Emirates’ Self-Service Check-in Kiosks and dedicated Quick Baggage Drop facility at Dubai Airport

Emirates Airline passengers departing from Dubai International Airport now have more options for check-in, with the introduction of a new Quick Baggage Drop service and additional Self-Service Check-in Kiosks.

Passengers holding electronic or ATB2* tickets, members of Emirates’ Skywards and its partner frequent flyer programmes, can conveniently check-in, select their seats and print their own boarding passes via Emirates’ self-service kiosks at the airport. Those carrying only hand-luggage can then proceed directly to immigration, while those with baggage can now check in their luggage at dedicated Quick Baggage Drop counters.

Emirates has also increased the number of self-service kiosks at Dubai Airport from four to 11. There are now four kiosks located in the Economy Class check-in area, and seven in Emirates’ First and Business Class check-in area.

Mohammed Mattar, Emirates’ Senior Vice President for Airport Services (Dubai) said: “Emirates’ Self-Service Check-in Kiosks have been very popular with business travellers since they were introduced in 2003. In the initial stages, this service was only available to those travelling with hand-baggage.

We are pleased to expand and enhance this service by adding a new Quick Baggage Drop facility that makes it possible for passengers travelling with check-in baggage to also use the self-service kiosks.”

As passenger traffic through Dubai International Airport continues to grow, Emirates’ Airport Services team constantly challenges itself to find new ways to improve efficiencies and ensure passengers enjoy a stress-free airport experience and the high quality service for which Emirates is renowned.

Emirates’ self-service check-in service provides passengers with a quick and convenient option to conventional check-in. The kiosks were utilised by over 10,000 passengers in September this year.

*ATB2 tickets have magnetic strips located across the back of the ticket coupon, which make them machine-readable.

Emirates, the innovative Dubai-based airline, has introduced a new and convenient option for its customers to check in for their flights via the Internet.

Emirates' passengers departing from Dubai, Kuwait, Australia and New Zealand can now select and secure their preferred seats online, and check in for their flights from the comfort of their homes, hotels or offices, by logging on to www.emirates.com. The airline also plans to gradually introduce its online check-in facility to other destinations across its network in the next few months.

Ghaith al Ghaith, Emirates' Executive Vice President Commercial Operations Worldwide, said: "Emirates is pleased to introduce the online check-in facility, which provides customers with the opportunity to select their preferred seats, and this saves them time at the airport. We are confident our customers will welcome this new option to check in for their Emirates flights via the Internet." 

When checking in online, passengers will be prompted to enter their travel information, and they will also be able to select their seats from amongst those available at the time of check in. Once the check-in process has been completed, passengers will be provided an online check-in receipt. 

They can then proceed to a dedicated counter at the airport to check in their luggage and exchange their online check-in receipt for boarding passes. Passengers are required to present themselves at the airport counter no later than 90 minutes prior to departure.  

Emirates' online check-in facility is available between 12 hours and two hours prior to flight departure. Passengers can check in for groups of up to nine persons travelling together as well as for onward flights, providing the travel commences on Emirates.

Mr Al Ghaith said: "Emirates continually looks for new ways to enhance our services, and we will be adding new capabilities to our online check-in service in the near future."

From Dubai, Emirates operates a modern fleet of wide-bodied aircraft to over 75 destinations in 54 countries. The airline, one of the world's fastest growing, has won over 270 international awards for quality and excellence across its operations. 

Emirates SkyCargo and Korean Air Cargo, both well-established players in the industry, have signed an agreement to codeshare cargo capacity on two key routes from India - the capital Delhi and commercial hub Mumbai.

Experiencing a strong surge in demand from a buoyant Indian economy, Emirates SkyCargo now offers its customers additional 20 tonnes of capacity to Dubai on Korean Air Cargo's Boeing 747-400F services - Fridays from Delhi and Wednesdays from Mumbai.

Peter Sedgley, Emirates' Vice President Cargo Commercial Operations said: "This landmark agreement with Korean Air Cargo represents the critical commercial partnerships we forge to provide our customers with additional capacity and premium service on demand. 

"Importantly, it also highlights customers' preference for our services and the significance we attach to our operations in India. In the last financial year, India contributed more than seven per cent to Emirates SkyCargo's overall revenue and had a growth rate of over 40 per cent."

From Delhi, Emirates SkyCargo transports large shipments of garments, knitwear, hosiery, handicrafts and leather while from Mumbai it carries courier traffic, garments, perishables, pharmaceuticals, valuables and print publications to Dubai. From its hub the cargo division quickly and conveniently transports a majority of these shipments to the consumer markets of the Middle East, Europe and Africa on Emirates' vast network, using a combination of belly-hold and dedicated freighter services.

Jinho Yun, General Manager at Korean Air Cargo said: "We are delighted to partner with Emirates SkyCargo on the critical Delhi and Mumbai sectors. It provides flexibility as well as better fleet and capacity utilization - a win-win situation for both parties."

Emirates SkyCargo offers 43 non-stop weekly belly-hold services in the airline's fleet of Airbus A330-200 from Dubai to India: 19 to Mumbai; seven to Delhi; four to Chennai; eight to Hyderabad and five to Kochi. Additionally it serves three cities - Bangalore, Chennai and Mumbai - weekly with a dedicated Boeing 747-200F offering 105 tonnes of payload capacity. The combination of freighter and belly-hold services provide customers a total of approximately 1000 tonnes of cargo capacity every week both to and from six Indian cities.  

The cargo division has strengthened its road feeder services and bonded trucking on several routes in India, such as from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, as well as Coimbatore and Tirupur to Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Cochin in South India.

Emirates Airline showcased its services and new initiatives at the JATA World Congress & Travel Fair 2005 held in Tokyo recently

Emirates Airline showcased its expanded services and new initiatives at the JATA World Congress & Travel Fair 2005 held in Tokyo recently.

At JATA the airline, which serves Osaka with a daily service, announced the relocation of its existing office in the city to larger, spanking-new premises and the opening of a brand-new offline office in Tokyo. Both offices have been fitted with Emirates' corporate interiors, systems and facilities to enhance customer service and reinforce the airline's branding in the local market.

The expanded new Osaka office has become a one-stop Emirates travel hub with the call centre, which was earlier outsourced, brought in-house and transformed to a sales, reservations and ticketing office, handling a broad range of functions including retail, corporate and travel trade customers.

Emirates' customers in Japan can look forward to more enhanced services as staff numbers have now doubled to more than 30, with the new employees thoroughly trained at the Emirates Aviation College in Dubai, on using the airline's sophisticated systems and in truly representing its high-quality standards.

More than 3,500 visitors and travel trade executives called on Emirates' stand and expressed intense interest in the airline and its products, including group and MICE travel. The travel trade held meetings and engaged in meaningful dialogue with Emirates' senior executives from Dubai and Osaka. Many visitors and the media recounted their delight at finding Japanese crew onboard Emirates' flights and hoped the airline would fly the double-decker Airbus A380, of which it has 45 on order, to Japan.

Richard Vaughan, Emirates' Senior Vice President Commercial East Asia & Australasia, who attended JATA said: "This is the 13th year of Emirates' participation at JATA and coupled with three years of direct services to Osaka, we have established a strong presence in the country. As one of the biggest events for the travel trade in the Far East, JATA is an ideal regional platform to meet and exchange views, as well as showcase our developments to discerning Japanese customers, partners and major industry players.

"Our brand new offices in Japan and the new ticketing and reservations centres are symbols of Emirates' philosophy to continuously enhance and provide service excellence across all our customer touch points."

Emirates began services to Osaka on 1st October 2002 with four weekly services to the ultra-modern Kansai International Airport. In March 2004, Emirates increased its services to a daily, and currently operates an Airbus A340-500 which offers 258 seats in a three-class configuration - 12 First, 42 Business and 204 Economy Class seats - and over 100 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity.

Emirates' services to Japan are on the upswing with the airline experiencing strong demand from both passengers and cargo customers. Japan and UAE are mature trading partners with Japanese exports to the UAE growing by 27 per cent to US$4.6 billion and UAE exports rising by more than 28 per cent to US$18.3 billion in 2004. 

Japan has emerged as the fastest-growing market for the ultra-luxurious Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, which has seen the country's guest numbers increase by almost 30 per cent on an average every year since 2001, and is expected to touch an approximate 40 per cent in 2005. Twenty-five per cent of the resort's Japanese guests are repeat customers and an equal per cent of its Guest Relations staff speak Japanese. 

About JATA
JATA (Japan Association of Travel Agents) World Congress & Travel Fair 2005 is an annual event, which is attended by domestic and international travel industry and related professionals from travel agencies, tour operators, government tourist offices, public sector organizations, airlines, educational institutions, travel trade/consumer media organizations.

This year, the 26th edition of JATA, attracted over 800 exhibitors from over 100 countries. The exhibition drew over 100,000 visitors, including more than 36,000 travel trade and media representatives. 

HRH The Princess Royal presenting the Best Middle Eastern Airline award to Majid Al Mualla, Emirates' Manager UK South.

Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline, has been recognised as Best Middle Eastern Airline at the prestigious Business Traveller Awards 2005 at London's Hilton Park Lane Hotel. The award was presented by HRH The Princess Royal at a luncheon attended by senior figures from the world's leading travel companies, and is based on results from the magazine's 2005 survey of its readers.

Business Traveller UK is published monthly, and is read by business travellers, business travel managers and travel agents. Editions of the magazine are also published in the Middle East, United States, Germany and Hong Kong.

The award comes as Emirates continues to strengthen its services from the UK to Dubai and beyond. The recent addition of a second daily service from Birmingham and a fifth daily flight from London Heathrow means that the carrier now offers 91 non-stop flights from the UK to Dubai each week. In addition to services from Heathrow and Birmingham, the airline offers three flights per day from London Gatwick, two per day from Manchester and a daily service from Glasgow.

The award was accepted by Majid Al Mualla, Emirates' Manager UK South, who said: "We are delighted to be voted Best Middle Eastern Airline. The award represents a powerful endorsement of our services from the UK business traveller community, who have recognised the breadth of services that we offer to Dubai and beyond."

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

• In 2005, Dubai Tourism & Commerce Marketing will play host to 25 Japanese missions.
  
• The Dubai-Osaka Economic Partnership Forum will be held from 20th-22nd December 2005.
  
• Japan has emerged as U.A.E's third largest partner in terms of quantity of trade exchange.
  
• Non-oil trade between the two countries stood at AED13.4 billion, of which 66 per cent was between Dubai and Japan.
  

The Emirates Aviation College - Aerospace & Academic Studies - has received accreditation from the Ministry of Education for its Bachelor of Business in Air Transport Management (BBAT) and Bachelor of Business in Tourism Management (BBTM).

The college has just recently received ministry accreditation for its Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical (Aerospace) Engineering (B.Sc.AE).

The four-year academic programme leading to the degree in Air Transport Management covers a number of subjects including Air Transport Quality & Safety, Aircraft Design & Performance and Airline Management.  

The degree programme in Tourism Management, also a four-year course, covers various aspects of the tourism industry including International Tourism Marketing, Heritage Management and Financial Management for Tourism.

The college is due to receive accreditation shortly on its Bachelor of Science in Computer & Electronics Engineering (BScC&EE).

Over the past year, the ministry's Commission for Accreditation made a thorough assessment of the college's facilities and an audit of the courses in visits to the college, in addition to meeting with students and faculty members.  

Their recommendations and suggestions ensured that the college met the required accreditation standards in time for the coming academic year.

College Vice Chancellor Mohammed Al Budoor said: "We are delighted that the Ministry of Education has recognised the stringent academic standards that the college follows in providing education in these aviation and tourism management courses.

"We followed the recommendations and suggestions by the ministry to ensure that our faculty members had the right qualifications for these specialised courses, in addition to equipping the college with the required facilities.  Students are assured that they will study within an environment that will fulfil their requirements for reaching academic excellence." 

Mr Al Budoor added: "We look forward to the accreditation of the last degree course we are offering in Computer & Electronic Engineering before the start of the academic year in September."

Dnata's World of Events signed a partnership agreement with UAE-based In-Time Events to jointly develop and launch B2B events. Seen in the photograph are (second from r) Rashid Al Noori, Senior Vice President Dnata Agencies shaking hands with Mr. Mahmoud Habeeb Al-Redha, Chairman ITE, flanked by (left) Medhat Nasser, Regional Business Development Manager - Dnata's World of Events and Bilal Hashem, President & CEO ITE.

Extending its scope and span in the regional events management market, Dnata's World of Events has signed a partnership agreement with UAE-based In-Time Events to jointly develop and launch top-notch business-to-business events.
 
The agreement will pave the way for both companies to jointly develop international B2B events, with key focus on trade-shows, exhibitions, conferences and city events.  
 
World of Events brings to the partnership its marketing, management, regional and technical expertise, as well as its large customer base, while In-Time Events adds its research expertise, reputation for organising quality B2B events and its network of overseas representatives in over 30 countries. 
 
Rashid Al Noori, Senior Vice President Dnata Agencies said: "As Dubai increasingly becomes a magnet for multinational firms, we are looking at addressing the needs of the entire gamut of events management solutions in an integrated, holistic manner. With this strategic business alliance with ITE, a well-established local firm, we forge another important link in the industry - that of B2B events."
 
World of Events' latest partnership comes on the heels of its representation agreement with THE BANK London, the leading creative events solutions firm in the UK. It continues to consolidate and expand into the event marketing and management industry through the diversification of its products and services, representations of quality specialist brands and partnerships with local and international event organisers.
 
Mr. Mahmoud Habeeb Al-Redha, Chairman ITE said: "We are delighted to partner with Dnata's World of Events to develop and launch power-packed B2B events. Our partnership signifies the joining of forces of two local entities with a shared long-term vision, which will create a forum to bring together buyers and sellers from diverse industries. It will facilitate trade and commerce and enhance Dubai's position as a regional as well as an international hub."
 
Both partners have completed the research and planning phases for a series of projects which are expected to spawn B2B events in industries as varied as re-exports and construction, amongst others.

