gazillions to spend on online marketing and distribution and that’s great.” According to Kyriakidis, the merger has allowed Marriott to negotiate a better rate with the OTAs and that is a win-win for all parties. “One of the things we are focused on through the loyalty programme is encouraging more and more of our loy- alty members to book with us through our direct booking channels and one success we have had in this area is member-only rates,” he says. “There is a perception that if you go to an OTA you get a better rate but actually no, we have very strict rules about the price of our rooms with the OTA and distribution partner- ships where it cannot be a better rate through the OTA.” Being able to tell people they get a better deal directly through a ho- tel’s website than going through an OTA has been a massive boost, according to Kyriakidis. “That has stimulated a lot of inter- est in direct bookings. In 2016 we launched some great campaigns such as a 3-for-2 stay which meant in the summer months, in the holy months of Ramadan, when things generally go quiet, our hotels were buzzing because we went for marketing cam- paigns aimed strictly at our loyalty members,” he says. “The OTA relations in summary is valuable to us but the mission for Mar- riott International is to make it a win- win for the owners and the OTAs.” In addition to the benefits increased scale has had on relationships with the OTAs, Kyriakidis highlights other positive effects, such as maximising market share and increasing opportu- nities for staff. Alex Kyriakidis
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 33 Cover Story The art of great cooking The german specialist in professional cooking technology MKN Middle East & Africa Phone: +97 150 5 58 74 77 E-Mail: rac@mkn-middle-east.com www.mkn.eu 247 The number of MEA hotels in the combined portfolio of Starwood and Marriott 53,961 The number of rooms in the region as a result of the merger 155 The amount of new hotels in the pipeline to be completed by 2025 38 The number of MEA countries that Marriott International will have a presence in by 2025 The merger in numbers The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa opened last year in Qatar
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 34 Cover Story “We are the number one hospitality provider to Dubai for the Expo 2020 by some measure, so now we are in a great position to work with the Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) to promote Dubai because now with Starwood we have a presence in most of the emirates and that’s the kind of top line synergy that’s impor- tant,” he says. “It helps us maximise our market share so in 2016 while the UAE and Dubai lost 10 percentage points per available room we actually gained 6% revenue per room.” The first people to benefit from the merger, Kyriakidis says, are the staff who will now have opportuni- ties that would never have previously been presented. “Scale for the sake of scale means nothing but what it means for our as- sociates is that today we have 65,000 associates in the region and an expan- sion in the region,” he says. “It means the career growth for our associates is better than ever before. The more openings we have coming up means there are more opportunities to manage the business and for people to grow with us and be promoted in the re- gion, so the first thing is the associates. We are looking to grow to cope with the pipeline increasing from 65,000 to 100,000 by 2020 so that means an extra 35,000 associates will join the company in the next four years.” Marriott’s merger with Starwood introduced a number of new brands to the group’s portfolio, including the Aloft (above) and The St. Regis (below), both set to open on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah
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HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 36 GM Interview Salalah goes Luxury James Hewitson, general manager, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, explains how he intends to position the newly opened Oman property as one of the most luxurious resorts in the region How did your career in hospitality begin? I began my career with branded restau- rants in the UK before moving overseas almost twenty years ago to set up brand- ed restaurants in the Middle East. I re- member well my interview in London back in 1998 with a gentleman called Hani Kafafi who first brought me out to the region and has had a major impact on my career in the hotel industry. After spending two years with branded restau- rants I followed Hani, who was a hotelier by profession, into the hotel industry. Hani provided me with the opportunity to take my independent restaurant ex- perience and use it when looking after multiple restaurant concepts under one hotel roof. The solid grounding I re- ceived has stood me in good stead as I have risen to general manager and some of Hani’s stories I use for inspiration for my team still today. What attracted you to join Minor Hotel Group? After quite a few years working suc- cessfully in corporate hotels in Kuwait, Bahrain, Bangkok and Malta I decided I wanted to change into luxury resort hotels as I had a taste for this while working in Malta. I felt that resorts were more suited to my skills, and most importantly I found I enjoy working in resorts. I joined Anantara in Koh Samui over six years ago as executive assistant manager and quickly managed to under- stand the DNA of the brand and what would drive success within Minor Ho- tels. I was given several projects to work on in Mozambique and Phuket before being asked to set up the opening of a new flagship property in Dubai. Follow- ing the successful opening in Dubai, I spent some time again working on other projects and gaining experience in the Maldives, Mozambique and Doha before I was asked to open Anantara in Salalah as my first general manager role. Anan- tara provides the freedom to work and run our business but also provides the coaching structure to make us better business leaders by constantly challeng- ing results in a healthy way. How has your past experience influ- enced your management philosophy? I started at the bottom and I have worked my way up through the various ranks so I feel very close to the team and the daily pressures we work under and the highs we experience when things go well. I enjoy talking to the team and try to make sure that I am open and avail- able for anyone in the team to approach. I do get upset when people make state- ments like, “I didn’t want to ask you this because you are the GM”. We should al- ways be available to the team members and should understand their thoughts and feedback. What makes a great GM? I believe that general managers are very resourceful people. We work in very ex- citing environments where no two days are the same and we need to be adapt- able to change very quickly in an ever- changing work place. People skills are a key competency as we help influence the team and in turn their performance. Drive for results is another key compe- tency, as we work in a competitive play- ing field and you can never rest on your laurels in this industry. What were the key challenges of the pre-opening phase? I have found that people and relation- ships are the keys to the success of any opening. Having a good balance between internal people who know the brand and external skill-sets provides a great com- bination to create some amazing stories with openings. Balancing all relationships between owner, contractor and consul- tants is another key challenge. Since it’s the project team’s goal to complete the
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 37 GM Interview project and hand over to us, we must ensure we are given a fully functional, well-put-together machine or we will be dealing with headaches for years to come. What are your targets and expecta- tions for this year? Our main target is to establish the resort as the first luxury product in the Dhofar region and drive awareness of the desti- nation through PR and media exposure along with great guest experiences. We have revenue and profit targets for the owner that we have to achieve and to be able to do this we need to ensure all the revenue taps are turned on and yielding new business. Currently we are not tak- ing from the existing business pot, so driving new markets and luxury guests is a key priority too. What are your thoughts on the Oman hospitality market? There is a lot of support and new initia- tives being driven by the government, and we are supporting their efforts with the opening of two Anantara resorts. I see only positive growth for Salalah hotels where we have seen occupancy growth year-on-year for the past three years. Even with new supply coming on to the market place, the existing ho- tels are showing year-on-year increases in occupancy and rate during 2017, so overall RevPar is increasing too. The new infrastructure of the airport and roads network is a massive boost and with the introduction