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Events crucial for Middle East to realize tourism market value of US$133.6 billion by 2028, says Arabian Travel Market

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Events for Tourism Growth will be adopted as the official show theme for Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2020, taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre from Sunday 19 – Wednesday 22 April 2020.

According to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the direct contribution of travel and tourism to the Middle East’s GDP is predicted to rise by 4.2% per annum to US $133.6 billion by 2028 – driven in part by additional tourists to the region as a result of mega-events, major sporting and political events, cultural festivals, concerts and MICE events. 

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “Events of all kinds have become increasingly important drivers for international arrivals to the UAE, GCC and wider MENA region over recent years.

“With this in mind, ATM 2020’s spotlight theme will be launched as a platform to explore the impact events have on tourism growth in the region and to inspire the travel and hospitality industry about the next generation of events, while bringing together senior travel executives to meet and conduct business under one roof over four days.”

In the UAE alone, the major exhibition centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi experienced a 14% growth in footfall between 2016 and 2018, with Dubai World Trade Centre welcoming 3.4 million visitors in 2018 and Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, combined with Al Ain Exhibition Centre – welcoming over two million during the same period.

Expo 2020 will be the largest event ever staged in the Arab World. Taking place from October 2020 to April 2021, 192 pavilions from countries around the world will be showcased, with over 25 million visitors – 145,000 visits for every one of the 173 days the site is open, expected.

Organisers of the event are predicting 11 million visits by people living in the UAE and 14 million from overseas visitors – most of whom are expected to be tourists. According to consultancy firm EY, this will provide a US$33.4 billion (AED122.6 billion) boost to the local economy – supporting the equivalent of 49,700 full-time jobs a year.

In Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030 has set aside $64 billion to invest in culture, leisure and entertainment projects over the next decade, according to a recent report from real estate firm Savills.

This investment combined with more relaxed access to visas are predicted to significantly add to the attractiveness of the country with entertainment activities in the kingdom predicted to attract 25 million visitors by 2021.

Curtis said: “Looking at 2018 alone, exhibitions across Saudi Arabia witnessed a 103% increase in visitation with a total of 61 major events taking place over 349 days.  Last year was also a milestone in terms of sporting events for the country, with events such as the King Salman Tennis Championship, WWE Crown Jewel and Formula E taking place in the Kingdom.”

ATM, considered by industry professionals as a barometer for the Middle East and North Africa tourism sector, welcomed almost 40,000 people to its 2019 event with representation from 150 countries. With over 100 exhibitors making their debut, ATM 2019 showcased the largest ever exhibition from Asia.

eTN is a media partner for ATM.

About Arabian Travel Market (ATM)

Arabian Travel Market is the leading, international travel and tourism event in the Middle East – introducing both inbound and outbound tourism professionals to over 2,500 of the most breathtaking destinations, attractions and brands as well as the very latest cutting-edge technologies. Attracting almost 40,000 industry professionals, with representation from 150 countries, ATM prides itself on being the hub of all travel and tourism ideas – providing a platform to discuss insights on the ever-changing industry, share innovations and unlock endless business opportunities over the four days. 

ATM 2020 will take place from Sunday 19th April – Wednesday 22nd April 2020 #IdeasArriveHere

About Reed Exhibitions

Reed Exhibitions is the world’s leading events business, enhancing the power of face to face through data and digital tools at over 500 events a year, in more than 30 countries, attracting more than seven million participants.

About Reed Travel Exhibitions

Reed Travel Exhibitions is the world’s leading travel and tourism event’s organiser with a growing portfolio of more than 22 international travel and tourism trade events in Europe, the Americas, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Our events are market leaders in their sectors, whether it is global and regional leisure travel trade events, or specialist events for meetings, incentives, conference, events (MICE) industry, business travel, luxury travel, travel technology as well as golf, spa and ski travel. We have over 35 years’ experience in organising world-leading travel exhibitions.

About World Travel Market

World Travel Market (WTM) portfolio comprises four leading B2B events across four continents, generating more than $7 billion of industry deals. In addition to ATM, the events are:

WTM London, the leading global event for the travel industry, is the must-attend three-day exhibition for the worldwide travel and tourism industry. About 50,000 senior travel industry professionals, government ministers and international media visit ExCeL London every November, generating about £3.4 billion in travel industry contracts.

Next event: Monday 4 – Wednesday 6 November 2019 – London #IdeasArriveHere

WTM Latin America attracts about 9,000 senior executives and generates about US$374 million of new business. Taking place in Sao Paulo, Brazil, this show attracts a global audience to meet and shape the direction of the travel industry. More than 8,000 unique visitors attend the event to network, negotiate and discover the latest industry news.

