Gulf Tourism and Aviation
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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?
Dubai hotels target Chinese travel market
With China emerging as one of the world's largest outbound travel markets, hotels in Dubai are increasingly focusing their efforts on attracting tourists from this rapidly growing economy.
Fuel surcharges curb air travel demand as ticket prices rise
An increasing number of carriers have imposed fuel charges on ticket prices in recent months to cover rising fuel costs. These higher fares are already having an impact on international air travel demand, according to a new report.
Marriott continues rapid expansion in Middle East
Marriott International has announced that it is pushing ahead with its ambitious growth plans in the Middle East and Africa despite the unrest that has spread across the region. The US-based hospitality group says it now has 43 hotels under development or construction in the region, including a massive 1,614-room property in Dubai.
Middle East unrest curbs global air traffic
International air travel slowed in February largely due to the political unrest that has flared across the Middle East and Africa, according to the International Air Transport Association. IATA also forecasts that growth in March will be further slowed by the earthquake in Japan.
