Model rockets fill UAE skyline at Space and Rocketry Academy UAE event

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3D Education by Compass International with support of the UAE Space Agency organized a spectacular model rocket launch event here on Saturday. More than 500 students, parents and space enthusiasts started gathering as early as 7.30 am to fill up the grounds of Dubai Parks and Resorts (DPR) to witness the event unfold. It was an amazing site to see some of the rockets soar up to 500m and return to Earth with a parachute. 

His Excellency Dr. Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency attended the event and expressed his excitement at seeing so many space enthusiasts gathered together to put their rocketry skills to the test.

“We are delighted to support the Space & Rocketry Academy UAE and collaborate with Compass International to raise awareness among students, teachers and parents of the importance of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and space exploration by inviting international experts to the UAE to share their knowledge and experience. Through events, initiatives and activities such as the Space & Rocketry Academy UAE the UAE Space Agency aims to build national human capacity and inspire the next generation space pioneers, in line with the objectives of our National Space Program,” said Al Ahbabi.

All rockets that were launched were constructed by students as part of the SARAUAE (Space and rocketry Academy UAE) camps across the UAE, they were built from kits that are of a design approved by the National Association of Rocketry. Two types of model rockets were flown: Research Express – single stage rocket and Sky Metra – two stage. All of the model rocket motors used were single use pre-packed motors that are considered low powerrocket engines for basic rocketry.

All instruction for the building and launching of the model rockets had been overseen different NASA experts and by Michael Flachbart who has over 28 years of experience in model rocketry in the USA with the NASA visitor center U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

The force behind this grand event was UAE’s very own Compass International, who took the initiative to develop and run this camp, speaking about SARAUAE, the MD and owner of Compass International Lissy Donald said, “I feel blessed to have been able to contribute in developing and honing a scientific temperament amongst the youth in the UAE. My mission and vision in life is to help make a future ready generation of creative problem solvers who are equipped to deal with all kinds of challenges in life, SARAUAE was born out of this vision and I will make sure that all youth in the UAE are able to benefit from this program”, adding to this she said, “it makes me proud as a parent each time a rockets goes up, we will continue to do these camps and invite all students to be a part of this”.

Inside the glamourous celebrity favourite destination – 34 Mayfair London

Named after its location the elite restaurant resides just off Grosvenor Square in the heart of Mayfair. We recently visited this famous eatery loved by celebrities and royals alike to experience some quintessential British hospitality.

While every thoughtful element contributes to it’s reputation, right from the first impression of the sharply dressed doorman with a royal green umbrella branded ’34’ – to classy interiors, but what truly makes it VIP is ofcourse the food. The menu quite eclectic makes sure it caters to all palates and does so quite effortlessly. Prices reflect the postcode but we didn’t expect anything less.

Classing itself as a “grill” restaurant, the centrepiece of the kitchen is a bespoke charcoal grill, imported from Argentina and fed by natural fuels. Beef plays an important role at 34 Mayfair and hence it is no surprise why their selection of steak is so popular amongst diners. The range includes Bridge of Allan dry-aged grass-fed, A5 Japanese Wagyu (a fillet priced at a whopping £130) USDA prime, and pure heritage breeds in the Yorkshire Dales.

We had the Tataki Tuna, crispy duck salad and Jamon Iberico for appetisers all presented very well, bang on flavour and great sharing sizes. The staff was friendly and extended some top class hospitality. We belive it’s not the easiest job to cater to omnivores (which we are) but our server did great tailoring recommendations to our mood and appetite.

For the mains we had the Indonesian spiced Stone Bass and the USDA prime Rib eye which we can safely say is the best steak we’ve ever eaten. The bass came with some delicious sides like the spiced corn mash and fried rice which were quite unique in taste. Overall we quite enjoyed sharing this dual cuisine spread amongst us.

Taking great pride in their dessert selection, 34 Mayfair once again presented us with some fun options – some known, some unknown and some with a twist to the classics.

We had the fool proof Creme Brulee, this was a passionfruit one! Needless to say that two golden words – Creme Brulee & Passionfruit can seldom disappoint. The dish looked too pretty to eat, however tasted even better. Next we had the Bramley apple pie which was warm, fluffy and every bit of comfort dessert accompanied with classic vanilla ice cream.

We regret not trying the fluffy round donuts which appeared to be a popular choice amongst diners. They come coated in sugar and served with chocolate sauce, raspberry sauce and lemon meringue….Totally Drool worthy!