Next event: Tuesday 31 March to Thursday 2 April 2020 – Sao Paulo.

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. Nearly 5,000 travel industry professionals attend Africa’s leading inbound and outbound travel and tourism market. WTM Africa delivers a proven mix of hosted buyers, media, pre-scheduled appointments, on-site networking, evening functions and invited travel trade visitors.

Next event: Monday 6 to Wednesday 8 April 2020 – Cape Town.

Media Contact: Nathalie Visele, Directorm Arjaan Office Tower, Dubai Media City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Tel: +971 4 365 2711, Mobile: +971 50 457 6525, E-mail: nathalie.visele@shamalcomms.com Website: www.shamalcomms.com

Centara Means Business in Bangkok with Three World-Class Convention Hotels Set to Host Over 100,000 Delegates by Year End

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is raising the bar for corporate meetings and events in Bangkok, with the aim of hosting 100,000 MICE delegates at three world-class convention hotels in Bangkok this year, positioning the Thai capital as a key gateway city for the international MICE sector.

Centara provides guests with a range of exceptional accommodation and large-scale meeting venues in Bangkok. Whether companies are planning a large-scale conference, a customer thank you party, an award ceremony, a product launch, a media briefing or an executive strategy session, this professional group has the perfect proposal.

Centara Means Business in Bangkok with Three World-Class Convention Hotels
Bangkok Convention Centre at Centara Grand at CentralWorld

With an unsurpassed location in the heart of the city, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld is one of Thailand’s top MICE venues. Event organisers have multiple options to choose from, including the World Ballroom, which can seat up to 1,000 guests, and 17 Lotus Suites for between 10 and 400 people.

For the biggest international mega-events, the pillar-free Convention Hall can accommodate a staggering 7,000 delegates, while the 23rd floor corporate retreat, M23, features four naturally-lit meeting room, a kitchen, reception area and even a private putting green! With 505 rooms and suites, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld also has the capacity to house many of its delegates under one roof. The hotel’s array of acclaimed drinking and dining venues, including CRU Champagne Bar – one of the world’s highest champagne destinations –  provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding after a day’s conference or for toasting the latest big deal.

Alternatively, Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok offers a fantastic collection of function spaces and facilities. The vast BCC Hall can accommodate up to 3,800 guests for a cocktail reception, while the Vibhavadee Ballroom can host 2,000 guests for a reception, or be split into three smaller pillarless venues for medium-sized gatherings. Finally, 17 elegant suites are ideal for training sessions, board meetings, workshops and more.

Following the extension of Bangkok’s BTS network, guests can now travel to and from this 565-room hotel by skytrain, using the recently extended Green Line. The new Ha Yaek Lat Phrao BTS station, which opened in August 2019, offers direct connections from downtown Bangkok and is just six stops from the Airport Rail Link making this hotel the most perfectly accessible location for both the airport transfers and the bright city lights.

Centara Means Business in Bangkok with Three World-Class Convention Hotels
Vayupak Grand Ballroom at Centra by Centara Government Complex

Just a short distance away, the recently refurbished 212-room Centra by Centara Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre is nestled in the heart of the Thai government complex at Chaeng Watthana, not far from IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Thailand’s largest conference and exhibition venue. With a 3,000-guest Convention Centre and 26 function spaces in two dedicated buildings, this modern hotel is able to host multiple events simultaneously. And with an amazing auditorium perched atop its very own water garden, and a glass walled reception area with panoramic views, this will create spectacular occasions that live long in the memory!

With almost 1,300 rooms and suites across its three convention hotels in Bangkok, Centara can house every business traveller and conference delegate in style and comfort. Whichever hotel companies choose, they will be fully supported by a Centara’s Meetings Redesigned concept, which uses creativity and innovation to bring every gathering to life.

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts and to start planning your next corporate event, please visit centarahotelsresorts.com.

ABOUT CENTARA

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 74 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands -Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to double its size with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at CentaraHotelsResorts.com.

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Media Contact:

Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)

Corporate Public Relations Manager – International, Centara Hotels & Resorts

Email: pornchanokth@chr.co.th

Tel.: +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6733

Jordan keeps on integrating to Europe by sending 8 pharma professionals to Rome and deepening contacts for prospect collaborations

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The MICE industry helps build peace and shows to the world the true and pacific side of the Islamic societies.

The cooperation between The Platinum Services, a Rome-based event agency and DMC specializing in first class events in Italy, Europe and other selected areas, and Guarantee Travel Group, an Amman-based DMC, event organizer and travel agency, one of the biggest in the Country, having good relationships with the Jordan government, is booming and has recently hit another run.