of greater airline connectivity within the GCC, this will keep the current trends heading in the same direction. Al Baleed Resort opened in November 2016, and is the first of its kind in Dhofar, consisting of 40 premier and deluxe rooms and 96 one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, 88 of which have their own private swimming pools. “The vision for the resort was created by Mohamed Al-Barwani and his daughter Sa- fana al-Barwani – they wanted to create a resort that appealed to the GCC and inter- national markets, so the privacy of the villas achieves this goal,” comments Hewitson. “The design reflects a coastal fortress and the make-up of an Omani village of years gone by, with the main house being the larg- est building where people meet for breakfast to share the news and village houses being the villas located on ground level below the tree line of 691 palm trees.” The resort has the first spa and hamam in the region and offers a wide range of treat- ments with therapists from Thailand, Indone- sia, Tunisia, Jordan, South Africa and Nepal. The food and beverage offer comprises three restaurants: Sakalan, which means ‘land of frankincense’, an open kitchen serv- ing buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner; Al Mina, a Mediterranean restaurant; and Me- kong, Anantara’s signature Asian fine dining restaurant, which takes guests on a journey along the Mekong Delta with cuisine from Thailand, Vietnam and China. The 250m long beach has an array of non- motorised water sports and there is a kid’s club, teens club and gym with a tennis court for guests. “Given the amount of pool villas available – the highest number of pool villas in the region – we are keen to position the resort as one of the most luxurious products and compete with the more established resorts around the GCC and beyond,” adds Hewitson. Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 38 Brand entry Curio makes an entrance Positioned adjacent to the Mall of Qatar there’s little doubt that Hilton is banking on the Al Rayyan Hotel Doha, Curio - A Collection by Hilton being a success. It marks the first entry into the Middle East of the Curio brand. Patrick Ryan spoke to the global head of Curio Mark Nogal and Al Rayyan Hotel Doha, Curio - A Collection by Hilton general manager Luca Crocco about the new opening and why they can’t wait to see the public’s reaction
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 39 Brand entry W ith the football World Cup being held in Qatar in 2022 the country is going to be the focus of worldwide attention. But this is just one of many reasons why Hilton Worldwide decided to open its latest ad- dition to the Curio brand in Doha. Curio Collection by Hilton global head Mark Nogal confirms that it is the first of sev- eral properties the brand has earmarked for the Middle East. The Curio brand appeals to some- one who has been travelling for two, three or four nights, Nogal says, who wants to do some exploration of the neighbourhood where the hotel is lo- cated. The Curio brand was created to allow guests to find out more about the city in which they are visiting. The size of each hotel under the um- brella, varies from location to location — the smallest offers 32 bedrooms while, in contrast, the largest property holds 1,000 rooms. Nogal says: “Curio was started to help fulfil a niche that we saw where the traveller was changing. It was from this standpoint we began with our Curio properties, we’ve got a wide spread of properties but each one is unique to itself. “While this hotel was the first to join the brand in the Middle East and Africa, we are looking at other oppor- tunities to open additional properties in the region and will be opening a new hotel in Dubai towards the end of next year. There is great potential for Curio Collection to expand across the Middle East and Africa in key strategic locations.” Curio is a portfolio of indepen- dent upper upscale hotels and resorts targeted at travellers seeking au- thentic experiences. The hotels ben- efit from being part of Hilton’s dis- tribution system and Hilton Honors rewards programme. Doha was picked, says Nogal, be- cause it is a city of growth and testa- ment to this is the Qatar Vision 2030, which was launched to serve as a clear road map for Qatar’s future in terms of economic, social and environmental development. He points to the hotel’s proximity to the Mall of Qatar, the big- gest in the country, as an indication of its appeal to tourists. “It starts with the name,” he says. “Each one of the Curio properties has an independent name and there is a story that goes behind it.” The property is located within the oldest district in Qatar. He adds that the Al Rayyan is synonymous with af- fluence in the region. Nogal says the hotel will fit right in with the local culture, which he de- scribes as “unique”. He says: “It has been very well re- ceived by the locals. In the GCC, the hotel is timeless and has local tradi- tions, which go hand in hand. There has been high demand, especially from the leisure point of view in the week- ends and then of course the mid-week Focusing on the leisure facilities, Crocco said there are 25 suites and 68 connected rooms. On weekends there is an emphasis on families who are attracted to the suites and rooms. The three inter-connected swimming pools are also firm family favourites, with a salt water swimming pool which is rare in Doha, as well as separate facilities for both genders with jacuzzies, steam rooms, an ice fountain and a sauna. He adds that other facilities such as the women’s only spa show that the hotel not only recognises, but is offering something that appeals to, the changing demands of modern travellers. Pleasure in leisure The living room- presidential suite
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 40 brand entry is more on the corporate side in terms of demand. From the GCC, we are pri- marily attracting Qataris and then peo- ple from Saudi Arabia and the UAE.” Crocco says it is vital to ensure the hotel maintains the Curio ethos of enjoying an organic relationship with its neighbours and becoming a part of the fabric of the community in which it is located. He says: “That is essentially what we are doing with the brand, each prop- erty is part of the fabric of the neigh- bourhood. The team members who are on-site help the guest better under- stand those hidden areas, those local unknown elements. “So, if you are coming from out of town and you want to go for din- ner and you are interested in going to a place where only locals go to, you will be able to do that. We are recom- mending what we have in the hotel, but if the guests want something else, we would be able to assist them with that as well.” Nogal says that from design to deliv- ery, the local culture and tradition has been embedded in the project. A delib- erate decision was taken to make sure the property was located away from where most of the hotels are in Doha, a touch, he says, that was appreciated by the local community. He says: “They were surprised that a grand hotel opened in this area, so they came to look at all the features of the Arabic culture. So, it was a huge success. I would not say we are traditional, we are a bit more on the modern side. “Curio was created two and a half years ago; now we have 33 open hotels and it was to help fulfill a niche that travellers are looking for – the inde- pendent travel experience – and what may have been leisure oriented has ac- tually turned into a business orienta- tion as well.” Being attached to the luxury court of the mall, Nogal says, has made complete sense as it goes hand-in- hand with the development and the growth of Doha. Crocco adds that the hotel will very much focus on the needs of the local community. He says:“I have been here for a year and a half in Doha and when I was talking with someone from the local community, he told me that we would appreciate if you had a place where we could leave the children to go for din- ner or shopping, and we offer these fa- cilities in here.” The deluxe king room The lobby at AlRayyan Hotel Doha
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HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 42 New opening
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 43 New opening Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai is one of the most eagerly awaited properties of 2017. Patrick Ryan caught up with general manager Mikael Svensson to find out just what we can expect from one of the newest additions to the market in the UAE