Given the restaurant forest in London only keeps getting dense with several old and new diverting focus to competing for Instagram popularity, we see why 34 Mayfair maintains its cult status as a quintessential British luxury dining experience.  

Written by Chandan Mathrawala Bathia 

https://www.34-restaurant.co.uk/

Tel: +44 20 33503434


Champagne Breakfast at Carine

You absolutely need to know about this amazing new restaurant, and more importantly their new breakfast menu. Actually – Champagne Breakfast menu! Let’s talk about this new kid on the block of Dubai’s ever evolving restaurant scene – Carine! Located at the Emirates Golf Club, Carine is a lovely new restaurant offering a beautifully decorated indoor setting and a huge outdoor terrace with some breathtaking views of the golf course.
We recently popped down to Carine to try their new breakfast menu and haven’t stopped talking about it since. Serving a classic breakfast menu with a french twist, this is what came to the table…

Blueberry cappuccino – Signature coffee of Carine created by their head batista, so delish that the recipe has won awards! (and we thought it can’t get better than mimosas for breakfast). 
Classic French Toast with homemade jam and whipped cream – warm fluffy and all the goodness you’d expect. 
Avacado Tartine – quite fool proof we say, nicely seasoned and great portions. Egg’s Benedict with hollandaise sauce – comes with a choice of bacon or smoked salmon – beautifully cooked, full of flavour.

Scrambled eggs with black Truffle – another delish twist to a classic, the flavours married very well together, perfect texture, not too runny and again a huge portion size to share. Lastly some classic homemade granola with yogurt, ultimate comfort food.

Carine truly redefines the concept of breakfast with the launch of this new menu, something we haven’t experienced much in Dubai’s restaurant scene, giving us everything we desire when we think of waking up to a nice breakfast on the weekends. For starters it’s severed until 1pm! The views from the outdoor terrace are seriously impressive and before you realise you’d have whiled away hours of your afternoon admiring the golf course and ordering champagne refills from their outdoor bar. The indoor space equally gorgeous and nicely decorated making it a great place to visit all year round.

Carine +971 4 4179885
https://www.dubaigolf.com/carine

Written by: Chandan Mathrawala 

Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Wins Middle East’s Leading Airport Hotel Award for 8th Time at the World Travel Awards 2019

Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai has won the prestigious award for Middle East’s Leading Airport Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2019. The glamorous Gala Awards ceremony took place at the Warner Bros, Abu Dhabi on 25th April 2019.

This is the 8th time Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai has achieved this momentous award, first in 2008 and then consecutively from 2013-2018, showcasing its tremendous dedication in maintaining the highest standards of guest satisfaction and loyalty.

World Travel Awards™ was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards™ brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence. This year, World Travel Awards™ celebrates its 26th anniversary.

Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “We are delighted to receive this accolade which is an affirmation of our commitment to offer the very best in terms of quality of product, service and experience to our guests. Our hotel has aimed at providing guests with an unparalleled experience of luxury combined with exceptional comfort. We would not have achieved this without the exceptional dedication of our team members who go out of their way to provide personalised attention and create memorable moments for our guests all year round. Another level of success that make us all very proud.”

For more hotel information,visit www.millenniumhotels.com

For hotel marketing contact:
Sheryl Aquiatan
Marketing & Communications 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 Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class.

Currently operating 35 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 & Copthorne is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction.
For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com

Warwick Hotels & Resorts Plans 25 hotels in MENA region by 2025

Warwick Hotels & Resorts (WHR), a global hospitality company present in 25 countries around the world, announced its expansion plans today at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Accelerating its expansion across the area, the group has set an ambitious target of 25 hotels representing 2,500 room by 2025. The company currently operates 16 hotels in the MENA region spread across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey and Lebanon, both in 4- and 5- star categories. In addition, it has a strong development pipeline with six new properties coming up in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Bahrain and Lebanon.

Mr. Jamal Serhan, Senior Vice President and CEO MENA, Warwick Hotels & Resorts (WHR), stated: “We are focused on expanding our presence in the GCC in the 4- and 5-star segment, especially in Saudi Arabia with an overall target to reach 25 hotels by 2025 in the MENA region. The Kingdom, that commands a giant’s share of the Arab GDP, holds strong potential for the growth of tourism and hospitality sector in accordance with Saudi Vision 2030 and we are delighted to be part of it. New leisure and tourism facilities in KSA are forecasted to fuel domestic tourism at 8% per year until 2023 as well as boost international arrivals to 23.3 million.  Hence, investment in Saudi Arabia is very important for us and will hold strong benefits for our company. We will be opening in Riyadh this year two hotels one with 100 rooms and one with 90 rooms. We also have another property coming up in Dammam with 105 keys.”