It happened in Rome, at the Marriott Park Hotel, where eight professionals coming from the biggest pharmaceutical companies of Jordan joined a few Italian peers from June 22-27 to discuss collaboration in research.

This could lead to very important developments, over the next few years, in the pharmacological treatment of serious diseases, and it is meaningful that such an outcome takes place thanks to an industry – the Mice one – whose aim is to gather people in spite of any cultural, religious or ethnical differences.

“One people, one world,” say together Guarantee Travel Group’s Regional Director Mr. Rami Qutishat and The Platinum Services’ owner Loredana Chiappini. “Our focus is to enhance relationships and we found in the common boilerplate of the Western and the Middle-eastern cultures a fantastic chance to sew progress and peace.”

The Platinum Services is a Rome-based full-service agency offering the most complete range of MICE and high end personalized services to make meetings, conferences, incentive trips and events exclusive either in Italy or in Europe as much as elsewhere. The Platinum Services with its solid network – serious and efficient business partners throughout Italy and Europe – specializes in travel and MICE services. Based on a long lasting experience in the MICE industry, it organizes meetings, congresses, events and incentives considering any details and bringing the most reliable effectiveness and efficiency. The company is driven by a creative approach, proved successful with corporate clients and independent agencies all over the world.

For further information: The Platinum Service, Via degli Apuli, 54, I-00185 Rome (Italy), Tel +39 06 4460449, Mob: +39 333 9470120, info@theplatinumservices.it , www.theplatinumservices.it

Media Contact: Stefano Ferri, Mob. +39 349 5506421, press@stefanoferri.it

Cross border tourism promoted in India

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Realizing the untapped potential of cross border tourism, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) along with HAN Chitwan and HAN Siddharthanagar who led a group of 21 travel trade companies of Chitwan and Lumbini, organized a business session with their counterparts of Lucknow, Varanasi, and Patna on June 17, 19 and 21, respectively, coinciding with the forthcoming VNY 2020 and existing Visit Lumbini Year 2018/19. 

The cities were chosen considering Lucknow, the center of administrative and political power during the Mughals and British rule, to be famous for the Nawab, Kabab and Biryani and a sense of refined sensibility in terms of lifestyle in poetry, culture and affluent travel people;  Varanasi and Patna on the other hands were  because they were amongst the oldest cities of India welding considerable amount of influence in culture, history and pilgrimage activities along with the affluent traveling population.

The underlying strategy for the Sales Mission was to connect cross border tourism hub of Chitwan and Lumbini with cities of UP and Bihar, reach out to media for coverage, to make bookings, capitalize on the pleasant weather of Kathmandu and Pokhara along with the hill stations like  Palpa and Nagarkot with special packages and lucrative offers and put Nepal on advantageous footing for leisure travel to Nepal this summer.

During the Sales Mission more than 200 tour operators, not less than 60 tour operators in each of the cities were updated and apprised with special  packages ranging from 2 nights and 3 days and also Lumbini tours for visitors entering Nepal by Land. During the events, a wide range of packages ranging from – pilgrimage, adventure, leisure, shopping, casinos were also offered to Indians who comprise of single largest visitors which grew by 25 percent in 2018. 

To make the event exciting and participatory, around 10 winners in all the three cities, all comprising of travel trade, were awarded travel packages to Nepal to experience the destination and services.

Prominent local media attending the event and taking updates were Hindustan Times, Dainik Jagran, Pioneer Hindi and English, Prabhat Khabar Patna, UP Live News, Aaj Varanasi, Webzone Media, Farooqui Tanzeem Patna, Travel TV News, Amar Ujala, PTI, Hindustan Times, Travtalk, traveltv.news, UNI and others.  Regional languages press are very strong and influential in the region.

In the current scenario that the Indian market has opened up to a wide range of possibilities comprising of highly competitive airfare for Indians to  Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Dubai and the domestic packages offered by highly competitive low budget Indian domestic airlines making air travel possible to all , now Nepal is left with the challenge to offer best packages and services and also ease travel barriers by accepting not only Passport and Election ID Card but other  documents like  Aadhar Card and others issued by India government and making group travel for youths and MICE segment more easier.

The prospects of cross border tourism is very bright since the roadways are very good and vehicles are affordable in India. To add to that, we are linking the movement of Indian Travelers with railway Junction, where Lucknow is connected to Nepalgunj, Raxual is connected to Birgunj, and Gorakhpur to Bhairahawa. 

Currently the air connectivity of Buddha Air from Kathmandu to Varanasi and  Kolkatta and in the future from Kathmandu to Guwahati; of Air India from Kathmandu to Kolkatta carries immense significance to tap the market with proper marketing activities and sustainable plan. 

