Tag Archives: CEO

Dubai International (DXB) is on track for record-breaking annual traffic, following an impressive performance in the first nine months of the year. By the end of September, DXB had welcomed 68.6 million guests, laying a solid foundation for the typically high-traffic final quarter – a milestone made possible by the collective efforts of colleagues and partners who work tirelessly to maintain the airport’s leadership status. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said, “This year has highlighted the very best of DXB — showcasing its continued growth, resilience, and commitment to service excellence, qualities that have become synonymous with the airport. At the heart of this success is our people, whose dedication and collaboration have driven our record-breaking guest numbers and robust operational performance, keeping us at the top for over a decade. DXB continues to be our core focus, with ongoing investment in customer service and technological advancements, to ensure our success in delivering a superior hospitality experience. “What’s particularly noteworthy is that DXB is seeing more direct traffic than ever before — a shift from the long-standing trend where transfer traffic dominated. This reflects Dubai’s evolution into not just a premier tourist destination, but also a globally attractive place to live, work, and do business, further underscored by the city’s booming real estate market and its rising appeal as a destination for top talent. We’re focused on continuing to deliver an exceptional experience in the final quarter, buoyed by Dubai’s vibrant winter calendar and renowned attractions.” The momentum from the first half of 2024 carried into Q3, during which DXB managed 23.7 million guests, significantly contributing to the year-to-date total of 68.6 million — a growth of 6.3% compared …

flydubai and Batik Air Malaysia announced an interline agreement that will offer flydubai passengers access to more than 40 destinations across Batik Air’s network via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). The interline agreement will offer passengers seamless connectivity between the UAE, Malaysia and beyond as they explore new routes on the carriers’ combined networks, offering the convenience of a single booking and through-checked baggage. flydubai customers will have the opportunity to explore more than 40 destinations across Southeast Asia on the Batik Air network including Hanoi, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Osaka and Sydney. ​In addition, Batik Air passengers will have the opportunity to travel conveniently to 38 destinations on flydubai’s growing network across Africa, Central Asia, the Caucasus, Central and Southeast Europe as well as the GCC and the Middle East. This includes unique destinations such as Entebbe, Istanbul, Milan-Bergamo, Prague and Zagreb. ​ Commenting on the interline agreement, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “we are pleased to add Batik Air to our growing list of partners, offering their passengers a smooth travel experience on a young and modern fleet, with our great service and enhanced cabin interior, as they explore our growing network. We look forward to offering our passengers more opportunities to explore Southeast Asia and beyond and we remain committed to creating free flows of trade and tourism and supporting Dubai’s position as a thriving aviation hub.” ​ ​ ​ Batik Air Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said that this agreement marks a significant step forward in expanding travel possibilities for valued passengers. “By bringing together the networks of Batik Air and flydubai, we’re not only making it easier for travellers to connect with …

Future Hospitality Summit World unveiled its stellar line up of speakers, an action-packed agenda and a wealth of new features at its biggest event to date, which will see more than 1,500 hospitality and tourism leaders descend on Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah, 30 September to 2 October with TravTalk Middle East. Under the theme ‘Invest in our Future’, the FHS World programme will present three days of strong debate, insight and groundbreaking news, covering everything from investment opportunities to innovation and ESG to exclusive announcements. Among more than 110 confirmed top-flight speakers and presenters at FHS World is His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy for the UAE who, having played a crucial role in developing some of country’s most important hospitality and tourism policies, will share his insights on the world of hospitality investment in a welcome address moderated by Stephen Sackur, Presenter of HARDTalk, on 1 October. Jonathan Worsley, Chairman of FHS World organiser, The Bench, said: “FHS World is all about bringing together the best in the industry and connecting decision-makers, investors, hotel owners, operators and innovators across the global hospitality investment sector. As the hospitality and tourism industry reaches new heights in terms of investment, innovation and sustainability, our bursting agenda will push boundaries and challenge the norms to set the tone for the immediate, short-term and long-term future and success of the ever-growing and evolving sector. We look forward to three days of strong discussion, hot debate and industry-changing decision making it our biggest, boldest event yet.” Who is speaking at FHS World? The growing list of speakers at FHS World features renowned names in hospitality, investment and tourism. Among them: His Excellency …

