Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has launched a WhatsApp Business solution, allowing guests to communicate instantly with the airline via the popular messaging app.
The new service, which is the latest element of Etihad Airways’ digital strategy, will provide an enhanced offering to premium guests when they are at Abu Dhabi International Airport, allowing them to chat with the airline’s agents about their flights in a fast, personal, and efficient way.
In addition to communicating with customer service agents, the WhatsApp Business solution will be expanded in the future to enable guests to receive important messages like flight reminders by opting into WhatsApp communications on the Etihad Airways booking confirmation page.
Robin Kamark, Etihad Airways Chief Commercial Officer, said: “The new WhatsApp Business solution will provide Etihad Airways’ premium guests with immediate contact with the airline, using the very latest technology.
“Air travellers around the world use WhatsApp in their daily lives and so it is an ideal channel for them to communicate with the airline and receive the latest information about their travel journey.”
Etihad Airways offers several real-time channels for guests to contact the airline, including the @EtihadHelp and @EtihadPremium accounts on Twitter, and the airline’s Facebook page.
During the initial trial phase, the Etihad Airways WhatsApp number will be exhibited in Premium check-in at Abu Dhabi Airport. Central Hotels Announces Soft Opening of Royal Central Hotel The Palm
Crowning a stellar year of rapid growth, Central Hotels has announced the soft opening of Royal Central a luxurious 5-star resort at The Palm. The stunning hotel features 207 elegantly-appointed rooms and suites, each beautifully curated to intuitively meet the needs of discerning travellers. One of the biggest attractions of the resort is its striking location on the East Crescent of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah. A stone’s throw-away from the shores of the Arabian Gulf, guests have beachfront 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.
Mr. Ahmad Al Abdulla, Chairman of Central Hotels, said, “We are very excited to announce the soft opening of the Royal Central Hotel The Palm. The hotel has been designed to make travel seamless and enjoyable with our unique ‘Stay Fresh’ concept. This opening demonstrates our confidence in the future growth of the Dubai tourism sector and we have no doubt that Royal Central will establish itself as a preferred choice among travellers.”
Mr. Abdulla Al Abdulla, Vice President of Central Hotels, added, “Dubai is one of the top travel destinations in the world and we look forward to extending our hospitality to a new-generation of globetrotters. At Royal Central Hotel guests can surround themselves with a whole lot of fun in a funky, casual, comfortable and family-friendly atmosphere.”
Whether you want to swim in the shimmering waters, soak up the sun or experience the magnificent sunrises or sunsets, Royal Central Hotel The Palm offers you the ultimate escape. In each of the beautiful rooms and suites, floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious balconies offer the most relaxing views. Mr Ammar Kanaan, Group General Manager of Central Hotels, said, “The spectacular Royal Central Hotel The Palm is your escape from the busy city life. It is the perfect gateway to exploring Palm Jumeirah’s stunning scenic beauty as well as other unique attractions of Dubai. Awaiting you at every corner of the resort are signature experiences designed to provide the relaxation at its finest. Focusing on truly meaningful elements, our facilities have been conceptualized to make the most jaded senses come alive in a cool and vibrant atmosphere.”
Dining options at the Royal Central Hotel range from casual to fine dining restaurants including Choi, La Maison, and Ya Bahr by Dynamic Hospitality. Guests can also enjoy freshly baked pastries and signature speciality coffees as well as other refreshing drinks all day at the trendy new Baristas’ Corner. Opening for the first time in Dubai, Hush Beach Bar will offer guests an immersive experience with its unique location and exciting concept of food and beverages. An array of recreational facilities at the Royal Central ranging from water sports to an outdoor infinity pool, state-of-the-art gym and health spa, along with exciting dining options, allow guests to unwind and relax in a beautiful setting. The hotel also boasts stunning meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment to cater to corporate events and other occasions.
Follow Us on
@RoyalCentralAE
#RoyalCentalAE #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 and Turkey as the primary markets 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, Novotel The Palm, Diamond Central – Business Bay, and Island Central in Dubai, as well as Valley Central Bursa, and Valley Central Trabzon in Turkey.
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
Join the Music Fest Perugia at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai
Join the celebration of the ‘Music Fest Perugia’ at Da Vinci’s, the award-winning Italian restaurant at the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai on 26th and 27th July 2018. The event will showcase some great Italian food and drinks with amazing deals and equally superb music by the restaurant’s live band.
Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “We have always loved sharing the magic and flavours of Italy with our guests at Da Vinci’s that is why it is one of the most awarded Italian restaurants in Dubai. Music Fest Perugia is the largest classical music festival for young musicians held every summer in the beautiful city of Perugia. It is a very special time when loved ones come together to celebrate the triumph of light over dark. We are delighted to join in the celebrations and look forward to welcoming all.”
