SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL TO OPEN 10 NEW HOTELS IN MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA BY 2019

DUBAI – Strengthening its presence in the region, Swiss-Belhotel International will be opening 10 hotels in key destinations across the GCC and Africa by 2019. Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “We have 10 new openings lined up this year and the next in addition to a series of projects under development. These will not only add some fantastic hotels to our portfolio but will allow us to penetrate new destinations such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Egypt while growing our presence in existing territories. In addition, it marks the debut of some of our brands that will be available in the region for the first time ranging from luxury 5-star to mid-market segments.” Gearing up for opening in the coming months under the Swiss-Belhotel International banner are:
  1. Grand Swiss-Belresort Seef, Bahrain
  2. Swiss-Belresidences Juffair, Bahrain
  3. Swiss-Belhotel Al Aziziyah Makkah, KSA
  4. Swiss-Belboutique Tahlia, Riyadh, KSA
  5. Swiss-Belhotel Riyadh, KSA
  6. Swiss-Belinn Airport Muscat, Oman
  7. Swiss-Belresidences Al Sharq, Kuwait
  8. Swiss-Belboutique Bneid Al Gar, Kuwait
  9. Swiss-Belresort Battersea, North Coast, Egypt
  10. Swiss-Belhotel and Suites Asmarat, Cairo, Egypt
Tourism performance in the main cities across the Middle East is expected to remain strong with the fruition of major infrastructure projects such as airport expansions, increased global connectivity and growth of low-cost carriers, new leisure attractions, enhanced business facilities and a year-long calendar of regional and international events. Laurent stressed, “The hospitality landscape is developing at a rapid pace and we are keen to take advantage of this massive opportunity. Our aim is to position Swiss-Belhotel International as the best alternative to blue chip companies offering superior returns, unbeatable value and unforgettable experiences. One of the most important differentiators of Swiss-Belhotel International is our award-winning service. The essence of our brands revolves around the heritage of Swiss hospitality with the passion and service of Asia, and our hotels deliver on this promise. Therefore, Passion and Professionalism are the core of our brand culture. Our philosophy is to work hand-in-hand with our owners and business partners to maximize the financial returns and exceed the expectations of our guests, investors and associates.” According to industry sources the Middle East ranks:
  • 8thin the world in terms of travel and tourism’s direct contribution to GDP with USD85.0bn in 2017. It is expected to grow by 4.6% pa to USD133.1bn (3.3% of GDP) by 2027.
  • 9thin the world in terms of travel and tourism’s total contribution to employment. Generated 2,406,000 jobs in 2017. By 2027 it will rise to 2,986,000 jobs.
  • 5thin the world in terms of visitor exports. USD83.2bn in visitor exports in 2016. By 2027 it is forecast to reach USD148.3bn.
  • 4thin the world in terms of travel and tourism investment with USD49.6bn in 2016. It will rise to USD98.9bn in 2027.
  • The Middle East reported the strongest annual traffic growth of any region globally for the 6th year running in2017.
  • Looking ahead, 7.2 billion is the number of global air passengers predicted by 2035. TheMiddle East will see an extra 245 million passengers a year on routes to, from and within the region by 2035 that will continue to support demand for hotels.
Equally promising is Africa’s hospitality that sector remains resilient and is poised for further growth over the next five years. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) international tourist arrivals grew by a remarkable 8% in 2017 in Africa to reach a total of 62 million. Arrivals grew by 13% in North Africa, while Sub-Saharan Africa arrivals increased by 5%. This strong momentum is expected to continue in 2018. The hospitality industry contributed $165.6bn – or 7.8% – to Africa’s GDP in 2016 and this figure rose by 2.9% in 2017 as per figures released by World Travel & Tourism Council. Meanwhile, the number of planned hotel chain developments has doubled in Africa since 2009 from around 30,000 rooms in 144 hotels to 73,000 rooms in 417 hotels. For further information visit http://www.swiss-belhotel.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com About Swiss-Belhotel International Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 150* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Georgia, Italy and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for six consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. www.swiss-belhotel.com *Numbers may fluctuate  