Mirai shared that selling extras is a strategic way to enhance guest satisfaction and significantly boost hotel revenue. For instance, extras like show tickets or spa access, per room for something like late check-out, or per booking for parking or car rentals etc. The quantity could be per night for extras like an additional bed, or a one-time charge for things like a parking fee. By starting small, focusing on high-margin items, and ensuring proper integration and management, hotels can effectively implement and benefit from an extras strategy. With thoughtful execution, selling extras can transform hotel’s summer revenue potential.  Hotels have a prime opportunity to boost their revenue by offering add-ons to their guests. Enhancing the guest experience with thoughtfully curated extras not only increases satisfaction but can also significantly impact the hotel’s bottom line. Hotels face several challenges when selling extras through their direct booking channels, but overcoming these can greatly enhance both revenue and guest satisfaction. Strategically, hotels must balance the desire to boost income with the complexities that come with managing additional services. Starting small and scaling gradually helps avoid overwhelming staff and guests. On the marketing front, it’s crucial to effectively promote these add-ons using enticing visuals, clear descriptions, and pricing that resonates with the hotel’s brand and customer expectations, ensuring the options enhance the guest experience without causing decision fatigue. Operationally, the focus should be on streamlining processes to ensure that offering extras doesn’t become a logistical burden. This involves integrating these offerings into existing systems, coordinating with suppliers, and aligning extras with the hotel’s policies and procedures. By addressing these challenges, hotels can create a more appealing and profitable direct booking. Pablo Delgado, CEO …

Front End announced that the company enabled a successful demonstration of the first unmanned air taxi trial in Mecca, supported by its partner, EHang, the world’s leading urban air mobility (UAM) technology platform company. Front End’s commitment to bringing the latest technology to the Kingdom along with EHang’s guidance in the adoption of urban air mobility, together with the leadership of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the Ministry of Hajj, the Ministry of Interior, marked a pivotal step towards a faster, more efficient, and sustainable Hajj. This collaboration unlocked a truly innovative solution, showcasing the remarkable potential of government-private partnerships to drive advancements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His Excellency Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of GACA said: “The trial marks a major advancement in integrating Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions into Saudi Arabia’s aviation landscape. We are committed to the highest safety standards and seamless integration into existing air traffic systems. This trial acts as a proof of concept for multiple use cases and contributes to various AAM roadmap initiatives. We appreciate the instrumental support of Front End and EHang to mark this historic milestone for Saudi Arabia.” The annual Hajj pilgrimage, a monumental gathering of diverse nationalities, presents unique logistical challenges. This innovative demonstration aims to streamline transportation during this sacred event, by efficiently moving pilgrims faster between key locations, ensuring a smoother and safer Hajj experience. Commenting on the demonstration, Mr. Majid Alghaslan, Chairman and CEO of Front End Limited Company, said: “Front End is at the forefront of this trailblazing trial, paving the way to a new era in smart mobility solutions, potentially revolutionizing Hajj …

The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to more than OMR 3.3BN in 2024, 7.6% of the country’s economy, and is projected to employ more than 206,000 people across the country, with one in fourteen people working in the sector. Domestic visitor spending is predicted to continue growing, to reach OMR 1.5BN, beating the 2019 level by just over 8%. Although international visitor spending is forecast to still be behind 2019 levels by OMR 142.3MN, it is expected to continue growing through 2024.  The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) unveiled a promising future for Oman’s Travel & Tourism sector. With strong government support and strategic initiatives, the sector is poised to not only recover but to reach unprecedented heights this year. According to the global tourism body’s latest research, in 2023 the Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution surged by almost 35%, totalling OMR 2.8BN, and is on track to surpass previous records. The sector witnessed a robust job growth of 15%, now employing 191,500 individuals nationwide. Last year, international visitors injected OMR 1.1BN into the economy, a remarkable 69% increase from 2022, while spending by domestic travellers rebounded to OMR 1.4BN. Oman’s status as a top tourist destination in the Middle East is clearer than ever, thanks to strategic government investment and support. These efforts are not only rejuvenating the economy but are also setting the stage for further increases in international travel spending and overall economic contribution from the sector. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said; “Oman’s Travel & Tourism sector is on the cusp of an historic revival in 2024. “The Oman Government is a strong support of Travel …

