Alpha Destination Management Poised for Greater Growth Targets 14% Increase in Revenue in 2018
Alpha Destination Management, a market leader in the tourism sector in the GCC, unveiled at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) the company’s latest developments and expansion plans.
Mr. Samir Hamadeh, General Manager of Alpha Destination Management, said, “We expect to see a 14% increase in revenue this year from the recent business deals including the Expedia Local Expert agreement. Our continued success is fuelled by our extensive local and global knowledge combined with the wide network of international partners. Moving forward we are committed to delivering superior value to our customers with the highest quality of products and services and outstanding packages.”
The UK, Russia, Germany and the GCC countries remain a key focus for Alpha. Mr. Hamadeh, stressed, “We expect to see continuous growth in tourism numbers from the UK, Russian, GCC and German markets that are our stronghold and leading markets into our destination. We have recently formalised some strategic alliances in the UK and Germany that will help us to gain a bigger market share. Our approach to each market is different from the other and key to that is offering tailored experiences to grow stop over business. Globally people are looking forauthentic, curated experiences with value-added packages and our aim is to meet the expectations of both regional and international travellers with the right offerings.”
Elaborating on the new developments in Dubai, Mr. Hamadeh said, “Dubai is becoming a major attractions hub with the recent addition of 17 new leisure attractions, strong year-round calendar of events and entertainment, world-class infrastructure and superb global connectivity. We are eager to capitalise on this massive opportunity which is in line with our current business strategy to boost our share of tourism attractions and excursions where we are witnessing a tremendous growth. Our helicopter services are doing very well. Therefore, we have added more helipad locations in Dubai and other emirates.”
To grow its online business, Alpha Destination Management has developed a new and enhanced online portal for the B2B segment. Mr. Hamadeh, stressed, “Our industry is being reshaped by the latest innovations and technological advancements. Digitalization is affecting the entire value chain of the travel and tourism industry; from influencing traveling decisions, to collecting feedback and improving the delivery of products and services. This is revolutionizing the complete customer lifecycle – right from booking to experience, and beyond. At Alpha we are making the necessary investments in technology to ensure the very best systems for our partners and associates.”
About Alpha Destination Management
Founded in 1996, by Mr. Ghassan Aridi and his partners, Alpha Destination Management is the leading destination management company and a pioneer in the tourism sector in the Arabian Gulf. Over the last two decades, the company has established itself as one of the most credible and reputed brands not only in the Gulf region but also in the international tourism industry. Controlling a significant market share of the lucrative tourism sector in the GCC, Alpha Destination Management is a market leader in the region with the largest annual turnover and wide network of international partners offering the highest levels of service and innovative and exciting experiences. Our extensive global and local knowledge and network, outstanding expertise and sound reputation is the key to success for us and all our partners.
For more information about Alpha Destination Management visit http://www.alphatoursdubai.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 SAILS INTO TANZANIA WITH BEACHFRONT SWISS-BELRESORT ZANZIBAR
DUBAI – Swiss-Belhotel International signed today at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai a management agreement with Zanzibar Crown Hotel and Resort Limited to operate the beautiful Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar expected to open for business in 2019. This marks the group’s debut in Tanzania, and with it East Africa, that is currently witnessing a massive demand for quality hotels. Located on an idyllic salt-white beach, Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar is being developed at an investment of US$ 25 million on the prime Indian Ocean coastline merely 3 km from Abedi Amani Karume International Airport and 7 km from the Wonders Palace, Stoned Town and Forodhani Gardens.
Mr. Nadhim Said Hamdan Al Rawahi, the Owner of Zanzibar Crown Hotel and Resort Limited, said, “Zanzibar is the jewel of the Indian Ocean where Africa meets Arabia and we are delighted to expand our attractive local hospitality portfolio with Swiss-Belhotel International. With its fascinating beachfront location Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar is perfectly situated to offer its guests a relaxing and enjoyable experience in this tropical paradise bursting with nature, culture, adventure and history. Embodying high-quality standards with world-class facilities, the hotel is being developed to provide travellers a unique opportunity to intimately connect to their surroundings, beaches, nature and the welcoming Swahili ‘Karibu’ atmosphere.”
