<rss version="0.91">
<channel>
<title>www.bi-me.com RSS feed for &#8211; Travel &amp; Hospitality</title>
<link>http://www.bi-me.com</link>
<description>Middle Eastern Business News and Data</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title><![CDATA[Roya and Deloitte sign Memorandum of Understanding ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=45010</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Roya International and Deloitte announced today the signing of a MoU that sees the two firms bringing together their expertise to provide Hotel Management Oversight services in the Middle East. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Elaf Group targets to open new hotels in Saudi Arabia by 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=45007</link>
<description><![CDATA[SAUDI ARABIA. Elaf Group of Companies has pointed out that improving packages, services and products from key industry players are complementing the boom in domestic tourism in the country. 

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<title><![CDATA[Barclays Wealth supports the spread of literacy in Arab World with EAIFL]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=45006</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Barclays Wealth revealed today another step to support levels of literacy and knowledge in the Arab Word, its participation in the second annual Emirates Airlines International Festival for Literacy. 

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Singapore Airlines to feature new cabin offerings from Abu Dhabi]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44984</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Singapore Airlines&#039; will introduce daily Airbus A330-300 aircraft from Abu Dhabi to Singapore starting from 29 March 2010, featuring the Airline&#039;s latest product and service offerings. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Starwood announces plans to add 50 new hotels in Middle East, Europe and Africa by 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44972</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. With more than 240 hotels in 55 countries in EAME, we currently have a large enough footprint to enjoy the benefits of being an established and leading hotel operator in the most highly sought-after markets, says President of Global Development. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Universal Flight Information System powers top 5 performing Airports]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44940</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Dubai International Airport, another UFIS customer, is ranked second in the Middle East Region.
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Qatar&#039;s tourism sector set to maintain 6% annual revenue growth rate in 2010

]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44871</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Qatar&#039;s tourism will particularly continue sector to focus on inbound travel being generated by the rapidly expanding local meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions segment. 
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways launches &#039;Business Connect&#039; in UAE]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44893</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways has announced a new program called BusinessConnect to help small to medium sized enterprises get the most value from their travel budget when flying with the airline.  ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Mass Touchdown for Chinese companies at Airport Show 2010]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44899</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. China is sending a massive contingency of airport ground support equipment, building material supplies providers and other key industry experts to the Airport Show 2010. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Qatar Airways doubles fleet to 80 aircraft]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44888</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. The airline has inducted its 15th Boeing 777 into the fleet and maintains a delivery schedule of more than one new aircraft a month, retaining its status as one of the world&#039;s fastest growing airlines.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[UAE hotels in race for &#039;Green Globe&#039; accreditation]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44852</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Palace The Old Town in Dubai and Miramar Resort have become the first hotels in the country to sign-up for the internationally recognised sustainable Green Globe Certification]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Career mapping key to addressing pilot shortage]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44748</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The looming pilot shortage across the aerospace industry can be tackled by career mapping and better planning by airlines, according to industry experts]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Cautious optimism for India recovery]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44737</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The health of India&#039;s hotel industry is returning as data from STR Global shows a concerted upward trend and recent positive year-on-year growth in revenue per available room.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways and ANA codeshare comes into service]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44867</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways&#039; focus on the Japanese market continues this week, as a codeshare with ANA comes into service. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[87% of Abu Dhabi international tourists would consider returning]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44861</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Some 60% of international visitor arrivals in Abu Dhabi are guests making their first trip to the emirate, according to an Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority survey.
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<title><![CDATA[OnAir makes airline history with both mobile and WiFi Internet access on Oman Air]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44810</link>
<description><![CDATA[OMAN. OnAir together with Oman Air celebrated a successful first flight using the full spectrum of mobile and WiFi Internet connectivity services based on Inmarsat SwiftBroadband. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Aviation skills training seen as vital for GCC countries to develop Aerospace industry]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44835</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. First-ever Aerospace &amp; defence training show in Middle East. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Maximus Air Cargo supports safety drive for Aviation in the region]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44821</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Maximus Air Cargo is putting its full weight behind the General Civil Aviation Authority&#039;s drive for safety. 
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways launched new destination management company Hala Abu Dhabi]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44814</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Hala Abu Dhabi will be based in the nation&#039;s capital but offer travel products, services and activities throughout all seven Emirates of the UAE. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Oman Air awards US$2.6 million contract to Spartial Composite Solutions]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44801</link>
<description><![CDATA[OMAN. Spatial will design and build A330-300 and B737 NG cabin evacuation trainers, for installation at Oman Air&#039;s new Aviation Crew Training facility at Muscat International Airport. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Global hotel prices drop 14% ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44792</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Figures show Dubai becomes more attractive destination for international travellers as room rates fall.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Air travel industry to remain in the red for 2010, Middle East bucks the trend]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44788</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL.  Middle Eastern carriers grew throughout the recession. Growth accelerated to 23.6% in January.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East hoteliers prove to be the strongest, led by Beirut]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44746</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Beirut reports the strongest increases in the region and the world for the second consecutive year, according to the latest Deloitte report.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Aircraft interiors Middle East show platform for onboard innovations]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44767</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Contract signings marked the second Aircraft Interiors Middle East show, running at Dubai&#039;s Airport Expo.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[First aviation skills training show to meet Middle East demand]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44758</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Dubai Airshow organiser F&amp;E Aerospace is taking the lead in highlighting the urgent demand for more professional skills training in the civil and military aerospace industry. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Flydubai doubles GCC network to four destinations]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44761</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Kuwait City and Muscat will bring Flydubai&#039;s network to thirteen routes and with a double daily service operating to both cities the flights are sure to be popular with both business and leisure travelers. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Football teams go for goal via Royal Jet ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44765</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Royal Jet has become the carrier of choice for the UAE National, Al Wahda and Etihad football teams in their pursuit for victory]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[The Address Dubai Marina opens doors to a vibrant lounge experience with Shades ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44757</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. A lively venue in Dubai Marina offering the latest lounge experience in the city, Shades is a must-visit destination for the movers and shakers. 