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 44 It’s easy to see The Palm as being a bit out of the way from the rest of Dubai. That’s a perception that Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai general manager, Mikael Svensson, is all too eager to alter. He says: “The Palm is sometimes seen as being a bit far out and doesn’t have the same day-to-day interaction as downtown or even hotels in the Marina. I think we will be able to bridge that gap, not just for the hotel, but The Palm as a whole. “We are trying to enhance the attrac- tion and appeal of The Palm, and that’s what all hotels here want to do. There is a great relationship between the ho- tels here and we want to tie that in a bit closer to what’s going on in the city.” The sheer volume of five-star hotels on the market makes it a challenge to stand out, says Svensson, but he is not With a father who worked for Scandinavian Airlines and two brothers who were also hotel general managers, it is clear that Mi- kael Svensson was born with hospitality and tourism in his blood. He says: “I grew up in Bangkok and lived for nine years there; it was very easy for me to decide which industry I was going to go into. Then I did the usual and went through hotel school in Switzerland and got the degrees and some experience. I joined Hyatt in 1994 and most recently I was at Park Hyatt in Can- berra Australia and then after 21 years with Hyatt this opportunity came up with Viceroy. “Viceroy now kind of has the same philosophy and ideology as Hyatt did when it started up. It was a natural fit and felt like being able to go back in time and focus on developing the brand.” Born to run a hotel New opening
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HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 46 “We want to bring that LA essence into what we do, whether it be a Napa Valley grape list or the LA spa scene or where the sands of Santa Monica meet the sands of Dubai and do something quite quirky with that. The designers for our uniforms are from LA so the look, feel and style is kind of LA inspired. It will be an essence of LA wherever you go which is great but it won’t be obtrusive and you won’t even know it, it will just add to the experience.” The size of the task that Svensson has taken on cannot be underestimated and that’s in the literal sense. With 447 rooms, 221 private residence, made up of two - three - and four-bedroom apart- ments, and 1,000 staff members this is a big project. That said, he’s more than confident about pulling it off and has come up with a unique way to make his staff share his confidence. He says: “We have gone to great lengths with a third party improv com- pany to train the staff by homing in on their confidence and communication skills and allowing them to adapt to cer- tain things and build on certain skills so they feel like they belong to this envi- ronment. You need to make sure you are always delivering on the brand promise but it’s great when you have those part- ners and neighbours with us from a resi- dential perspective.” Avoiding the perils that come with employing a large workforce is high on Svensson’s agenda as he was determined to hire the best available people, even if the options are limited. “Sometimes what happens, especially in Dubai where there are so many ho- tels with a limited workforce is that you are sometimes forced to hire in masses and what happens is you deliver a mass product. We are relying on each depart- ment to deliver something quite person- al and in that way add to what Viceroy stands for,” he says. “It’s not just one industry (running a hotel) it’s 10 industries under one roof. It’s an engineering industry, it’s a restaurant industry it’s a housekeeping business, so there are so many different aspects of hotels that make it interesting and complex.” The resort is banking on its F&B offerings being a hit with both guests and the local community. BLVD on One, which stands for Breakfast, Lunch and Viceroy’s unforgettable Dinner is a key part of the package. The Ital- ian restaurant Quattro Passi is the first that acclaimed chef Antonio Mellino has opened in the Middle East. The Delisserie offers “the delicious tastes and homely aromas of a bustling neighbourhood patisserie with the convenience of a chic delicatessen”. The eighth floor is home to the wine bar called Elevate, which has panoramic views of the Dubai skyline. The offerings are rounded off by the Pool Bar and Lobby Lounge. What’s on the menu? New opening There are 447 rooms in the resort Delisserie
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HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 48 Chain Focus Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts was founded in 1997 and currently operates 6,028 luxury rooms and suites in 21 hotels across nine destinations. MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA OPERATING PORTFOLIO Upcoming properties in the MENA region Abu Dhabi: • Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Dubai: • Burj Al Arab Jumeirah • Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Jumeirah Creekside Hotel • Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence by Jumeirah Living • Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • Jumeirah Mina A’Salam • Jumeirah Al Qasr • Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf • Jumeirah Al Naseem Kuwait: • Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa • Jumeirah Living Marina Gate, Dubai • Jumeirah Business Bay, Dubai • Jumeirah at Saraya Aqaba, Jordan • Jumeirah Sa’adiyat Island, Abu Dhabi • Jumeirah at Saraya Bandar Jissah, Oman
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 49 Chain Focus in focus What were the hotel group’s key achievements and mile- stones in 2016? Jumeirah Group is committed to constant improvement and keeping the guest experience fresh. In 2016 we launched the Burj Al Arab Terrace, which offers Scape Restaurant and bar, two swimming pools, a beach and 32 air-conditioned, butler serviced cabanas. This was a world first in marine and off-site construction — the terrace was built offshore in Finland and transported to Dubai by sea. We also opened the seafood restaurant Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara and a new bar called Gold on 27. The final part of Madinat Jumeirah resort, Jumeirah Al Naseem, opened on 1 December 2016. This new 430-room hotel is a major addition to the appeal of Dubai as a holiday destination. What have been the key chal- lenges facing the hospitality sector in general and how have you met these challenges? Like all hospitality companies we face challenges with changing currency situations and socio-political instability in regions around the world. However, our understanding of the markets and strategic planning means we aren’t caught unaware. We can adapt our sales, marketing, social media and PR cam- paigns to reach into existing and new markets as required. We have very close relationships with our travel agency partners and these relationships are very important and supportive when we are looking to attract new markets and new visitors into our properties What are the hotel group’s key goals for 2017 for the MENA region? Jumeirah Group has continued to grow as an industry leader. Jumeirah Al Naseem at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai opened in December 2016 and marked the completion of Jumeirah Group’s transformation of coastline into a major tourist destination. This Alison Broadhead, chief commercial officer, Jumeirah Group process began in 1997 with the opening of Jumeirah Beach Hotel and continued with the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and Madinat Jumeirah. Future expan- sion plans include Dubai and the wider Middle East, Asia and Europe. We have a robust and growing pipeline of excit- ing new openings including properties in Oman, Jordan and Jumeirah Sa’adiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, all set to open within the next three years. In addition, we have 10 projects under development in Asia with outstanding properties in Bali and Malaysia, as well as China where the Jumeirah Nanjing is set to open in Q3 2017. The stunning five bedroom Royal Residence Villa at Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives opens in March this year. It offers a private beach and jetty, two private swimming pools as well as ser- vice quarters and is the perfect hideaway for extended families looking for luxury, privacy and seclusion. How is technology dictating the way you run your business and liaise with customers? One of the most exciting digital develop- ments for Jumeirah Group has been Jumeirah Inside. This virtual platform comprises 360° video and photography of all 21 hotels and has recently been updated to include the Burj Al Arab Terrace and Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara restaurant. The tool enables users to make hotel bookings, access never-be- fore-seen footage, discover hidden gems and share them with the world across social media platforms. Developed in collaboration with Google, this was a hotel industry first and offers a fully immersive digital travel platform which is accessible through jumeirah.com. We are also incredibly proud of our social media outreach. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah recently reached over 500,000 followers on Instagram and Facebook – the largest following of any hotel in the world.