The massive LM6000 engine is seen being moved from the Emirates SkyCargo Centre at the Dubai International Airport, prior to its loading in the Boeing 747-400F to New York.

Emirates SkyCargo recently showcased its expertise in transporting outsized shipment when it moved a massive engine from Dubai to Calgary, Canada and back.   

The 13-tonne LM6000 engine, being used in a power plant to produce electricity for residential and commercial buildings in Tanzania, traveled on Emirates SkyCargo’s Boeing 747-400F from Dubai to New York and finished its journey by special truck to Calgary. After it was put through its maintenance paces, Emirates SkyCargo brought the engine back to Dubai, from where it has made its way to Dar Es Salaam.   

Keith Stanley, Emirates’ Senior Cargo Sales Executive based in Calgary, who liaised with the various parties to organize the transfers said: “Besides our ability to move outsized shipments, this is clearly a prime example of Emirates SkyCargo’s customer partnership bound in a tripartite agreement.   

“The transportation of this engine on Emirates SkyCargo materialized after we got together with our agents Kuehne & Nagel, worked out the logistics, and recommended the most cost-effective solution to the end customer.” 

From Dar Es Salaam, the agent used an IL76 to transport the engine to Dubai, where it was then loaded onto a 20 feet pallet and then centre loaded on Emirates SkyCargo’s Boeing 747-400F. 

Emirates SkyCargo has built considerable experience and expertise in handling outsized shipments, from automobiles and boats to engines and tractors. Its Boeing 747-400F is equipped with a nose-door as well as main- and lower-deck side doors, enabling it to fly larger and heavier loads over longer sectors, eliminating the need for technical stops.     

Gary Chapman, President Dnata and Associated Companies and Rob Boughton, Director of THE BANK London exchange folders after signing the representation agreement, which established the new brand THE BANK UAE offering creative events management solutions. 

World of Events, Dnata's events marketing and management division, has signed a representation agreement with THE BANK London, the leading creative events solutions firm in the UK.

The agreement paves the way for creating the brand THE BANK UAE, which brings together the regional knowledge, logistical and client management expertise of World of Events, and the creative and production capabilities of THE BANK London. It will provide turnkey events management solutions, crafting powerful, innovative concepts and management services for clients.

Gary Chapman, President Dnata and Associated Companies said: "THE BANK UAE will address the current vacuum in the region that is in urgent need of inspired, imaginative and integrated events management solutions. 

"With its spectacular developments in business, trade and tourism and the increasing presence of world class firms, Dubai and the region as a whole are ripe markets for creative launch campaigns, entertainment, congresses and other events. THE BANK UAE will usher in a new era in the industry, rooted in innovation, spanking new themes and a thorough understanding of the culture and philosophy of this market."

THE BANK UAE is a strategic and business alliance, and two experienced creative and production specialists from THE BANK London will be part of the new entity to handle business development, account management and successfully produce and implement projects. 

Headquartered at the Dnata Travel Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, THE BANK UAE will operate across the Gulf and the Middle East, fashioning concepts for leading corporate firms and governing bodies in bidding for major international events held in the region. 

Rob Boughton, Director of THE BANK London said: "We are very excited by the enormous potential in the region. THE BANK UAE's creative talents are set to have tremendous impact in a market that is developing rapidly and becoming highly sophisticated. 

"We are also proud to be entering this strategic business alliance with World of Events with its infrastructure, reputation, marketing and management talents and regional market expertise, which combined with our own strengths and skills create powerful synergies that will benefit our customers."

THE BANK UAE also intends to work closely with the various stakeholders in the industry, including advertising agencies, marketing and communication firms, hotels, airlines, travel and tourism entities, and destination management companies, to complement their event solutions and production services.

Dnata Agencies' Senior Vice President Rashid Al Noori (second from right) and Yahya M. Ali, General Director Kurdistan Airlines shake hands after signing the GSA agreement. Looking on are (centre) A. Majid Al Mulla, Manager Dnata World Travel Services, (far left) Eamad Mazouri, Deputy General Director Kurdistan Airlines (Commercial representative of Kurdistan Region Iraq-Dubai) and Basil Al Douri, Regional Manager Iraqi Airways.

Dubai-based travel company Dnata Agencies, has been appointed General Sales Agent (GSA) for Kurdistan Airlines in the Gulf.

The region's leading travel management company, Dnata will represent and market Kurdistan Airlines in the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman.

Based in Arbil, Iraq, Kurdistan Airlines recently launched twice-a-week flights to Dubai with a Boeing 737 aircraft in two-class configuration, offering 109 seats.

Representing the airline, Yahya M. Ali, Commercial Representative of Kurdistan Region, Iraq said: "We recently launched the first-ever commercial flight between Dubai and Arbil, and this air link will help contribute to the development of the Kurdistan region in Iraq. 

"We believe there is great potential to grow the demand, and are pleased to have appointed Dnata Agencies as our GSA for the Gulf markets. Their expertise and extensive partner network in the region will be a great asset in supporting the airline's operations in the Gulf."

Rashid Al Noori, Senior Vice President Dnata Agencies said: "We are pleased to represent Kurdistan Airlines as GSA in the Gulf region, and we will tap on our extensive regional network of partner agencies to support and grow the airline's business."

In Dubai, Dnata Agencies will provide Kurdistan Airlines with a dedicated ticket desk on the ground floor of Dnata Travel Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road. It will also manage the airline's ticket stock throughout the UAE, and provide sales and marketing support for the region via its extensive partner network. 

In addition, customers of Kurdistan Airlines can access Dnata's 24-hour call centre for flight information, bookings and general travel support.

Kurdistan Airlines' Dubai -Arbil service operates every Thursday and Sunday. Flight SVJ201 departs Dubai at 10:00 hours and arrives in Arbil at 12:30 hours, while return flight SVJ202 departs Arbil at 14:00 hours and arrives in Dubai at 16:30 hours. All times indicated are local.

Kurdistan Airlines is looking to expand its services to Dubai in the near future. To find out more about Kurdistan Airlines' services or to make a booking through Dnata, call: +971-4-3166844, or email: kurdistanairlines@dnata.com 

The Emirates Aviation College - Aerospace & Academic Studies - has received accreditation from the Ministry of Education for its Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering (BSc.AE).

The four-year academic programme consists of classroom lectures, laboratory assignments and on-the-job training.

The accreditation is the first of four degree courses to be accredited by the UAE's Ministry of Education, which also include degree courses in Air Transport Management, Tourism Management and Computer & Electronics Engineering.

Three committees, specialised in these degrees, and headed by the Commission for Accreditation from the Ministry of Education, visited the Emirates Aviation College on a regular basis to make an assessment of the facilities and an audit of the courses.  They met with members of the faculty, in addition to a number of students.

The college responded assiduously to every recommendation and suggestion by the committees to ensure that the accreditation standards were complied with, with regard to staffing, IT infrastructure and student welfare requirements.  

College Vice President Mohammed Al Budoor said: "I am grateful to the Ministry of Education for its recognition of the academic standards of the college in providing comprehensive training in aeronautical engineering.

"We had made every effort to recruit faculty personnel who hold Ph.Ds in specialised areas for these degree courses. 

"We also equipped the college with the required facilities according to the standards of the ministry, with regard to the classrooms, computer laboratories and workshops, in addition to stocking the library with the best reference books to facilitate scientific research by students and faculty."

Mr Al Budoor added: "We look forward to the accreditation of the other three degree courses before the start of the academic year in September."

For more information on the degree courses, contact the college's Business Development Manager Maha Hmeid on Tel: +9714 282 4000. 

Gary Chapman, President Dnata and Associated Companies (left), today signed the multi-million dirham agreement with Essa Al-Saleh, Managing Director, Corporate Development of PWC Logistics, to form Dnata-PWC Airport Logistics LLC, a joint venture initiative to provide and develop inter-airport logistics solutions in the gulf region.

A new company has been formed to provide inter-airport logistics services. Dnata, the Dubai-based air cargo and airport services provider, and PWC Logistics, a global provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions,  have announced the formation of a joint venture company to cater to the growing demand for inter-airport logistics solutions in the gulf region. 

Gary Chapman, President Dnata and Associated Companies, today signed the multi-million UAE dirham agreement with Essa Al-Saleh, Managing Director, Corporate Development of PWC Logistics, to form Dnata-PWC Airport Logistics LLC.  Dnata and PWC Logistics will each own a 50 per cent share in the new joint venture company.

Operating from the Dubai Cargo Village, Dnata-PWC Airport Logistics will offer air cargo operators with road feeder service between airports in the gulf region. This service will provide airlines with a wider choice of off-line routings, and quality service at competitive rates.

Gary Chapman, President of Dnata said: "This joint venture is a strategic move to establish an air cargo logistics network within the GCC and Middle East.  It expands on Dnata Cargo's existing road feeder service in the UAE, and allows us to tap on the expertise and network of our partner PWC Logistics."

Mr. Chapman added: "We are bullish on the long term prospects of air cargo road transportation in the region, and this joint venture puts us in a good position to contribute to, and benefit from the growth of this market segment.  We look forward to providing our customers with an expanded choice of offline cargo routings, while continuing to offer them a competitive product."  

Mr. Al-Saleh said: "This venture is an excellent strategic fit for both partners, and will expand our transportation offering in the Middle East. We aim to grow the air cargo road transport market in this region. And to do so, we've invested in state-of-the-art IT solutions and the latest specialized equipment to ensure our customers receive consistent, high-quality service."

Dnata-PWC Airport Logistics will be fully operational in the third quarter of 2005. The company will initially focus its operations on the GCC countries, Lebanon and Jordan, but has future plans to expand throughout and beyond the Middle East.
  
The joint venture will be managed by PWC and chaired by Dnata, with both organizations committing existing assets to the venture including expertise, manpower, IT systems, equipment and vehicles. For instance, the operation will benefit from PWC Logistics' proprietary MicroTransport vehicle tracking system that enables real-time tracking of vehicles and their contents en route to their destinations. 

In recent years, the Middle East has seen remarkable growth in air cargo traffic, with Dubai at the heart of the action. To meet fast-growing infrastructural demand, Dubai has embarked on aggressive expansion plans to further develop the Dubai Cargo Village at Dubai airport, and will construct an entirely new airport primarily for cargo operations at Jebel Ali, next to the Jebel Ali Free Zone.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of the Emirates Group (right), signs a deal with Yemenia's Chairman, Captain Abdulkhalek Al-Kadi, for Emirates' IT division, Mercator, to supply Yemenia with a range of IT solutions on a long-term basis.

In a landmark agreement signed today, Yemenia, the national flag carrier of Yemen, has taken the strategic decision to outsource all its passenger sales and services IT requirements to Mercator, the IT division of the Emirates Group.

The airline, already an existing customer for Mercator's RAPID revenue accounting solution, has signed a multi-million dollar long-term agreement for the supply of a wide range of airline IT solutions from the Dubai-based IT supplier.

The first phase of this contract covers airline reservations, ticketing, departure control and frequent flyer systems, with implementation starting immediately. A second phase will eventually see more products introduced into all parts of the airline, especially in the financial and cargo areas.

Mercator's Airline Reservation System (MARS) will give Yemenia everything it needs to efficiently grow revenue and keep a tight control over distribution costs. Packed with all the features needed for airlines to operate an efficient reservations operation, the system will enhance customer service, sharpen competitive edge and keep a cap on costs. 

Yemenia has also opted for MACS, the Mercator Airport Control System, which delivers fast and efficient check in, streamlining procedures and boosting productivity. MACS also takes care of the entire baggage management process prior to take-off.

The CRIS frequent flyer solution completes the trio of products covered under the first phase of the agreement. CRIS will offer a wide range of attractive new features to the members of Yemenia's 'Arabia Felix Club' frequent flyer scheme. The airline's most loyal customers will receive a much more rewarding experience and will enjoy superlative service. 

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman Emirates Group, said: "This landmark agreement serves to strengthen our already close partnership with Yemenia, and we're looking forward to working hand-in-hand with the airline to achieve its ambition of becoming a force to be reckoned with in the region."

Captain Abdulkhalek Al-Kadi, Yemenia's Chairman, said: "We're currently undergoing a dramatic rate of expansion here at Yemenia. Our accelerated fleet expansion, increasing passenger numbers and recent entry into the Arabesk airline alliance have all combined to send a strong message that Yemenia is going places.

"It's vital that we have the IT solutions in place that will support our rapid pace of growth and the backing of an IT supplier that we can trust to deliver. Mercator, with its unrivalled airline and IT experience, has proved itself to be such a partner."

Yemenia has been flying for more than 50 years, and its routes now span the Middle East, Far East, Africa and Europe. Today it serves 30 cities with the latest Boeing and Airbus aircraft.

Mercator's customer base includes major world carriers such as Emirates, SriLankan, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Air New Zealand, and Varig. Many Arab Air Carrier Organisation (AACO) member airlines are also Mercator customers, including Royal Air Maroc, Air Algerie, MEA, Syrian Arab Airlines and Kuwait Airways.

From the romantic and elegant French Riviera; the exotic and luxury private game reserves of South Africa; to the exclusive island hideaways in Malaysia; Emirates Holidays offers the ultimate in "do-not-disturb" honeymoon packages this season. 

Long, lazy days; dinner under the stars; uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean; and sunset over the Andaman Sea; are all essential ingredients of an Emirates Holidays heavenly honeymoon.  To these add a host of special bonuses - tropical flower and fruit welcomes, rose petal baths, spa treatments, celebratory drinks and complimentary gifts. 

The honeymoon specials feature resorts that have been carefully selected to provide the perfect intimate hideaway for couples seeking seclusion. 

An early booking advantage is also on offer.

Romantic France

Chic and sophisticated Paris is combined with elegant Monaco in the Emirates Holidays "Romantic France" offer. Honeymooners can look forward to a dinner cruise for twosomes as it gently glides through the Seine River amidst soft music and fine French cuisine; the charming streets of Paris with its many cafes and bistros; and exclusive helicopter transfers from Nice Airport to Monte Carlo offering some dazzling views of the Cote D'Azur. Emirates Holidays guests are also treated to a complimentary upgrade to a luxurious Junior suite and a bottle of sparkling wine.