Elaborating on Warwick’s compelling brand proposition, Mr. Serhan stated, “Warwick Hotels & Resorts has a proven track record of over 38 years for delivering results and outperforming the very best in hotel management, starting from its first hotel, the iconic Warwick New York, acquired in 1980. Warwick has developed a collection of luxury hotels and resorts worldwide derived from its identity. It is our belief that the creation of a new hotel is an art form and not a science in standardization. Today, the Collection continues to grow around the world with a strong pipeline of new locations to be opened in North America; Middle East; Africa; Europe and Asia-Pacific.”

Visitors to ATM can find Warwick Hotels & Resorts (WHR) on stand HC1020 @ Sheikh Saeed Hall 1 in World Trade Centre

About Warwick Hotels and Resorts
Warwick Hotels and Resorts (WHR) was launched in 1980 with the purchase of Warwick New York, a hotel originally built by William Randolph Hearst for his Hollywood friends. The WHR now includes more than 55 prestigious Hotels, Resorts & Spas worldwide located in city centers and resort destinations in the United States, Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Bali, the South Pacific, the Middle East and Africa. Further details can be found at www.warwickhotels.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

SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL REVEALS PLANS FOR EXPANSION, BRANDS AND SUTAINABILITY AT ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET (ATM) 2019

Swiss-Belhotel International, the global hospitality management chain, has concluded a highly successful four days at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), where it updated the Middle Eastern travel trade on its impressive plans for global expansion, brand development and environmental sustainability.

The company sent a high-level delegation to ATM, which took place in Dubai from 28th April to 1st May 2019 and was attended by over 39,000 travel professionals, government ministers and media. The group’s presence was led by Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President, Matthew Faull, Senior Vice President of E-Commerce, Distribution & IT, and Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations & Development for the Middle East, Africa & India.

From a prominent booth on the main show floor, Swiss-Belhotel International’s executives revealed the company’s latest global expansion strategy, including the goal of reaching 250 hotels and 50,000 rooms worldwide, either in operation or under development by 2022. The group currently holds a portfolio of 145 hotels and projects spread across 24 countries.

“We are seeing an excellent growth momentum across our portfolio of brands, with owners increasingly wanting their hotels to be managed by an international brand which is different from large internationalhotel companies,” Mr. Faull said. “We will continue to strengthen and develop our various brands while maximising returns for owners and accelerating growth in emerging countries, as they get easier to reach with greater global accessibility and connectivity.”

This rapid expansion has already started; 2019 will be a significant year for the company, with 28 new hotels scheduled to open. This growth will cover a wide range of global destinations, including theMiddle East, China, Southeast Asia, Europe and Oceania.

Seven of this year’s openings will be located in the Middle East, including Swiss-Belboutique Bneid Al Gar, Kuwait and Swiss-Belinn Doha (both opening in Q2 2019), Swiss-Belsuites Admiral Juffair Bahrain and Swiss-Belinn Airport Muscat (both Q3), and Swiss-Belhotel Al Aziziyah Makkah, Grand Swiss-Belresort Seef, Bahrain and Swiss-Belresidences Al Sharq, Kuwait (all Q4). Overall, Swiss-BelhotelInternational is targeting 25 properties in the Middle East by 2025.

A series of new brands will be introduced to the region, including Grand Swiss-Belresort (Bahrain), Swiss-Belsuites (Bahrain), Swiss-Belboutique (Kuwait) and Swiss-Belinn (Oman and Qatar), creating further choice for guests and greater options for owners and developers.

Swiss-Belhotel International is continuing its impressive expansion in Indonesia, where it currently operates more than 60 properties. Already this year, the company has signed Swiss-Belhotel Bogor, Swiss-Belinn Gajah Mada Medan and Swiss-Belresidences Rasuna Epicentrum, Jakarta, and opened Swiss-Belresort Tanjung Binga on Belitung Island. Meanwhile in Europe, Swiss-Belhotel Du Parc Baden marks the group’s debut in Switzerland.