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways welcomes fifth class of graduate managers]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44755</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways has welcomed its fifth group of Emirati graduate managers, who have commenced training at the airline&#039;s headquarters in Abu Dhabi.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Saudi Arabia to spend US$667 million on new airports]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44733</link>
<description><![CDATA[SAUDI ARABIA. The projects include the development, creation and expansion of 23 airports that will serve around nine million travellers annually.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[MRO Mddle East conference and exhibition opens today]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44727</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The second MRO Middle East conference and exhibition opened today at Dubai&#039;s Airport Expo with expectations that participant registration has doubled since the last outing of the event in 2009. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Airports Council International selects GCAS as training hub for Middle East ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44710</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies has signed a partnership agreement with the ACI confirming GCAS will start offering ACI&#039;s comprehensive training programmes from its new Middle East training hub in Abu Dhabi.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Strong recovery continues in regional business jet charter market, according to Middle East&#039;s Empire Aviation Group]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44698</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. This follows a strong recovery in October-December fourth quarter 2009, after charter bookings for the company dropped around 40% in the first half of 2009.

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways hosts Japanese Cultural Week in Dubai]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44695</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways has been treating residents of the UAE to some unique Japanese festivities as the airline prepares to launch flights to Tokyo, its second new route to the country.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Bond with mom at The Address Hotels + Resorts this Mother&#039;s Day]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44692</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Address Hotels + Resorts in Dubai is offering &#039;Bond with Mom&#039; a signature indulging experience to mark Mother&#039;s Day giving mothers and daughters the opportunity to enjoy a rejuvenating treat together.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai&#039;s own &#039;At the Top&#039; experience for NASA astronauts]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44693</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. On the first-ever visit of a NASA team to the Middle East, the two astronauts toured At the Top, the world&#039;s highest observatory deck with an outdoor terrace on level 124 of Burj Khalifa.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ADAC welcomes Ariana Afghan Airlines]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44690</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Abu Dhabi Airports Company now operating on Friday&#039;s offering both business and economy class products. 
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai Aquarium leak shuts down parts of Dubai Mall]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44667</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Maintenance crews scrambled to contain a leak in the Dubai Acquarium which holds 10 million litres of water and more than 33,000 underwater creatures, including sharks.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East hotel occupancy rate fell in January but Egypt, Amman, Beirut and Dubai buck the trend]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44662</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Amman reported the largest market occupancy increase, rising 7.1% to 44.1%, followed by Beirut(+6.1% to 57.6%), and Dubai (+6.1% to 72.1%). Egypt reported an occupancy of 63% (+14.9%).
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad to introduce on-board health monitor system]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44660</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways will install new state-of-the-art technology on its long and ultra long haul aircraft which can monitor the condition of passengers who display signs of sickness that might require immediate medical attention.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Anyone would want to have equity in Emirates, says Sheikh Ahmed]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44654</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. &#039;If Emirates decided to IPO I&#039;m sure it will be good, especially if it&#039;s placed within the UAE stock markets,&#039; Sheikh Ahmed said.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi International Airport records double-digit growth in January]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44648</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Passengers travelling through the airport up by 11.2%; aircraft movements increased by 13.3% and cargo saw a significant rebound, up 25.6%.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Global space business leaders to converge in Dubai for inaugural World Space Risk Forum]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44590</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. A panel of industry experts will debate each session topic giving the audience an opportunity to gain insights on new developments in the space industry and their economic consequences.