DISCOVER YESTERDAY, TODAY: EXPLORE AL SEEF HOTEL BY JUMEIRAH AND TAKE A STEP BACK IN TIME INTO ENCHANTING ARABIA

Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah opens this September, offering guests the opportunity to create their own tales of Arabian nights. Tucked away amidst the rooftops and courtyards of a souk located on the banks of Dubai Creek, the 200 room hotel is spread across 22 traditionally designed Arabian Bayt (homes), adorned with the wind towers famous throughout the region. With views down into the alleyways of the souk and out across the busy waterways of the Creek, Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah is inspired by the culture, heritage and stories of old-world Arabia; and brings to life the warm traditions of Emirati hospitality, Alessandro Cabella, whose role as Area General Manager at Jumeirah Group includes Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah said: “In days gone by, traders travelled across the deserts and seas of Arabia, bringing artefacts, delicacies and spices to the small collection of homes that stood on the shores of Dubai Creek. The villagers opened their doors, inviting travellers into their homes to share meals and stories of their journeys and to trade their goods. The village grew with houses of traders, the shops and alleyways of the souk; and was alive with the sights and sounds of merchants, fishermen and pearl divers – and so Dubai’s story began. Today, these homes have been replicated at Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah, offering our guests the opportunity to glimpse into the past and create new stories of their own journeys.” The hotel is located in the second phase of Al Seef, a new district of restaurants, cafes, shops and plazas, situated on a two-kilometre promenade on the south bank of Dubai Creek. Al Seef is the newest destination by Meraas, the masterminds being some of Dubai’s most popular tourist destinations including The Beach and City Walk. At the opposite end of the promenade to the two recently opened hotels in Jumeirah’s Zabeel House collection, Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah offers a distinctly different guest experience; one which places a strong emphasis on the city’s proud history. The area is still a bustling site of trade, with souks and aged dhows full of merchandise bound for India and Africa. A short stroll away are the museums, galleries and cafes of the popular Al Fahidi historical neighborhood; the architecture of which was the inspiration for the creation of Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah’s ‘resort of Arabia’ adjacent to Burj Al Arab. ‘Like Staying In Someone’s Home’ The 22 homes are located in small clusters of 2 to 3 buildings joined by a bridge that provides a walkway above the souk and sharing a common courtyard, encouraging socialising with other guests within the hotel. The design of the twin and  king-bed guest rooms draw deeply on the UAE’s culture, with authentically aged materials that mimic rustic facades; and interiors that reflect an age of pearl diving, trading and crafts. Look out for:
  • Middle Eastern woven fabrics, wooden beams, lamps, rustic ceilings with fans
  • Rough plastered walls inspired by traditional building techniques
  • Large windows with traditional wooden panels with views down onto the winding outdoor corridors of the ground floor souk and the waters of the creek
  • Antique light switches and replica old fashioned radios and carpets
  • Colour schemes inspired by the rich blue water, the soothing beige of the desert sands, and soft green tones of the country’s flora, interspersed with colourful flashes of reds, turquoises and yellows
  • Characteristic Barjeel (the iconic wind towers which were once used to ventilate homes before air conditioning)
  • Hand-made and organic amenities comprising fragrances and natural ingredients from the UAE such as exfoliating soap made from sand from each of the UAE’s seven emirates
Alessandro Cabella said: “Huge attention has been given to the design of the rooms and courtyards to ensure our guests are immersed in the spirit of the past and, for the time they stay with us, feel worlds away from the pace of modern life. By having the 200 rooms spread over 22 separated buildings, areas of personal peace are created, so it will feel like staying in someone’s home. Hidden amongst the rooftops of the souk, once our guests step inside the hotel, an immediate sense of calm will prevail. “With Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah, we will create an unforgettable experience – combining the warmth of Arabian hospitality with a backdrop of local heritage and architecture. The property pays homage to the age-old days of the region, offering a relaxing choice for inquisitive, quality-conscious travellers who appreciate authenticity; and enjoy the experiences that uniquely designed spaces offer as an insight to local history.” The hotel will take bookings from the end of July and welcome guests from 1st September with an opening offer of 250 dirhams per room per night plus relevant taxes and municipality charges. It will be Jumeirah’s 12th hotel to open in Dubai and the 23rd in its global portfolio. Visit www.jumeirah.com/alseefhotel for more details and follow the hotel on social media:
  • Instagram @alseefjumeirah
  • Facebook /alseefjumeirah
  • Twitter @alseefjumeirah
-Ends- About Jumeirah Group: Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates and manages a world-class portfolio of 15 properties in the Middle East including the flagship Burj Al Arab, 5 properties in Europe and 2 in Asia with 18 properties currently under construction around the globe.

