New markets take centrestage at ATM

The Arabian Travel Market, the much-anticipated event of the year in the Middle East, once again brings together the world on one stage with myriad opportunities on offer for its clientele. Professionals in the industry share their insights for this year’s show with .

TT Bureau
Iftikhar Hamdani Cluster General Manager—Ramada Hotel & Suites, Ajman, Ramada Beach Hotel, Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche
“ATM is a key platform for us to promote our hotels, especially the new Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche, and reinforce our status as the preferred bestvalue accommodation in the emirate. The property had been received remarkably in the previous exhibitions we have attended. We are confident to recieve full support from our partners and hope that the new hotel will attain the same level of success as our Ramada properties in Ajman.”
Muhammad Haider General Manager, ibis Styles Dubai Jumeira
“As a young property opened just two and a half years ago, we have been able to be consistent in our occupancy levels at an average of 79 per cent since its opening. Our brand is confident about  reinventing the image of mid-scale hotels and ATM is an excellent platform to expand our reach and generate new business from all markets.”
Mohamad Awadalla, CEO Time Hotels
“We will be sharing the expansion plan of our brand till 2020. We are always looking forward to a positive ATM with increase of visitors and more buyers to be present during the event, having the opportunity to set stepping stones with new associates. We have done well for 2017 even with the challenges and resistance. We have managed to pull through with our development plans across the UAE and GCC.”
Ammar Kanaan, Group General Manager, Central Hotels
“We aim to magnify on widening the reach of our brand by securing new business partners and, manage existing and upcoming projects. We are keen on strengthening our relationships with travel agents, OTAs, tour operators, DMCs and wholesalers. The expectations are high for 2018 especially with the two new properties we are launching in The Palm and Business Bay.”
Samer Rafie, Hotel Manager, Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham JBR
“The GCC markets still top the nationality mix at Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham JBR, and ATM is one of the key events we attend to increase our market share in the region. Our property will showcase deals that are ideal for the Arab travellers. We are also eyeing to reinforce our strategic location and benefit from the upcoming attractions and developments in JBR. “