Dubai-based Dnata is showcasing Britain as destination of the month at its travel centre, offering English-style afternoon tea, Scottish bagpipers and Beefeater guards. Rashid Al Noori, Senior Vice President, Dnata, says the UK has a lot to offer Middle Eastern visitors.
Trade and tourism continue to enjoy strong growth between the UAE and the UK, despite increased competition from other markets. John Hawkins, British Consul General, Dubai, says the Embassy tries as far as possible to make same-day decisions on visas for travel to Britain.
Gulf Air used extensive passenger research to create its new first and business class cabins. Shane O'Hare, Head of Marketing, Gulf Air, says a growing number of executives go straight to the office for a day of work after a night flight, so a proper sleep is critical, as well as services such as showers and shirt-laundering.
Landor created the new first and business class cabins being installed in Gulf Air's Airbus A330s. John Brash, Creative Director, Landor Dubai, says as well as comfort, a high level of technology is involved, with more enhancements still to come over the next few months, such as on-demand entertainment.
With Dubai International Airport expanding fourfold, and a new airport under construction at Jebel Ali, the emirate's passenger capacity could reach 200 million, more than the combined total Europe's four biggest airports. Anita Mehra Homayoun, Director Marketing, Dubai Civil Aviation, looks at the prospects for Dubai as the regional aviation industry grows at a rapid pace.
Lufthansa Technik is opening up its first office in the Middle East, in Dubai. August Henningsen, Chairman & CEO, Lufthansa Technik, says the company is in talks with several regional airlines, including Emirates, for maintenance of aircraft including the new Airbus A380s.
The Al Raha Beach Hotel in Abu Dhabi is one of two new five-star hotels set to be managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a division of the Abu Dhabi-based National Corporation for Tourism & hotels. Abdulla Al Romaithi, Managing Director, NCT&H, looks at what Abu Dhabi emirate has to offer tourists.
Increasing globalisation means that businesspeople need to be able to hold meetings round-the-clock, as well as use services such as videoconferencing. Hilton International has introduced a range of packages tailored to different corporate occasions, from VIP meetings to brainstorming sessions. Guy Epsom, Regional Director Sales & Marketing, explains the "Let's Meet" strategy.
Gulf Air's sponsorship of the 2005 Bahrain Grand Prix will expose its brand to a worldwide audience of 350 million people. James Hogan, President & CEO Gulf, Air, says the strength of Grand Prix is its broad appeal across a wide demographic. Hogan believes world class events like the Grand Prix also help improve the region's security image.
Soaring oil prices and cut-throat regional competition have created a considerably challenging environment for Middle East aviation. James Hogan, President and CEO of Gulf Air, looks at the airline's continued progress despite the setbacks, and reveals his strategy to give Gulf Air the edge over its competitors.
The new souq at the Madinat Jumeirah features traditional Arabian architecture but plenty of modern convenience. Air-conditioned, covered streets aim to attract tourists year-round, with a blend of Arabic crafts and souvenirs and modern luxury goods on offer.
The Moroccan-style Madinat Jumeirah Souq has opened, bringing more retail space to Dubai as well as the Gulf's first ever purpose-built theatre. Bill Walshe, Corporate Director for Sales & Marketing, Jumeirah International, explains how the Madinat fits in with the company's overall strategy.
With a multicultural and friendly population, Indonesia hopes to attract more Arab and Middle East visitors. Herna P Danuningrat, Chairperson, ASITA Jakarta, explains the many charms of the South East Asian archipelago.
As Dubai's rapid development continues, Dubai Creek is one of the last remaining places showcasing the emirate's heritage. Cruises along the water are growing in popularity, not just for tourists but also for the corporate sector. Luxury cruise liners and refurbished dhows are becoming a preferred location for product launches, VIP hospitality and incentive trips.
From the colonial splendour of Raffles to the tropical luxury of the Shangri La, Singapore's premium hotels cater to both business and leisure travellers. Singapore's equatorial climate means constant temperatures year round - a welcome escape from the intense Gulf summer.