Arab League honours Mohammed bin Rashid with ‘Shield for Leadership in Arab Development’

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The Arab League has honoured Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum with the ‘Arab League Shield for Leadership in Arab Development’ in recognition of his contributions to the development of the Arab world, and his innovative vision for empowering Arab communities, spreading knowledge, and creating a stable and brighter future. The prestigious shield recognises HH Sheikh Mohammed’s efforts in leading development initiatives not only in the UAE but also the Arab world. “We see government work as a journey towards making ourselves more competitive. In the UAE, we love to work on enhancing our competitiveness and we believe that the government is a key engine for the development of all sectors,” Sheikh Mohammed said. “The Arab world needs to transform its administrative operations and shed conventional ways of thinking. We need a clear vision to enhance the effectiveness of government.” Sheikh Mohammed further said: “The best contribution a citizen can make to his country and society is to help enhance government processes, because they drive progress in every sphere. The UAE is part of the Arab world, and we are keen to share our experiences with those who want to learn from them.” Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit, said that HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid is a symbol of development in the Arab world due to his leading initiatives, creative thinking and vision. “From an early stage, Sheikh Mohammed knew that meaningful development can be achieved only when all sectors are comprehensively addressed, and that the human being is the cornerstone of any development journey. Enabling Arab people and equipping them with the right tools to be creative and achieve happiness and prosperity should be top priorities for development projects,” Aboul-Gheit said. “Sheikh Mohammed was able to deeply instill the values of creativity and innovation in Dubai, which has become a symbol of Arab pride, and an example for the region to follow. When we look at Dubai, we see an innovative government that inspires people to take the initiative, and constantly work towards creating a bright future,” he added. Aboul-Gheit also said that Dubai’s development model places human assets at its centre instead of natural resources which we can potentially run out of. “His Highness considers the role of the government to enable people to unleash their positive energies, and create a conducive environment for creativity and innovation,” Aboul-Gheit added. Minister of Cabinet Affairs and The Future HE Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi received the Award on behalf of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid at a ceremony held at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo, Egypt. The Arab League Shield for Leadership in Arab Development is awarded to exceptional personalities and role models in the field of sustainable development in the Arab world. The UAE ranks number one globally in 50 indices in vital community and service sectors, according to the Global Competitiveness Index 2017-2018. Key indices that the UAE leads both in the region and the world include the quality of government decisions, the government’s ability to adapt to changes, the effectiveness of government spending, and the absence of a tax effect on investment attractiveness as well as the education sector. It also has top rankings in areas like public-private partnerships, development and application of technology, the quality of tourism infrastructure, corporate digitisation, gender equity, tolerance of foreigners and low violent crime. His Highness is leading a number of development and humanitarian initiatives through The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, which includes 33 establishments and initiatives. In 2017, The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives spent AED1.8 billion on alleviating poverty, boosting education and providing humanitarian aid to 69 million people in 68 countries.