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 50 ATM PREVIEW A new experience Arabian Travel Market returns to Dubai World Trade Centre from 24−27 April, with the theme of experiential travel. Hotel News Middle East spoke to a number of key players in the industry about how hotels are not just a place to stay anymore but a platform for guests to immerse themselves in the local experience T he official theme of this year’s ATM event is experiential travel. This takes in the adventure, cul- ture, heritage, wellness and spa, sport, theme park, halal and cruise tourism seg- ments, which are currently trending, not only globally, but across the Middle East. ATM senior exhibition director Simon Press says: “Today’s travellers are seeking more than amenities and creature com- forts; more than a sight-seeing tour and a picture beside a famous landmark. “The increasing trend is for an im- mersive style of tourism, which encom- passes different areas of local life – culi- nary, culture, history, shopping, nature, sports, halal, theme parks, wellness and spa, medical tourism and extreme lux- ury – and can be the basis for a holistic travel experience, by connecting with a place rather than just visiting it.” The Middle East has a rich tapestry of offerings, Press says, from overnight stays in a stone house in remote Omani villages to a stroll around the Souq Waqif in Doha or alternatively for foodies, a tour of Old Dubai, in search of whole- some local street delicacies. There’s no question that experiential travel is high on the agenda, not just at this year’s Arabian Travel Market, but also with hotels across the region. Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort general manager Darren Darwin knows only too well the value of providing an experience that goes beyond the standard offering of hotels. "Anantara is renowned for opening the door to authentic, indigenous experi- ences, and as the highest five-star resort in the Middle East, we pride ourselves in offering a multitude of incredibly unique activities that allow intrepid travellers to explore the nearby history, culture and spectacular landscape,” he said. “We have spent considerable time developing a host of experiences that mean our guests really get an insight into mountain life, from personalised trips to the local souqs and heritage sites to cookery classes, rock climbing, abseiling and archery.” Experiential travel is so vital to Darwin and his team that the hotel has also em- ployed a “mountain guru” who grew up in a nearby village and has mapped out the surrounding landscape to identify new hiking trails. This allows guests to go off the beaten track and discover aban- doned villages and hidden caves. Bollywood Parks Dubai
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 51 ATM PREVIEW “The resort's high altitude means we're lucky enough to enjoy temperatures that are around 15 degrees cooler than the rest of the Middle East, providing a year- round destination and a place to escape and take part in activities during the sweltering summer months,” he said. “Our aim is to ensure that every guest leaves with interesting stories to tell and long lasting memories." Palazzo Versace Dubai director of learning and development Charlotte Moore said that experiential travel is an essential part of her hotel’s offering. “I do believe that travel is not anymore about seeing places, but more about con- necting with people,” she said. “We believe that everyone is looking to be inspired, to be made to feel special and ultimately feel touched through an expe- rience they have had. More than ever this is a priority for us as human beings. “Our cultural offering respects and ap- preciates our Arabic heritage. From of- fering falcon displays, to following local traditions, we are grateful to have locals as our guests at Palazzo Versace Dubai.” The newly opened Fairmont Fujairah is operating with experiential travel very much at the top of the agenda. General manager Omar Souab explains to Hotel News Middle East how the resort was built with the explicit aim of attracting expe- riential visitors from both the local com- munity and internationally. He says: “We’ve chosen to operate in a destination that is lauded for its natural beauty and plan on offering a variety of activities like sunrise yoga, where guests can enjoy the valleys of the Al Hajar Mountains in the bright morning hours while exploring our cherished rugged ter- rain along the coast of Dibba. We’ll also soon be offering the sunrise breakfast, for an exclusive bespoke experience amongst the hidden valleys of Dibba.” The key, Souab says, is to ensure the activities are authentic and truly reflec- tive of the local culture and heritage and that even extends to the hotel's menu, which has been created in partnership with local fishermen. “The days of travelling for a specific purpose are long gone. Today, experien- tial travel has created a strong demand for a personalised experience,” he says. Omar Souab Legoland is a new attraction for tourists Anantara Cliff Pool Villa
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 52 ATM PReview If there was any doubt that experiential travel is here to stay then you just have to look at the fact that two new hotels are opening, with that specific market in mind. Remmie de Graff is the general manag- er of Hilton Garden Inn, Ras Al Khaimah and he tells Hotel News Middle East what the modern guest is expecting. “The discerning guests of today are seeking experiences that will enrich their lives,” says de Graaf. “They want to discover local cul- tures and challenge themselves; be it by having more “me-time” to reflect, or to take on activities that will push them to their limits.” That’s why his hotel is positioned to offer guests activities such as rock climb- ing, abseiling, trekking into the moun- tains and visiting local mountain villages. “One of the developing trends is how travellers aspire to become more dynamic and informed citizens of the world,” he says. “They are pushing past preconceived notions and seeking new ways to under- stand the world and its multitude of cul- ture from different perspectives. They are seeking inspiration, personalisation and a Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort Remmie de Graaf
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 53 ATM PREVIEW path towards self-discovery.” Experiential travel is also about getting a value-add for hotel guests and giving back to the commu- nity, says DoubleTree by Hil- ton Dubai – Business Bay general manager Remco Werkhoven. He says: “Everyone is looking for that little bit extra during their travels, to experience the real thing and to feel like more than just a tourist. People are looking for an authentic experience with a purpose. They want to learn about the places they are visiting and improve their knowledge of the world.” It’s no longer enough for guests to simply go on a guided tour, they want to immerse themselves in local culture and interact with the community. “People are moving away from the word ‘tourist’ – People want to be travel- lers,” he says. “It is all about making memories and creating experiences that money cannot buy. More and more hotels are taking their guests ‘back of house’ through ex- citing and once-in-a-lifetime events. Pur- poseful travelling is also on the rise. The combination of ‘experiential travelling’ with ‘charitable travelling’ is becoming a trend with millennials embracing these opportunities. I notice that people are more and more in need of strengthening the communities they visit.” DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai - Business Bay GM Remco Werkhoven
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 54 ATM Preview What to look out for at ATM 2017 • Expo 2020 Dubai: The Legacy: Monday, 24 April at 12.30pm The session kicks off proceedings at ATM and will assess the role of Expo 2020 in delivering the UAE government’s long-term vision for economic diversification. Panellists will discuss the core theme of sustainability as part of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Year of Sustainable Tourism Development; the potential legacy of the mega project; and the future of the UAE as a knowledge economy, a leading global city, and tourism destination. • The Real Deal: Why Selling Local Experiences Matters: Tuesday, April 25 at 4.20pm Panelists give hints and tips on how Middle East destinations can adapt to this trend, which is fast being adopted by travellers of all ages from across the globe. They will look at what steps destinations have taken to sell “the real Middle East” and how they can further enhance their experiential travel offering. • The inaugural ATM Global Halal Tourism Summit 2017, Wednesday, 26 April at 12.20pm This event brings together some of the world’s leading Mus- lim travel experts to discuss the nuances of this fast-growing sector. The global Muslim travel market was valued at $151 billion in 2015, representing around 10% of the global inter- national tourism market and, by 2021, that value is expected to reach $243 billion. Uniting the industry’s leading halal travel experts, the Global Halal Tourism Summit will reveal the industry’s true scope and size, development strategies, and potential for future growth. ATM will host a number of events that will be essential viewing to anyone in the industry, Hotel News Middle East takes a look at some of the highlights…
Strategic Partner Culinary Partners 11TH - 13TH DEC 2017 ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE Def ining Innovation in the Food, Beverage & Hospitality Industry 900+ exhibitors from 50 countries 16,000+ vistors from 91 countries 500 fully hosted VIP buyers 10+ events and features SIAL, a subsidiary of Comexposium Group