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai International Airport traffic jumps 17% in January]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44618</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Dubai International started the New Year on a high note with more than 3.86 million passengers using the facility in January 2010.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East&#039;s appetite grows for Singaporean Cuisine]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44594</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Palm, whips up a wokful of traditional Singaporean recipes at Gulfood, the region&#039;s largest F&amp;B trade show now in Dubai.
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[British Airways cabin crew back strike action]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44584</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. British Airways cabin crew have voted in favour of strikes in a bitter row over jobs and working conditions, raising the renewed threat of action which could cripple flights.

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<title><![CDATA[Jordan&#039;s Royal Falcon Airlines now connected with Sabre]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44550</link>
<description><![CDATA[JORDAN. Sabre Travel Network to provide Sabre connected travel agents real-time access to the airline&#039;s published fares and inventory through the efficiency of the Sabre GDS.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[International television campaign continues the Etihad Airways story of innovation]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44535</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The television commercial will be shown initially in the UAE before being rolled out in key markets across Europe, the Middle East, Australia, India and the United States of America.

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<title><![CDATA[Special flight schedule published at Lufthansa due to expected pilots&#039; strike]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44504</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. As a consequence of the strike measures which have been initiated by the &#039;Vereinigung Cockpit&#039; trade union, Lufthansa is making corresponding adjustments to its flight schedule from Monday to Thursday, 22- 25 February. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai hotel room rates will not start to improve until 2011, says CBRE]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44512</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Compared to the global market some cities in the Middle East have out performed other key global cities, but in the region, the UAE has probably faired the worst.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways launches English training programme for Emiratis]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44502</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways has welcomed the first group of UAE national employees to its English and work-place training programme, a course designed to develop the participation and careers of Emiratis at Etihad. 

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Harbour Seals at Dubai Aquarium &amp; Underwater Zoo relocate to Indonesian zoological park ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44450</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The two sets of captive bred brother Seals, named by Dubai Aquarium &amp; Underwater Zoo educators as Tag, Uno, Kali and Datu, arrived in Dubai as sub-adults from Europe. 
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Boeing, Qatar First Investment Bank highlight aircraft investment opportunities]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44464</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Qatar-based bankers and financiers heard today from Boeing and Qatar First Investment Bank that the health of the Middle East&#039;s air-travel industry compared to other global regions continues to drive good investment opportunities in aircraft financing.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad to upgrade capacity on Manchester to Abu Dhabi route]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44448</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways today announced it would increase capacity by close to 60% on its Manchester services from June, upgrading its current two-class A330-200 aircraft to a two-class B777-300.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways reschedules flights from Dhaka to Abu Dhabi]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44438</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways has rescheduled flights to and from Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka to ensure better flight connections with Etihad destinations in Western Europe and North America. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Hotel Industry Pulse growth stagnant]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44434</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. New Hampshire-Economic research firm e-forecasting.com in conjunction with Smith Travel Research announced Hotel Industry Pulse declined in January after improving 2.8% in December.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[HCL Technologies continues expansion in the Middle East ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44435</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. HCL Technologies  today announced the opening of its regional headquarters for the Middle East operations in Dubai, UAE. 
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Turkish Airlines announces new Middle East Directors ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44407</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. UAE. Turkish Airlines has announced some directorial changes in a bid to fortify the organisation&#039;s presence in the Middle East and strengthen the local platform. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[General Civil Aviation Authority launches e-Licensing systems development project]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44423</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. GCAA appointed Logica to initially identify various requirements and software for the development of e-Licensing systems.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Air Arabia BoD proposes 10% cash dividend]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44427</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. This announcement follows the recent release of Air Arabia&#039;s financial results for the 12 months ending 31 December 2009.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ADAC welcomes aviation experts to Abu Dhabi Airport&#039;s MTC Peer Review Programme]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44380</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE.The Abu Dhabi Airports Peer Review Programme aims to provide a platform for collaboration and furthering best practice in airport development between some of the most experienced airports and aviation professionals from three continents. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Airport full body scanners may be unlawful, breach rights]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44383</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAl. Full body scanners introduced at two UK airports may breach human rights and could run counter to the right to privacy in European law.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[62% of customers who experience bad service turn to the competition]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44376</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Building a customer driven organisation needs a buy-in at all levels. This is best achieved when the company has linked its corporate vision to its service culture vision, according to service specialist Ron Kaufman.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka up 50% ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44366</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The strongest growth was registered from the UAE (up by 164%), Saudi Arabia (up by 127%), Qatar (171%), Kuwait (up by 135%) and Jordan among others. 
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<title><![CDATA[STR reports performance of luxury hotel spas for year-end 2009]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44363</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The summary Spa STAR data shows that the Average Treatment Rate was reported at US$135.39, a 4.5% decline compared with full-year 2008. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Bahrain Duty Free offers Arsenal products ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44353</link>
<description><![CDATA[BAHRAIN.  Bahrain Duty Free opens the Arsenal flagship corner providing a wide variety of Arsenal Football Club products. 
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai fund sold part of Merlin stake, says FT]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44345</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Dubai International Capital has sold two-thirds of its stake in Merlin Entertainment to the family behind Lego, the Financial Times reported.