Dip in the Dark at La Ville Hotel & Suites

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Dip in the Dark at La Ville Hotel & Suites The boutique hotel launches a new Night Pool Package Cherish dulcet mid-summer nights with a dip in La Ville Hotel & Suites’ stunning rooftop pool with their new ‘Dip in the Dark’ offering. Enjoy access to the 5-star boutique hotel’s oasis, overlooking the glistening Dubai skyline, everyday of the week throughout the summer. Celebrate the Dubai summers outdoor this season and enjoy the sunset and after hours sipping refreshing concoctions in the rooftop infinity pool, followed by some delicious bites at La Ville’s urban rooftop bar, LookUp. Revel in the stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and spend some quality time with your friends and family this summer. ‘Dip in the Dark’ package offers pool access in the evening from 5 pm – 10 pm until September 30, 2018. Dip in the Dark at La Ville Hotel & Suites in City Walk Date: Everyday, until September 30, 2018 Time: 5 pm – 10 pm Location: LookUp, La Ville Hotel & Suites, CITY WALK Price: For weekdays, AED 100, inclusive of AED 50 voucher for consumption at LookUp; for weekends, AED 150, inclusive of AED 100 voucher for consumption at LookUp. For reservations call +971 543 095 948 or email laville.dining@autographhotels.com About Autograph Collection Hotels: Autograph Collection Hotels celebrates individuality by curating a one-of-a-kind travel experiences at more than 100 luxury lifestyle hotels found in the world’s most desirable destinations. Exactly like nothing else, Autograph Collection properties are hand selected for their rich character and uncommon details. A personal realization of an individual founder’s vision, these hotels are defined by unique design, differentiated guest experiences and their meaningful role in the locality. Autograph Collection Hotels is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards®, in which members can link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer.

“Say I Do” at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai

“Say I Do” this summer at the magnificent Al Garhoud Ballroom in Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. From grand weddings to intimate magical affairs, the spectacular venue can be configured to suit your requirement reflecting the tone of your unique personality and wedding theme. Complementing the luxurious setting are the hotel’s extensive facilities, exceptional food and impeccable service. Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “Wedding celebrations require perfection. At the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai we are dedicated to exceed the expectations of our guests with tailored wedding packages. Combining sumptuous luxury with exceptional service, we create unforgettable moments for our guests as we know those little personal touches can make a celebration unique. We have our professional dedicated team who execute countless details with precision every step of the way to ensure all wedding arrangements are up to our guest expectation for a perfect wedding.” Special Wedding Package includes the following: For the Wedding Reception
  • Al Garhoud Ballroom located at the ground level with a private entrance from the main road for all the invited guests
  • Specially designed wedding menu package by hotel’s Executive Chef
  • Welcome drinks for all the wedding guests
  • Menu trial session
  • Beautifully decorated multitier wedding cake
  • Bride’s changing room next to the ballroom
  • Well-designed cocktail tables setup with a selection of linen for hotel tables and chairs
  • Stage platform and dance floor available
  • Audio-visual equipment – music system & microphones
  • Personalized electronic wedding signage including projectors & screens
  • WIFI internet access for all the guests
  • Valet parking service for all the wedding guests
  • Opportunities for photography throughout the hotel prior and after the wedding
  • Choice of exclusive ladies or gentlemen service staff (subject to availability)
Special Value Added Benefits:
  • One night stay at the hotel suite room with lavish International buffet breakfast at Loumi and dinner in the room for the wedding couple
  • Honeymoon setup in suite room for the wedding couple
  • Bride can avail special Hairstyle and Bridal Makeup package offer with complimentary facial, manicure and pedicure
  • Special Hair and Makeup package offer for Bridesmaid and Flower girl
  • Special room rate discount up to 20% off on best available rates to all wedding invitees applicable on or before the event
  • 20% discount on total bill at any of the hotel’s operated restaurants
  • 35% discount from the salon services on published rates applicable to all wedding invitees
  • 20% discount on laundry services
For wedding enquires, call 04 702 8888 or +971 50 100 7704 or email banquet.mahd@millenniumhotels.com *Prior reservation is required. Other terms & conditions apply. For hotel marketing contact: Sheryl Aquiatan Assistant Marketing Manager Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Mob: 00971 56 506 0983 Tel: 00971 4 702 8888 sheryl.aquiatan@millenniumhotels.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including The Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Agarwood, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class. Currently operating 32 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture. With the motto “More than Meets the Eye”, Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction. For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com  