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 56 strategy Shifting gears Feras Hasinou, senior sales manager and fleet national manager of Cadillac at Liberty Automobiles Company LLC introduces Cadillac’s new programme aimed at tapping into the five-star hotel segment W ith competition in the hotel industry fiercer than ever, the differentiator for the luxury-seeking customer is the ser- vices and extras a hotel provides that others don't. It’s about creating a flaw- less luxury experience that is complete from end to end. First impressions count. A guest’s first impression of a hotel and the service it provides can be built long before they’ve reached the front door of the hotel, starting as soon as they hit the tarmac. So the question is, how do you want to impress your guests right from the outset? If your hotel is looking to attract the luxury seeker, the sophisticated set, then all aspects of the customer’s journey should reflect luxury and sophistication. Looking to tap into the lucrative five- star hotel market in the UAE, Cadillac has built a new strategy to push for a bigger share of the luxury fleet industry. Cadillac with Liberty Automobiles, the luxury brand’s authorised dealer in the UAE, has assembled a team specifically for Cadillac’s fleet customers, tasked to implement the new strategy with the in- troduction of new fleet models, service contracts and competitive pricing against the existing players in the market. Fleet national manager of Cadillac at Liberty, Feras Hasinou acknowledges Cadillac’s need to leverage existing infra- structure to bring a renewed, structured approach in dealing with the market seg- ment. Cadillac has now implemented various purchasing solutions that include leasing and internal and external financ- ing. The plan also supports bulk purchas- es, with hotels and fleet customers who can benefit from competitive pricing with a large number of purchases of vehicles. Further highlighting the intentions in the fleet segment, Cadillac has added new models that are part of its recent push to diversify its product offering, with the 2017 CT6 prestige sedan and 2017 XT5 crossover. “These two models set new standards of luxury in their respective segments. The CT6 brings with it the highest lev- els of craftsmanship combined with ad- Cadillac Escalade Feras Hasinou
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 57 strategy vanced technology, with thoughtful pas- senger comfort features such as heated or cooled massaging chairs, theatre qual- ity surround sound and extra legroom, as seen in the Cadillac CT6. This can help to make a noteworthy impression on hotel guests. Meanwhile the XT5 is a completely new luxury vehicle for Cadil- lac, with a bold new design and a wealth of space making it the perfect vehicle for long journeys. Both are now listed with the RTA as limousine cars and available to our customers.” Further elevating the experience with fleet customers in mind, service con- tracts and warranty will be included in the deal, with a vehicle cover of four years or 100,000kms, with optional up- grade packages. “With our service and warranty pack- ages, we are elevating our customers’ ex- perience and giving them additional ben- efits when purchasing our vehicles. We are proud to be one of the few auto deal- ers in the market that deal directly with hotels and offer aftersales services when it comes to fleet contracts.” Hasinou said. “Currently, most hotels work with rental companies to lease cars on their behalf, however we are looking to meet with the decision makers of the region’s five-star hotels to highlight our lat- est vehicles and packages and how we compare to their existing partnerships or other brands in the market today,” says Hasinou. Cadillac has recently gone through a shift, reigniting the brand’s ambition • Four years or 100,000kms warranty, ser- vice contract and roadside assistance on all vehicles for fleet customers. • Variety of solutions for purchase, includ- ing leasing, internal finance and external finance from banks. • New car models– CT6 and XT5– listed with RTA as limousine segments with more variety in specifications for all models in terms of options and engine sizes. • Priority service at workshop with dedicated relationship manager and service advisor to take care of all after-sales needs • Courtesy car on request T: 800Liberty or 8005423789 E: care@liberty.ae W: Cadillac.Libertyautos.com Cadillac programme details contact details to reassert itself at the pinnacle of the luxury car market. “In addition to bring- ing in new models, Cadillac is looking to change the public’s mindset around the brand, telling its story and using strong lifestyle and fashion ties, partner- ing with likeminded events and organ- isations like Sole DXB and Step Confer- ence, two events that share the Cadillac mindset.” Hasinou said. Hasinou continued: “We also look to tar- get the next generation of luxury car buyers; people who are looking for a global symbol of style, which represents the independent- ly minded. We call them ‘Entrepreneurials’. They are not always entrepreneurs in the literal definition of the word, but they are successful people in their respective fields that share a common passion and a driven pursuit to realise their dreams and live their aspirations.” With the repositioning, competitive purchasing solutions and continued push of new Cadillac models coming into the market, the luxury brand looks set to make a statement in the hotel fleet market in the coming years across the UAE and wider Middle East region. Cadillac CT6 Cadillac XT5
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 58 AHIC Preview Looking to the future Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) returns for its 2017 edition at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah. The focus of this year’s event is being a catalyst for change and with that in mind, Hotel News Middle East hosted a special roundtable with students from The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management to see how the next generation of hoteliers see the future of the industry Hotel News Middle East gathered some of the brightest young minds from Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management on 15 March to find what they think about the hotel industry and what they want to see from it in the future. What is the one area in which hotels can do more to appeal to younger people? Akshita Vibhakar: In terms of marketing you have to fix your social media! Stop being so robotic and giving everyone the same generic reply. Hotels really need to step up their game on social media, what better place is there to book than direct- ly from the source? Some of the biggest brands don’t promote their social media all that well, they don’t have the handles well represented on their websites, and if the knowledge isn’t out there custom- ers won’t come. Giuilana Giardiana: One of the main is- sues is the structure of the hotel indus- try. It is very difficult to empower the frontline staff, it’s very hierarchical. I agree it would be very strong and very effective but it is very difficult to do something like that within big brands because they have a certain standard of brand identity. Rachael Gregory: Having brand person- alities is important. This is how hotels can compete with Airbnb because peo- ple using Airbnb want to have that sense of being included in a community, that is something they can capitalise on. Akshita: Brands need to keep an eye on guests’ social media, for example they could send a bottle of bubbles to guests who have got engaged at one of your properties. If you do that they are bound (L-R) Emirates Academy Of Hospitality students Rachael Gregory, Michael Jansen, Akshita Vibhakar and Giuliana Giardiana
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 59 AHIC Preview to take a picture of it and post it on so- cial media. It would make such a differ- ence and would cost you one bottle to get the word out and make your guests your ambassadors. If I saw something like that posted from a guest at a hotel I would listen to that more than pictures on TripAdvisor. It comes straight from the source; you’ve had a good experi- ence, why won’t I? As millennials, where do you stand on the rise of Airbnb? Michael: I hate to be the pessimist but I really don’t think there is much that hotels can do. It is very clear this is what people want, it is not something you can protect yourself from and you will have to diversify and adjust. You would have to completely change the way a hotel runs to compete with Airbnb. Giuilana: That’s an issue you still need to address but Dubai is not as strongly affected as other countries where hotels are closing because of Airbnb. You have cities where the people with- in a community are starting to be hostile against tourism itself. Airbnb is a plat- form in itself and so it is much more dif- ficult to create regulations. Rachael Gregory: Prices are going to have to drop with the changing mar- kets. We have already lost the Russian market and the Chinese market is down and they were the ones paying for the luxury. Dropping prices is the only way to go. We are going to see a lot more three-and-four-star hotels because the five-star market has got so saturated we are going to have to give options. Not everyone can afford the hotels here, es- pecially with Expo2020 coming up, we have to give them the accommodation they can afford. Is data security an issue for young people? Michael: At the tender of age 23 my credit card is not so valuable that my life would be ruined if it were hacked. But hotels are not tech companies and it is up to the cor- A hotel’s data security record is key when it comes to making a booking. Airbnb is something that hotels can do little about according to the students.
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 60 AHIC Preview porate office to have access to the right sort of people to take care of it. If I knew there was a significant risk for me to stay at a property, after hearing that something could go wrong I would personally not stay there, I would definitely think twice. It is dangerous when you look at what’s going to be spent in a hotel each day and how many people are using credit cards. As the Internet of Things takes over, secu- rity protocol will definitely have to evolve. Rachael: We have heard stories about hackers breaking into a hotel’s sys- tem and controlling the AC – turn- ing it up full blast and guests leaving because it is too hot. Speaking of the Internet of Things (IOT) are hotels embracing technology correctly? Akshita: We run the risk of losing out on the human aspect in hotels. You have to move ahead but a lot of hotels are taking it too far. They are making everything so per- sonalised that people won’t interact with anyone else at the hotel, you could check in and out and realise you have not interacted with one employee from the hotel. Michael: A lot of hotels are jumping on the technology bandwagon and provid- ing technology for the sake of it and don’t fully understand the application and benefits it can provide. It’s a case of “we know this big thing is coming and we need to be part of it”. Hotels aren’t doing enough with social media according to the students who took part in our roundtable. The Internet of Things was a hot topic at the roundtable.