Ms. Heena Sheeraz, Director Sheeraj Travel, Lucknow, Mr. Pradeep K. Roy, Senior official of Varanasi Tourism Association, Dr. Hari P. Adhikari, Vice Chairman of Pashupati Temple Trust in Varanasi, Mr. Sanjay Sharma, President of Tourism Association of Bihar and Dr. Kaulesh  Kumar, Secretary General of Association of Buddhist Tour Operators also shared their experiences on Nepal’s tourism.

HAN Chitwan President Mr. Suman Ghimire and HAN Sidharthanagar President Mr. CP Shrestha and HAN Sidharthanagar General Secretary Mr. Rabindra Sharma Ghimire welcomed the guests and highlighted their packages whereas Mr. Bimal Kadel, Manager, made destination presentations. Ms. Janaki Upadhyaya and Ms. Srijana Nepali both Officers NTB also participated in the events.   

MEDIA CONTACT: Sudhan Subedi (Mr.), Sr. Officer, Phone +977-1-4256909 (Ext. 182), PR & Publicity Department, Nepal Tourism Board, P.O. 11018, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, Nepal, URL: http://www.welcomenepal.com/

Christophe Berger Named Director of Conventions Malta

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Christophe Berger, newly appointed Director of Conventions Malta, brings with him extensive experience in the Hospitality and M.I.C.E. market sectors. As Malta’s tourism has been on a tremendous growth path, especially from the North American market, it is also gaining considerable momentum as a popular M.I.C.E. market destination.

According to Berger, “Malta’s tourism industry has enjoyed great success in recent years, and Malta is now striving to boost this success even further by expanding the international appeal of its incomparable M.I.C.E. product, with spectacular settings at competitive prices.”

Malta, with its 7000 years of history and steeped in historic event venues, is a M.I.C.E. planner’s paradise. This Mediterranean archipelago offers a diverse number of magnificent castles, palazzos and forts to choose from. Other unique settings include theme parks, village squares, luxury yachts and exclusive sea-front facilities.
Malta’s multitude of conference hotels or venues can accommodate any size event. This includes the iconic 16th century building, once considered the most advanced hospital in Europe, which is now the state-of-the-art Mediterranean Conference Center.

Berger noted that what adds to the “wow” factor for the M.I.C.E market, and tourism in general, is that “Malta has become one of Europe’s most popular film and television locations – dubbed the Mediterranean’s mini-Hollywood by the London Times.” Malta, where Game of Thrones all began, is also home to many blockbuster film locations including Troy, Gladiator, World War Z, Assassin’s Creed, The Count of Monte Cristo and Murder on the Orient Express.

Born in France, Berger moved to Malta 20 years ago, where he has been working in various sectors of the hospitality and tourism industry. His professional background stems from hotel management and in Malta has held positions at the Grand Hotel Mercure Selmun Palace and at Intercontinental Malta as part of the M.I.C.E team, with responsibilities for overseas marketing the hotel and Malta as a destination. Berger also furthered his M.I.C.E experience while specializing in M.I.C.E. on behalf of a Maltese Destination Management Company (DMC).

Berger, together with Michelle Buttigieg, Malta Tourism Authority Representative in North America, will be heading a public/private sector M.I.C.E. delegation from Malta to IMEX Las Vegas September 9-12, 2019.

For more information about planning Meetings and Incentive events in Malta visit www.conventionsmalta.com

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere.  Valletta built by the proud Knights of St. John is one of the UNESCO sites and was the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do. www.visitmalta.com

For Further Information and Photography

Malta Tourism Authority:

Michelle Buttigieg

Tel: (212) 213-0944

Fax: (212) 213-0938

E-mail: michelle-margaret.buttigieg@visitmalta.com

MTA US Editorial Contact:

The Bradford Group

Karen Hoffman/ Bianca Pappas

Tel: (212) 447-0027

Fax: (212) 725 8253

E-mail: info@bradfordglobalmarketing.com

Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok to reaffirm status as Thailand’s leading MICE venue with more than 89,000 delegates expected in 2019

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is anticipating one of the strongest years to date for Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok, its flagship hotel and MICE destination in Thailand’s capital city, with a series of major business events set to boost delegate numbers in 2019.

Named as Asia’s “Best Meetings and Conventions Hotel” at the 2018 TTG Travel Awards, Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok provides a world-class setting for international conferences and events. In fact, the hotel is set to reaffirm its position as Thailand’s top MICE hotel in 2019, with a forecast total of 89,000 delegates.