Also at ATM, Laurent A. Voivenel participated in a panel discussion to address the critical issue of reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. In front of a large audience at the ATM Inspiration Theatre, Mr. Voivenel emphasised the importance of being energy efficient and using renewable resources. He also revealed that Swiss-Belhotel International is working to make all its Middle Eastern hotels carbon neutral in the coming years.

Keen to reward the travel trade for their enduring support, Swiss-Belhotel International used ATM to launch a series of exciting packages for wholesalers and tour operators. Targeted at Middle Easttravellers, these offers included special golf packages in Indonesia and Vietnam, discounted wholesale rates in Australia and New Zealand, early bird discounts in Australia, and free room upgrades in the Philippines.

Finally, Swiss-Belhotel International’s VIP guests were treated to an award-winning experience at ATM. Following the “Meylas 2XL Interior Design Challenge”, which was organised in partnership with 2XL Furniture & Home Décor, Swiss-Belhotel International’s VIP Room was transformed into a luxurious and stylish space. The winner of the contest was Fabidha Safar Rahman, a member of in5/DDFC, who, with the help of Swiss-Belhotel International, was able to bring her design vision to life.

Swiss-Belhotel International will continue to attend the world’s largest B2B shows in future, as part of its commitment to working with the travel trade globally.

For more information about Swiss-Belhotel International, please visit 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

For further information and high-resolution photography, please contact:

Brayna Tolledo 
Group Communication and Loyalty Programme Manager
Swiss-Belhotel International, Group Sales and Marketing Office
Tel: (62 21) 2952 7277, 2952 7278
Fax: (62 21) 2952 7275, 2952 7276
Email: braynatolledo@swiss-belhotel.com
www.swiss-belhotel.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, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for eight 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.  

*Numbers may fluctuate

Royal Central Hotel The Palm, Canal Central Hotel Business Bay and First Central Hotel Suites Showcase New Dining Facilities at ATM

Royal Central Hotel The Palm, Canal Central Hotel Business Bay and First Central Hotel Suites showcased their latest facilities at the Arabian Travel Market. All three hotels have recently added exciting new restaurants giving greater choice to their guests while diversifying their food and beverage offerings.

First Central Hotel Suites, welcomed this year ‘BEASTRO’ – a cool new all-day-dining restaurant. Mr. Ammar Kanaan, Group General Manager of Central Hotels, said, “BEASTRO’s approach is to adapt the great principles of deformalized dining around great food, approachable and engaged service, and a fun environment while combining it with very market friendly pricing. We are very excited to have the very first BEASTRO in Dubai and are confident it will create a strong and loyal customer following.”

Royal Central Hotel The Palm has expanded its dining options with the opening of Ya Bahr restaurant Hush Beach and Choi restaurant. Mohamed Hassan, General Manager of Royal Central Hotel The Palm, said, “We are proud of our unique and exceptional culinary offerings created from the finest ingredients by highly skilled and experienced chefs. Ya Bahr is a lively coastal style Lebanese Seafood outlet that takes diners on a rendezvous of senses with a unique dining experience in a rustic setting with a modern feel. Hush Beach, overlooking the Arabian Gulf, is all about having an awesome time with terrific food in great company. It is the go-to destination for friends and families looking to have a memorable day out. While Choi is a contemporary Japanese Restaurant and Lounge Bar with a relaxing ambience complementing the spectacular views of The Palm. Choi means ‘pinnacle’ that reflects our exquisite service, eclectic medley of cosmopolitan Japanese cuisine, and hand-crafted signature mixology.”

Canal Central Hotel Business Bay has recently added Lilly’s Social House and La Cruise Terrace to its dining facilities. Shady Dawad, General Manager of Canal Central Hotel Business Bay, said, “Lilly’s Social House is an urban historic New Orleans style community bar where guests can enjoy their meals and drinks while listening to classic soul blues and jazz tunes. It is the perfect place for casual lunches with friends, relaxing dinners, after work hang-outs, ladies’ nights, and of course the ‘take me back to New Orleans’ Friday brunch. La Cruise Terrace is a laid-back venue offering guests stunning views of Dubai Canal and Burj Khalifa. It lends itself to stimulating conversations – held beneath the simmering sun or soothing moon light – over shisha and mouth-watering food.”

Visitors to ATM can find Central Hotels on stand #HC0810 in Sheikh Saeed Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre, from 28 April to 1 May 2019.