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<title><![CDATA[Middle East hotel development company on-track for 2,600 by 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44337</link>
<description><![CDATA[KUWAIT. Eight of the region&#039;s gateway destinations will be servicing the mid-scale lodging sector with an international brand choice by 2012, according to Action Hotels.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[China&#039;s hotel performance dramatic declines during 2009]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44281</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Dramatic declines in China&#039;s hotel performance during 2009-underscored by revenue per available room falling 26.2% compared with a year ago-contrast strongly with the continuing good performance of the Chinese economy. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Air Arabia announces annual net profit of US$123 million]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44303</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Air Arabia announced today its financial results for the 12 months ending 31 December 2009, demonstrating continued profitability and very high levels of efficiency during an enormously challenging period for airlines worldwide. 
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<title><![CDATA[Emirates signs US$82 million deal with AC Milan ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44284</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The five-year deal, due to begin in July, will see Emirates become Serie A team AC Milan&#039;s shirt sponsor in place of the Austrian betting company BWin. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Premier Inn continues rapid expansion in the UAE]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44240</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Premier Inn has today officially opened its latest Dubai hotel located at Dubai International Airport.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Emirates Airline takes the title for top consumer website]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44232</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Emirates.com has come out on top in a global survey rating the usability of the world&#039;s leading airline websites. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Egyp&#039;st economy grew 5.1% in the fourth quarter]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44233</link>
<description><![CDATA[EGYPT. Egypt&#039;s economy recorded its fastest growth in more than a year in the fourth quarter, boosted by tourism, construction and manufacturing.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad airways secures additional flights to Australia]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44227</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Airways has secured seven additional weekly flight frequencies from its Abu Dhabi home-base to Australia.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Jumeirah expands presence in the Maldives]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44214</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Jumeirah Group has signed an agreement with Xanadu Holdings Private Limited to manage Jumeirah Meradhoo]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[The Address Dubai Mall introduces Ember]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44196</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Address Dubai Mall, the five star premium hotel directly linked to The Dubai Mall, opens Ember, its chic signature restaurant today.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[GIBTM attracts top destinations and hotels]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44211</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. With less than two months before the opening of the fourth GIBTM  in Abu Dhabi on 29 March, the event has recently confirmed the participation of some of the world&#039;s most important destinations and venues.  ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Aabar invests US$20 Million in Xojet]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44204</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Aabar is investing US$20 million in US aviation company Xojet Inc., a private airline company that offers jet services to business and leisure travelers.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[The Hotel Show puts spotlight on region&#039;s US$630 million spa industry]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44195</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. An award scheme aimed at finding the best spas in the multi-million dollar Middle East industry will make its debut in May at The Hotel Show 2010.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Airline asset management software market poised to expand]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44189</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The need for integration and more efficient business cycles is propelling the global commercial aviation asset management software market, with revenues projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 8%from 2008 to 2018, notes Frost &amp; Sullivan ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Market expertise sees BAE Systems ride commercial aviation downturn]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44187</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. BAE Systems reported today that its regional aircraft business held up well in the face of the worst ever downturn in the world&#039;s commercial aviation markets.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Mandarin Oriental&#039;s first Middle East hotel will open in Abu Dhabi]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44178</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. This will be Mandarin Oriental&#039;s first foray into the Middle East, providing the Group with an exceptional opportunity to extend its brand to one of the Arabian Gulf&#039;s foremost business and leisure destinations.
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<title><![CDATA[Burj Khalifa shutdown due to faulty elevator, says Dubai official]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44169</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Tourists visiting the Burj Khalifa were stranded on the building&#039;s observation deck for over an hour on Saturday.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Egypt tourism set to recover in 2010 ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44157</link>
<description><![CDATA[EGYPT. Egypt recorded a slower-than-anticipated decline in tourism revenue last year and is targeting 6.9% growth in receipts in 2010 as the global economy recovers.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East business travel set for a rebound, says YouGovSiraj survey]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44140</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The latest survey shows 46% of respondents expect their business travel to increase, marking a rise by 22 points compared with figures of the same period in 2009. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Emaar closes Burj Khalifa&#039;s observation deck for maintenance]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44156</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. &quot;Due to unexpected high traffic, the observation deck experience at the Burj Khalifa... has been temporarily closed for maintenance and upgrade,&quot; Emaar said.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi Airports Company &amp; Al Jaber Aviation sign largest tenancy deal]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44151</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. ADAC has signed a landmark 10-year leasing deal with AJA, which will see the new leading provider of VIP aviation based at Al Bateen Executive Airport, in the heart of the UAE capital. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways appoints new Doha country manager]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44137</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Etihad Airways has appointed Ahmed Thani Salim Mousa Al Halyan as its country manager for Qata.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Ukraine International Airlines boosts Abu Dhabi -Kiev flights ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44106</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. ADAC welcomes today UIA additional weekly services between Abu Dhabi and Kiev, with the carrier now flying five times per week. 