A packed calendar of major international events is already scheduled for this year, including the Techsauce Global Summit 2019, which is expected to attract 15,000+ delegates from 18-20 June; and the 27th Incentive Travel & Conventions, Meetings Asia (IT&CMA) and Corporate Travel World (CTW) Asia Pacific, the double-bill travel trade expo featuring approximately 3,000 delegates from 24-26 September.

Other major events scheduled to take place at this major downtown venue include the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons’ Annual Scientific Congress (6-10 May), International Conference on Biodiversity (22-24 May), 33rd International Epilepsy Congress (22-26 June), Thai Dental Association Annual Meeting (12-14 June) and ASCO 2019 Breakthrough Thailand (11-13 October 2019).

Centara Grand at CentralWorld will also raise the bar for culinary events in 2019, with high-profile occasions including an Italian Wine Dinner and Master Class in collaboration with Marino Braccu, general manager and sommelier of 8½ Otto E Mezzo Bombana in Hong Kong – the only Italian restaurant outside of Italy to have achieved three Michelin stars. Hosted on 2-3 May at UNO MAS, the acclaimed 54th floor Mediterranean restaurant, these exclusive events will give diners the opportunity to experience world-class cuisine and learn from one of the world’s best sommeliers.

Wine lovers can also enjoy refined evenings at the CRU Champagne Bar at Red Sky, one of world’s best and highest Champagne bars, which is now the exclusive Thai seller of brand new Mumm No.6 Champagne. With dramatic 360-degree views of the Bangkok skyline, this spectacular 55th floor venue promises unforgettable evenings.

CRU Champagne Bar at Red Sky, Centara Grand at CentralWorld

Underpinning every event hosted by Centara is the group’s innovative “New Agenda: Meetings Redesigned” concept, which is designed to provide seamless MICE services and enhance the customer experience. This intuitive initiative is built around three main elements: a one-stop ‘Meeting Guru’ to ensure the successful execution of every event; a redefined approach to team-building in partnership with the professional experts at Asia Ability; and creative catering concepts such as ‘Dinner in the Dark.’

New Agenda is currently being rolled out at 25 Centara’s properties, including Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok.

Centara Hotels & Resorts wishes to reassure all guests and event planners that Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok was untouched by the recent fire at the CentralWorld lifestyle mall, which was misreported to have started in the hotel. This was not the case and operations at the hotel and convention centre were completely unaffected by the incident. The hotel adheres to the most stringent safety regulations and procedures to ensure the safety of its guests at all times.

Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok commands a prime location in the heart of Bangkok’s central business district. The state-of-the-art Bangkok Convention Centre features 5,250 square metres of space for up to 7,000 delegates, including a 1,000-seat ballroom and multiple meeting rooms in flexible configurations, all supported by the services of the adjacent 505-room Centara Grand hotel, making it the country’s most complete MICE venue.

For more information about Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok, please CLICK HERE. Alternatively, to learn more about Centara Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

ABOUT CENTARA
 

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 69 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands -Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families.Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.
 

Over the next five years Centara aims to double its size with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1 Card, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com  

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For more information and media enquiries, please contact:

Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)
Corporate Public Relations Manager – International, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email: pornchanokth@chr.co.th
Tel.: +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6733       

GCC hospitality must appeal to ‘free independent travelers’ to unlock China’s tourist market

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The GCC must deliver unique and tech-enabled experiences designed for free independent travelers (FITs) if it is to grow its market share among China’s outbound tourists, according to experts speaking at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2019.

The overall number of outbound tourists from China is projected to hit 224 million by 2022, according to research conducted by Colliers. United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) figures show that the GCC is on course to attract 2.9 million of these visitors.

Panellists speaking at the Arabia China Tourism Forum, which took place on the Global Stage at ATM 2019, explored how Gulf states can boost Chinese visitation further and cater to younger travellers arriving from the Far East.

Moderator Dr Adam Wu, CEO of CBN Travel & MICE and World Travel Online, said: “The trend is moving away from group travel to FITs. Approximately 51 per cent of Chinese travellers [come from this segment]. They are travelling in smaller groups but it’s also the age groups that are changing.”

Unique experiences represent a key component when it comes to convincing younger Chinese travellers to visit the GCC. In addition to comfortable accommodation and accessible amenities, panellists noted that China’s FITs are looking for attractions that are not available in other markets.

Terry von Bibra, GM Europe, Alibaba Group, said: “Smaller groups [of Chinese travellers] are going to new places to discover and have unique experiences – special experiences that they can share with friends on social media, which is very important.

“You cannot underestimate the importance of the ideas of discovery and uniqueness. In my job, I see this across all aspects of trade with China. [Customers] want to understand why things are unique and special. The more you can help them understand this, the better job you are doing.”

