Why would anyone want to holiday in Abu Dhabi? Plenty of reasons, according to Mubarak Al Muhairi, DG, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority. Al Muhairi looks at the UAE capital's many natural islands, as well as the cultural impact of the planned Guggenheim museum.
Business travellers are increasingly looking for more budget options on overseas trips, according to research carried out by Wafi Group. Wafi, usually known as a high-end luxury brand, recently opened a mid-market business hotel in Dubai, the Arabian Park hotel. General manager Mark Lee explains the strategy.
Differentiation is critical in the hotel sector, according to Allan Edgar, VP Marketing, Hyatt. Hyatt aims to have 20-25 properties througout the Middle East. Edgar predicts continued strong demand, despite the numerous hotels opening in the region.
The past year has not been an easy one for Gulf Air, with increased competition, skyrocketing fuel prices and Abu Dhabi pulling out of the airline. President James Hogan says the airline will focus on its strong regional rather than international presence, and continue to upgrade its fleet and improve efficiency.
Quality and location are becoming more critical in the regional property market, as it matures, according to Kit James, Sales Director, IFA Hotels & Resorts. Buyers are increasingly discerning, and as the market becomes more saturated, those buying in prime locations will be safest.
A ten-metre-square, windowless hotel room doesn't initially sound a very appealing accommodation option. But add luxury fittings, flat-screen TV and wifi, prime city locations and a price tag of less than $100, and business executives will come flocking, according to Simon Woodroffe, Chairman, YOTEL.
Liwa is one of the largest oases in the Arabian peninsula, famous for the huge, red sand dunes that surround it. Mel Barisic, Hotel Manager, Liwa Hotel explains why the "gateway to the Empty Quarter" is becoming increasingly popular with tourists.
Hotel reservation centres spend around 48 hours processing bookings, according to research by Emirates Airlines. Emirates is trying to speed up the process with an internet-based accommodation exchange, called Daex. Simon Lewis, Manager eVentures, explains how it works.
NASA space nappies, freeze dried food and ultraviolet showers: just some of the delights awaiting the intergalactic tourists of the future. Will Whitehorn, President, Virgin Galactic, considers the less-than-five-star physical reality of space holidays.
Artist and astronomer Namira Salim plans to be the first UAE resident to fly into space with Virgin Galactic. Salim explains why the $200,000 trip will be worth it, and the new perspectives that tourist-astronauts will gain.
Space tourism is more than a gimmick, with the potential to become a lucrative industry, according to Stephen Attenborough, Commercial Director, Virgin Galactic. Attenborough says many investors have already expressed interest in orbital flight, the next stage of the venture.
Increased competition will help drive air ticket prices down, according to Virgin Atlantic Chairman Sir Richard Branson, whose airline made its first landing in Dubai this week. Sir Richard says that being the launch customer of a new aircraft is hard work, and revealed one of the "not pretty" toilet-related teething problems that Virgin suffered.
Far west of Abu Dhabi, near the border with Saudi Arabia, is the Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna: part of the emirate's ambitious project to develop tourism. Manoj Kanwal, General Manager of the resort, explains why the remote location was chosen.
What are the key emerging trends in Arab travel and tourism? And will rival regional tourism projects weaken or strengthen the market? Chris Chackall, Group Exhibition Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, gives insight into the Middle East travel sector, as well as the new features coming to ATM2006.
The first hotel has opened up in Dubai Media City, targeting business visitors to the emirates. The Radisson SAS offers a full range of facilities, from broadband wireless to spa treatment rooms and a rooftop swimming pool. AME Info brings you the first exclusive pictures and an interview with general manager Siegfried Nierhaus.