The eight-day honeymoon package is priced from AED 10,560 onwards per person and includes the cost of economy class airfare, accommodation with breakfast at the stylish Hilton Arc de Triomphe Hotel in Paris and at Le Metropole Hotel in Monaco, private car and helicopter transfers, room tax and service charges. 

Exotic South Africa
 
Welcome to South Africa - a land of outstandingly beautiful scenery, spectacular wildlife and excellent entertainment. The Winelands - producer of some of the best new-world wines - offers captivating views of Cape Dutch architecture nestled amongst rows of vines and bordered by larger-than-life mountains. Leisure strolls across the charming Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, bustling with cosy cafes and shops are another must-do in the itinerary. Add to this a rose petal turndown service, sparkling wine, spa treatment and a romantic candlelit bath. 

Priced at AED 11,220 onwards, per person, the package includes the cost of economy class airfare, seven days accommodation with breakfast at Johannesburg and Cape Town, meet and assist service at Johannesburg International Airport, a complimentary romantic dinner, car rental for 5 days in Cape Town, room tax and service charges. 

Malaysia - "Rasa Sayang"

The bluest of blue waters and the whitest of white sandy beaches are found in Malaysia, where people believe in "Rasa Sayang" - a love for life. On offer is Penang - South East Asia's old trading centre or Langkawi - a tropical island paradise. Secluded bays, spectacular rainforests, exotic tropical cuisine, soft sand beaches and exciting shopping are all packaged into some fantastic Malaysia honeymoon offers. Romantic add-ons include an elaborate in-room bath set-up, complete with rose petals and aromatic oils.   
 
Package price starts at AED 7300 per person and includes the cost of economy class airfare, eight days accommodation including a three-night stay at the glitzy Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur, sightseeing including a visit to the old, colonial Georgetown, dinner for two at the historic Eastern & Oriental Hotel, private car transfers, room tax and service charges.

For more details visit 'Holidayland' on Sheikh Zayed Road or www.emirates-holidays.com; or call 800 5252 for expert advice.

Note: Prices may vary from point of origin

Emirates SkyCargo's recently-inducted A310-300F freighter being loaded with cargo before taking-off from the Dubai International Airport.

A310F AIRBORNE TO REGIONAL ROUTES

Emirates SkyCargo launched scheduled freighter services to Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, earlier today. 

The service will be operated with its recently-inducted Airbus A310-300F freighter every Tuesday, departing Dubai at 10:00 hours to reach Islamabad at 14:00 hours local time; returning at 15:30 hours to reach the hub by 17:50 hours. 

Boosting existing capacity, the new service will help Islamabad export larger volumes of surgical equipment and leather goods as well as readymade garments; and import raw materials and spares needed to support Pakistan's manufacturing industry. 

Emirates SkyCargo's A310F did its first-ever commercial run on the Dubai - Istanbul route last Friday, and is scheduled to serve a very busy summer for the cargo division. It will serve Istanbul every Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday; Chennai every Wednesday; and Amman every Saturday.
 
Hiran Perera, Emirates' Vice President Cargo - Freighters said: "We always were keen to launch freighter services to Islamabad, but were constrained by fleet capacity. Now with the A310F in our fleet, the city is finally on our freighter route network. Islamabad is an important cargo destination and helps Emirates SkyCargo serve its hinterlands such as Sialkot, Faisalabad and Gujranwala."

He added: "We are extremely pleased with the freighter's performance in the last four days. It has been inducted at a very opportune moment, as demand is peaking in several destinations on our network. We are now able to rationalise payloads on our regional routes."

Emirates SkyCargo also serves Islamabad with belly-hold capacity in the airline's passenger jets five times a week, offering more than 80 tonnes of payload, which is now augmented to 120 tonnes by the new freighter service.

Emirates SkyCargo launched services to Amman, Istanbul and Chennai with its dedicated Boeing 747 freighter services in 2003 - Chennai in May; Istanbul and Amman in September. To Istanbul, Emirates SkyCargo imports textiles, electronics and garments, while exporting Turkish perishables and garments across its network. The new freighter service will import personal effects mainly from the Gulf countries, as well as machinery and equipment from UK and the U.S. to Chennai and export finished garments and leather goods from the city. The freighter service to Amman serves Jordan's readymade garments industry.
 
The wide-bodied A310-300F has a gross payload of 39 tonnes and offers excellent performance capabilities, equipped as it is with state-of-the-art technology. The aircraft also has Auxiliary Centre Tanks to increase its range, enabling one-stop operations from Dubai to the U.S. and countries in the South Pacific.
 
Two more A310Fs are scheduled to enter Emirates' fleet by the end of the year.

Sweet suite' offers to sri lanka

• Includes exclusive suite holidays for families, honeymooners and cultural enthusiasts  

Whether its ultra luxury spa resorts on Sri Lanka's famed tropical beaches or boutique villa hotels reflective of the old colonial charm, Emirates Holidays 'Sweet Suite' offers to Sri Lanka - Asia's Treasure Island - promise a holiday full of excitement, adventure and above all, luxury.

The all-suite packages launched specifically for Middle East travellers include dedicated suite holidays for families or leisure travellers, honeymooners and cultural enthusiasts. 

All hotels and resorts have been hand-picked by Emirates Holidays, and personally inspected to ensure that they meet the needs of the discerning holidaymaker. These include amongst others, the world-renowned Hilton group of Hotels; Taj Exotica with its seemingly endless views of the Indian Ocean; The Elephant Corridor, a lifestyle designer hotel in the midst of a jungle plain; and the Saman Villas located on surf-swept unspoiled beaches. 

The offers which also boast of tailor-made options will run the entire summer season with many being extended to October 2005. 

'Sweet Suite' offers for Families
Capture the beauty of Sri Lanka - a land of fragrant spices, priceless gems, aqua blue beaches and home to six UNESCO world heritage sites. 

Middle East travellers can treat themselves to a blend of the modern and old in the capital city of Colombo with its bustling bazaars, tea houses, new-look shopping malls and casinos. The round trip package also includes visits to several other attractions, some of them being Kandy - the last capital city of the Sri Lankan Royalty, and where lies the most scared shrine of the Buddhist world - The Temple of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. 

Travellers will stay in a deluxe suite at the Hilton Hotel. Package prices start from AED 5429 per person and include the cost of economy class airfare on Emirates airline, suite accommodation for 5 nights based on twin sharing, meet and assist on arrival, private car transfers, sight seeing, room tax and service charges.

Emirates operates 17 flights per week to Colombo, including seven direct flights, six via Male and four flights to Colombo that continue onwards to Jakarta.

'Sweet Suite' offers for Honeymooners
Emirates Holidays presents the ideal, do-not-disturb honeymoon offer with the Hilton and Saman Villas. A cozy candle lit dinner under the stars and barbeque meals in the suite's private garden offer the perfect setting for romance. Top it up with in-suite breakfasts, nature walks, bird watching sessions and romantic add-ons like special, intimate suite decorations, complimentary wine and honeymoon gifts. 

The six nights' offer is priced from AED 9132 and includes the cost of economy class airfare, accommodation in the 'romantic suite' based on twin sharing, meet and assist on arrival, private car transfers, room tax and service charges. . 

'Sweet Suite' offers for Cultural enthusiasts 
Dambulla - a world heritage site and Sri Lanka's most impressive cave temple; Pollonnaruwa - medieval kingdom of the 11th century; and Anuradhapura - Sri Lanka's ancient capital dating back to the 5th century, are few among the many attractions in store for the culturally inclined. The package also includes a climb of the famed architectural wonder - The Lion Mountain, and a visit to the 2000-year old Sacred Bo Tree. 

The three nights' offer is priced from AED 4000 and includes the cost of economy class airfare, suite accommodation based on twin sharing, meet and assist on arrival, private car transfers, room tax and service charges. 

Emirates Holidays, the largest wholesale tour operator in the Gulf and Middle East also offers a comprehensive travel insurance policy at very reasonable rates through Holiday Guard. With this policy, insurance cover is applicable to all Emirates Holidays destinations and covers worldwide medical expenses up to USD 1,000,000.

For complete information on each of the above 'Sweet Suite' offers, visit 'Holidayland' on Sheikh Zayed Road or www.emirates-holidays.com; or call 800 5252 for expert advice.

Note: Prices may vary from point of origin

Emirates Senior Vice President Commercial Operations East Asia and Australasia, Richard Vaughan (centre), poses with players from Emirates Western Force after the announcement in Perth today. Players (from L to R): Luke Doherty, Junior Pelesasai, Rudi Vedelago, Matt Windle, Lachlan MacKay and David Fitter. Also pictured is Emirates cabin crew member Donna Davidson.

Dubai-based Emirates today announced it will be naming rights sponsor of West Australia's Western Force team in the rugby Super 14s competition in a three-year deal lasting till 2008. Player Junior Pelesasai models the new team jersey while teammate Richard Brown and Emirates Cabin Crew member Sharon Gowie look on, at the gala luncheon in Perth today.

Dubai-based Emirates today announced it will be naming rights sponsor of West Australia's Western Force team in the rugby Super 14s competition in a three-year deal lasting till 2008.  Photograph shows Emirates Western Force Players Brendan Cannon and Lachlan MacKay modeling their new jersey in Perth today.

Emirates, the leading Dubai-based international airline, has signed a multi-million dollar sponsorship with Australia's new Super 14 rugby team, the Western Force.

In a three-year deal until 2008, the airline would become naming sponsor of the team, now called Emirates Western Force. 

The announcement was made today at the formal unveiling of the team's official playing jerseys at a gala luncheon in Perth, Australia, before 700 guests.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Emirates Executive Vice-President Commercial Operations Worldwide said: "Emirates is delighted to be naming rights sponsor of the Western Force.  The airline is a strong supporter of rugby in a number of countries and has been waiting for the right opportunity to get behind the game in Australia."

He added that the seed of that opportunity was sown in December when Perth won the bid for the fourth Australian Super 14 team.

Mr. Al Ghaith said: "Emirates first started flying to Perth in 2002, and we have since developed a special relationship with West Australians. A sponsorship like the Emirates Western Force will help us develop that relationship. 

"The Western Force operates on set of values with which Emirates identify: energy, unity, vision, growth, pride and professionalism - and we look forward to a very fruitful partnership with the team in the months ahead."

Rugby WA chief executive Peter O'Meara said he was thrilled to have an organization like Emirates as the naming rights sponsor of the Western Force. He described the sponsorship as a "team-maker" and one which would go a long way in ensuring the financial viability of the Western Force over the next three years.

Mr. O'Meara said: "Emirates backs some of the best sporting teams and events in the world, and we are very pleased that they have decided to get behind our Super 14 team." 

He also said that the airline's standing and reputation was impeccable and he considered it a privilege to have them on board, adding that a respected name like Emirates was proof the Super 14 competition was a contest with strong international appeal.

"The Emirates brand will be seen on television sets and in stadia throughout the Southern hemisphere, and the world. Not many provincial sporting teams can offer their sponsors that sort of coverage," Mr O'Meara said.

The New Super 14 rugby competition is regarded as the toughest provincial rugby competition in the world. Its season runs from February to June and involves four teams from Australia, five teams from New Zealand and five teams from South Africa.  It is the premier competition where players are selected to represent their respective countries.

In December last year, Rugby WA won the right to host the fourth Australian team in the New Super 14 rugby competition. In February 2005, banker Peter O'Meara became Rugby WA's new chief executive, and former All Black player, captain and coach, John Mitchell was appointed head coach of the new team. The team was formally named the Western Force in April and has since been on a recruitment drive. It is now very close to finalizing its playing squad of 33.

Emirates Western Force's team jersey features a black swan icon, wrapped from back to front and set in ocean blue. The blue represents West Australia's beautiful coastline and clear skies, while the gold - dominant on the away jersey - reflects the State's pristine beaches. 

Emirates SkyCargo inducts its first A310 freighter in Desden today. At the event, Ram Menen (second from left), Emirates' Senior Vice President Cargo exchanges gifts with Horst Emker, President & CEO of EADS EFW. Also present are Emirates executives Hiran Perera, Vice President Cargo - Freighters (left) and Henry Hasselbarth, Regional Manager North and Central Europe (right). 

Emirates SkyCargo today took delivery of its first A310-300F at the EADS EFW facility in Dresden, Germany. Ram Menen (centre), Emirates' Senior Vice President Cargo is seen addressing the media conference in Dresden. With him at the event were Horst Emker (left), President & CEO of EADS EFW and Henry Hasselbarth, Emirates' Regional Manager North & Central Europe.

Emirates SkyCargo today took delivery of the first of its three Airbus A310-300Fs from EADS EFW, at the latter's facility in Dresden, Germany. 
 
The first delivery was marked by celebrations at Dresden, attended by media, as well as senior management from Emirates and EADS EFW.
 
At the press conference held earlier today, Ram Menen, Emirates' Senior Vice President Cargo said: "Today represents a milestone in Emirates SkyCargo's history. The first A310-300 freighter in our fleet is cause for triple celebrations. It represents the first Airbus freighter in our fleet; the first freighter ever owned by Emirates; and to top it all, we are now the launch customer for Airbus freighters with side-by-side loading capability of 96"x125" pallets. 
 
"Our A310F also has a High Gross Maximum Take-off Weight of 164 tonnes, a significant improvement over other freighter versions. This project also marks a significant collaboration with EADS EFW and we would like to thank them for their proactive approach and schedule integrity."
 
He further added that the new aircraft will provide more capacity and better serve Emirates SkyCargo's customers in its key regional routes in the Middle East, Mediterranean, South Asia and Africa. Complementing its current fleet of Boeing 747s, the Airbus A310Fs are designed to rationalise payloads, increase flexibility and provide quicker turnarounds. The A310Fs are expected to enhance Dubai's role as a regional cargo hub.
 