In addition to unique experiences, Xiuhuan Gao, Head of Asian Market – Overseas Promotions Department, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), said that small, personal touches are also helping the GCC’s hospitality sector to boost arrivals from China, such as Chinese condiments and in-room snacks.

Gulf countries are already taking steps to strengthen ties with China and appeal to the country’s international tourist base. Chinese passport holders can obtain 30-day visas on arrival in Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait, and the launch of Saudi Arabia’s tourist visa is expected to lead to further increases.

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), meanwhile, has partnered with China’s Tencent to promote the emirate as a preferred destination, and to bring the company’s WeChat and WeChat Pay platforms to the UAE. Panellists agreed that GCC hotels must also do more to facilitate a seamless visitor experience.

Rami Moukarzel, Vice President of Development and Acquisitions – Middle East and North Africa, Louvre Hotels Group, said: “We are seeing an influx of Chinese travellers across all segments. As a hotel industry, we need to be ready for the influx that is coming.”

Moukarzel told attendees that in addition to establishing market-specific booking platforms and social media channels, China-owned Louvre Hotels Group has also partnered with relevant mobile payment systems to ensure that Chinese travellers enjoy a seamless experience when visiting its Middle East properties.

According to figures released by the UNWTO, Chinese visitors are the highest spending overseas travellers on the planet, shelling out USD 258 billion in 2017. Attracting more of these individuals would benefit national economies across the GCC.

As Gulf destinations account for approximately one per cent of China’s outbound tourist market at present, the panel agreed that there remains significant room for growth – as long as the hospitality professionals create China-specific offerings and content that appeal to the country’s shifting market demographics.

Designed to enable travel, tourism and hospitality professionals to explore potential opportunities, the Arabia China Tourism Forum is one of several events that will be hosted on ATM 2019’s Global Stage this week. Other topics to be placed under the microscope include the Saudi Arabian market, halal tourism and industry innovations.

Running until Wednesday, 1 May, ATM 2019 will see more than 2,500 exhibitors showcase their products and services to visitors at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Viewed by industry professionals as a barometer for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) tourism sector, last year’s edition of ATM welcomed 39,000 people, representing the largest exhibition in the history of the show.

MEDIA CONTACT: NATHALIE VISELE, Director, Shamal Communications, Arjaan Office Tower, Dubai Media City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Tel: +971 4 365 2711 | Mobile: +971 50 457 6525, E-mail: nathalie.visele@shamalcomms.com , Website: www.shamalcomms.com

The Development and Promotion of MICE in Thailand

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The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is leveraging the development of Thai MICE business in long haul markets in collaboration with foreign chambers of commerce representing Australia, UK, USA and Germany.
​Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, disclosed, “The signing of this MOU – The Development and Promotion of MICE –  between TCEB and Foreign Chamber Alliance (FCA), comprising 4 chambers of commerce representing our main target countries, which are Australia, UK, USA and Germany.
It’s considered another remarkable step of TCEB in altering our role to leverage MICE by serving as a business partner who joins hands with foreign organisations to promote the development of Thai MICE in international markets, as well as to penetrate into long haul MICE markets in Oceania, Europe and the USA, side by side with our main short haul target markets in Asia.
“Indeed, the collaboration is a new dimension of promoting Thai MICE business in long haul markets with concentration on Oceania, Europe and the USA. This is the very first time that the Foreign Chamber Alliance – FCA, which represents Australia, UK, USA and Germany, signed an MOU with a Thai government agency. Interestingly, FCA has more than 20,000 members that include businessmen, investors, entrepreneurs from business, industrial and service sectors, such as Minor Hotels Group, AccorHotels Group, Marriott Hotels Group, convention centres business, as well as oil, mining, pharmaceutical, automobile and other industries,” he added.
“These are considered high potential business groups for propelling the national economy and are included among the targeted industries that the Thai government is keen to encourage in line with the 4.0 Policy. For this reason, this is a lucrative opportunity for us to collaborate to develop and raise the competitiveness of Thai MICE. The 4 chambers of commerce have recognised the importance of using MICE as the gateway to the development of commerce and investment in Thailand and ASEAN,” he said.
With this MOU, the framework for the development of MICE business will embrace 5 dimensions of operation:
• The sharing of MICE statistics and events
• MICE business development
• MICE market promotion
• MICE business research
• MICE personnel development.
Mr. Chiruit further said, “The initial collaboration to mutually promote MICE business will mainly focus on hospitality service, because members of the FCA have long records of investment in Thailand, which have been running alongside their nationwide service businesses. Hence, they have eyed to extend collaboration with Thai government agencies, as they believe the endeavour will open a new door to operate MICE business in Thailand and ASEAN.
“This, in turn, will allow them to study about the dynamics and direction of the Thai MICE market. By joining with TCEB in formulating a marketing development scheme, the synergy will open a new door to connecting with other alliances who relate with the promotion of Thai MICE business in targeted countries. Moreover, there will be co-operation in drawing international events into Thailand, marketing promotion and provision of support for events previously held in Thailand,” he said.
“Target groups and alliances will be invited to participate to strengthen the potential of MICE events held here in Thailand. The FCA will join with us in the exchange of marketing information related to targeted industries held by allied chambers of commerce and TCEB will exchange information on Thai MICE business, including statistics and events, to fully bolster mutual MICE business development,” said the TCEB President.