Connect with Central Hotels on:
@RoyalCentralAE
@CanalCentralAE
@FirstCentralAE
#RoyalCentalAE #CanalCentalAE #FirstCentalAE #CentralHotels #StayFresh

About Central Hotels
Central Hotels has very quickly established itself as a reputed hotel management group in the UAE with its flagship property First Central Hotel Suites located in Barsha Heights (TECOM) near Sheikh Zayed Road. Building up on this amazing success, the brand is now poised to expand its footprint targeting the UAE as the primary market for growth in addition to other lucrative destinations in the Middle East. The group has recently added to its portfolio spectacular new 5-star hotels such as Canal Central Business Bay and Royal Central The Palm followed by Central House Citywalk focused on millennials, Beach Central The Palm, Diamond Central – Business Bay, and Island Central in Dubai.

For more information visit www.central-hotels.com

About Royal Central Hotel The Palm
The stunning Royal Central Hotel The Palm is a place where fantasy lives up to reality. The 5-star hotel features 207 elegantly-appointed rooms and suites, each beautifully designed to intuitively meet the needs of discerning travellers. Set in the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Royal Central Hotel offers an array of recreational activities from water sports to an outdoor infinity pool, state-of-the-art gym and health spa, along with exciting dining options. Guests have access to one of the best private beaches in the city while enjoying unhindered views of the world-famous architectural landmarks such as Atlantis The Palm and Burj Al Arab as they unwind and relax in a beautiful setting. It is also the best spot to watch the city’s spectacular fireworks. Book your stay at Royal Central Hotel on +971 4 873 9300.

About Canal Central Hotel Business Bay
If you are looking for the magical allure of the iconic Burj Khalifa then Canal Central Hotel Business Bay is the place to be. It is only a few minutes away from The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains. Equipped with the finest amenities, each of Canal Central’s 280 spacious rooms and suites offer spectacular views of the Dubai Canal or Burj Khalifa. Completing the experience are a hand-picked selection of dining outlets, flexible meeting spaces, state-of-the-art gymnasium and spa, a stunning infinity swimming pool and salon. Book your stay Canal Central Hotel on +971 4 873 2100.

About First Central Hotel Suites
Equally well-located is First Central Hotel Suites within easy reach of the emirate’s key leisure hubs. In close proximity to the hotel are Dubai Internet City Metro Station, Dubai Media City, Dubai Marina, Montgomerie, Emirates Golf Club, and Mall of the Emirates. The deluxe hotel features 524 spacious and modern apartments equipped with top-notch facilities combined with award-winning hospitality. Book your stay at First Central Hotel Suites on +971 4 454 4900.

For Media Contact:
Hina Bakht
Managing Director
EVOPS Marketing & PR
M: +971 50 6975146 | T: +971 4 566 7355
Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com
www.evops-pr.com

Laurent A. Voivenel, SVP, Swiss-Belhotel International Highlights the Need for Responsible Tourism at ATM

Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International, spoke today at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) on the critical need to reduce the carbon footprint across the industry. Participating in a panel discussion at the ‘ATM Inspiration Theatre’, Laurent emphasized on the importance of achieving energy efficiency using renewable resources.

According to a report by United Nations World Tourism Organisation UNWTO, the hotel industry accounts for 1% of global annual carbon emissions while tourism as a whole accounts for 8% carbon emissions and this is set to increase as the demand continues to grow. Therefore, the hotel industry must reduce its carbon emissions by 66% by 2030 and 90% by 2050 to stay within the 2˚C threshold agreed at COP21.

So, how can travel and tourism best reduce the carbon emissions of the industy?

Laurent said, “It has been calculated that 30% of global annual carbon emissions stem from buildings simply through energy consumption. As a first step, the development of innovative design concepts is essential for energy efficiency in hotel buildings for both new and existing stock. Renewable energy is a global phenomenon and the adoption of solar PV systems in the Middle East is starting to accelerate. Adoption of these can lead to significant benefits for the hospitality sector.”

There are many ways a hotel can substantially reduce its contribution to carbon emissions. The accepted standard for the hospitality industry 31.1kg CO2 per room night. Laurent stated, “We are working towards making all Swiss-Belhotel International properties within our region ‘carbon neutral’ by setting specific targets and implementing and adopting strict water efficiency, energy saving, recycling and other environmentally responsible practices. Each hotel has been given a realistic target every year to invest in energy efficiency and other methods in order to reduce carbon emissions. Quarterly environmental reporting and auditing are being carried out to assess the success of the scheme. As part of this initiative an environmental champion has been identified at each hotel who is responsible for mobilising and monitoring support from other staff members and guests for the programme.”