Launched in 1989, Da Vinci’s is one of Dubai’s very first and finest Italian restaurants offering a wide choice of authentic home-style Italian fare. Winner of numerous prestigious culinary awards, the restaurant has long been a favourite for family and business entertainment. The outlet’s exquisite menu takes you on a culinary journey across Italy and features a variety of signature pizzas and pastas perfectly paired with an extensive selection of beverages. Equally enticing is the ambience at the restaurant that combines simple elegance with classic Italian style and friendly service.
- Get 30% discount on a’la carte menu
- Choice of pizza or pasta with a bottle of beer for AED 59 per person
- Terms and conditions apply
Baristas’ Corner Opens its First Specialty Coffee Shop in Dubai at Canal Central Hotel in Business Bay
Need a good coffee? Head to the newly-opened specialty coffee house Baristas’ Corner at Canal Central Hotel in Business Bay. Developed by Emirati entrepreneurs Mr. Abdulla Alabdulla, Partner and Co-Founder and Mr. Mohamed Hassan Alshamsi, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of the company, Baristas’ Corner offers a wide selection of refreshing and unique brews.
Mr. Alabdulla said, “People want an experience when having a coffee and we found it hard to find one as we sipped our way around the city. Baristas’ Corner was born as the outcome of having to continuously chase a consistently exceptional cup of coffee that remained elusive. It has been developed as much for coffee connoisseurs as it is for coffee lovers.”
With competition heating up, how would Baristas’ Corner fare in the market? Mr. Alshamsi stressed, “A coffee house is a social hub and has always been a mark of sophistication. This feeling and experience of being in a coffee house is so special and that is how Baristas’ Corner has been designed. Moreover, nowadays coffee shops have taken a new role as a working place for freelance workers and digital nomads, who may not have an office, that is pushing the demand further.”
There are many distinctive and diverse flavors of coffees to explore on the Baristas’ Corner menu. Mr. Alabdulla elaborated, “The wide array of coffees at Baristas’ Corner are handpicked matching exceptional grade with perfect ratios and flavor compositions. The single origin beans and bespoke blends are selectively sourced from different corners of the globe’s sustainable farms, estates, and roasters including countries like Brazil, Columbia, Ethiopia, Guatemala, and many more.
Mr. Alshamsi, added, “Using these our talented and trained baristas follow precise brewing methods to deliver the ideal, fragrant cup. A must-try is Espresso-based: Fresco, a unique coffee drink with a refreshing mix of milk and mint. Equally superb is Manually Brewing Coffeewhere we produce a deliciously clean cup with full control on the brewing.”
The design aesthetics at Baristas’ Corner strikes the right note by creating a welcoming and relaxing ambience for people seeking to escape the city’s frantic pace. Here, a tranquil place exists for coffee connoisseurs and caffeine addicts to celebrate the art of coffee and partake in a culture of sharing and discovery. Beyond coffee, Baristas’ Corner also serves select artisanal teas and fresh, delicious pastries.
There are major expansion plans lined up to make the consummate cup at Baristas’ Corner accessible to those curious and familiar about coffee’s enriching experience. The second outlet will soon open at the Royal Central The Palm followed by future properties under Central Hotels as well as other brands.
Follow Us on
@CanalCentralAE
@BaristasCornerOfficial
#CanalCentalAE #CentralHotels #BaristasCorner
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 and Turkey as the primary markets 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, Novotel The Palm, Diamond Central – Business Bay, and Island Central in Dubai, as well as Valley Central Bursa, and Valley Central Trabzon in Turkey.
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
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:
- Grand Swiss-Belresort Seef, Bahrain
- Swiss-Belresidences Juffair, Bahrain
- Swiss-Belhotel Al Aziziyah Makkah, KSA
- Swiss-Belboutique Tahlia, Riyadh, KSA
- Swiss-Belhotel Riyadh, KSA
- Swiss-Belinn Airport Muscat, Oman
- Swiss-Belresidences Al Sharq, Kuwait
- Swiss-Belboutique Bneid Al Gar, Kuwait
- Swiss-Belresort Battersea, North Coast, Egypt
- Swiss-Belhotel and Suites Asmarat, Cairo, Egypt
- 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.
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
- Instagram @alseefjumeirah
- Facebook /alseefjumeirah
- Twitter @alseefjumeirah
Arab League honours Mohammed bin Rashid with ‘Shield for Leadership in Arab Development’
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
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
“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)
- 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
Zayed bin Mohammed Family Gathering reflects on a decade of success
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.”