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 61 AHIC Preview Global Catalysts for Change 09:30-10:15 Wednesday 26 April The ongoing digital revolution, Internet of Things, advent of the sharing economy and changing needs of the consumer are having a profound effect on the way we do business across the world. As we open AHIC 2017, industry leaders will speak about their perspectives on these trends Stripping Away The Segments 11:45-12:25 Wednesday 26 April A new era of hoteliers are offering brands synonymous with a certain lifestyle, making traditional hotel star ratings redundant. What do these so-called disrup- tive brands that are winning over consumers in the US and Europe, offer inves- tors? Are lenders in the Middle East ready to help investors think like entrepre- neurs, or are banks limiting brand selection? AHIC’s PechaKucha Night: The Hotel of the Future 19:00-20:00 Tuesday 25 April Join leading architects, interior designers and technology leaders in this visionary session to kick off AHIC 2017. Using the PechaKucha format, each speaker will present their ideas using 20 images, with 20 seconds per image. We have a fantastic line-up of keynote speakers at AHIC 2017. The event will open on 26 April with a live-on-stage interview with Chris Nassetta, presi- dent and chief executive officer, Hilton Worldwide, moderated by Richard Dean, presenter of The Busi- ness Breakfast on Dubai Eye. Speaking ahead of the conference, Nassetta said: “The Middle East is a very important market for the hospitality industry, and Hilton sees tremendous growth potential here in the years ahead. I am hon- ored to keynote AHIC this year, and I look forward to a great conference and many productive conversa- tions with the region’s key leaders.” The morning of the 27th will kick off with “Cof- fee and a Keynote”. James Whittaker, distinguished technical evangelist for Microsoft, is going to be ad- dressing the impact of technology on the industry with a session entitled: “The Next Disruption. This Time Silicon Valley is Coming for You”. As Whittaker says: “If you don’t understand what is happening with technology then you will be at a huge disadvantage over the next decade.” In this unique opportunity to learn from one of the world’s leading technology experts, Whittaker will discuss what the hospitality industry needs to do to stay ahead of the curve. Below are some of the other highlights not to miss. For the full programme and more information, visit: www.arabianconference.com Jonathan Worsley, chairman of Bench Events highlights the sessions not to be missed at this year's AHIC 1 2 3 4 5 Jonathan Worsley A 360° Approach to Asset Management: 09:00-09:30 Thursday 27 April Regional presidents of the Hospitality Asset Management Association (HAMA) gather on stage at AHIC to discuss how to implement an asset management programme that drives the value of the asset through a 360° approach, from investment, transaction and contracting through to operations. AHIC Awards 12:15-13:00 Thursday 27 April At AHIC 2017, the annual AHIC Awards will celebrate the entrepreneurs driving growth in our industry and inspiring the next generation of hoteliers. We are honoured that AHIC’s patron, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al Maktoum, chairman and CEO Emirates Group, will again present the awards this year. The awards winners were voted for by the AHIC Advisory Board. In 2017, we will celebrate Ghaith Al Ghaith, chief executive officer of flydubai, winner of the AHIC Leadership Award and Sheikh Mubarak Al Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, founder and non-executive chairman, Action Hotels, recipient of the Industry Pioneer Award. Both are recognised for their leadership and entrepreneurship in driving the economy and midscale segments of the travel and tourism industry in the Middle East – industry sectors that are set to be hot topics at AHIC 2017. Don’t miss the Awards presentation and live-on-stage interviews with our winners. Don't miss...
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 62 AHIC Preview Branding the issue María Zarraluqui, global development managing director, Melia Hotels International, is speaking at AHIC 2017 on the topic of ‘Do you really need an international brand?’. Ahead of the event, she speaks exclusively to Hotel News Middle East about the growth potential for Melia’s Sol and Innside brands in the GCC 2016 has been characterised by caution when it comes to hospitality investment; would you agree? How do you foresee investment sentiment evolving in 2017? From our point of view, we would say that 2016 has been characterised by economic pressures, paired with politi- cal uncertainty and an increase in room supply, which all had an impact on the regional hospitality landscape with increased pressure on rates and occu- pancy levels. Last year was also impor- tant for the decrease of governmental expenditure levels, as well as private and semi-governmental investors in the hospitality industry, who have certainly monitored the markets carefully. As in previous years, we expect a strong investor-driven focus to be on the qual- ity, branded mid-market segments in the more mature and established markets. What are the biggest opportunities for investors and/or operators in the Middle East hotel market in 2017? As key destinations, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha, are maturing in their respective hospitality development life- cycles, we still see plenty of opportuni- ties for unique hotel value propositions. One area, which so far has only gained limited traction, is the mid- to upscale resort segment. Very few quality and internationally branded three-to four- star resorts exist in the regional mar- ketplace. Therefore we think that com- panies like us, with our relaunched Sol brand, have great potential in the area with our different sub-brands. All Sol Hotels & Resorts share the brand pil- lars across all concepts: location, signa- ture pools, full F&B experience, unique guest experience and entertainment are the main drivers for our brand. In addi- tion, each Sol Signature Concept adds special services and features to meet their customer’s expectations and to make sure their guests have the perfect holidays. Therefore, we can develop our concepts in these potential areas and diversify the current hotel portfolio. What are the most exciting launches/developments/ projects you are planning for 2017? 2017 is going to be a very exciting year for us in the region. We will be opening the ME by Meliá in Business Bay in Dubai, which is part of the spectacular Opus mixed-use project designed by the late Zaha Hadid. We will also open our first Innside by Meliá hotel in the region in Doha. As the world’s leading resort operator we are also excited about an increase in our portfolio with the opening of two Meliá hotels in Saidia, Morocco, a Meliá lodge in the Serengeti, Tanzania and our market entry into the Maldives with the Gran Meliá Huravee.