​He went on to say, “Nevertheless, the FCA expects the Thai government to leverage the competitiveness of Thai MICE business in order to serve global competition. For example, facilitation of customs and immigration procedures; development of infrastructure and transportation; construction of convention centres; development of MICE personnel that meets international standards, and establishment of One-Stop-Service MICE centres. All of which will open a new door to the holding of MICE events in Thailand by efficiently offering enhanced convenience for MICE entrepreneurs and organisers,“ he declared.

Proposals to establish MICE service centres has been included in TCEB’s earlier strategic plan, and the Ease of Doing Business project as well  as the draft of a national strategy of NESDB (National Economic and Social Development Council).
​Mr. Chiruit went on to explain, “After the completion of MOU signing, TCEB is set to discuss with the FCA on the preparation of Phase I work plan, which lasts two years. Both parties will encourage practical co-operation in a rapid and consistent manner. Initially, we have planned to attract events and provide support to the holding of events that relate to targeted industries according to the government’s 4.0 Policy, particularly in the provinces governed by the administration of EEC (Eastern Economic Corridor),” he said.

​“TCEB expects that the collaboration will not only leverage the competitiveness of Thai MICE in long haul markets in Oceania, Europe and the USA, but will also help to attract international events into several regions in Thailand, especially those considered main markets in MICE City project, which are Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen. Definitely, we believe the rapport will encourage transfers of technology and knowledge of each industry among one another, and thus will promote advancement in all regions and stimulate income distribution to communities nationwide,” concluded Mr. Chiruit.

Mr. Benjamin Krieg, Vice President, Austcham, explained, “The role of the Foreign Chamber Alliance (FCA) in Thailand and the purpose of signing the MOU combines key Foreign Chambers and their members through this important collaboration, we provide a common voice on advocacy to develop and grow opportunities that can benefit our members and the country of Thailand,” he said.

“The MICE industry is growing, and will also continue to grow in importance and contribution to the overall tourism sector within Thailand, and of course the greater Thai economy. Our primary aim is to continue to increase and grow the competitiveness of Thailand as a leading destination for MICE not only within Asia, but the world, further complimenting the amazing tourism industry that we already are so fortunate to be a part of,” concluded Mr. Krieg.

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Destination Florence CVB partners with City of Florence for international tourism promotion

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Destination Florence CVB is the new official partner of the City of Florence to promote the destination and better the quality of tourism.

The Florence Municipality, The Florentine Chamber of Commerce and The University of Florence signed an agreement to outline new and effective strategies in the tourism field, relying on the governence of tourism and the ability to directly foster agreements between institutions and individuals, while defining and clarifying the roles of various on-site actors.

The agreement is dedicated specifically to the MICE tourism and to better the quality of tourism in all the Florenctine territories and it has the aim of choosing a partner to develop activities and strategies.

Thanks to the winning of a competition notice, Destination Florence Convention and Visitors Bureau has been selected as the unique partner of the City of Florence and its partners to promote the destination all over the world and acquire more conferences and events.

To develop the activities, the Municipality of Florence allocated 320.000 Euros per year for a total period of three years, to be renewed for two more years.

Destination Florence Convention and Visitors Bureau has been operating for over 20 years as a destination agency to attract large events, congresses, international marriages, and individual tourists. It represents a comprehensive outlet for tourism thanks to more than 300 partners, a network that makes it possible to have a synchronized bond with the territory and the operators functioning within, strengthened by signed agreements with trade associations of reference.

The Ministry of Tourism of the city of Florence, Cecilia Del Re, said “We are very proud to have selected a unique partner for the promotion of the city. Florence is a unique city to host conferences and events also thanks to the new tramvia, the huge renovation of our congress centre and the future major enlargment of our airport”.

