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Passenger traffic at Dubai International, the world’s fourth busiest hub for passengers and freight, reached 4,848,320 in March, marking an increase of 15.4 per cent compared to 4,201,708 over the same period last year.

The figures for March also marks the airport’s double-digit growth for the third consecutive month, according to the monthly traffic report for March issued by Dubai Airports on Wednesday.

March is also the third consecutive month for Dubai International with passenger numbers exceeding the 4.5 million mark, propelling traffic in the first quarter to 14,261,606, a surge of 16.1 per cent over the corresponding month of 2011, said the report.

Buoyed by traffic growth in the region following the increasing liberalisation of the Saudi Arabian aviation sector, the AGCC continued to top the list of regions with the largest increase in total passenger numbers (+174,537 passengers), followed by Western Europe (+109,364), and Africa (+90,057).

Contraction on Middle Eastern routes continued in March (-23,030 passengers) owing to instability in certain parts of the region. South America has remained the strongest market in terms of percentage passenger growth (+90.9 per cent) as a result of new Emirates services to Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, followed by Russia and CIS (+47.4 per cent), and Australasia (+40.7 per cent).

Traffic to and from Africa also rose dramatically (+25.7 per cent) due to the addition of Harare and Lusaka to Emirates’ route network, the report said.

During the month under review, Dubai International recorded a total of 29,276 aircraft movements, up 5.8 per cent compared to 27,674 in March 2011. The year to date movements increased 7.9 per cent to reach 86,014, compared to 79,705 recorded during the first quarter in 2011.

Dubai International handled 186,417 tonnes of cargo in March 2012 compared to 185,921 tonnes in March 2011, up 0.3 per cent. Cargo volumes during the first quarter rose slightly with freight volumes reaching 517,440 tonnes, an increase of 1.1 per cent compared to 512,057 tonnes during the corresponding period in 2011.

“New routes and additional frequencies are building on the magnetic attraction of Dubai’s hub as a premier leisure and business destination and a convenient connecting point for global travellers,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

“As growth continues to pick up in almost all markets, both traditional and new, the outlook for the second quarter is similarly positive,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service

Saudi Arabia’s Abdul Latif Jameel Real Estate Investment Company (ALJREIC) is investing SR10 billion ($2.66 billion) in developing new hotels in Makkah, its chairman said.

Yousef Abdul Latif Jameel said the company is developing Jabal Al Kaaba project, investing up to SR6 billion in land and SR4 billion in the construction of hotels.

Jabal Al Kaaba project will deliver a fresh supply of 8,500 hotel rooms in a cluster of hotels over the next few years.

ALJREIC is also launching a new Saudi hospitality brand, Anjum Hotels, which is inspired by the Saudi Hijazi culture.

Anjum Makkah, the brand’s flagship hotel and the first to be developed within the project, consists of 1,795 rooms and suites and will open in the first quarter of 2013, to receive guests visiting Makkah for Haj and Umrah.  The project is located in front of the Holy Haram.

“The Holy City of Makkah has been witnessing a construction boom, with the implementation of major projects to cater to the needs of citizens, visitors and pilgrims,” said Jameel “Saudi Arabia is currently experiencing an unprecedented development period under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah.”

ALJREIC is currently developing a total area of 54,000 sq m for 5-star hotels in Makkah to help address the growing demand in the tourism industry, he said.

The Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA) has revealed in its latest report that Saudi Arabia will attract 88 million visitors by 2020, in line with its plans to develop the domestic and business tourism in addition to developing the tourism for religious purposes. The number of visitors for tourism and religious purposes in particular is expected to reach 15.8 million by 2014, compared to 13 million in 2010. –TradeArabia News Service

British Airways (BA) has completed major renovation of its lounge in Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1.

The refurbishment allows premium customers and eligible Executive Club members to relax in even more comfort before their flight, a statement said.

The refreshed lounge has a modern yet comfortable feel which is complemented by ambient lighting, providing customers with a great environment to catch up on work or relax before their flight. There is also a new menu and improved food and beverage facilities, according to the statement.

Paolo De Renzis, regional commercial manager, Middle East said: “The update to our Lounge at Dubai International Airport is just one of the many enhancements that our Middle Eastern customers will start to see as a result of our investment for customers. Our investment will make life more comfortable for customers both on the ground and in the sky.” – TradeArabia News Service

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) Hotels, a leading real estate investment and hospitality advisory firm, has appointed Gabriel Matar as its new head of Hotels for the Middle East and Africa.

Before accepting his new role Matar was leading Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels team in Paris since 2006. Previously Matar was managing the hospitality and tourism division at KPMG for France.

Matar has bespoke experience with landmark properties such as palace hotels and SPA hotels, having worked on several large and high profile renovation projects and valuations, a statement said.