Zayed bin Mohammed Family Gathering reflects on a decade of success

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The organisers of the Zayed Bin Mohammed Family Gathering (Almultaqa) today reflected on a decade of success, following the announcement that the centre is to close. Launched ten years ago as a temporary exhibition, Almultaqa was established to serve the needs of an emerging and developing neighbourhood and to promote tourism within Dubai between December and March. Over the last ten years, the neighbourhood has grown and evolved. With world-class attractions and events now on our door-step, domestic tourists are spoiled for choice. Heritage centres and cultural experiences, which are open throughout the year, have been developed to ensure that Emirati heritage is not just protected but more importantly, will live on forever. The Almultaqa site, which was only open for three months of the year will be repurposed. Ahmed Al Wardi, Operations Manager, Zayed Bin Mohammed Family Gathering, which managed the exhibition each winter, expressed his gratitude for the contribution Almultaqa made to the community, “For over a decade, the Zayed Bin Mohammed Family Gathering has been a place where we celebrated our traditions and showcased our rich Emirati heritage. As we look back on a decade of success, we can safely say that we have achieved our goals and completed our mission. It is time for us to accommodate new purpose-built projects which are better suited to the needs of the community. Locally, the area has grown, and the needs of the neighbourhood have changed. The Last Exit in Al Khawaneej has just opened, and the eagerly anticipated Quran Park is due to open soon. We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone who took part in Almultaqa, to all the entities that supported us and all the guests who visited the destination over the years.”

Emirates pioneers web virtual reality technology on emirates.com

Emirates has introduced 3D seat models on emirates.com, becoming the first airline to introduce web virtual reality (VR) technology on its digital platform. The 3D seat model is a visualisation engine that displays an immersive 3D 360 degree view of the interior of the Emirates A380 and the Emirates Boeing 777, giving customers a chance to explore their seats, the spacious cabin and the Emirates onboard product.

This new feature available on emirates.com allows users to navigate through the Economy, Business and First Class cabins, as well as the iconic Onboard Lounge and Shower Spa on the Emirates A380 using navigational hotspots. Alex Knigge, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand (Digital), said: “As we continually invest to provide our customers with an unmatched travel experience onboard and on the ground, we also work very hard to give our customers a world-class digital experience. We are pleased to be the world’s first airline to introduce this cutting edge web VR technology, which offers our customers an immersive opportunity to learn more about the fantastic Emirates experience before they step on board. In our usability tests with customers, we found that they particularly appreciated the 3D seat and cabin models when selecting their seats.” The high-quality 3D generated graphics offer an outstanding render that is close to reality. The immersive experience is now available for the three class Emirates A380 but will soon include renderings of Emirates’ entire fleet including all configurations of the A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. The 3D 360 degree views of the cabins also feature a virtual reality element for a more immersive experience. Users can enjoy hands-free cabin navigation and seat selection by using any VR headset like Google Cardboard.  This award-winning technology is compatible with all devices without the need for external applications or plugins. The 3D seat models were created in partnership with Renacen who were awarded the Crystal Cabin for the best visionary concept for this project at the recent Crystal Cabin Awards. Customers accessing emirates.com via their mobile devices or the Emirates app for iOS and Android will also be able to explore their seats before checking in online with the 3D seat map. The tool allows customers to navigate from one seat to another, and even allows would-be customers to book their preferred seats from within the 3D environment. In addition to the new 3D cabin models, new product videos are available on emirates.com which illustrate the end to end travel experience across all cabins. The videos serve as a guide, giving new customers a clear idea of all the unique features of the Emirates travel experience. Emirates also continues to conduct frequent usability studies with customers and frequent flyers in different geographies to identify further opportunities to enhance its digital user experience.