The wide-bodied A310-300F, with the Emirates SkyCargo logo emblazoned on its body, has a gross payload of 39 tonnes. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the aircraft offers excellent performance capabilities. The aircraft also has Auxiliary Centre Tanks to increase its range, enabling one-stop operations from Dubai to the U.S. and countries in the South Pacific.
 
Horst Emker, President and CEO of EADS EFW said: "We are very pleased to deliver the first A310-300 freighter to Emirates SkyCargo. It's a source of great pride to know that the converted Airbus aircraft will be playing a crucial part in the growing international freight routes of a tremendously successful carrier that is Emirates. I know that Emirates SkyCargo will take full advantage of the A310-300 freighter's great potential."
 
The two A310-300Fs on order will enter Emirates' fleet by the end of the year. 
 
The A310Fs are designed to be A380F-friendly. The A310F's capability to use standard cargo containers represents maximum interlining potential with Emirates' two gigantic A380Fs, expected to enter the fleet in 2008. This will reduce the need to re-package shipments, facilitating rapid transfers, providing quicker service and avoiding damage.
 
The six wet-leased Boeing 747s, the first A310F, and orders for four more Airbus freighters - two A310Fs and two A380Fs - will expand Emirates SkyCargo's total freighter fleet to eleven aircraft.

Dr. Abdulla Al Hashimi, Senior Vice President Emirates Group Security (left) and Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director Dubai Duty Free, signed the contract earlier this week.

Dubai Duty Free has contracted Emirates Group Security to assist in safeguarding its 24-hour outlets located within Dubai airport terminals 1 and 2. 

Under the agreement, Emirates will provide trained, uniformed security personnel from its Transguard division, to maintain vigilance at Dubai Duty Free's extensive shop floor spreading over 7,000 square metres at both terminals.  

Dr. Abdulla Al Hashimi, Senior Vice President Emirates Group Security and Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, signed the contract earlier this week. 

Since 2000, Dubai Duty Free has been supplementing its existing security requirements with personnel from Emirates Group Security. The new contract signals a deepening of the partnership as both organizations will work closely in formulating and implementing measures to ensure a pleasurable shopping experience at Dubai Duty Free. 

Mr. McLoughlin said: "Emirates Group Security has a proven track record and expertise in providing security services, particularly in an aviation environment. We are glad to have them on board as our partners, and we look forward to working with them in ensuring Dubai Duty Free customers and staff continue to enjoy shopping and working, in a safe and secure environment."

Dr. Al Hashimi, said: "We are glad to partner with Dubai Duty Free, and contribute to its reputation as a safe haven for world-class shopping. All our security personnel undergo stringent assessments and thorough training, before being deployed on their duties."

He added: "Our security staff are well-geared to meet the challenges associated with customer-fronting duties while maintaining high levels of vigilance, as one of the key points we stress during training is customer-orientation in both approach and appearance."

Marhaba services are now available at Dubai Airport Terminal 2, with dedicated staff providing airport meet-and-greet and other value-added services to travellers round-the-clock.

Marhaba Services, Dnata's innovative airport passenger services unit, has expanded its operations with the opening of a new 24-hour service counter at Dubai International Airport's Terminal 2.

Travellers passing through Dubai Airport Terminal 2 can now easily avail of Marhaba's popular services including meet-and-greet on arrival, assistance with immigration and customs clearance, chauffeur service, and Marhaba CityStop packages for Dubai stopovers. 

Ismail Ali Albanna, Dnata's Executive Vice President, said: "Marhaba's innovative services have been highly valued by customers since its inception, and we are pleased to extend our product to corporate and walk-in customers at Terminal 2."  

Mr. Albanna added: "Similar to our operations in Terminal 1, we will have dedicated Marhaba staff to assist travellers round-the-clock on arrival, departure or during transit in Terminal 2. We aim to continue providing value-added services that will help ease travellers' journeys through Dubai Airport."

Customers wishing to book Marhaba Services may now do so from counters located in either of the airport terminals, except for the visa drop service, for which they should approach the Marhaba counter in the terminal where the flight is scheduled to arrive.

More than 30 airlines currently operate out of Terminal 2 and passenger traffic is set to grow as Dubai continues to forge ahead in its development as a centre for tourism and commerce. 

Marhaba Services' 24-hour counter in Terminal 2 is manned by friendly staff conversant in English and Arabic, as well as Persian, Russian, Urdu and Hindi, to cater to the high number travellers from these markets using Terminal 2. 

Dnata Airport Operations provides the full range of ground handling services both airport terminals in Dubai, covering all aspects of passenger, ramp and baggage services. Dubai Airport Terminal 2 opened in 1998 to initially cater to air charter operators, but has since expanded its facilities to also handle scheduled carriers.

Emirates SkyCargo has launched a brand new range of products and solutions to cater for the diverse needs of its fast-expanding network and customer base. 

Emirates SkyCargo has launched a brand new range of products and solutions.  

The new range follows in the wake of rationalizing and streamlining its existing products and solutions, and will cater for the diverse needs of its fast-expanding network and customer base. 
 
Now whether it is potato chips or microchips, mobiles or servers, acids or alkalis, 'snail' mail or antique chain mail, horse or hyena, fish, flowers, fruits, or maybe just a last-minute gift, the cargo division is geared for it all.
 
Ram Menen, Emirates' Senior Vice President Cargo said: "This is a significant strategic initiative at Emirates SkyCargo. It is the result of a proactive study and analysis of our customers' future needs that is based on their feedback, industry predictions and our own assessment of worldwide trade.  
 
"What our customers will find particularly interesting is that each of these products is backed by a range of value-added solutions, encompassing special services and technical expertise. A combination of high-end technology and facilities, as well as fully-trained, knowledgeable staff forms the superstructure that supports our customers on each link of the supply chain. As Emirates SkyCargo expands, it's not about just moving boxes anymore, but facilitating worldwide trade and distribution."
 
Emirates SkyCargo's new product array includes: Priority, Dangerous Goods, Live Animals, Valuables, Vulnerables, Perishables, Courier and Post Office Mail. Priority and Courier products continue to offer the benefits of late booking and acceptance, precedence in loading and offloading, and even money-back guarantees. 
 
Dangerous Goods are handled by a special team of highly-qualified, licensed experts trained in acceptance, handling, loading and safe movement, while Valuables and Vulnerables are protected and constantly monitored by trained personnel. 
 
Emirates SkyCargo's new solutions embrace Integrated - Airport to Door; Integrated - Door to Airport; Integrated - Door to Door; Protect; Cool Chain; Animal Care; Charter services and Customer Partnerships. Integrated solutions provide customers the convenience of collection and delivery at home or office while Protect offers special storage areas, monitoring and surveillance. Animal Care specialises in pet movements, especially horses, and provides kennels. 
 
Charter services ensure customers can avail of flexible and cost effective solutions. Customer Partnerships offer fully customised solutions bound in tripartite agreements between cargo agent, end-customer and Emirates SkyCargo.
 
The division's products have experienced consistent growth. In the last financial year, April 2004 to March 2005, general freight grew by 26 per cent, Priority by 47 per cent, Perishables by 22 per cent, courier by 6 per cent and post office mail by 25 per cent.
 
Emirates SkyCargo has launched an intensive customer-awareness campaign across its network to disseminate information about its new products and solutions.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum (4th left, front row), Chairman of Emirates and Chancellor of Emirates Aviation College (Aerospace & Academic Studies) is seen with College Vice-Chancellor Mohammed Al Budoor (3rd left, front row), faculty members and students who graduated in aviation-related disciplines.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates and Chancellor of Emirates Aviation College (Aerospace & Academic Studies) has conferred diplomas and certificates on some 100 of its students.  

At a ceremony in the college auditorium, attended by students' families and friends, students received National Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas in various disciplines such as Aerospace Engineering, Electronics & Computer Engineering, Business Studies and Tourism Management, with a number receiving certificates in Air Traffic Management.

In his address, College Vice-Chancellor Mohammed Al Budoor said: "The Emirates Aviation College is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of operations within the aviation industry through its theoretical and practical training programmes.

"On behalf of our Chancellor, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, I congratulate the graduates of the Emirates Aviation College for their diligence and hard work in achieving their qualifications which will enable them to further their education in this exciting and fast-growing industry."

The Emirates Aviation College (Aerospace & Academic Studies), currently going through the final stages of accreditation by the UAE's Ministry of Education, will be offering four-year Bachelor Degree courses from September 2005 in Aeronautical Engineering, Air Transport Management, Tourism Management and Electronics & Computer Engineering.

The college is the sole institute in the UAE offering courses in Aeronautical Engineering and Air Transport Management, in addition Air Traffic Management.
Students undergo training using the state-of-the-art, three-dimensional Air Traffic Control simulator (Adacel MaxSim) which features high quality, photo-textured visual scenes with exceptionally realistic weather simulation.

Located close to Dubai International Airport, the college has established the Centre of Excellence & Research, headed by Dr. Ahmed Al Ali.  The centre offers professional vocational courses in Aerospace Engineering, Electronics & Computer Engineering, Business Studies, Tourism Management, in addition to short courses in Management, the English language and industrial research.

The new SkyBox for securing valuable air cargo by Transguard and bwh-Spezialkoffer, has adjustable dimensions and is made of three parts held together by an internal flexible steel cable that allows the box to withstand greater damage than conventional packaging.

Transguard, a division of Emirates Group Security, has developed "SkyBox" - a new breakthrough product to secure the transportation of valuable air cargo, in partnership with German manufacturing firm bwh-Spezialkoffer.

SkyBox combines technology and clever physical design to secure shipments and prevent air cargo crime - in particular the pilferage of valuable shipments like electronic items, computer peripherals and mobile telephones, which have been the growing targets of thefts due to their relatively high market value and small size. 

Dr. Abdulla Al Hashimi, Senior Vice President Emirates Group Security said: "Incidences of global air cargo theft, estimated at US$10 million annually, have increased in tandem with the booming air cargo traffic, and a large proportion of thefts involved electronic cargo. Part of the reason is that conventional packaging for most electronic products - polythene shrink wrapping and carton packaging - do not offer much security against pilferage. Shippers and security providers depend heavily on costly manpower to guard these products in transit."

He added: "The idea to create SkyBox stemmed from our team's day-to-day experience in managing air cargo security. We believe it strengthens the integrity of the entire air cargo security chain, and will help reduce manpower requirements and costs.  We are proud to have developed SkyBox in partnership with bwh-Spezialkoffer, whose manufacturing expertise complimented Transguards' own practical experience in security requirements."

Designed to meet the specifications of the Euro cargo pallet, the SkyBox is made of High Density Polyethylene (HDP) and has adjustable dimensions which could measure a minimum of 70cm x 80cm x 130cm, up to a maximum of 130cm x 100cm x 130cm. The box is made of three parts that fit in place like a jigsaw and are held together by an internal flexible steel cable that allows the box to withstand greater damage than conventional packaging.

The SkyBox has an advanced locking system designed to prevent lock-picks and its durable material withstands the harshest handling and environmental conditions while providing secure packing for cargo. Its flexible design also lets the box absorb major impacts.  During testing, the SkyBox endured a 12-metre high, 350-kilogramme drop test on concrete without damage. 

The box's adjustable shape allows for easy logistics handling, and shippers using the SkyBox instead of normal cardboard crates will also benefit from reduced packing and the reduced need to provide guards while shipments are in transit. 

The SkyBox is already being used on some of the routes served by Emirates Airline, and has received strong interest from other air cargo service providers and operators. 

Left to Right: John Sergeant (UK TV political commentator), Justin Hanson (Emirates Senior Cargo Sales Executive), Phil Rawlings (Emirates Cargo Manager UK & Ireland), Mark Wardman (DHL/Danzas - sponsor of the award) and David Taylor (Emirates Key Accounts Manager).

UK-based International Freighting Weekly (IFW) magazine has presented Emirates SkyCargo with its Air Cargo Carrier of the Year Award for the second successive year. The highly-esteemed honour was  was recently announced at the historic Honourable Artillery Company in London.
 
Martin Roebuck, Editor of IFW said: "Emirates SkyCargo has demonstrated that it has continued to enhance its already high levels of customer service." 
 
A panel of judges - senior figures from several global cargo companies - chose Emirates SkyCargo from a shortlist of top international air cargo carriers.
 
Ram Menen, Emirates' Senior Vice President Cargo said: "We are honoured to receive this award for the second year in a row,  a powerful affirmation of Emirates SkyCargo's continuing drive to offer the highest levels of customer service."
 
The award comes as Emirates SkyCargo continues expanding the services it provides across its global network. Earlier this month it commenced a second daily service from Birmingham to Dubai, growing cargo capacity on the route by over 80 per cent and taking its offer of UK services to 12 daily non-stop flights per day. 
 
This year Seoul and the Seychelles have been added to Emirates SkyCargo's global network. Daily services to Hamburg commence on 30th October and to Beijing on 1st February, 2006. Emirates SkyCargo currently serves a network of more than 75 destinations in 54 countries.
 
Next month heralds the arrival of the first of three Airbus A310-300 freighter aircraft into the carrier's fleet. This aircraft will serve mainly regional and mid-sized routes, working alongside the carrier's six Boeing 747 freighters on bigger freight routes.
 
Emirates SkyCargo has several won major cargo awards this year including: 'Best Air Cargo Carrier - Middle East' from Cargo News Asia for the third consecutive year; and 'Best Cargo Airline to the Middle East' (17th year running), 'Best Cargo Airline to the Indian subcontinent' (8th year) and 'Best Cargo Airline to the Far East' for the second time from Air Cargo News.

Participants of the Global Business Consortium are seen during their Company Day in Dubai, which was hosted by Emirates.

Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to leadership development with the participation of a third group of managers in the Global Business Consortium run by the London Business School.

The three-year agreement with the school involves Emirates managers joining with their peers from other international companies such as British Telecom, Masterfoods, Oracle, SKF, Standard Chartered Bank and RWE Thames Water.