Whether you want to simply gaze for hours over the scenic sea and sky, spend dazzling days in the sun lazing on sunbeds alongside the beach, discover the secrets of the sea by diving and snorkeling in the clear blue waters, or enjoy exciting watersports, the resort will make all your dreams come true.
Mr. Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “We are thrilled to debut in Zanzibar and very pleased to collaborate with Crown Hotel and Resort Limited in this exciting venture. The Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar will be among the few internationally branded resorts operating in the island to accommodate upper/midscale travellers which gives us access to one of the fastest growing market segments that we are eager to capitalize on. Our aim with this project is to provide guests all the fun, comfort and enjoyment without the hefty price tag.”
Boasting 125 keys (with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean), Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar, is being equipped with a wide range of facilities and entertainment activities to serve the varied needs of its guests. On site will be an all-day-dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a banquet hall, a beach lounge, kids pool and kids club, swimming pool, spa and health club and variety of watersports.
Swiss-Belhotel International continues to experience strong growth in the MEA region. Mr. Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, stressed, “We are very excited to expand our footprint in Africa with a historic and vibrant destination like Zanzibar. It is an extremely significant development for us being our first in East Africa which is the continent’s most lucrative market for hotels. Zanzibar is a leading holiday destination. The number of tourists visiting the island has been consistently growing at 8-10 per cent a year for the past decade resulting in exceptional performance by hotels which places us in a very buoyant market. With its stunning coastal location, Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar is being tailored to provide its guests, outstanding comfort and value with an enriching experience.”
In addition to its natural and historic charm, recent upgrade of the airport in Zanzibar with a new terminal and extended runway as well as superb new leisure attractions such as a planned 18-hole Ernie Els golf course are all contributing to the boom in tourism.
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Swiss-Belhotel International will be present at Arabian Travel Market from 22 to 25 April on stand ‘HC1130’ in Sheikh Saeed Hall 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, 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-behotel.com
*Numbers may fluctuate
Al Hokair Group Riding High on Growing Demand for Entertainment Attractions Among Travellers in the GCC
Growth of entertainment parks and amusement attractions is driving tourism at an unprecedented pace across the GCC region. Al Hokair Group, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading and most established names in the hospitality and entertainment sector, unveiled today at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) its latest developments and expansion plans in the sector.
Mr. Sami Al Hokair, Managing Director of Al Hokair Group, said, “Having played a pivotal role in the development of family entertainment centres in Saudi Arabia, we are well placed to take advantage of the massive opportunities opening up in the sector. Growth of tourism in the region is generating greater demand for such destinations. At Al Hokair we offer a unique mix of themed attractions and experiences and will soon be expanding out footprint in the region with the addition of new locations.”
Mr. Omar Samara, CEO of Al Hokair Group, said, “We have come a long way to realise our ambition of becoming a leading name in the amusement industry in the last five decades. Today, our entertainment division offers unlimited attractions for families taking into account varied interests of the diverse age groups. To start with we were the first provider of safe entertainment in Saudi Arabia and now have a portfolio of 80 plus amusement centres spread across the Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates.”
Capitalising on the growing demand for family entertainment in the region, Al Hokair Group has been engaged in aggressive expansion. Eight new entertainment centres were added over the past 12 months in Saudi Arabia with an additional six new locations planned for opening this year. Along with the continued expansion of activities across KSA and the UAE, the group is also eager to tap into the emerging opportunities in various other parts of the Middle East and North Africa.
Elaborating on the group’s commitment to ensuring quality and value at every step, Mr. Mishal Abdul Mohsen Al Hokair, Deputy CEO & General Manager of Al Hokair Entertainment Division, stated, “We remain faithful to our core objective of providing well-certified quality service to our customers. Mr father Sheikh Abdulmohsin Al Hokair always said our goal was simply ‘to bring smiles’ and that remains until today integral to our philosophy while dealing with our staff and customers. Our upcoming projects will offer many new exciting games and experiences for players. In addition to entertainment they have also been chosen and developed to provide ‘edutainment’ value to users.”
–ENDS–
Al Hokair Group will be present at Arabian Travel Market from 22 to 25 April on stand ‘HC 0570’ in Sheikh Saeed Hall in Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
About Al Hokair Group Founded in 1975, under the leadership of Sheikh Abdulmohsin Al Hokair, Al Hokair Group boasts a portfolio of 80+ entertainment centres and 40+ hotels comprising more than 5000 rooms spread across KSA, UAE and JORDAN. Occupying over 882,226 sqm of space and employing over 4500 experienced professionals, the group serves over 12 million people annually.