Matar takes over from Jalil Mekouar, who has been leading Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels Middle East & Africa for the last five years. Jalil will relocate to Chicago, with Jones Lang LaSalle as chief operating officer – Americas and managing director – Strategic Advisory and Asset Management.

Mark Wynne-Smith, global CEO of Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels said: “Gabriel brings a wealth of international experience to the Middle East and Africa market and we are delighted to welcome him as our new head of Hotels for the Middle East & Africa region. He will be responsible for developing and expanding our operations in the region which have grown significantly in recent years under Jalil’s leadership.”

“Despite the global financial crisis, problems in the Eurozone and the Arab Spring, the travel and tourism industry continues to be a beacon of relative growth and stability for this region as it continues to expand as a major global leisure and business destination.  Gabriel’s expertise will be invaluable as both domestic and international hospitality brands continue to grow their operations.”

Matar added: “The travel and tourism industry has continued to grow significantly over the longer term in the past few decades. The Middle East and Africa has very much been at the forefront in defining the ultimate luxury and corporate experience and continues to attract ever increasing numbers of regional and international travellers.”

“However, as the sector has matured, so we are also seeing growth in some of the other hospitality brands to cater for an increasingly diverse range of tastes, budgets and other requirements. It’s an exciting time for the sector in this part of the world,” he added.

Matar holds a Master’s degree in Real Estate and two post graduate degrees in tourism economics and sales and marketing from France.  He is also a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and a Registered Real Estate Valuer. – TradeArabia News Service

Saudi Arabia will clear new carriers for takeoff in September, the kingdom's aviation authority said on Wednesday, granting airline licences for the right to operate both local and international flights.

Khalid Al-Khaibary, the spokesman for General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA), said 14 companies had applied for licences and the government had yet to decide on how many carriers it would authorise.

'The requests for proposals will be handed toward the end of May with a deadline to receive bids by the end of August.

Winners will be awarded licenses in September,' Al-Khaibary told Reuters by telephone.

National carrier Saudi Airlines and budget airline National Air Services (NAS) now serve a domestic market of around 27 million people.

But with a price cap on domestic flights, private airlines have struggled with their profit margins. In 2010, a third carrier, Sama Airlines, was forced to suspend its operations.

Saudi Airlines, which is undergoing a slow privatisation process, receives fuel at subsidized prices unlike private carriers, allowing it to offset the limits of the ticket cost ceiling. – Reuters

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, today announced that Michael Venus will take charge of the company’s corporate affairs department.

Venus, who has been the airline’s head of International Media Relations since June 2011, has been appointed vice president corporate affairs, with immediate effect.  He will be responsible for Etihad Airways’ public affairs and corporate communications, including global media relations, social media strategy, internal communications, corporate social responsibility, environmental affairs and corporate events, said a statement.

Venus, an award-winning journalist, brings more than 30 years of media experience to the position. His career began in Australian newspapers covering aviation, transport and politics. He was also a daily columnist, feature writer and investigative journalist. He then made the transition to television news as a senior on-camera reporter with the Nine Network before being appointed chief of staff at National Nine News in Melbourne. It was a position he held for more than a decade. In 2003 he assumed complete editorial and management control when he was appointed director of news. After seven years in the role he relocated to the UAE.

James Hogan, president and chief executive officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Michael brings a wide range of skills and experience to this role.  He will help us move up to the next level in our global communications.”

Hogan thanked Belinda de Rome who moves on after three years at Etihad as senior vice president corporate affairs.  – TradeArabia News Service

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest indoor themed park, has announced a brand new experiential ride, a new show production and a packed calendar of family-friendly activities for the year ahead.

“We are only in our second year and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has already carved out a place for itself as a must-visit attraction in the UAE and one of its most unique, popular and sought-after family entertainment destinations,” said Raquel Lopez, director of Marketing & Sales, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

“The Park combines international brand recognition with a compelling offering that appeals to all age-groups. There’s nothing like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi anywhere in the world and the new additions to the Park go a step further in bringing the incredible Ferrari story to life in new and exciting ways,” she added.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi launched ‘Viaggio in Italia’ – one of the Park’s most technologically-advanced simulator rides that lifts guests into a giant inverted dome and takes them on a virtual flying journey over Italy.

Once locked into the ride, guests go on a multi-sensory aerial adventure through Italy’s breathtaking countryside and cityscapes, pursuing a Ferrari along the course of the famous Mille Miglia road rally.

“We will also debut a stunning new entertainment show soon after Ramadan. The show will replace La Gara and in the true spirit of Ferrari and Italy, it is set to be a lively and spectacular production,” said Lopez.

In addition, Park visitors are in for a jam-packed calendar of exciting themed events and activities – from Italian-themed festivals along the lines of the super successful Italia! Italia! Festival held in April to special Ramadan, Eid and National Day activities and F1 screenings from cities all around the world.