The consortium activities, based on an interactive learning process, include a CEO challenge, Company Days hosted by each company, site visits, inter-company teams and visits to local organisations in the regions visited.

Dermot Mannion, Emirates' President Group Support Services said: "The Global Business Consortium is a key part of Emirates' leadership development strategy, aimed at preparing our managers to meet the challenges of the company's massive ongoing expansion, both in terms of size and in terms of new markets across the globe.

"I am pleased that the consortium is proving a success among our management team who will be Emirates' leaders in the future."

The graduates of the Corporate Consortium MBA are seen at the Emirates Aviation College in Dubai with (front row, fourth from left) Dermot Mannion, Emirates' President Group Support Services; and (front row, fifth from left) Professor Chris Taylor, Vice-Chancellor & Principal of the University of Bradford;  and Emirates' management and members of the university faculty. Also seen are Emirates' cabin crew members Carmen Raad (left) and Caryn Petty.

The Emirates Group has honoured the successful graduates of its Corporate Consortium MBA, run by the UK-based University of Bradford's School of Management.

A total of 32 professionals, including 27 Emirates staff members, were part of the fourth cohort to complete the two-and-a-half-year course and graduate, five with distinction and 13 with merit.  

The graduation ceremony at the Emirates Aviation College was attended by the graduates' family members and friends, plus Emirates' senior management and faculty members of the University of Bradford.

In his keynote speech, Dermot Mannion, Emirates' President Group Support Services, said: "On behalf of Emirates, I would like to congratulate all the graduates on the successful completion of the MBA course, and to acknowledge the graduates from other companies in the consortium.  

"Emirates and the University of Bradford have developed a strong relationship since establishing this MBA programme, both sharing similar corporate objectives in the pursuit of excellence, diversity and local responsiveness.  I am confident this relationship will continue to strengthen, ensuring personnel of both Emirates and our consortium partners will succeed in their own pursuit of excellence." 

Mr Mannion added: "I would also like to thank the families of the graduates who have made numerous sacrifices and encouraged their loved ones to push through with their studies to help them get to this day."  

The Corporate Consortium MBA was launched as part of Emirates' HR development initiative for management to help them meet future challenges.

Conferring the degrees, Professor Chris Taylor, Vice-Chancellor & Principal of the University of Bradford, said: "I am delighted to be here today in the world-class facilities of the Emirates Aviation College.  This degree ceremony recognises an important stage in the life of the graduates, one of the milestones on our journey, which merits a pause, reflection, thanks and celebration.

"I offer my warmest congratulations and encourage you to move forward confidently to the next phase of your life and to give of your best to society tomorrow." 

In addition to Emirates, companies sponsoring their personnel in the Corporate Consortium MBA include ABN AMRO Bank, Dubai Technology, Electronic Commerce and Media Free Zone (TECOM), Emirates Bank International, Emirates Flight Catering, ENOC/EPPCO, ITS (Kuwait), MTC (Kuwait), National Bank of Dubai and Siemens AG. While a number of personnel graduated today, others will graduate with later cohorts.

Hafith Al Ameir, Emirates' Education Planning Manager, said: "The decision by senior management for Emirates to be the main sponsor of the Corporate Consortium MBA has been confirmed by the success of the programme, coupled with Bradford's reputation as one of the world's best business schools."

About the Corporate Consortium MBA 
The part-time course, held at the Emirates Aviation College over a two-and-a-half-year period, consists of 13 taught modules, 12 of them assessed, and a management project which is a substantial piece of individual research.  

With the fourth cohort graduating, the alumni now totals 106 graduates. The fifth and sixth cohorts are currently taking the course, and students are being recruited for the seventh cohort, due to start this October.

About the University of Bradford 
The University of Bradford received its Royal Charter in 1966 but can trace its early roots back to 1832, with the formation of the Mechanics Institute.  The School of Management is widely recognised as one of Europe's leading full-service business schools, holding the EQUIS accreditation from the European Foundation for Management Development as an indicator of teaching quality, as well as having AMBA accreditation of its full portfolio of MBA programmes. 

The Executive MBA programmes run both by the School of Management directly and by its associate institute NIMBAS were again last year placed in the UK's Financial  Times'  top 75 programmes in the world and in the top twenty in Europe.  In its rankings of the world's 100 Best Business Schools, Bradford University's Business School ranked fourth in terms of 'value for money'. 

Contact: 
Sheba Koonan, Corporate Communications, 
Tel: (+9714) 203.2287, Mob: (+97150) 658.7912; 
email: sheba.koonan@emirates.com, visit: www.emirates.com

Soccer-enthusiast Wins Two 2006 FIFA World Cup Tickets

Standing head and shoulders above others is the Emirates SkyCargo stand at Air Cargo Europe.

At the Emirates SkyCargo stand during Air Cargo Europe, soccer-fans relive moments from the last FIFA World Cup and try their luck at winning two match tickets to the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany.

The Emirates team at Air Cargo Europe : Ram Menen, Senior Vice President Cargo; Reinhard Coldewe, Cargo Manager North & Central Europe; Henry Hasselbarth, Regional Manager North & Central Europe; Marianne Lippka, Cargo Supervisor Munich;  Rene Patek, Cargo Manager Austria, Claus Nickel, Cargo Manager Dusseldorf; Oliver Gasch, Cargo Manager Munich; Christian Thiele, Cargo Sales & Marketing Manager, and Prakash Nair, Manager Network Cargo Sales Development are flanked by Emirates' cabin crew members (from left) Claire Jeffery, Sheetal Kumar, Andrea Bryne, Catherine Navarro and Vivian Horvath.

Emirates SkyCargo put on an impressive show at Air Cargo Europe (ACE) held in Munich recently, with a massive stand and a daily contest, generating immense interest in its products and solutions among the 45,000-strong throng of visitors.

At its double-decker stand occupying 72 square metres, Emirates SkyCargo had a full complement of its senior executives from Dubai and Europe to deal with the business at hand. 

Soccer-crazy fans played and relived the matches of the previous FIFA World Cup in an exciting interactive videogame at the Emirates SkyCargo stand, with high-scorers grabbing places in a daily raffle. The daily winners took home aircraft models, while Lars Mader from Roehlig Aircargo GmbH won the grand draw - two highly-prized match tickets for the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany, which for the first time in its history is sponsored by an airline, Emirates. 

The cargo division received a standing ovation from cargo executives and experts when Ram Menen, Emirates' Senior Vice President Cargo, chaired a high-profile session 'Winning Strategies - Going Global' and addressed the assembly on "How Do We Achieve Better Yield" during the accompanying 2nd International Conference for the Global Air Cargo Industry.

Emirates SkyCargo has participated in both ACE shows, since the inception of the event in 2003. Transport Logistics, of which Air Cargo Europe is a part, is a leading European exhibition, attracting more than 1,330 exhibitors from 52 countries. A truly multimodal event, it attracts executives and stakeholders from every link in the transportation chain.

Prakash Nair, Emirates' Manager Network Cargo Sales Development said: "After our record-breaking financial year 2004-2005, we are focused on our future expansion plans in terms of fleet, destinations and volumes. ACE proved to be the perfect place to lay the groundwork for our strategy this year, as we were absolutely inundated with enquiries and business proposals."
 
He added: "ACE was a hothouse of ideas, products and solutions, where suppliers, customers and media, in fact everyone involved and interested in the supply chain congregated to absorb the latest and the best, aired common concerns on a global platform, and met industry peers. The atmosphere was absolutely electric and filled with endless business opportunities. Next time around, we intend to boost our participation - so watch this space!"

Emirates SkyCargo has three Airbus A310 freighters on order, which will commence joining the fleet in July. It will launch belly-hold cargo services to Hamburg in October and to Beijing in February 2006, and is intending to touch the one million mark in tonnage. 

Emirates SkyCargo transported 838,400 tonnes of freight in 2004-05 - an increase of 27 per cent over the previous year - while the division's revenue grew by 42 per cent to Dhs 3.4 billion (US $940 million), accounting for a record 21 per cent of the airline's operating revenue. 

His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh (seated, centre), flanked by Gary Chapman, President Dnata and Associated Companies (right) and former England cricket captain, Mike Gatting, with the Emirates and Lord's Taverners cricket teams and Emirates cabin crew members in Windsor Great Park against the back drop of Windsor Castle.

The Emirates Cricket XI notched up a hat trick of victories over The Lord's Taverners XI with a tightly contested 19-run win at Windsor Great Park in England on Sunday.

This is the third time the two sides have met, with fixtures played both home and away respectively in Windsor Great Park and at the Dubai Cricket Council grounds in Zabeel. The charity fund-raising match was played beneath the spectacular historic backdrop of Windsor Castle in the presence of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Patron and Twelfth Man of The Lord's Taverners. 

Gary Chapman, President Dnata and Associated Companies, and Vic Sheppard, Emirates' Vice President UK & Ireland, hosted 150 Emirates' guests who attended the charity match.

Mr. Chapman said: "This was an exciting game in a wonderful setting, which our guests enjoyed enormously. It also gave us the chance to raise funds for Reading Mencap, an organisation which runs a variety of clubs for disabled children."  

Emirates' batted first and amassed an impressive 254-9 from 30 overs. Arshad Ali, Man of the Match, scored a magnificent 115 runs off just 86 balls, with Fahad Usman notching up a stylish score of 64. 

The Lord's Taverners features current England county players, former Test cricketers, and showbiz stars who donate their time to raise money for charity through a combination of entertainment and sport. 

The Taverners' team started well, but despite an impressive captain's innings of 52 runs by former England captain and Lord's Taverners' President, Mike Gatting, lost wickets steadily to tight Emirates bowling and athletic fielding.  

Pick of the Emirates bowlers was Khuram Khan who took three wickets at a cost of just 32 runs. He was well supported by Amjed Javed and Arshad Ali, who took two wickets apiece. The Taverners finished on 235-9 at the end of their 30 overs.

Mr. Chapman presented Emirates' captain Javed Ismail with a Silver Dhow trophy, bringing a most enjoyable day to a fitting end. 

Guests at the match raised more than £2,400 for The Lord's Taverners with a raffle of a number of prizes, including a pair of return flights to Dubai, a signed Arsenal football shirt, a signed Chelsea football and a limited edition cricket picture.

In addition to the fund raising on the day, Emirates also presented Reading Mencap with a brand new mini bus which will be a great help in enabling the organisation to fulfill its excellent work helping children of all ages who suffer from disabilities. 

The Dubai Flower Centre (DFC) has signed up for the Chameleon cargo ground handling and warehouse management system from Mercator, the IT division of the Emirates Group.

The DFC will open for business in the fourth quarter of 2005 and is being designed to be a fast-moving trans-shipment hub for flowers and perishables with daily connections to more than 150 destinations. It will incorporate a freezone giving wholesalers, importers and exporters a trading platform from which they can establish operations and perform value-added services. 

Chameleon will give the DFC the freedom it needs to manage its cargo terminal operations efficiently and will help them meet transit deadlines while adhering to the highest quality standards. The system will take care of the entire management and monitoring of perishable consignments, from the moment an aircraft arrives at the DFC facility.
 
Mr Ian Strachan, Dubai Flower Centre's Managing Director, said: "Once the first phase of our facility's development has been completed we will be able to handle 180,000 tons of flowers and perishables - and there are two more phases planned after that.

"Dealing with such fragile cargo means that we have to make sure that our systems and processes are second to none and meet the most stringent requirements. Chameleon does just this. We can now rest assured that our customers will receive the best service at all times."

Joshua Koshy, Emirates' Senior Vice President IT, said: "Chameleon is developed solely by professionals with an enviable experience of both the air cargo business and IT. We worked closely with ADI Services, the operator of the Dubai Flower Centre, to ensure that the solution exactly fits their needs. 

"And as their business grows and thrives, Chameleon's inherent flexibility means that it can be effortlessly moulded to meet the challenges of tomorrow. We'll be with them all way."

The system dramatically improves service standards by proactively seeking out potential problems and taking the necessary measures to avoid or rectify them. It streamlines communications, sharpens decision-making, and lifts productivity and profitability to new heights.

Customers for Mercator's other cargo systems include: Air New Zealand, Air Niugini, Air Pacific, British Airways, Dnata, Emirates, Jet Airways, Kenya Airways, Qantas, Royal Brunei Airlines, Singapore Airlines, SriLankan, TACA, Varig and Yemenia.

Skywards, the frequent flyer programme of Emirates and SriLankan Airlines, is celebrating its fifth birthday by offering its members the chance to win five times the number of miles they have flown! 

Five lucky members who fly five sectors between 1st June and 31st December 2005, will have the chance to win five times the number of miles they have flown during that period.

In just five years, Skywards has attracted over 1.5 million members from across the world who earn one Skywards Mile for every mile they fly on Emirates and SriLankan Airlines which they can exchange for free flights, upgrades, hotel stays, holidays and luxury goods.

Brian LaBelle, Skywards' Vice President said: "Skywards has grown tremendously over the past five years, doubling its membership almost every year to reach some 1.5 million today.

"Integral to Skywards' success is our members who have supported the programme and encouraged us to continually improve our services.  Members can also enjoy the benefits of our partner airlines, hotels and other companies.  Our fifth birthday celebration offer is an acknowledgement of their support."

Skywards' partner airlines include: Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Japan Airlines, South African Airways and United Airlines.  Partner Hotels include: Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Hilton, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah International, Le Meridien, One&Only, Marriott, Rotana Hotels, Suites & Resorts, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts and Sheraton Hotels & Resorts.

Partner banks include: Citibank (UAE & Bahrain), Emirates Bank, ABK Bank (Kuwait), Standard Chartered (Qatar and Sri Lanka); for shopping: Rivoli, Damas, Zam Gems, Dialog GSM (Sri Lanka); and for travel: Emirates Holidays, SriLankan Holidays, Emirates Tours UK, Danat Dubai Cruises; car rental: Budget Rent a Car, Hertz, Sixt. 

