Rotana group has a long-established attendance at Arabian Travel Market (ATM), CEO Selim El Zyr tells TTN what keeps the company coming back.
Rotana has been participating at ATM for many years, how has the show changed since the company first became involved?
We are participating at ATM for the 14th year in a row, which is quite amazing when I think about it.
We are always keen on being the first to support initiatives taking place within the Middle East and for the Middle East and ATM was one of the major initiatives, we have witnessed its growth since its inception. Needless to say that ATM has grown by 10 times since it was first launched, which is indeed an advantage for all exhibitors/participants, the industry and the Middle East market in general.
How has your participation grown over the years?
Not in the size of the stand as we have always had a 120-sq-m stand! However, with our expansion plans, it is the benefit from the various markets and the travel industry attending ATM, which has grown.
How has being involved at ATM helped with Rotana’s rapid growth?
The indirect benefit was certainly from the exposure and the fact that we were available, under our company’s umbrella, to showcase our company and products to industry buyers coming from the various markets and to sign contracts. This is the case of all international exhibitions and trade shows.
How do you find ATM in comparison with other international shows?
Very similar however, the Middle East is our home and our expansion is focused at this stage solely on this region.
What is Rotana hoping to achieve by taking part in this year’s ATM?
Our aim is to strengthen Rotana’s presence in the region, to support our expansion plans and to showcase our products and offerings to industry buyers.
What will the company be particularly promoting?
During ATM we will be showcasing our brand, products and offerings. Also, we are in negotiations for new properties and perhaps we will be announcing a number of new properties. This will be detailed at a later stage.
Does this show have particular importance for the company since it is within the Middle Eastern market?
Again, the Middle East is our home and our expansion is focused on this region. Today, Rotana has a portfolio of more than 70 properties across 26 cities in the Mena region. Rotana offers a wide range of services and products through its four sub brands; Rotana Hotels & Resorts for the four and five-star properties, Arjaan Hotel Apartments for long-term stays, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts, Rotana’s alcohol free four and five-star properties, and Centro Hotels, a three-star-plus concept for the budget traveller.