For more information about Al Hokair Group visit www.alhokair.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
Al Hokair Group’s Entertainment Brands
Sparky’s
Lighten Up Your Life
Offering modern group computer gaming, mechanical adventure games testing strength, endurance and suspense games played on huge hydraulic screens, Sparky’s Centers are the epitome of fun and happiness – as symbolized by our butterfly logo and now added 3D cinema to the mix, making Sparky’s the premier family destination in the Kingdom.
Sparky’s Zone Centers
The chain of Sparky’s zone characterized by its digital decorations that make the visitor feels as if he is swimming inside the programs, devices and computers to take from them moments of excitement and suspense in climates that are filled with activity and vitality reflected by games that are selected with extreme care and accuracy that observe all age categories.
Sporty’s
Sporty’s is the latest concept in a long line of successful family play brands to be imagined, implemented and operated by the renowned Al Hokair Group.
At the heart of the groundbreaking ‘Sporty’ vision lies the unique concept of blending competitive sports and physical actions within a mould breaking FEC (family entertainment centre) experience.
Set with in a contemporary environment Sporty’s will engage young and old in an enthralling mix of nature, technology, and customer interactivity. Custom themed rides and cutting-edge attractions will ensure families return time and again to play in this magical arena of light, sound and fun.
Snowy Forest
Al Hokair group has launched its new concept of FECs Snowy Forest in kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Snowy Forest is unique with its special interior design and the games that make the visitors feeling like he is in a Snowy forest beside the lovely Snowy special characters and the safe games and soft play areas that fit to the kids aged below 12 years. Snowy forest centers include also special areas for the kids between 1 year to 6 years which are supervised by well-trained employees to take care of the kids. Beside the educational games which fit to their ages. You may also hold your little one’s birthday special at any of Snowy forest branches and give them memories they will never forget.
Sky Zone
Trampoline Park
Sky Zone is dedicated to providing you with the pure joy that comes with flying. They’re sky lovers, thrill seekers and people who believe that jumping is freedom. They believe fitness can be fun and play can be smart. They’re healthy and bursting with energy. They believe in how to fly high and keep it safe. They are Sky Zone. The trampoline parks will operate under the Sky Zone name and will cover, 1,400 square
metres and 2,500 square metres respectively. They will be the first Sky Zone installations
to open in Saudi Arabia and will be equipped not just with basic trampolines, but features
such as side-walls, slopes and basketball hoops will be added plus foam pits. Staff will be
on hand to oversee the operation of the parks, specially trained by Sky Zone.
This will carry on the theme of exercise. Trampolines are recognised as one of the finest
forms of exercise available.
Go Go Toys
Kids Toys Shop
The Group was keen to provide all the services that visitors to amusement centers need. Therefore, the chain of Go Go Toys stores was launched. They are characterized by different formations of games that suit all categories and ages. The Group concluded contracts with the biggest companies that supply the games, so children can access the latest and best games, which focus on developing children’s sensory and intellectual skills.
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Travel tech professionals need to collaborate to provide holistic customer experience experts agree
- Future trends in travel technology discussed at Arabian Travel Market
- Shifting customer behaviour, distribution evolution and the changing dynamics within direct and indirect sales channels and the digital transformation come under the spotlight
Central Hotels to Open Two New Hotels in Dubai this May 2018
Bolstering its portfolio, Central Hotels is all set to double its inventory of keys in Dubai next month with the opening of two spectacular hotels namely Royal Central The Palm (207 keys) and Canal Central in Business Bay (280 keys). Both properties have been designed in contemporary style to serve the needs of modern business and leisure travellers. Featuring world-class facilities and inspiring spaces with signature personalised service, each property is unique in its own way.
Central Hotels’ impressive growth in Dubai is fuelled by the city’s extensive expansion of tourism infrastructure in preparation of Expo 2020. Mr. Ahmad Al Abdulla, Chairman of Central Hotels, said, “Our expansion strategy demonstrates our commitment to support the growth of the destination and its envisioned potential. We look forward to being part of this incredible success by contributing positively to the hospitality sector in the UAE.”