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<title><![CDATA[Etihad holidays offers new deals to Thailand]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44104</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad Holidays has announced a new cooperative agreement with Tourism Thailand to promote holiday packages to Bangkok.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Travel &amp; tourism key factors for Saudi Arabia&#039;s sustained economic growth ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44085</link>
<description><![CDATA[SAUDI ARABIA. The Saudi Arabia&#039;s travel and tourism sector has helped maintain solid national economic growth amidst the protracted global financial crisis. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Onair selected to service Airbus A350 XWB ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44097</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. OnAir is already linefit and retrofit offerable on the other Airbus families, and has been certified by EASA on 9 Airbus aircraft types.

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<title><![CDATA[Gulf Air&#039;s ownership transfered to Bahrain government ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44071</link>
<description><![CDATA[BAHRAIN. Bahrain&#039;s sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat said it would transfer ownership of the country&#039;s loss-making national carrier Gulf Air to the Bahraini government.

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<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi to acquire stake in London&#039;s Gatwick Airport]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44065</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Abu Dhabi Investment Authorit is to buy a 15% stake in Gatwick, the UK&#039;s second-largest airport, for US$198 million.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Gaylord Hotels signs on as platinum sponsor of Hotel Data Conference]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44040</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Having Gaylord see the conference as a viable marketing vehicle is an important step in the development of the Hotel Data Conference,&#039; said Mark Lomanno, president of STR. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Mubadala moves into aerospace financing]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44043</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The new venture, Sanad Aero Solutions, has already signed a US$100 million deal with Germany&#039;s Air Berlin for 12 spare engines, and for engine maintenance work for the carrier.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[STR co-founder and CEO presented with Lifetime Achievement Award]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=44041</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Randell A. Smith, CEO was presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit  on 26 January, 2010, in San Diego. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etihad Airways launches Japan services]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=43993</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etihad will initially fly four times a week to Nagoya, via Beijing, increasing to five flights a week from 29 March, operating two-class Airbus A330 aircraft on the route. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[&#039;Financing aircraft is not a problem,&#039; says Emirates]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=43991</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The group is sitting on a &#039;considerable&#039; cash balance, its President said, adding &#039;Dubai World has not directly impacted us.&#039;]]></description>
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