Visitors to ATM can find Swiss-Belhotel International on stand HC0825 located in Sheikh Saeed Arena in Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

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 145* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for eight 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.  

 *Numbers may fluctuate

For further information visit https://www.swiss-belhotel.com

Swiss-Belhotel International Targets 250 Hotels Worldwide by 2022

Swiss-Belhotel International unveiled today at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) its global expansion strategy with a goal to reach 250 hotels worldwide with 50,000 rooms in operation and under development by 2022. The group currently holds a portfolio of 145 hotels and projects with 14 unique brands spread across 24 countries. Attending the ATM are Mr. Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, Mr. Matthew Faull, Senior Vice President – E-Commerce, Distribution and IT, and Mr. Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, along with other senior management from the region.

Mr. Gavin M. Faull, said, “We are seeing an excellent growth momentum across our portfolio of brands with owners increasingly wanting their hotels to be managed by an international brand which is different from large international hotel companies. 2019 is a very significant year for us whereby we have 28 new hotels lined up for opening and out of these 35% will be located in the Middle East, while the remaining 65% are spread across China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Germany and New Zealand.”

While aggressively growing its footprint in strategic locations, Swiss-Belhotel International remains focused on enhancing profitability with superior brand standards and unique guest experiences in diverse market segments.

Mr. Gavin M. Faull, stressed, “We will continue to strengthen and develop our various brands while maximising returns for owners and accelerating growth in emerging countries as they get easier to reach with greater global accessibility and connectivity. Vietnam is a good example of a fast-growing tourism destination in the Asia Pacific with the country seeing phenomenal progress in the past 12 months. Similarly, the Middle East’s strong travel and tourism outlook matches our ambitious expansion goals and presents us with robust opportunities that we are eager to capitalise on.”

Highlighting Swiss-Belhotel International’s compelling brand proposition, Mr. Gavin M. Faull, said, “Our strength remains the unique fusion of Swiss hospitality and professionalism with Asian passion and service, and we will continue to leverage on it as we enter new destinations.”

Visitors to ATM can find Swiss-Belhotel International on stand HC0825 located in Sheikh Saeed Arena in Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Indonesia AS2550 and Sharjah ME4210 from 28 April to 1 May 2019.

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 145* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for eight 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.  

 *Numbers may fluctuate

For further information visit https://www.swiss-belhotel.com

Swiss-Belhotel International Accelerates Expansion in GCC Targets 25 Hotels by 2025 in MENA Region

Swiss-Belhotel International has identified the GCC as its main growth market in the MENA region. Unveiling the group’s expansion strategy at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) today, Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International, stated, “Geographically speaking, our key focus is to expand and reinforce our position in the GCC through strong organic growth with an objective to have a hotel in operation in every GCC country by the first quarter of 2020.”

Laurent stressed, “The region continues to present us with fantastic opportunities to further enhance and diversify our portfolio. We are going to open this year in the GCC seven exceptional hotels – two in Kuwait, one in Oman, two in Bahrain, one in Saudi Arabia and one in Qatar. In addition, we have a robust development pipeline that will double our inventory of keys by 2020.”

The Middle East is the third largest growth market for Swiss-Belhotel International after Asia, New Zealand and Australia. Laurent stressed, “With 17% of our global portfolio of hotels centered in the Middle East and Africa region, comprising 3000 rooms, it is a very important region for us. Overall our strategy is to accelerate expansion across the MENA region whereby we have mapped out exciting opportunities. Our target is to have 25 hotels representing approximately 6000 rooms in the region. However, GCC will continue to be our biggest market with 60 per cent of portfolio concentrated here in high-growth business and leisure destinations by 2025.”

Elaborating on the development and  the ambitious tourism strategy set out by regional governments, Laurent added, “The huge investment in airports, infrastructure and hotels, broadening portfolio of attractions and facilities, diversification of source markets and collaboration between various business sectors are all accelerating the pace of the GCC’s growth into the future and at Swiss-Belhotel International we are well-placed to capitalise on the opportunity. The upcoming openings, representing our compelling portfolio of diverse brands, will strengthen our presence in the region while giving more choice to travellers.”

Visitors to ATM can find Swiss-Belhotel International on stand HC0825 located in Sheikh Saeed Arena in Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

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 145* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for eight 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.  

 *Numbers may fluctuate

For further information visit https://www.swiss-belhotel.com