With three tiers of membership - Blue, Silver and Gold - members can enjoy more privileges the higher their membership tier.  Tier miles are accumulated whenever they fly with Emirates and SriLankan.

In April, Skywards took top honours in New York at InsideFlyer magazine's 17th Annual Freddie Awards, the 'Oscars' of customer loyalty programmes. 
Skywards received "Freddies" for "Best Member Communications" and "Best Web Site" in the Asia Pacific region, plus the coveted title of "Programme of the Year" which honours performance across the full spectrum of services provided by a frequent flyer programme.  Skywards has been winning awards every year since inception five short years ago, and currently has 13 awards to its credit.  

In July 2004, Skywards celebrated its millionth Skywards member by donating one million Miles each to the charities CARE, UNICEF and Beit Al Khair.  Members also contributed an additional 12.5 million Miles.  

But before the year's end, members again gave their support when disaster struck the shores of Asia during the December Tsunami, answering Skywards' appeal for relief support with an outstanding donation of another 12 million Miles.
Visit Skywards at www.skywards.com

The Holiday Lounge at Dnata Travel Centre features action-packed holidays to Australia this month. Photograph shows a guide explaining how wooden boomerangs were used by aboriginal hunters in Australia.

The Holiday Lounge, Dnata's new-concept retail outlet, will feature Australia's many attractions throughout June, as it welcomes the continent "Down Under" as its latest Destination of the Month. 

Home to cuddly Koalas and Kangaroos, the Great Barrier Reef and the iconic Sydney Opera House, Australia boasts a broad variety of things to see and do for holiday makers of all ages.  The remote Australian outback and untouched forests of Queensland promise endless adventure, while scenic Melbourne and cosmopolitan Sydney beckons with exciting shopping, cafes, culture and nightlife. The Gold Coast theme parks and entertainment are also all-time favourites for family holidays.

Chris Anns, Tourism Australia's Business Development Manager for Middle East said: "Australia is growing in popularity as a holiday destination for gulf travellers.  In 2004, Australia welcomed about 46,000 visitors from the gulf - an increase of 25 percent over the previous year. We expect this growth trend to continue, given the Australian government's recent move to facilitate online visa applications for the nationals of some gulf countries. "

Since May this year, nationals of UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait can apply online for short-stay visas for a small fee, all from the comfort of their home or travel agent's office, eliminating the need to travel and wait in queues at consulates and embassies. 

Mr. Anns added: "Through the Destination of the Month promotion at The Holiday Lounge with Dnata, we want to showcase some of Australia's attractions and encourage more people to come experience Australia for themselves with the special travel offers."

Rashid Al Noori, Dnata Agencies' Senior Vice President said: "The diversity of entertainment and activities, both outdoor and indoor, makes Australia a great holiday destination choice whether traveling with family, for honeymoon or adventure. We are pleased to partner with Tourism Australia and would encourage all those planning their summer vacations to come to The Holiday Lounge to find out more about what Australia has to offer, and some of the fantastic travel packages that we have lined up." 

Those considering an Australian vacation can research their trip at The Holiday Lounge's travel library, check out the many attractive packages on offer, and even experience the friendly "Aussie hospitality" first-hand when they consult with one of the lounge's qualified travel advisors - two of whom are Australians. 

June Events at The Holiday Lounge 
Visitors to the lounge can catch a taste of Australia on 18th June, at a contest to find the best Lamington in the UAE. A Lamington is a distinctive Australian spongecake covered with icing and coconut shavings. Novotel's Executive Chef (an Australian) will be there to judge the Lamington baking skills of those interested.  The winner will walk away with a fantastic dinner for two on the Danat Dubai Cruise.

Families visiting The Holiday Lounge in June can pick up a copy of the latest "Traveller's Guide to Australia' brochure and participate in a quiz for a chance to win a fun family weekend for two adults and two children at the Le Meridien Mina Seyahi.   

The Holiday Lounge and Tourism Australia will also host a children's art competition with the theme "Your Favourite Australian Scene" throughout June.  Children up to the age of 16 can submit drawings of any Australian flora, fauna, flag or building. All shortlisted entries will be displayed in the lounge's play area for kids, and judging will be held on 25th June. All participants will walk away with prizes, but there will be three special awards for the best entries in the following age groups: under six years of age; between seven to 12 years, and over 12 years.

HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and patron of the Dubai Cargo Village Environmental Award, yesterday presented a trophy and certificate to Dnata's representative Khalid Al Jowder, Manager Quality Planning (centre). Looking on is Ali K. Al Jallaf, Director of Dubai Cargo Village.

Dnata Cargo, the innovative operator at Dubai's Air Cargo Terminals, has received the Environmental Awareness Award from Dubai Cargo Village (DCV).  

HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and patron of the award, yesterday presented a trophy and certificate to Dnata's representative, Khalid Al Jowder, Manager Quality Planning.

Introduced in 2001, the annual award aims to motivate the over 110 airline and cargo agent companies operating in the DCV to adopt the best environment protection methods in their operations, and contribute to a clean and healthy work area within the cargo village.

Ismail Ali Albanna, Dnata's Executive Vice President said: "This is a satisfying achievement for all Dnata Cargo staff. Everyone played their part in observing environmentally friendly practices, participating in recycling activities, and contributing new ways to implement best practice."

Ali K. Al Jallaf, Director of DCV said: "We created the Environmental Awareness award to motivate and reward companies that demonstrate environmental consciousness to world-class standards. We believe that protecting the environment is important, and it requires the co-operation of all involved parties." 

The award evaluates nominees on five key criteria: Occupational Health; Cleanliness; Recycling; Smoking; and Employees' Environmental Awareness; and is granted to the company with the best overall performance in all categories. 

The winner of the award receives a trophy and a certificate of appreciation, a cash reward of AED 25,000 and the right to use the award's logo in its publications.

Dnata Cargo is accredited to ISO14001 for its environmental management system. The company actively implements recycling efforts and "paperless" initiatives through technology such as handheld terminals that update electronic forms, and the latest document management software and systems.  

Dnata encourages its employees to develop a consciousness in the conservation of water, fuel and energy. Posters and banners on a variety of environmental topics have been put up to educate and encourage employees to conserve these resources. Employees also participate regularly in environmental activities such as clean up drives and soft-drink can collections, in collaboration with the UAE government as well as other environmental organisations.

Dnata Cargo also certified to ISO 9001-2000 and OHSAS 18001, and has also been awarded for seven consecutive years for "Best Cargo Terminal Operator Middle East" at the annual Asian Freight Industry Awards. 

This summer head off to the aqua blue waters and sandy white beaches of the Maldives; to the trendy coffee houses of majestic Vienna; or simply soak in the excitement and adventure Down Under with the Emirates Holidays' 'Triple Treat' Offer.

The largest wholesale tour operator in the Gulf and Middle East unveiled its 'Triple Treat' Offer which includes a six-nights' stay for the price of four-nights in culturally-enriched Vienna; a holiday to Australia coupled with a stopover in Singapore under the 'two-destinations for the price of one' promotion; and a four-nights' holiday for the price of three-nights in exotic Maldives. 

Vienna
Dubai-based travellers can now treat themselves to Impressive Opera performances and Strauss's immortal Viennese waltzes with Emirates Holidays' 'six nights for the price of four'.  Guests will have an opportunity to stay at the Imperial Hotel which has housed celebrities, presidents and royalty alike. Reminiscent of 19th century Vienna and located right in the city centre, The Imperial Hotel is a few minutes away from the Opera and main shopping district. 

Starting from AED 6,664 per person based on twin-sharing, the Emirates Holidays' package cost includes the costs of economy class airfare, 6-nights accommodation with American breakfast, room tax, service charges and return private transfers from airport to hotel. The offer is valid from 11th July to 31st August.

Australia
The second of the 'Triple Treat' Offer includes a holiday to Australia coupled with a stopover in the modern, vibrant city of Singapore. The vastness and diversity of Australia ensures that it has something for every member of the family. Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Great Ocean Road, theme parks, spa centres, wine valley tours, skiing, golf and water sports, are among the many attractions of this exciting country.

Prices start from AED 4,500 per person and include the cost of economy class airfare, accommodation based on twin sharing, meet and assist on arrival, return private transfers from airport to hotel, room tax and service charges.

Maldives
Situated amongst some of the world's most outstanding costal scenery, dotted with swaying coconut palms and limpid lagoons, the 1,200 tiny islands of the Maldives offers the perfect hideaway. With a ratio of just one resort to an island, a Maldivian holiday guarantees tranquility, exclusivity and luxury.  

With prices ranging from AED 5,230 to AED 6,725 per person on twin sharing basis, families and honeymooners can stay 'four nights for the price of three' or 'seven nights for the price of five', at the Soneva Fushi Resort & Spa. Besides accommodation with American breakfast, the package price also includes the cost of economy class airfare, room tax, service charges and return transfers from airport to hotel by seaplane. The offer is valid from 1st June to 24th July.

To book any of the Emirates Holidays' 'Triple Treat' offers, call 800 5252
Visit Emirates Holidays at www.emirates-holidays.com

Dnata's newly refurbished Special Handling Lounge at Dubai International Airport.

Dnata, the passenger and ground handling operator at Dubai International Airport, has unveiled its newly refurbished Special Handling Lounge within the airport terminal.

The enhanced facility, located in the airport concourse between departure gates 9 and 11, boasts a larger seating area for wheelchair passengers and an exclusive area for unaccompanied minors tastefully decorated in vibrant colours.

Ismail Ali Albanna, Dnata's Executive Vice President said: "Dnata is pleased to offer an enhanced lounge facility for passengers requiring special support while traveling. In an average month our staff manage more than 10,000 requests for special handling, and our refurbished lounge facility will provide our customers with greater comfort and more amenities." 

Each seating area in the enhanced lounge is equipped with television sets to entertain passengers waiting to board their flights, and offers passengers a choice of hot and cold refreshments. 

Dnata's Special Handling Lounge at Dubai airport is open 24 hours, and manned by multi-lingual staff which have been trained to look after the elderly, unaccompanied children, and wheelchair passengers. The special handling team works closely with airline representatives to ensure those in their care reach departure gates on time and receive priority boarding, and they also look after passengers' needs in and around the airport concourse. 

For other passengers traveling through Dubai Airport, Dnata also operates a 24-hour Marhaba Lounge where facilities are available to all, regardless of airline or class of travel, for a small fee. The lounge boasts a Business Centre with free internet access through six computer terminals, outlets for personal laptops, telephones and fax; a wide buffet choice of hot and cold meals, comfortable settees and rest areas, bar service, TV and reading materials. Marhaba hostesses alert customers when their flights are called and a buggy service is available to whisk customers to their departure gate. Staff also provide additional services such as reconfirmation of onward flights and check-in for transfers.

South Korea's Prime Minister Lee Hae-Chan (right) received His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates Group, in Seoul yesterday.

On his first visit to Seoul, Emirates Group Chairman His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum paid courtesy calls to South Korea's Prime Minister Lee Hae-Chan, and Minister of Construction and Transport Choo Byung-Jik.

Sheikh Ahmed is in Seoul to celebrate the airline's daily non-stop services to Dubai launched  earlier this month. He leads a delegation of senior Emirates executives that includes Ghaith Al Ghaith, Executive Vice President Commercial Operations Worldwide and Richard Vaughan, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations Far East and Australasia. 

Sheikh Ahmed said: "We appreciate the cooperation that the Korean authorities have extended to Emirates, which has made it possible for us to launch non-stop service between our countries. Our daily flights between Seoul and Dubai will benefit travellers as well as shippers. There is already a strong trade relationship between the two cities, and we will continue to work with our partners in the industry to realise the potential for greater tourism and trade growth in both directions."

South Korea is among Dubai's top 10 trading partners, with bilateral non-oil trade reaching US $1.3 billion in 2003. Dubai's main Korean imports include textiles, automobiles and appliances, while main non-oil exports to Korea include base metals, plastics and animal products.  

Sheikh Ahmed yesterday had officially opened Emirates' elegant new town office in Seoul, and hosted a gala function for its industry partners, local community leaders and other VIPs. 
 
Seoul is one of the newest destinations to join Emirates' fast-growing network which now spans 78 cities in 54 countries. The airline operates an Airbus 340-300 in a three-class configuration on the Dubai-Seoul route, offering 267 seats and 13 tonnes of cargo.  

Flight EK323 takes off from Inchon at 00:30hrs and arrives in Dubai at 05:25hrs, providing excellent onward connections for Korean travellers to Emirates' destinations in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and New York City. Flight EK322 departs Dubai International Airport daily at 02:25hrs arriving at Inchon International Airport the same day at 15:55hrs. 

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Emirates Group Chairman cuts the ribbon to officially open the new Emirates office in Seoul.  Also pictured are: His Excellency Ibrahim Al Monsuri, UAE Ambassador to Korea (right); Sang-Jin Lee, Emirates Area Manager Korea (left) and members of Emirates cabin crew Cho Kyi-seon, Jee Hyun-Jeong, Louise Hoffman and Nazli Mianaie.

Emirates Group Chairman His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, today officially opened Emirates' elegant new town office in Seoul, Korea. Also gracing the event was His Excellency Ibrahim Al Monsuri, UAE Ambassador to Korea.

Sheikh Ahmed is in the South Korean capital to celebrate Emirates Airline's daily non-stop services between Seoul and Dubai, launched on 1st May 2005.  

He said: "Emirates is pleased to offer Korean travelers a daily non-stop service to Dubai. We are committed to our operations in Korea and our new dedicated town office will help us provide our customers with top-value, quality service." 

On his first visit to Korea, Sheikh Ahmed is accompanied by a group of senior Emirates executives which include Ghaith Al Ghaith, Executive Vice President Commercial Operations Worldwide; and Richard Vaughan, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations Far East and Australasia. 

Emirates has recruited an experienced and enthusiastic Korean team to manage its sales, cargo and airport operations in Seoul, ensuring that customers enjoy the airline's award-winning service on the ground and in the air.  