Destination Florence CVB presented a project to better the tourism within the city of Florence thanks to specific activities and with two main goals: acquire more conferences and events and attract a qualified tourism.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT:

– Increase the number of winning bid and conferences to be held in the city
– Presence at primary Fairs and Events of the sector (ILTM Cannes, ATM Dubai…)
– Augment number of tourists with a qualified profile and high spending capacity
– Increase the average duration of stay within the territory
– Expand and diversify the range of services, products, and experiences
– Qualitatively enhance the image of Florence worldwide
– Promote qualified and certified tourist services in the city, including the greater metropolitan area, to include lesser-known concepts of great touristic value

Carlotta Ferrari, Director of Destination Florence CVB said: “Florence is one of the most attractive destination of the world in fact it is in the top five cities to host conferences and events. We will continue to promote Florence to acquire more conferences and events each year.”

“Also, thanks to the Destination Florence project, we will develop and promote tourism offerings, proposing a benchmark for a single, potential national model. We are working with the most innovative technology as our new chat bot that we will presented in the next months and we are also opening our official account on WeChat to promote Florence in the Chinese market.”

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Centara identifies technological and social trends that will shape the hospitality industry in the next 10 years

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Global hospitality is at a crossroads. In the last 20 years, technology has transformed every aspect of the guest journey, from online bookings to in-room services to post-stay feedback. But as technology continues to evolve and advance, what will the hotel industry look like 10 years in the future?

In the past, digitalization was largely driven by companies, as new solutions were introduced to enhance efficiency and target customers more effectively. In the modern era however, it is customers who are demanding greater connectivity. This is especially true in the hotel industry, which is driven by modern lifestyle trends and the “always-on” mindset of millennial travelers.

In light of these trends, Markland Blaiklock, Centara’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, explains his vision for the future of the hospitality industry in the next decade:

“Ten years from now, I’m sure we will look back and see that the hospitality industry changed much more than predicted, and Asia will continue to be a major catalyst for change. This evolution will be part social and part technological, but the overall goal will be the same: to meet and exceed guests’ expectations,” he commented.

According to Mr. Blaiklock, Centara foresees three significant trends shaping its business, and the entire industry, going forward:

Travel and work life will become inseparable thanks to improved technology and faster connectivity. This trend will occur in all countries but will be led by China and the rest of Asia, which are currently driving the growth in overseas travel. The launch of Centara’s new “Meetings Redesigned” MICE initiative will help to accommodate this shift, by allowing companies to be more flexible and creative with their event agendas.

Robotics and artificial intelligence will create hyper-connected hotel experiences. The Internet of Things (IoT) will seamlessly connect every hotel touchpoint, which will be personalized to the unique preferences every guest. In addition, big data insights will enable hotel staff to improve service quality in real time.

Delivering emotional experiences will be the ultimate goal of hotels. As technology takes over, many guests will go in search of authenticity, human interaction and genuine hospitality. The ability to predict and identify human emotions will be key to the success of hotels in the coming decades.

The big question for hoteliers now and in the future will be: how do we successfully integrate technology to improve the guest’s entire journey, whilst also retaining our distinct personality and brand loyalty?

For Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, this balance is at the core of its strategic vision. In the coming years decades, the group will focus delivering warm Thai hospitality in line with the latest social and technological trends to create exceptional customer experiences.

Centara has proven adept at developing new brands that embrace innovation. The most recent example is COSI, which caters for young-minded and tech-savvy travelers with friendly, simple and affordable accommodation and state-of-the-art amenities like smartphone integration, self-service check-in and a 24-hour lifestyle café concept. It is no surprise that this contemporary concept, which made its debut in Koh Samui in 2017, is now a key driving force behind Centara’s expansion strategy.

In many ways, COSI represents the future of hospitality. Its combination of connectivity, comfort and convenience enables guests to blend business and leisure travel, a key trend identified by Mr. Blaiklock. Across all of Centara’s six brands however, the group continues to roll out innovative new digital experiences.

Recent initiatives range from revamping the Centara website and mobile app for a seamless online experience, to launching a new central reservation system and revenue management system for global coordination. The new Chinese language, China-hosted website, social media pages and payment solutions are also positioning Centara to compete successfully in the world’s largest travel market.

Technology, however, is only one element of a successful strategy. Hotel guests will always be human beings, and the majority of humans visit a destination to experience its charm and culture, not to look at a screen. For Centara, the ability to deliver authentic Thai hospitality is something that can never be replaced by technology. By harnessing big data and personalization tools however, hoteliers can enhance every human interaction. Intuitive and rewarding loyalty programs like CentaraThe1 will play a major part in anticipating and delivering tailored experiences.

So digitalization really is the key; by using smart technology to identify and satisfy guest preferences, the hoteliers of the future will be able to create truly bespoke experiences for every guest.

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 68 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands -Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centers and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travelers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to double its size with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty program, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

For more information about Centara, please visit centarahotelsresorts.com.
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