Flydubai announces the alignment of its frequent flyer programme to Emirates Skywards

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  • Award-winning Emirates Skywards to become the loyalty programme for both airlines from 01 August 2018
Dubai-based carrier flydubai has announced, today, that the award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates airline, Emirates Skywards will become the loyalty programme for both airlines. This strategic move builds on the success of the initial phase of the extensive partnership which sets out how the two Dubai-based airlines have been able to offer customers unmatched travel options.The innovative partnership, announced in July last year, goes beyond code-sharing to a number of initiatives spanning commercial, network planning, airport operations, customer journey and with today’s announcement, the alignment of the carriers’ loyalty programmes. From 01 August 2018, OPEN members will be enrolled into Emirates Skywards to continue to be rewarded when travelling with flydubai. Members will be able to earn both Skywards Miles and Tier Miles every time they fly with Emirates or flydubai enhancing collection and spending opportunities. During July, OPEN Gold members and Emirates Skywards Silver members and above, who are also OPEN members, can convert their OPEN reward points to Skywards Miles (2 OPEN reward points = 1 Skywards Mile). OPEN reward points held in existing accounts can be redeemed until 31 July 2018 for future flights with flydubai. Since launch, more than 650,000 passengers have benefitted from the Emirates and flydubai partnership. The seamless approach to travel committed to by both airlines is further cemented today with this collaboration, passing on the benefits to passengers who now have the choice to travel to over 200 unique destinations on the combined network of both airlines. To learn more about the alignment of the OPEN programme with Emirates Skywards, members are encouraged to read the communication sent by the airline or log in to their OPEN account: https://www.flydubai.com/en/open/programme-changes  

Etihad Aviation Group announces new structure

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Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Aviation Group today announced a new organisational structure and operating model, effective immediately, to deliver on its mandate as it embarks on the next phase of its transformation. The reorganisation is the next step in ensuring the group is fit for purpose to prosper as a people-focused business driven by innovation, safety and sustainability, supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision for the future.
  • Robust organisational structure to deliver transformation of the group
  • New leadership team announced: promotion of Mohammad Al Bulooki to Chief Operating Officer, appointment of Robin Kamark as Chief Commercial Officer, and Ibrahim Nassir as Chief Human Resources & Organisational Development Officer, as part of new seven-strong C-suite
  • Almost half of the leadership team are UAE nationals
Under the new structure, the group will be reorganised into seven business divisions – Operations, Commercial, Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO), Human Resources, Finance, Support Services and Transformation, led by a new executive leadership team reporting to Group Chief Executive Officer (Group CEO), Tony Douglas, who also assumes responsibility for Etihad Airways. His Excellency Mohamed Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Etihad Aviation Group, said: “As we approach our 15-year anniversary, the reorganisation and restructure of the group and leadership team will help us lay the foundations for Etihad to optimise its value as a world-leading group, streamline operations, and capitalise on opportunities, allowing the business to focus on improving its core operating performance. “We recorded an improvement in our operating results for 2017 and are confident that we are back on track this year, strengthening our position group-wide after a period of consolidation, bolstering our presence in key global markets, and continuing to support Abu Dhabi’s growth in the aviation, trade and tourism sectors.” Peter Baumgartner will now serve as the Senior Strategic Advisor to Tony Douglas as part of the executive leadership team. Having led Etihad Airways as CEO since 2016, Mr. Baumgartner will advise at group level on global partnerships and innovation. Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways Executive Vice President Commercial, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer, and will be responsible for core areas including network operations, flight and technical operations, fleet engineering, aviation security and safety, as well the Etihad Airport Services entity which manages ground and cargo handling, and catering. He is also responsible for the airline’s pilot and cabin crew community. Robin Kamark has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer. Mr. Kamark, who joined Etihad Aviation Group in April 2017, will spearhead the overall commercial strategy of the airline, including cargo, sales and marketing, revenue management, customer service, network planning, and alliances. He is also charged with leading Etihad Airways’ destination management arm, Hala. Ray Gammell will assume responsibility for airline equity partners. Ibrahim Nassir has been appointed Chief Human Resources & Organisational Development Officer, and is responsible for a wide range of support functions including, among others, learning, organisational development, medical services, talent acquisition, rewards, people services, and immigration. Mr. Nassir will also lead the group’s Emiratisation programme. The new group organisational structure also sees Abdul Khaliq Saeed become Chief Engineering Officer (MRO); Mark Powers, Chief Financial Officer; Mana Al Mulla, Chief Support Services Officer; and Akram Alami, Chief Transformation Officer. General Counsel and Company Secretary, Henning zur Hausen; Senior Vice President Government & International Affairs, Ahmed Al Qubaisi; and Vice President Corporate Affairs, Amina Taher, continue in their respective positions, also reporting to the Group CEO. Tony Douglas, Group CEO, Etihad Aviation Group, said: “We are now well equipped to deliver our plans as a reinvigorated innovator brand, with an optimised and profitable network, technologically advanced fleet, and a strengthened position as the global airline of choice, run by a seasoned team of talented professionals. The fact that almost half of our leadership team are UAE nationals reflects our strong succession planning efforts and commitment to developing Emirati talent. “We are already seeing positive results even during this early phase of our transformation. The eventual aim of this process is for Etihad to be in the best shape to ensure its long-term sustainability, enabling it to meet the challenges of an aviation industry in constant flux. “Etihad is now positioned to continue supporting the mandate of our shareholder, and the growth and prominence of Abu Dhabi.” Etihad’s transformation programme has delivered measurable results to date, with the core airline division recently reporting a 22 per cent improvement in core operating performance for 2017, driven by improved revenues of US$ 6.1 billion and a 7.3 per cent reduction in unit costs.

SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS SINGAPORE AIRLINES FOR TRIPLE MILES PROMO IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Swiss-Belhotel International, the global hospitality management chain, is inviting members of KrisFlyer, Singapore Airlines’ popular frequent flyer programme, to earn TRIPLE miles when staying at its properties in Australia and New Zealand. Under this enticing new promotion, guests who book qualifying stays at any of Swiss-Belhotel International’s five hotels in the two countries will be rewarded with bonus KrisFlyer miles. Throughout June and July 2018, three KrisFlyer miles will be awarded for every one US dollar spent at Swiss-Belhotel International’s popular hotels in Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland, and its two impressive properties in Queenstown. “We are delighted to launch this exciting new promotion for KrisFlyer members,” commented Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International. “As one of the world’s leading airlines with an extensive network in Australia and New Zealand, Singapore Airlines is the perfect partner for us. We look forward to welcoming many more of their esteemed frequent flyers to our properties in future,” he added. Swiss-Belhotel International currently operates two hotels in Australia: Swiss-Belhotel Brisbane and The York by Swiss-Belhotel, Sydney. Across the Tasman Sea in New Zealand, the company operates three properties: Swiss-Belsuites Victoria Park, Auckland; Swiss-Belresort Coronet Peak, Queenstown; and Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown. Australasia is a key area of growth for Swiss-Belhotel International; the company recently announced plans to double its portfolio in the region from five to ten properties within the next three years. This is expected to include new openings in key cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. Singapore Airlines currently serves nine destinations across Australia and New Zealand: Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. The KrisFlyer offer only applies to bookings made direct via the Swiss-Belhotel International website using the Best Flexi Rate for at least one night. The promotion ends on 31st July 2018 and blackout dates apply. To book your next stay in Australia and New Zealand, visit swiss-belhotel.com/krisflyer. For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com Notes to Editors: Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than *145 hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Georgia, Italy and Tanzania. Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain seven times, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, Europe, United Arab Emirates, China, Indonesia and Vietnam. *Numbers may fluctuate