Sang-Jin Lee, Emirates Area Manager Korea said: "This is a proud moment for our team, which has been working diligently to ensure a smooth start of Emirates' local operations. We will do our utmost to ensure our customers' needs are met efficiently, at the high service standards that Emirates is renowned for."

Later this evening, Emirates will host its industry partners in Korea to a gala function.

Seoul is one of the newest destinations to join Emirates' fast-growing network which spans 78 cities in 54 countries. Emirates operates an Airbus 340-300 aircraft in three-class configuration on the Dubai-Seoul route offering a capacity of 267 passengers and 13 tonnes of bellyhold space for cargo.  

Customers flying on Emirates' Seoul-Dubai service can look forward to international gourmet cuisine with options tailored to Korean palates, a wide selection of the latest inflight movies including some of the most popular Korean shows, and top-class service from the airline's award-winning cabin crew, which includes over 220 Korean nationals. 

Flight EK323 takes off from Inchon at 00:30hrs and arrives in Dubai at 05:25hrs, providing excellent onward connections for Korean travelers to Emirates' destinations in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and New York City. Flight EK322 departs Dubai International Airport daily at 02:25hrs arriving at Inchon International Airport the same day at 15:55hrs. 

Mr. Philip Jones, charge d'affaires of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Dubai, yesterday presented a certificate of appreciation to Ismail Ali Albanna Executive Vice President Dnata and Jean Pierre DePauw, Dnata Cargo's Senior Vice President, in recognition of Dnata's contributions to humanitarian aid during the tsunami relief efforts.

Dnata Cargo, the handling operator at all of Dubai's air cargo terminals, has received kudos from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) for its role in facilitating and providing humanitarian aid during the tsunami relief efforts.

Philip Jones, charge d'affaires of the IFRC in Dubai, yesterday presented a certificate of appreciation to Ismail Ali Albanna, Executive Vice President Dnata and Jean Pierre DePauw, Dnata Cargo's Senior Vice President. 

Mr. Jones said: "On behalf of the IFRC, I would like to express appreciation to Dnata for their tremendous support during the tsunami relief efforts. Within a few days after the disaster, hundreds of tonnes of aid supplies passed through Dubai International Airport's Cargo Terminals as aid agencies and relief flight operators galvanized into action. 

"During this critical time, the Dnata Cargo team often went beyond the call of duty to provide all possible support to aid agencies and relief flight operators, and ensure that last minute cargo handling deadlines were met with efficiency and professionalism." 

Accepting the appreciation certificate on behalf of Dnata Cargo, Mr. Albanna said: "Dnata is glad to have been able to have played a part in the tsunami relief efforts. We are proud of our staff for their dedication in contributing professional expertise, as well as personal resources and time. To receive this recognition from the IFRC is very gratifying for the team."

In addition to cargo handling support, Dnata staff also donated over eight thousand dirhams to buy medicines for the victims in the affected regions and contributed to frontline relief efforts, where several staff members were mobilized with the Dubai-based Airport Emergency Team (AET) to organize the flow of relief supplies at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport. 

In the aftermath of the disaster, Dnata and other divisions of the Emirates Group contributed 42 boxes of relief supplies weighing nearly three tonnes to the Indonesian Consulate in Dubai. 

Mr. Depauw said: "Supporting humanitarian efforts is an ongoing exercise at Dnata Cargo. Supplies such as clothes, medicine, water and foodstuffs are frequently collected through voluntary contributions, consolidated by Dnata and then sent to worthy organizations in various countries including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Eritrea, Philippines and Somalia." 
Dnata Cargo recently collected and sent 34 cartons of clothes, weighing over a tonne, to the needy in Iraq through Human Appeal International. 

Emirates' award-winning campaign to promote the start of its services to New York included this 180 metre-high image of the Statue of Liberty that was displayed on a 55-storey building in Emirates' home base of Dubai during the launch period last year.

New York Advertising Campaign Gets OAG Award 
Emirates Also Named Best Middle East/Indian Sub-Continent Airline 

The extensive range and high-impact of an Emirates Airline communications campaign made it the best in the business. That was the decision of judges who awarded the Dubai-based international carrier the prestigious Official Airline Guide (OAG) Best Marketing Campaign. 

Winners of the 23rd annual OAG Airline of the Year Awards were recently announced in a ceremony at the Park Lane Hotel in London. One of the biggest events on the international travel calendar, it was attended by senior executives from across the industry. The award recognised innovation and effectiveness in marketing activity for Emirates' launch campaign for its direct services to New York.

Evening compere and British television personality, Eamon Holmes, described why Emirates finished on top. He said: "One nomination stood head and shoulders above the rest. The Emirates campaign focussed on the launch of a new route - the first time the airline had flown into North America. Centred on experiencing everyday New York, it featured iconic images and humour that brought Times Square to life. 

He added: "After three months, revenue performance on the New York route was above target by 375 per cent and passenger numbers by almost the same amount. And in India, one of its main feeder markets, Emirates attained an 11 per cent market share - significant given the routing was indirect via Dubai."

Mike Simon, Emirates Senior Vice President Corporate Communications said: "Winning this prestigious award is a significant honour and recognition for the high-impact integrated campaign we delivered for the new Emirates service between Dubai and New York. It covered a range of activity across advertising, public relations, sponsorship, on-line and other initiatives. 

He added: "Marketing is actually not a word we use within the airline - it's something that we believe is the responsibility of everyone in the business - although traditional marketing activities sit within Corporate Communications and we are incredibly proud of receiving this accolade." 

Vic Sheppard, Emirates Vice President UK & Ireland, received the award from the OAG Chief Executive, Les Higgins. 
Emirates was also bestowed the title of Best Airline Based in the Middle East/Indian Sub-Continent.

Maurice Flanagan, Emirates’ Vice Chairman and Group President, with the OAG Lifetime Achievement Award that he dedicated to the 25,000 Emirates Group staff. Also pictured are Eddie Bell (right), Chairman of OAG, and British television personality and event compere Eamon Holmes.

Maurice Flanagan Given Lifetime Achievement Award by OAG

Emirates’ Vice Chairman and Group President, Maurice Flanagan, has been honoured with a major international aviation award for helping establish Emirates as “one of the greatest success stories of modern times”. 

Mr Flanagan is only the second recipient ever of the Official Airline Guide (OAG) Lifetime Achievement Award. 

It was presented both for his part in developing the Dubai-based international carrier into a major global airline, and also for his more than 50 years of dedicated service to the aviation industry.

Mr Flanagan received the honour during the 23rd annual OAG Airline of the Year Awards 2005 ceremony at the Park Lane Hotelin London. One of the biggest events on the international travel calendar, it was attended by senior industry executives from across the industry. 

Eddie Bell, Chairman of OAG, said: “In its near 20 year history, Emirates Airline has won every conceivable award for excellence and airline service. Emirates is one of the greatest success stories of modern times and no one more deserves taking credit for those achievements than Maurice Flanagan. He is an inspiration to many in the airline industry.” 

Mr Flanagan responded by saying: “I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious award, but behind every award winner is a great team and that is just what we have at Emirates. We have been lucky enough to win more than 270 awards in less than 20 years of operation and that’s because we put our customers first, at the forefront of our thinking and our daily operation. 

He added: “To deliver great customer service everyone counts in the company – be they on the ground or in the air, at our home base of Dubaiand those working around the world. So while I accept this honour, it is an accolade that is shared with all 25,000 in the Emirates Group team.” 

The presentation of the OAG Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr Flanagan came barely two weeks after his induction into the exclusive British Travel Industry Hall of Fame. The honour was established to recognise the excellence and outstanding achievement of those who have played a significant part in creating and developing the travel and tourism industry in Britainand globally. 

Last year Mr Flanagan received a double recognition when he was named winner of the Airline Business Award and later as Personality of the Year by Flight International magazine.

The OAG Lifetime Achievement Award was presented only once previously, in 2004, to British Airways’ outgoing Chairman, Lord Colin Marshall.

The ultra luxurious Al Maha Desert Resort

This summer, the ultra luxurious Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa beckons you and your companion to experience the holiday of a lifetime. The famed resort known for offering a Bedouin experience with plush, modern-day comforts, unveiled its Companion Free offer exclusively for Emirates passengers travelling beyond Dubai.   

Emirates passengers flying in any class of travel can book a two-night stop-over at the oasis resort and take their companion free. Depending on the period and class of travel, the stopover for two is priced between US$ 1658 and US$ 2241, excluding the cost of airfare. 

The package includes the cost of two nights' accommodation, all meals, room taxes, service charges and two on-site activities per person per day, such as the desert safari, four-by-four dune driving, guided nature walks, camel and horse safari.

The offer is available in the Middle East, Asia, Australasia, Africa, the Indian Ocean and North America, and is valid for travel until 31st October 2005.

Al Maha Vice President, Tony Williams said: "With the introduction of this new offer, Emirates travellers and their companions can make a complete escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, to the wilderness and warmth of the desert."

He added: "Set in a 225-square kilometres nature reserve, the secluded Al Maha resort takes you back to the times of the Bedu, with its wildlife activities such as camel safaris, falconry and archery."

Amidst vast stretches of sand dunes, stand Al Maha's luxurious individual suites with private pools. On offer are panoramic skyscapes, rehabilitated wildlife such as the Oryx, indigenous flora and fauna and a fine dining experience complete with exquisite wines, all set within wide open plains. 

Guests are treated to tranquility, peace and total sanctuary - almost impossible to find in today's technology-driven, fast-paced world. 

The Companion Free offer also includes a meet and greet service at Dubai International Airport, 96-hour visa, return airport transfers in chauffeured limousines and an early check-in or late check-out at the resort.

Staff and management of Emirates Group's National Recruitment & Development department are available at Careers UAE 2005, stand number A-2, to discuss career development opportunities with Emirati visitors.

Group Announces Hiring Target for Emiratis

The Emirates Group is set to attract UAE nationals with the highest potential at Careers UAE 2005, being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 16th to 18th May.
 
As Emirates continues its fast-paced global expansion, the Group is on track to recruit nearly 550 Emiratis during the current financial year, a 57 per cent increase over last year, reflecting its strong commitment to national recruitment and the government's initiatives. 

In the financial year 2004-05, the Group recruited nearly 350 UAE nationals, which represented 60 per cent more than the year before. The Group also runs ongoing training for national graduates, pilots, cabin crew, flight engineers and programmes in many other vital skills, including English language.  
 
Commenting on Emirates' participation in the career fair, the Group's Chairman, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum said: "We are totally committed to realizing the vision of General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum to hire and train greater numbers of UAE nationals in every activity." 
 
He added: "To ensure the success of this goal and because of the unique qualifications required by the airline industry, Emirates is making a huge investment to attract and prepare young Emirati men and women to become top-class professionals. They already represent almost one quarter of the company's top management, and we will do even better in future years." 
 
"Careers UAE 2005 is an ideal platform to raise awareness of the opportunities available within the Emirates Group. As the world's fastest growing intercontinental airline, we offer young candidates a dynamic and exciting organisation. For hard-working, talented individuals, Emirates is the place to go," he concluded. 
 
Staff and management of Emirates' National Recruitment & Development department will be at the company's stand number A-2 to discuss career development opportunities with visitors throughout the exhibition. In addition, UAE national pilots, cabin crew and engineers are available to share their experiences of training and working in Emirates and to answer visitors' queries.
 
The stylish 72 square metre stand is on two levels and offers large seating areas for interviews and general enquiries.  Special literature has been produced on the specific career development programmes available and two PCs are connected to the company's careers section for visitors to apply for jobs online. 
 
The Emirates Group currently is evaluating programmes and building relationships with Tanmia to train and recruit UAE nationals. For more information on careers within the Emirates Group visit www.emiratesgroupcareers.com

Emirates' Chairman, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum (2nd left), congratulates Saeed Mohammed (3rd left), Emirates' Senior Vice President Procurement & Logistics, on his fellowship of the UK's Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS).
Also seen are Maurice Flanagan (left), Emirates' Vice Chairman & Group President, and Dermot Mannion, Emirates' President Group Support Services.

Emirates’ top purchasing executive has become the first Arab worldwide to receive the fellowship of the UK’s Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS). 

Saeed Mohammed, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Procurement & Logistics, was awarded the fellowship, which carries the designatory letters of FCIPS.

The award is only made to procurement professionals who have both demonstrated a significant contribution to the profession and achieved a recognised senior status within it.   With some 36,000 CIPS members worldwide, only around 100 have achieved this level of distinction.

Emirates’ Chairman, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, congratulated Mr Mohammed on his achievement, commenting: “Procurement plays an important role in the financial health of a company and I commend Saeed Mohammed for his dedication in promoting the best practices of this discipline, both within the Emirates Group and the UAE in general.”

Following his graduation from India, Mr Mohammed began his career in purchasing with Dubai Aluminium (DUBAL), where he obtained professional procurement qualifications from the UK, and went on to become a MCIPS (member of CIPS).

Since joining Emirates’ purchasing team three years ago, Mr Mohammed has introduced the CIPS certification programme in purchasing and supply management for its UAE national management employees.

He said: “Training in effective purchasing and supply is critical nowadays for any company’s management to reduce costs and curb overheads and, as a UAE National, I have been working hard to promote these qualifications within the business community. 

“I feel honoured that my efforts have been recognised by the institute which I hope will help in increasing awareness of the qualifications and the benefits they bring to any organisation.”

Pictured with Skywards' three Freddie awards at the awards ceremony in New York are, from left: Brian LaBelle, Skywards' Vice President; Randy Petersen, Publisher of InsideFlyer magazine; and Nigel Page, Emirates' Senior Vice President Commercial Operations for the Americas

Skywards, the frequent flyer programme of Emirates and SriLankan Airlines, took top honours in New York at InsideFlyer magazine's 17th Annual Freddie Awards, the 'Oscars' of customer loyalty programmes. 