Kempinski Hotels announced the appointment of Barbara Muckermann as Chief Executive Officer. Muckermann previously was responsible for leading Silversea Cruises (part of Royal Caribbean Group), the world’s largest ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line. She joins the iconic global luxury hospitality brand with 82 hotels in 36 countries at an exciting time, as Kempinski prepares for impressive growth in new regions worldwide and more spectacular properties on the horizon. Kempinski is proud of its 127-year tradition and the associated high standard of quality which the group has introduced into new upwardly-mobile markets. The group intends to add another 34 hotels and residences to its portfolio in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa in the coming years and to further secure Kempinski’s legendary global position and standing. “I could not be more thrilled to be joining Kempinski Hotels as CEO during such a pivotal time for the brand”, says Muckermann on her appointment. “I am delighted to play an integral role in this incredibly iconic brand’s next chapter while honouring its rich history, and very much look forward to working in tandem with amazing colleagues globally to continue to make the Kempinski name synonymous with individual luxury.” “Barbara has always been at the forefront of luxury, and her proven ability to elevate the guest experience while simultaneously maximising profitability for leading travel brands made her the ideal choice to lead Kempinski Hotels,” said René Nijhof, Chairman of the Board of Directors Kempinski Hotels S.A. “Her dynamic, forward-thinking approach will be vital as we continue to usher in a new era of luxury for our brand. As Barbara takes the helm, she will be the first woman in the company’s 127 years …

Abu Dhabi Airports announced the appointment of Elena Sorlini as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Sorlini transitions into the role permanently after serving in an interim capacity since June 2023. Since joining Abu Dhabi Airports, Sorlini has overseen the successful opening of Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new state-of-the-art Terminal A, which ranks among the largest airport terminals in the world. It has the capacity to host 45 million passengers annually and accommodate 79 aircraft at any given time, thereby strengthening the aviation sector’s contribution to Abu Dhabi’s diversified economy. Additionally, she has played an important role in maintaining the steady increase of passenger traffic numbers, which continue to experience year-on-year growth, as well as attracting new airlines and routes to Abu Dhabi, including the French national carrier Air France. His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Advisor of Special Affairs at the Presidential Court and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “On behalf of the board, we are delighted to welcome Elena Sorlini as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports. With her proven track record of success in the aviation sector, we have full confidence in her ability to lead the organization through its next phase of growth, underscored by our commitment to solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a global tourism destination and a leading aviation hub. I wish her all the best in her new role.” Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “I am honored to have been officially appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports. Following the opening of Terminal A, …

Rotana announced the appointment of Philip Barnes as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 March 2024. Commenting on the announcement, Selim El Zyr, Vice-Chairman of Rotana, said: “We are proud to welcome Philip Barnes as the new CEO of Rotana. With a rich history of leadership and a deep understanding of the global hospitality landscape, Barnes is poised to elevate our brand delivery and levels of excellence. We eagerly anticipate his innovative direction and vision that will shape Rotana’s next chapter and build on our growing pipeline across key markets.” Completing almost 25 years as part of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Barnes held several senior leadership positions worldwide, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Most recently, he held the role of Regional Vice President of Southern California (2020 – 2022). Previously, he also worked with leading hospitality brands such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and Shangri La Hotels & Resorts among others. In the Middle East, Barnes was Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ Regional Vice President of the United Arab Emirates (2009 – 2011). In this role, he oversaw the operations for Fairmont Palm Dubai, Fairmont Bab al Bar Abu Dhabi, Fairmont Ajman, Fairmont Fujairah, and pre-opening Fairmont Abu Dhabi. Prior to this, he also held the position of Vice President of the Middle East (2007 – 2009) for the group, overseeing the developments and planned openings in South Africa, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. “I am privileged to join Rotana – a homegrown brand synonymous with providing guests with the highest service levels across the region. I look forward to working closely with the wider team …

Wego launched WegoPro, a modern platform that simplifies business travel and expense management for companies globally. Formerly known as Travelstop, WegoPro will debut today in 7 key markets in the MENA region, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and Egypt. The rebranding follows Wego’s acquisition of Travelstop in September 2023, reinforcing Wego’s commitment to offer comprehensive travel solutions to businesses in the region. Market research firms predict that the global business travel market will be valued at over US$1.8 trillion by 2027 and will return to the pre-pandemic levels of US$1.4 trillion this year. A significant part of that growth is expected to come from markets in Asia and the MENA region. That growth, coupled with the increasing demand for more modern and innovative business travel solutions, represents a substantial opportunity for WegoPro in the region. “The Middle East is a very young population and most people in the workforce today have grown up with powerful travel apps and websites, like Wego, that have let them book their own personal travel,” said Ross Veitch, Wego CEO & Co-Founder. “In stark contrast in their professional lives they are often forced to book their business trips through cumbersome offline booking processes having to email back and forth with a corporate travel management company and then to go through a tedious approval process. After the trip expense reports then need to be filed in a process normally involving Excel, receipts and sticky tape. With the launch of WegoPro today we are leveraging technology and our deep experience in the B2C space to bring business travel & expense management into the 21st century.” WegoPro offers a diverse and extensive range of flight and …