“With guests from more than 50 countries from around the world and many repeat guests – especially from the UAE and the GCC region – it’s important to keep the Park’s offering vibrant and fresh. We have a packed calendar in place for the months ahead and guests can look forward to a very exciting ride,” said Lopez.

“From high intensity rides to engaging and interactive attractions, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi undoubtedly offers an unforgettable experience.”

“Delegates visiting our stand at ATM will be able to learn more about the creative and extensive marketing support we offer our partner agents to help them meet their own business goals while promoting Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to their clients,” added Lopez.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will exhibit during ATM – the region’s largest travel and tourism events which takes place from April 30 – May 3 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. – TradeArabia News Service

Kuwait-based budget carrier Jazeera Airways Group said it has won approval from the annual general meeting for distribution of 10 per cent bonus shares to its investors.

Announcing this on Wednesday, Jazeera said the shareholders approved the board’s recommendation following a record-breaking year in which the airline earned record KD10.6 million ($38.1 million) in net profit with an earnings per share of 48 fils.

Besides, the Kuwaiti budget carrier also a registered a record KD57.8 million in revenue, up 36 per cent from 2010, and a record KD14.9 million in operating profit.

These results reflect the success of the company’s Turn-Around Plan that was implemented in second quarter 2010 and had steered the company into continued profitability for the last six quarters, said a top official.

Commenting on the results, Jazeera Airways Group chairman Marwan Boodai said, '2011 was a record-breaking year despite the continued over capacity, the impact of political unrest on travel within our network, and an increasing fuel cost.'

'Jazeera Airways today has a solid network, increasing load factors, reduced cost, high aircraft utilization, in addition to an aircraft leasing arm with assets deployed across the globe, from the US to the Middle East to Asia. Jazeera Airways Group today has a sustainable business model that has generated sustainable profitability quarter-on-quarter for six quarters in-a-row,” he added.

Following the AGM, the board held an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders to gain approval for amending the articles of association to take into account the change in capital resulting from the bonus share issuance.

The shareholders also approved the change of the company’s capital from KD22 million to KD24.2 million by issuing 22 million ordinary shares (the bonus shares) at a nominal value of 100 fils to the share.-TradeArabia News Service

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Hussein Dabbas as regional vice president for the Mena region, based in Amman, Jordan, with effect from June 1.

Dabbas has served as president and CEO of Royal Jordanian Airlines since 2009, during which he held various positions in the airline’s commercial departments.

Dabbas takes over from Dr Majdi Sabri who will retire from IATA after the leading the association in the region since 2001.

“Aviation is a critical component of the region’s development and exhibits a tremendous potential for growth. In the Middle East alone, the aviation sector currently supports 2.7 million jobs and $129 billion in economic activity. I look forward to leading IATA’s efforts regionally to ensure that aviation can continue be an economic catalyst by growing safely, securely and sustainably,” said Dabbas.

The Association has 28 member airlines across Mena, including some of the fastest growing airlines in the world. From its Amman regional office, IATA supports the Mena region with access to the full range of IATA’s activities, programmes and services.

This includes flagship programmes such as the IATA operational safety audit, simplifying the business, and checkpoint of the future as well as the full range of its industry settlement systems. – Reuters

A new BD240,000 ($635,500) development, called Hamad Town Gardens, covering an area of 5,135 sq m and featuring several grassy areas, two playgrounds, football areas and public toilets has opened in Bahrain.

It is located near Hamad Town's Roundabout Two and was opened yesterday (April 23) by Northern Municipality director-general Yousif Al Ghatam.

'This project comes as an implementation of the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 plan which was set up by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry,' said Al Ghatam.

'We at the Northern Municipality are trying to bring many projects to reality to achieve our goal which is fulfilling people's aspirations.

'Hamad Town does not have many green areas, therefore this park will be a good place for people to enjoy walks, talks and spare time.'

It follows the opening of another park in the Northern Governorate, Janabiya Public Park, on March 1 as part of the Northern Parks Friends scheme.

The initiative was launched by Al Ghatam to help protect public parks from sabotage and to spread environmental awareness.

'The Park Friends are volunteers in the Northern Parks Friends scheme who are helping in monitoring the upkeep of the parks,' he explained. 'They will get the support of the municipality and the people.'

A third new park in the Northern Governorate, the Prince Khalifa Educational Park, is also on the cards after getting the green light from the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry.

'This park is one of a series of parks that will be built in this area,' said Northern Municipal Council member Khalid Al Ka'abi.

'It came as a result of co-operation between the executive system and the Municipal Council, who are trying to develop the area and enhance facilities within the budget. The idea was given to Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi, who agreed to construct the park on an area covering 6,200 sq m. We would love to see this become a reality soon, with the co-operation of Al Ghatam.'

Al Ghatam was accompanied at yesterday's opening by other senior officials including municipal councillors, MP Mohammed Al Ammadi and Northern Governorate deputy governor Jassim Al Wafi. – TradeArabia News Service