25-27 April 2017 Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Catalysts of Change 100+ speakers confirmed Discover which critical topics will be tackled by a powerhouse line-up Visit arabianconference.com today! Abdullah Al Abdooli Managing Director Al Marjan Island Robert Welanetz CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Properties & Acting CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Hotels Chris Nasetta President & CEO Hilton Worldwide Mustafa Al Hashimi Chief Executive Officer - Hospitality & Leisure, wasl hospitality Wolfgang M. Neumann President & CEO Rezidor Hotel Group Alex Kyriakidis President & Managing Director, Middle East & Africa Marriott International Organised by Platinum sPOnsOrs
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 64 Hotel Show Preview G overnment-led investment is driving a surge in domestic tourism across Saudi Arabia, with experts predicting a 40% rise in the number of internal trips made between 2015 and 2020. The Euromonitor International Tour- ism Forecast report, prepared exclu- sively for The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia 2017, to take place from 4-6 April at Jed- dah Centre for Forums and Events, has revealed record levels of domestic travel within the country. Following the announcement of Saudi Vision 2030 – the country’s plan to be- come the world’s leading Arab nation – vast initiatives have been launched aim- ing to encourage Saudis to explore all their country has to offer. This has led to an almost instant spike in the number of people travelling internally – and one forecasters now predict will see 40% more domestic va- cations taken in 2020 than were made just five years earlier. Nikola Kosutic, research manager at Euromonitor International, said: “The Saudi Commission for Tourism and Na- tional Heritage (SCTH) is investing gen- erously in boosting domestic tourism and launching a number of new initiatives. “Live Saudi Arabia, in collabora- tion with Saudi Airlines and Aramco, for example, encourages residents to visit historic locations, whilst Leave No Trace aims to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the country.” MÖvenpick Al Khobar Saudi Arabia sees surge in domestic tourism The hospitality industry in Saudi Arabia is thriving, with growth in domestic tourism, a boom in hotel construction in Riyadh, and Al Khobar emerging as a key player in terms of volume. Hotel News Middle East finds out more Other schemes aimed at boosting domestic tourism include The Colours of Saudi Arabia Forum, which organises various events and competitions related to photography. A tourism call centre is also now in place, providing intensive information about attractions and events across the country. “This is not to mention the famous Janadriyaha and Jeddah Ghair festivals, which are held annually and are attract- ing a growing number of visitors every year,” added Kosutic. It comes as no surprise that Riyadh is Saudi Arabia’s busiest city for hotel con- struction – with almost 50 hotel projects underway – and this is followed closely by Jeddah Across the country, the exclusive in-
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 65 Hotel show preview Fairmont Makkah Royal Clock Tower Hotel, Saudi Arabia dustry report reveals that 170 hotels and 60,395 rooms are currently in various stages of the construction pipeline. Hilton Worldwide is noted as one of the top hotel operators in the country, with Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences one of three new hotels the brand will bring to the kingdom in 2017. Kamel Ajami, vice president operations KSA at Hilton, said: “Our presence in Sau- di Arabia goes back over 20 years. We have ambitious plans for expansion with up to 29 hotels in the pipeline and by the end of 2018 I expect to oversee double the num- ber of hotels than I do at present.” Ajami attributes Hilton’s success in the market to providing guests with “va- riety” and “smart luxury”. He continued: “Each of our properties has its own dis- tinct features and identity, which enables us to meet a variety of customer needs and outperform the market. “As a company we have invested heavily in digital innovation. Each of our hotels in Saudi Arabia is enabled with digital check-in and the ability to choose your preferred room via our Hil- ton Honors app. “This feature has been commonplace in the airline world for some time but we are pioneering it in our own industry. Ultimately, we are working towards pro- viding guests with the ability to use their smartphones as their physical room keys, which is again an industry first.” Riyadh and Jeddah aren’t the only areas of Saudi Arabia experiencing a boom, however. Al Khobar has emerged as the third top area for hotel develop- ment in Saudi Arabia this year, accord- ing to a new report. With 20 hotel projects underway, the city has overtaken long-term hub for re- ligious tourism Makkah (19 projects) – and now follows closely behind Jeddah (44 projects) and Riyadh (48 projects). Hospitality experts in the region are at- tributing the surge in hotel development in Al Khobar – part of the third largest metropolitan area in the kingdom – to the industry-recognised potential of second- ary cities outside of Saudi Arabia’s key visitor destinations. Filippo Sona, head of hotels – MENA at Colliers International, said: “Outside the kingdom’s major cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah, there are around 22 smaller cities with huge potential for hospitality develop- ment of any kind. “Al Khobar benefits from its location, with a steady stream of business travel- lers due to its port. A seaside location with beach resorts and directly on the border to Bahrain, it also welcomes savvy Bahraini tourists looking to explore what Saudi Arabia has to offer.” He highlighted Jubail, a key indus- trial city, and Al-Hasa, a green area well-connected with Qatar and popular with domestic tourists, as important emerging destinations. Sona commented: “Major hotel brands including Novotel, Park Inn and InterCon- tinental are already placing these destina- tions on the global map. Occupancy rates are historically high across the country. “Tourism figures are on the increase and its some 27 million residents are travelling more than ever before. With 175,000 rooms in the market at present and several more hotels under construc- tion, there is the potential to more than double the number of rooms through the opportunities presented through these secondary cities.”
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 66 Event Preview Hotec Middle East 2017 Hotel News previews the annual appointment-based hosted buyer event, which will be held for the first time in Baku, Azerbaijan on 25-28 April 2017 The 14th edition of Hotec Middle East will be held at the Fairmont Baku Flame Towers in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 25-28 April. An appointment-based hosted buyer event, Hotec runs for three days and includes one-to-one meeting sessions between buyers and suppliers within a programme of net- working activities. At Hotec Middle East, internation- al suppliers have the opportunity to meet and talk business with some of the key hotel industry decision mak- ers sourcing new and innovative prod- ucts for their existing hotel opera- tions and new projects in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Jordan, Egypt, Bahrain and surrounding destinations. Different venues throughout the re- gion are selected to host Hotec each year and Azerbaijan’s position on the border of the region and Baku’s lo- cation overlooking the Caspian Sea adds a new dimension to this edition of Hotec Middle East. The event will kick off with a wel- come dinner and the following morn- ing, attending delegates are invited to a brief educational seminar, which includes a keynote presentation about the state of the hotel industry in the Middle East and a panel discussion. After this, suppliers will take their places at their tables in the main meet- ing hall for the first of two full-day ses- sions of scheduled appointments with attending buyers. Once meetings are over, a networking evening with din- ner is planned off-site, giving delegates the opportunity to take in some of the sights of Baku. Following the second full day of meetings on Thursday, participants will enjoy some free time before get-
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 67 Event preview ting together for the evening’s farewell reception and dinner. More than a 100 delegates are ex- pected to participate in Hotec Middle East 2017. Over 20 product cat- egories will be represented by sup- pliers from all corners of the globe, eager to spend quality time with the attending hotel owners and op- erators, designers and specifiers, and procurement companies. Visit www.hotecglobal.com/mid- dleeast or contact Stephen Pace-Bonel- lo on (spacebonello@questex.com) for further information.