Mr. Abdulla Al Abdulla, Vice President of Central Hotels, further added, “The emirates will continue to attract tourists from across the world with its diverse offerings. Our brand is ideally positioned to cater to the needs of local and international travellers seeking world-class service and facilities.”
Mr Ammar Kanaan, General Manager of Central Hotels, stated, “We are very pleased with these new hotels that have a distinct style and personality reflective of the neighbourhoods’ vibe and energy. WhileRoyal Central The Palm offers travellers laid-back luxury in a fun and family-friendly atmosphere, Canal Central in Business Bay is ideal for corporate guests and business travellers while offering unobstructed views of the Dubai Canal and Burj Khalifa.. In addition, both hotels will be made smarter and more environment friendly with our paperless approach and initiative.”
Strategically located in Business Bay on Sheikh Zayed Road, Canal Central is only minutes away from Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai Design District, Dubai International Convention Centre and Exhibition Halls, The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains. Each of the hotel’s 280 spacious rooms and suites offer spectacular Canal or Burj Khalifa views and are equipped with the finest amenities. 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 male and female salon. A huge attraction will be Lilly’s Social House, that is coming to town for the first time and will offer exceptional food, innovative beverages and live nightly jazz.
Located on the East Crescent of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah, Royal Central The Palm is a beachside Hotel Resort featuring 207 rooms. From its exceptional location on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, guests can access one of the best private beaches in the city as well as enjoy unhindered views of the iconic destination. An array of recreational facilities ranging from water sports to outdoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art gym and health spa, along with exciting dining options, allow guests to unwind and relax in a beautiful setting. 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.
Visit Central Hotels stand #HC0810 at Arabian Travel Market in Sheikh Saeed Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre from 22 – 25 April 2018.
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. Featuring 524 apartments equipped with top-notch facilities, it offers travellers the best of Arabian hospitality in the heart of Dubai. Building up on this amazing success, the brand is now poised to expand its footprint in the GCC targeting Saudi Arabia and the UAE as the primary markets for growth.
For more information about First Central Hotel Suites and Central Hotels visit: www.firstcentraldubai.com | www.central-hotels.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
Al Hokair Group Continues to Expand in the Hospitality Sector with Exciting New Developments
Consolidating its partnership with the world’s leading hospitality brands, Al Hokair Group continues to expand rapidly in gateway business and leisure destinations across the Middle East.Following the addition of 1113 new rooms to its exceptional portfolio of hotels over the last 12 months, the group has increased its inventory of keys by approximately 25 per cent from 4548 rooms to 5661 rooms.
Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) today Mr. Sami Al Hokair, Managing Director of Al Hokair Group, stated, “Al Hokair’s expansion strategy is in line with region’s growth and investment in the tourism sector. Our partnership with global hospitality brands such as Marriott International, IHG, ACCOR Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group and HILTON gives us a unique edge over the competitors while leveraging Al Hokair Group’s position as a market leader in the hospitality industry. The recent addition of fabulous new hotels namely Jabal Omar Marriott Hotel, Radisson Blu Residence Istanbul Batisehir, Radisson Blu Hotel Jeddah Corniche, Park Inn by Radisson Jubail, MENA Plaza Al Barsha Dubai, MENA Airport Hotel Jeddah, MENA ApartHotel Al Barsha Dubai, MENA Hotel Tabuk KSA and Jeddah Marriott Hotel (opening 2019), has allowed us to penetrate new destinations like Makkah, Tabuk and Istanbul while growing our presence in existing territories”. Mr. Sami Al Hokair added, “Furthermore, we have accelerated the expansion of Al Hokair’s owned brand MENA Hotels & Resorts with a fresh new look and concept reflecting the pulse of Arabian hospitality. This diversity of brands and hotels allows us to serve a wide range of market segments from mid-scale to luxury while providing a superb choice to our guests including the new generation of travellers.” The new additions and development will positively contribute to the revenue and increase market share of Al Hokair hotels’ division. Mr. Omar Samara, CEO of Al Hokair Group, “We believe there is a tremendous potential for growth in the hospitality sector in spite of the current challenges in the market and the global market conditions. Our long-term strategic partnerships are founded on compelling value propositions and business transparency. Combining