Gulf Tourism and Aviation
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Will all-inclusive hotels soon be all-the-rage in Dubai?
As the summer lull approaches, Movenpick is rolling out an all-inclusive package at its Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai as a way to attract new types of customers. The hotel believes this is a model whose time has come in Dubai, but will other hotels in the emirate follow suit?
Middle East airlines' profit forecast revised downwards by $800m
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has sharply lowered its profit forecast for Middle East carriers in 2011 as unrest in the region, high oil prices, and natural disasters continue to impact negatively on the sector.
Massive airport projects underscore growth in Middle East aviation sector
With aviation being a key driver of economic growth in the Middle East, countries throughout the region are spending billions of dollars to expand their airports in an effort to ensure these facilities have the capacity to meet the future needs of the rapidly expanding sector.
MGM Hospitality eyes expansion in Middle East, Asia
Although MGM Hospitality has faced delays in the opening of its hotels in the UAE, the company is keen to launch new projects in the Middle East, China, and India as it looks to ramp up its expansion outside its home base in the US.
Big three carriers keep flying high amidst unrest
Gulf carriers Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways have each established themselves as serious players in the global aviation game. As the Middle East's airline industry suffers under the weight of soaring fuel prices and regional instability, how are the big three staying out in front?
In-room technology poses risks, opportunities for hotels
Although advances in technology can offer hotel guests improved luxury and conveniences, experts say it can be very challenging for hotels to strike the right balance between augmenting the guest experience and ensuring the technology is not too complex for customers to use.
Social media tips for hotels
Social media is a great way for hotels to establish relationships and build loyalty with customers, but it can also create problems if not used correctly. By following a few key principles, hotels can avoid pitfalls and make the most of their investment in social media.
Huge feeder markets to boost Dubai hotel sector
The outlook for Dubai's hotel sector remains bright, especially in light of the large number of potential visitors that are located nearby in China and India, according to hotel executives who spoke at the Hotel Show in Dubai. However, they also warn that an influx of new supply will pose challenges for the hospitality sector in the emirate.
Empire Aviation Group looks to India for private jet growth
With business picking up so far in 2011, Dubai-based Empire Aviation Group (EAG) says it is opening a branch in India to take advantage of growing private jet opportunities that are now available in the South Asian country.
Middle East hotels see rise in occupancy despite regional unrest
Despite an increase in room supply and unrest in the region, hotels in the Middle East recorded 1.8% growth in occupancy in March compared to the same period last year, according to joint data from Deloitte and STR Global. UAE-based hotels boosted the region's growth, while Beirut and Muscat saw declines.
Emirates posts record profit as passenger traffic surges
A large increase in passenger numbers helped Dubai-owned Emirates Airline post a 51.9% rise in profit in 2010, but the carrier warned that high fuel prices and unrest in the region remain a challenge to its bottom line moving forward.
Hilton plans rapid expansion across Middle East
Hilton Worldwide says it plans to expand its presence in the Middle East by nearly 80% over the next three to four years led by a push to rapidly grow its existing portfolio of hotels in Saudi Arabia.
Fairmont looks to expand its footprint in Middle East
Although the unrest in the Middle East has prompted Fairmont Hotels to take a wait and see attitude regarding new projects in certain parts of the region, the luxury operator is currently in discussions to develop new properties in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Middle East carriers face 'tough year', but remain optimistic
Despite the obstacles posed by surging oil prices and political unrest, Middle East airlines say they remain optimistic that they can navigate their way through the challenges facing their industry.
Saudi considers allowing foreign airlines to operate domestic flights
For the first time Saudi Arabia may allow foreign airlines to operate domestic flights in the kingdom. What might this mean for carriers in the Gulf, and passengers in Saudi?