Products Chilling tales In this month’s product news we take a look at the latest innovations in minibars MINIBAR DM50NTE SOLUTION 10+ Peltier Thermoelectric Minibar Polarbar The Minibar DM50NTE is the latest product from Dometic and the company is banking on the noiseless 50 litre class mini bar being a huge hit. What makes it unique, says Mohammed Muwafi, regional sales manager, is the fact it is not only noiseless but that it “sets new standards in efficiency and design”. “DM20 and DM50 are the world’s first noiseless 20 litres and 50 litres class drawer mini bars with an A++ energy rating,” he said. “DM50 is an award-winning design featuring an automatic slide-out tray for snacks and mini bottles as well as an adjustable spacious drawer for bottles and cans.” He added that Dometic’s drawer-style minibars are popular because of their unique design, great cooling performance, accessibility to guests and benefit to the hotel by being energy- efficient. Both the DM50 and DM20 units work on a thermo-electric cooling system. Contact: W: dometic.com E: mohammed.muwafi@dometic.com Contact: W: safes.ae Email: omar.fansa@safes.ae Contact: W: onity.com E: EMEA@onity.com Contact: W: assaabloyhospitality.com E: manit.narang@assaabloy.com The latest Minibar launched by Onity is the Solution10+ model, which comes in a variety of sizes and options including a lock and wheels. In addition, Onity also offers the Solution model, which features a glass door option. “Onity minibars are backed by the leading provider of solutions for the hospitality mar- ket, with products in around 5 million rooms and 30,000 hotels throughout the world,” said Leire Iriberri, Onity Europe, Middle East, Africa marketing manager. “They ensure a totally silent operation thanks to their absorption technology cool- ing system. They have a very low energy consumption and feature thermal isolation through cyclopenthane. “It is well known that minibars have the advantage of generating incremental revenue for the hotel whilst providing a service to the guest. “Onity minibars integrate easily into any type of furniture, as long as the appropriate ventilation space is allowed.” Hartmann Tresore Middle East is adamant that hotels will reap the benefits of the Peltier Thermoelectric Minibar. “ These Peltier technology minibars are energy efficient, silent and vibration- free,” said Reiner Kaltenbach, Hartmann Tresore Middle East managing director. “These minibars have very low power consumption for as much as 96 kWh/p.a. Hartmann minibars are environmentally friendly and available in various sizes. “To make our clients feel more confident with our products, we are extend- ing our standard warranty from one year to three years.” Reiner has also urged people to “watch this space” as Hartmann Tresore Middle East is lining up a number of deals with well-known brands within the region. The Polarbar minibar is a product that’s built with the emphasis very much on the environment. “We have also created our minibars with the environment in mind, making them environ- mentally superior through the use of Cyclopentane in the insulation manufacturing process, so that the minibars are CFC/HCFC free, as well as with low energy consumption from the product itself,” said Manat Narang, Assa Abloy vice president MENA. “This makes it a great choice for hotels looking to implement eco-friendlier products as well as cut down on energy costs without sacrificing quality or product flexibility.” The Polarbar minibar comes in three different formats – glass, aluminium glass and standard. “We will continue our dedication to in- novation, and create more technologically advanced products and solutions for our ex- isting and future customers,” said Narang. HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 68
April 2017 HOTEL NEWS ME 69 Marketplace For more information please contact our Sales Team on +971 4 884 1160 or email sales@diversified.ae Authorised Distributor of Hotel Division PO Box 26073, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 8841160, Fax: +971 4 8841164 Web: www.diversifi ed.ae LUXURY AMENITIES from MOLTON BROWN AIGNER • REN • LATHER • WUNDERKIND • CARMEN’S SPA CARE • MONTEIL PAYOT • ANGELO CAROLI • PRIJA • GENEVA GUILD • H2K SPA RANGE • BATHROBES & TOWELS • BED LINEN • F&B LINEN MINI BAR SALES ITEMS • SAUNA MILK Pure prestige in a timeless, noble design. This is the style of AIGNER cosmetics. Beautifully designed, subtle yet glamorous, simply irresistible. Two Unisex Ranges launched exclusively for luxury hotels, supplied throughout the Middle East, Aigner Evolution & Etienne Aigner. Avoiding the race to the bottom John Gavigan, managing director of Arpal Gulf talks about the importance of avoiding the temptation of cutting corners when it comes to laundry solutions The commercial and on-premise laun- dry (OPL) sectors in the UAE are quickly growing with some estimates saying there will be market growth of 20 per cent per annum. There’s no doubt the Middle East has the potential to emerge as one of the leading commercial cleaning industries across the world in terms of quality, inno- vation and environmental responsibility. If it meets its potential it should deliv- er major benefits to customers in terms of enhanced efficiency, reduced costs and access to the latest, most innovative laundry technology. But if this is going to happen the indus- try needs to put in place quality standards and regulations to put it on a par with the very best in international practices. The commercial laundry sector across the Middle East, with the exception of hospital linen in some countries, doesn’t operate with many quality control stan- dards. In a highly competitive, fragment- ed and sometimes cut-throat market, this is a high risk approach to follow. When there is no agreed standard prac- tice in place and no real requirements for linen bug tests, it creates a clear risk to the end consumer and laundry employee. There is always the risk that soiled textile articles will create a source of pathogenic microorganisms. But it goes without saying that if hygienic storage and handling procedures are followed, the risk of disease transmission and cross-contamination between clean and soiled articles is vastly reduced. How- ever this cannot be guaranteed when no standards are in place. For commercial laundry operators, neglecting to take every precaution in a highly fragmented and competi- tive marketplace is nothing less than a race to the bottom- it is essentially a vicious circle of overly aggressive price competition that is often at the expense of quality. This does not make sense to us as sup- pliers who are totally committed to de- livering the highest quality standards to all of our customers. It dramatically in- creases potential risks to the wider public as well as employees. Laundry chemicals account for almost 5% of total laundry costs, it has to be asked: why take a risk on quality?
HOTEL NEWS ME April 2017 70 Top 10 On the spot Assistant PR and Marketing Manager at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Nikol Fomina What's the best thing about your job? The best thing about my job is the people I encounter on a daily basis. It is the family factor that plays the most important role in actually wanting to go to work every day. The freedom to think outside the box and share ideas with them is key, and to get those ideas through to people you need to be close to them. What attracted you to this role? As clichéd as it may sound, the role chose me. However, if it hadn’t, I would have tracked it down and picked it for the very same reason – and that’s because of the people and the ability to work on interesting campaigns. What do you do when you're not working? When I am not working I like going to restaurants with my friends, or hang out in other properties, all the while being extremely picky about their marketing content – not in a bad way of course! What's the best advice you've ever received in the workplace? The best advice I’ve ever received was probably, “find something interesting and make it your own”. We live in a world where everything is all over the place, the ideas, the buildings, the trends…and even Our clients are currently recruiting for the following roles: VP-Operations-Asia, GM-hotels-UAE and Saudi Arabia, Corporate DOSM, DOSM, Sales Managers, Corporate Chief Engineer, CFO Please visit: www.bineid.com to view the current jobs. TWENTY (20) Years of Celebration *** TWENTY YEARS*** in Talent Sourcing in Hospitality segment BIN EID Executive Search is celebrating 20 years of existence. We thank our clients, candidates, well-wishers who directly and indirectly helped us in our wonderful & blissful journey. We also thank the Almighty, Bin Eid team members, ex-employees, associates and numerous unseen souls who supported us to navigate in our venture. We have touched and transformed thousands of individuals in our 20 years of spectacular journey. Thank you for the trust and confidence placed on us. BIN EID EXECUTIVE SEARCH & SELECTION (Specialised in 5* Hotel Sector) people. It is very hard to focus on one thing. If we took more time to focus on one thing at a time and make it 100% awesome, everything would be awesome in time. Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years I would like to reach a director role, where I could grow people and have someone enjoy their job as much as I do. I probably don’t see myself out of Dubai in five years on a permanent basis. If you could stay in any hotel in the world right now, where would you go? I would go to Huka Lodge in New Zealand. Primarily because I’ve never been to New Zealand and also because it looks so homely, not like the super fancy hotels in Dubai. Can you tell us why you wanted to join this industry? I wanted to join the industry because I find marketing material very interesting, you can always find me staring at someone’s menu design and content wise, thinking of ways to make it more interesting. PR is another world, so it’s interesting to work in another world without leaving this planet. What would you say to someone starting out in your sector? Enjoy every day and grasp as much information as you can. Your day doesn’t stop and there are way too many interesting things you would hate to miss. What's the worst thing about your job? The weekend!