our resources and in-depth understanding of the region with the global network and expertise of the world’s most successful hospitality brands we aim to contribute positively to the Vision 2030 as tourism and hospitality is a key pillar in the growth of Kingdom’s GDP. All our hotels stand out for their outstanding location, design excellence and facilities developed to match the highest industry standards. Our success is rooted in our unrivalled heritage founded on principles of integrity,efficiency, quality, innovation, value, growth and teamwork.” Mr. Haitham Murad, Managing Director of the Hotels Division at Al Hokair Group, added: “The addition of new hotels to the Group enhances our presence in the Kingdom and beyond. We are always keen on providing quality service to our guests throughout our hotels, while preserving the principles of Arab hospitality that sets us apart and ensuring the guests’ comfort and satisfaction during their stay, thanks to a carefully selected team of experienced hospitality professionals. In addition, we invest heavily in the training of Saudi young men and women and in recruiting them in the vital hotel sector. Our strategic partnership with some of the world’s leading hotel companies has consolidated our position to keep on the path of competitiveness, delivering value and excellence, adopting new technologies and providing top-notch solutions, whether in the local or regional markets.” –ENDS– Al Hokair Group will be present at Arabian Travel Market from 22 to 25 April on stand ‘HC 0570’ in Sheikh Saeed Hall in Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. About Al Hokair Group Founded in 1975, under the leadership of Sheikh Abdulmohsin Al Hokair, Al Hokair Group boasts a portfolio of 90+ entertainment centres and 40+ hotels comprising more than 5500 rooms spread across KSA, UAE and JORDAN. Occupying over 882,226 sqm of space and employing over 4100 experienced professionals, the group serves over 12 million people annually. For more information about Al Hokair Group visit www.alhokair.com For media Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.comSWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL REACHES GLOBAL MILESTONE OF 150 HOTELS IN OPERATION & DEVELOPMENT
DUBAI – Swiss-Belhotel International, the award-winning global hospitality chain, announced today at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai a major milestone of reaching 150 hotels in operation and development.
Mr. Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, commented, “Reaching 150 hotels opened or signed globally is a very important milestone for us and highlights our momentous growth. This achievement illustrates the strength of Swiss-Belhotel International’s superb portfolio of brands delivering exceptional guest experience in every segment of the market with the support of our outstanding partners and a great team.”
Mr. Faull further added, “Our global success is driven by our aggressive expansion strategy in high-growth markets. Moving forward, we remain committed to accelerate the growth of our brands and are eager to capitalise on the upcoming opportunities by leveraging on the synergies across our wide industry network.”
Swiss-Belhotel International’s legacy dates back to the company’s establishment in Hong Kong in 1987. The group currently operates 73 hotels worldwide and has 77 projects in the pipeline. It is counted among the top 100 hotel companies in the world offering a choice of 14 brands in 22 destinations across 4 continents with 10 regional offices. Since 2016, Swiss-Belhotel International started expanding aggressively in Australia and New Zealand where the group not only manages hotels but ventured into ownership of the management rights. Europe is also on the radar where the company recently signed a hotel in Italy and is considering 4 more projects in the region.
The Middle East and Africa are strategic markets for Swiss-Belhotel International with 17% of the global portfolio centered in the region. Mr. Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “We have got an extremely strong development pipeline in the Middle East and Africa with a portfolio of over 3,500 rooms across 12 cities. 2018 is a significant year for us with six new hotels opening in quick succession. In addition,we are in negotiations for various other projects that will see our business grow substantially in the region over the coming months. We expect to reach 30 hotels in the Middle East and Africa by 2020.”
Swiss-Belhotel International is present at Arabian Travel Market from 22 to 25 April on stand ‘HC1130’ in Sheikh Saeed Hall 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 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 New Zealand, Hong Kong, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. www.swiss-behotel.com *Numbers may fluctuate
Emirates scoops four awards at the World Travel Awards Middle East 2018
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has been recognised at the World Travel Awards Middle East 2018 with four awards – Middle East’s Leading Airline, Middle East’s Leading Airline Brand, Middle East’s Leading Business Class Airport Lounge and Middle East’s Leading Cabin Crew.
The red carpet ceremony was attended by more than 500 industry leading figures and professionals from across the Middle East. Khalid Al Serkal, Emirates’ District Manager Sharjah received the awards on behalf of the airline. Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, Divisional Senior Vice President Commercial Operations Centre said: “It is an honour to be recognised by the World Travel Awards Middle East 2018 for our ongoing efforts to continually enhance the customer experience both onboard and on the ground. Taking the top spot in multiple categories is a reflection of the airline’s commitment to operational excellence, outstanding customer service and a focused approach on building the brand.” Last year, the airline launched product enhancements on its Boeing 777 and A380 aircraft – unveiling its enhanced A380 Onboard Lounge, game-changing Boeing 777-300ER First Class private suites and new Business Class cabin and configuration on its Boeing 777-200LR aircraft. Passengers on Emirates across all cabins can enjoy its award winning in-flight entertainment system ice, with up to 3,500 channels and 20MB complimentary on-board Wi-Fi, as well as regionally inspired meals prepared by award-winning chefs. Emirates’ state-of-the-art, seven Business Class Lounges at Dubai International Airport Concourses A, B and C – boast a total seat capacity of over 4,500. Concourse B lounges recently completed a US$ 11 million makeover, offering Business Class customers, as well as Platinum and Gold Skywards members the highest standards of comfort before their flight. The airline also expanded its global network of lounges to 41 dedicated Emirates Lounges in 2017. The airline’s international team of over 23,000 cabin crew come from over 135 countries, and speak more than 60 languages. Crew members are trained to provide the very best inflight service and Emirates on-board experience. Emirates operates a modern fleet of 269 all wide-body aircraft, and is the first and only airline in the world to operate a fleet of all Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft for its passenger flights. The airline’s extensive network offers customers travel choices to over 159 destinations, in 85 countries, across six continents.Apple adds Earth Day donations to trade-in and recycling program
Ahead of Earth Day, Apple today announced that for every device received at Apple stores and apple.com through the Apple GiveBack program from now through April 30, the company will make a donation to the non-profit Conservation International. As part of its ongoing recycling effort, the company also debuted Daisy, a robot that can more efficiently disassemble iPhone to recover valuable materials. Both Apple GiveBack and Daisy support Apple’s commitment to create a healthier planet through innovation — and help the company move a step closer to its goal of making its products using only recycled or renewable materials.
“At Apple, we’re constantly working toward smart solutions to address climate change and conserve our planet’s precious resources,” said Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives. “In recognition of Earth Day, we are making it as simple as possible for our customers to recycle devices and do something good for the planet through Apple GiveBack. We’re also thrilled to introduce Daisy to the world, as she represents what’s possible when innovation and conservation meet.”
Through Apple GiveBack, customers will be able to turn in their devices at any Apple Store or through apple.com to be recycled or traded in. For each Apple device received today through April 30, Apple will make a donation to Conservation International to support its efforts to preserve and protect the environment.1 Eligible devices will receive credit that customers can use toward an in-store purchase or put on an Apple Store Gift Card for future use.2
Conservation International uses science, policy and partnerships to protect the natural world people rely on for food, fresh water and livelihood. Founded in 1987, the organization works in more than 30 countries on six continents to ensure a healthy, prosperous planet.
Daisy, Apple’s New Recycling Robot
Apple’s newest disassembly robot, Daisy, is the most efficient way to reclaim more of the valuable materials stored in iPhone. Created through years of R&D, Daisy incorporates revolutionary technology based on Apple’s learnings from Liam, its first disassembly robot launched in 2016. Daisy is made from some of Liam’s parts and is capable of disassembling nine versions of iPhone and sorting their high-quality components for recycling. Daisy can take apart up to 200 iPhone devices per hour, removing and sorting components, so that Apple can recover materials that traditional recyclers can’t — and at a higher quality.
Apple’s Commitment to the Environment
As part of its continued commitment to supporting a healthy planet through innovation, Apple will today also release its annual Environment Report, detailing the company’s environmental progress in three priority areas:
- Reducing Apple’s carbon footprint by using renewable energy sources and driving energy efficiency in its products and facilities.
- Conserving precious resources.
- Pioneering the use of safer materials in its products and processes.
Last week, Apple announced its global facilities are now powered with 100 percent clean energy. This achievement includes retail stores, offices, data centers and co-located facilities in 43 countries — including China, India, the United Kingdom and the United States. The company also announced nine additional manufacturing partners committed to powering all of their Apple production with 100 percent clean energy, bringing the total number of supplier commitments to 23.
Today, Apple Watch users will receive a notification about the Earth Day Challenge, an activity encouraging them to get outside, enjoy the planet and complete a workout of at least 30 minutes. If they do so on Earth Day, they’ll receive a special achievement and unique stickers in iMessage. Starting tomorrow, Apple stores around the world will feature logos with green leaves or window decals in honor of Earth Day.
Press Contacts
Sally Hamandi Apple hamandi@apple.com 8000 444 19291
Now Anyone Can Create Their Own Personalized Alexa Skill in Just Minutes
Amazon today introduced Alexa Skill Blueprints, a new way to create your own personalized skills and responses for Alexa. Using a set of easy-to-use templates anyone can create customized experiences for Alexa within minutes just by filling in the blanks. Whether it’s your own answer to the question “Alexa, who is the best mom in the world?” or a skill that offers helpful information for the babysitter, “Alexa, open My Sitter,” Alexa Skill Blueprints allow you to build experiences into Alexa that are personalized to you and help make Alexa even more useful around your home. The skills you create are specially designed for you and your family, and will only appear on the devices registered to your Amazon account.
“Alexa Skill Blueprints is an entirely new way for you to teach Alexa personalized skills just for you and your family,” said Steve Rabuchin, Vice President, Amazon Alexa. “You don’t need experience building skills or coding to get started—my family created our own jokes skill in a matter of minutes, and it’s been a blast to interact with Alexa in a totally new and personal way.”
Using Alexa Skill Blueprints is as easy as filling in the blanks. You can have fun customizing responses to questions like “Alexa, what is the best city?” or “Alexa, who has the best sense of humor?” You can also use Skill Blueprints to create an interactive adventure story with your child as the lead character, “Alexa, start Anna’s Story,” or create a skill to poke fun at Dad’s corny one liners, “Alexa, open Dad’s Jokes.” The skills and responses you create with Alexa Skill Blueprints will be available instantly on the devices associated with your account.
Getting Started with Alexa Skill Blueprints:
Creating your own Alexa skill and responses is simple. Just follow three easy steps:
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1. Select your blueprint template by visiting the Alexa Skill Blueprints website: blueprints.amazon.com. There you can browse more than 20 Skill Blueprints across four categories including Fun & Games, At Home, Storyteller, and Learning & Knowledge.
2. Unleash your creativity. Each blueprint comes with pre-filled content that can be used as-is or customized as you like.
3. With just one click your skill will be available on all Alexa-enabled devices associated with your Amazon account.
There is no limit to the number of skills you can create. Need to add even more hilarious jokes to the “Dad’s Jokes” skill? No problem, editing is just as simple using the Alexa Skill Blueprints website. Alexa Skill Blueprints available at launch include: At Home- Custom Q&A: Customize responses to your questions
- Houseguest: Make your guests feel at home with quick access to important info
- Babysitter: Help your sitter find things, remember steps and get important info
- Pet Sitter: Help your pet sitter care for your favorite animal
- Family Jokes: Create a list of your favorite jokes for when you need a laugh
- Trivia: Create your own multiple choice trivia game on any topic
- Inspirations: Curate a list of your favorite inspirational quotes
- Family Trivia: Play together and brush up on family history
- Bachelorette Party: Play to find out how well the bride’s friends know her
- Birthday Trivia: Play to see who knows the birthday girl or boy best
- Burns: Roast your friends and family with lighthearted burns
- Compliments: Flatter your favorites with a list of custom compliments
- Double Trouble: Find out which couple knows each other best with this customizable game
- First Letter: Play a game of categories starting with a certain letter
- Adventure: Write an adventure story where your child is the hero
- Fairy Tale: Customize an interactive prince and princess-themed tale
- Sci-Fi: Create an interactive story with a far-out theme
- Fable: Create a short narrative with a moral of the story
- Flash Cards: Study, test yourself, and master any subject by voice
- Facts: Keep a list of facts on your favorite topic, all in one place
- Quiz: Challenge yourself and others with a customizable quiz