At the ceremony, Skywards received "Freddies" for "Best Member Communications" and "Best Web Site" in the Asia Pacific region, plus the coveted title of "Programme of the Year" which honours performance across the full spectrum of services provided by a frequent flyer programme.       
The Freddie Awards provide travellers the opportunity to rank airline and hotel frequent traveller programmes based on their own experience, through a system which balances the popular vote with the overall merit and quality of the programme.  More than 300,000 frequent travellers participated in this year's vote.  

Brian LaBelle, Vice President Skywards, said: "It is an honour to have received these awards, knowing that the recognition comes directly from our loyal members and that what we do everyday does not go unnoticed."  

Skywards has been winning awards every year since inception five short years ago, and currently has 13 awards to its credit.  These latest awards are added to Emirates' already impressive collection of more than 270 international awards. 

Dnata signs its first -ever  financing agreement. Present at the signing were (standing from left): John Lossifidis, Regional Head of Client Relationships-MESA, Standard Chartered Bank; Riyaz Peermohamed, Emirates Group's Senior Vice President Corporate Treasury; Vivek Uberoi, Unit Head Large Local Corporates, Standard Chartered Bank; and (seated from left): Christine Tan, Vice President Wholesale Corporate Marketing, OCBC Ltd; Ray Ferguson, CEO, Standard Chartered Bank; Gary Chapman, Emirates Group's President Dnata and Associated Companies; Peter Davis, Senior Vice President, DBS Bank Ltd; and Tan Ket Kiong, First Vice President,United Overseas Bank Ltd.

Dnata, the region's biggest travel management company, has signed its first-ever financing agreement through its fully owned subsidiary Kedma Holdings Pte Ltd, raising Singapore dollars 140 million (approx. Dhs 315 million) to finance its acquisition of Singapore-based Changi International Airport Services (CIAS).  

CIAS is an integrated ground handling service provider at Singapore's Changi Airport. Dnata initially acquired a 78.4 per cent shareholding in CIAS from Singapore based Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited in October 2004. Subsequently, Dnata acquired the remaining 21.6 per cent and became sole owner of CIAS. This move is in tandem with Dnata's steady expansion of its operations overseas, with the company already exporting its ground handling expertise to airports in Pakistan, Iran, Sudan and the Philippines.

Gary Chapman, Emirates Group's President Dnata and Associated Companies, the Emirates Group, said: "This is a significant investment by Dnata and reflects our belief that Singapore will continue to grow and prosper as a major aviation hub in Asia. We are well advanced in working together to maximize the many synergies between Dnata and CIAS, and exchange ideas on best working practices."

The acquisition financing, over a 10-year term, was lead arranged and funded by Standard Chartered Bank, with DBS Bank, Overseas China Banking Corporation (OCBC) and United Overseas Bank (UOB), all based in Singapore. It carries a margin of 0.90 percent over a six month SOR (Singapore Dollar Swap Offer Rate).

Ray Ferguson, Standard Chartered's Chief Executive, UAE noted: "Standard Chartered is very pleased to have worked closely with Dnata from the time of acquisition of CIAS to lead arranging this landmark financing."  

Ferguson added: "With a strong presence in the Middle East and Asian markets, the Bank is able to tap the international debt markets to provide our clients with innovative financing structures best suited to their financing requirements. We are delighted to arrange financing for this transaction with the participation of major Singapore based banks."

Riyaz Peermohamed, Emirates Group's Senior Vice President Corporate Treasury, said: "This is a landmark deal. It is both the first-ever financing by Dnata and also the first time the Emirates Group has completed a financing agreement in Singapore dollars."

He added: "The deal was done in Singapore dollars to create a new source of financing and a natural hedge, so that inflows from CIAS could be used to satisfy the Singapore dollar obligations under the financing. We also took advantage of the very low Singapore dollar interest rates."

Emirates Chairman, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, announces plans to build a new 5-star, Dhs 800 million (US $218 million) luxury hotel in Dubai

• Project Approved by Sheikh Mohammed.
• One of the Largest Hotel Establishments in the U.A.E.
• Among World's Five Tallest Hotels.
• Innovative and Futuristic Design with Sky Terraces.  

Emirates is embarking on yet another large-scale capital investment, only this time it’s not an order for more aircraft. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates, disclosed during a news conference here today at the Arabian Travel Market that General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence, has approved plans for the construction by the airline of a new 5-star, Dhs 800 million (US $218 million) luxury hotel in Dubai. 

In announcing the launch of the new 70-storey, 350 metres high building on Sheikh Zayed Road, which will be among the world’s five tallest hotels, and also one of the largest in the U.A.E., Sheikh Ahmed thanked the Crown Prince for his support of Emirates' initiative and stressed the significance of the new landmark building as another contribution of the airline towards realising Sheikh Mohammed's vision of turning Dubai into one of the world's top business and tourist centres. 

Contemporary and futuristic in its design, the Emirates hotel will break new architectural ground with cantilever* rooms and over 50 sky terraces. When completed in 2008, it is certain to stand apart with its distinctive elevation in a stepped form, encased in a glass and aluminium exterior. 

The hotel will offer 560 deluxe rooms, 112 suites and one Presidential suite, each giving guests an unparalleled, panoramic view of Dubai, including some of its most prestigious projects, such as the Burj Dubai, Business Bay and the Dubai Financial Centre.

Commenting on the new initiative, Sheikh Ahmed said: “Last year Dubai hosted 5.4 million visitors - an increase of almost nine per cent over the year before, and the number is expected to treble by the end of this decade. Dubai’s infrastructure must be prepared for this huge expansion in tourist arrivals, and the Emirates new hotel is our contribution to the city’s efforts to meet the forecast demand for more hotel rooms. 

He added: “Dubai today is not only the leading hub of the Middle East region, it is also fast becoming a truly international business and leisure centre. It has been voted as the world’s best conference venue, and the 670-plus rooms of the new Emirates hotel will help to support Dubai’s stature as a major financial center. We also are committed to using it to enhance the Emirates reputation for outstanding customer service.” 

With a huge, 25,000 square feet Health Club, guests will have ample opportunity to get in shape at the ultra-modern, state-of-the-art gymnasium or unwind at the relaxing spa. Entertainment facilities and common areas also will include a shopping boulevard, 15 food and beverage outlets and a roof top bar on the 69th floor of the building.

Emirates is not new to the hospitality industry. It owns, manages and operates the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa; a conservation-based resort set in a 225 square kilometre nature reserve. Winner of National Geographic’s World Legacy Award 2004, and judged ‘The Best Resort in Africa/Middle East 2002’ by Condé Nast, Al Maha offers 40 ultra luxurious suites in the heart of the desert.

Emirates also owns the 218-room Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, situated on a superb stretch of the private Al Aqah Beach, in the picturesque emirate of Fujairah. The resort is particularly popular as a family holiday destination.

2004 Dubai Hotel Statistics 

• In 2004, a total of 5,420,724 guests checked in at Dubai's 276 hotels and 95 hotel apartments, vs. 4,980,228 in the previous year.
• United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Iran, India and U.A.E were the top five source markets.
• Guest nights grew by 22.2 per cent, with Dubai properties logging over 15.2 million guest nights.
• The average length of stay jumped 12.3 per cent to reach 2.80 days.  

Axis Holidays, the wholesale leisure travel division of Dnata Agencies

Axis Holidays, the wholesale leisure travel division of Dnata Agencies, will launch its new online booking system for travel trade partners at Arabian Travel Market 2005, offering a powerful tool to tap into the best travel products around the world, and unparalleled ease-of-use.

Axis Holidays' unique and highly sophisticated web-based online booking system for the travel trade (www.axisholidays.com), will be distributed to all the travel partners in the UAE and the GCC region, giving them direct access to all special offers, best buys and information on a worldwide range of products and services.

Gary Chapman, President Dnata said: "We spent the last months developing this powerful new tool that empowers travel agents to directly search, book and manage travel requests. At the same time, the beauty of Axis' new online booking system is its user-friendly design."  

He added: "Our travel partners in the region can now quote, book and print vouchers instantly at a click of a button. The web-based system is so easy to use that no training is required. If a new travel partner would like to work with Axis Holidays, they can simply register online for their personal ID and log-in access."

The new booking system features several unique functions that are firsts for the region, including the ability to: 

• provide multi-city bookings and quotations, so agents can build their own packages 
• retain travel quotes on the system for a validity of 48 hours
• automatically prompt users on relevant details such as cancellation policies 
• provide all quotations in UAE dirhams, which allows agents to avoid currency fluctuations 

Axis Holidays' new system at www.axisholidays.com boasts a wide range of hotels, apartments, transfers, cruises, travel insurance and theme parks in some of the most popular destinations worldwide. The booking system currently features ground arrangements, with air-inclusive packages and car hire options to be introduced in the very near future.

His Excellency Norachit Sinhaseni, Thailand's Ambassador to New Zealand, got a sneak preview of the Emirates' First Class travel experience when he visited the brand-new aircraft yesterday, prior to its departure from Auckland for the return flight to Dubai, via Sydney and Bangkok. 

Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline, has added four additional weekly flights to its Dubai-Bangkok-Sydney service. Emirates flight EK418 now operates daily and extends onward from Sydney to Auckland in New Zealand, creating a new connection between Auckland and Bangkok, Thailand. 

His Excellency Norachit Sinhaseni, Thailand's Ambassador to New Zealand, got a sneak preview of the Emirates' First Class travel experience when he visited the brand-new aircraft yesterday, prior to its departure from Auckland for the return flight to Dubai, via Sydney and Bangkok.  
 
On the route, Emirates operates its new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, one of the first of 30 such aircraft it has ordered for its growing fleet. Onboard features include: luxurious flat beds with privacy partitions and personal minibars in First Class, generous legroom in Business Class, and Emirates' unique information, communications and entertainment (ICE) system installed in all classes, which provides passengers with email and SMS from the comfort of their seats, as well and 500 channels of video, real-time news headlines, audio and games on demand. 
 
Richard Vaughan, Emirates' Senior Vice President Commercial Operations East Asia and Australasia, said: "We are delighted to offer our customers in Bangkok and New Zealand a new daily direct air connection, and we believe the service will bring business and tourism benefits to both countries. This new air link is particularly well-timed given the recent New Zealand-Thailand trade deal which will boost business and mark a growing relationship between the two countries."
 
Tony Smith, New Zealand Representative for the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: "The Emirates service will provide a great stimulus to tourism between the two countries and is very much welcomed right now when we are trying to encourage tourists to return to Phuket and other areas within Thailand." 
 

Emirates now flies thrice a day from Dubai to Bangkok, and double daily to Sydney. The airline will continue to operate three flights a day into Auckland: via Bangkok-Sydney, Singapore-Brisbane, and Singapore-Melbourne. The extension of daily flight EK418 to Auckland replaces the current Dubai-Sydney-Auckland daily service, which will now terminate in Sydney. 
 
Flight details
Emirates' Boeing 777-300ER aircraft has three-class configuration on the Dubai-Bangkok-Sydney-Auckland route, offering 12, 42 and 310 seats in First, Business and Economy classes respectively, plus 23 tonnes of bellyhold space for cargo.  
 
EK418 departs Dubai International Airport at 09:00hrs, arriving in Bangkok at 18:10hrs, and flying onward to Australia at 19:50hrs to land in Sydney at 07:45hrs the next morning. It departs Sydney at 09:15hrs, arriving in Auckland at 14:15hrs. Return flight EK 419 takes off from Auckland at 15:50hrs daily, arriving in Sydney at 17:15hrs. It departs from Sydney at 18:45hrs, arriving in Bangkok at 01:00hrs the next morning. The flight then departs Bangkok at 02:30hrs to arrive in Dubai at 05:35hrs.  All times above are local.

Present at the agreement signing in Seoul today were (L to R):  Nick Mould, Senior Vice-President North Asia from World Sport Group; Ghaith Al Ghaith, Emirates' Executive Vice President Commercial Operations Worldwide, Dr Chung Mong Joon, AFC Executive Committee member, and Franz Beckenbauer,(Emirates Global Ambassador for Sports & Social Activities.

Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline, today extended its involvement with Asian football in a multi-million dollar sponsorship deal with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). 

The new partnership was officially announced at a news conference in Seoul today, coinciding with the start of Emirates' new non-stop service between Dubai and Seoul on 1 May, 2005. 

The airline, acknowledged as one of the fastest-growing in the world, will become Official Sponsor of the AFC and the Official Airline of Asia's most prestigious football events, encompassing club and national team events.  These include the AFC Asian Cup 2007, the AFC Champions League, the FIFA World Cup 2006 - Asian Qualifiers and the Asian Football Qualifiers for the 2008 Olympic Games.

The agreement, brokered by World Sport Group, the exclusive sponsorship and broadcasting partner of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), will run from now until the end of 2008. 

This represents a significant enhancement of Emirates' commitment to Asian football, which started in 1996 when the airline was the Official Airline of the AFC Asian Cup 1996, the continent's premier national team competition. In 2001, Emirates signed a four-year deal to become Official Supporter of Asian football. 

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Emirates' Executive Vice President - Commercial Operations Worldwide, said: "We are proud to extend our involvement with Asian football by signing on as Official Sponsor and Official Airline of the AFC.  

"Asian football has taken great strides forward in terms of quality and reach, and this drive for success parallels the ambitions and achievements of Emirates.  We strive for quality service and success in everything we do and these values are the essence of why we have decided to continue our association with Asian club and national team football."

"We believe sponsorship is one of the best ways of getting closer to our customers. It allows us to share and support their interests and to build a personal relationship with them. There is no greater vehicle for this in Asia than through football, with the region's enormous fan base and passion for the game." 

Mohamed bin Hamamm, President of the AFC, welcomed the partnership, saying: "Emirates is an outstanding airline and an established global brand, with a proven track record in football and sport sponsorship. This long-term association is an excellent opportunity for the AFC to further develop our commercial programme with a professional and globally-renowned company. 

"The extension of our partnership will help Asian football reach new markets and build on the already high interest that Asian football is enjoying around the world.  This is thanks in no small part to the airline's global route network. We are grateful to Emirates for their continued faith in Asian football and look forward to developing a more active partnership over the next four-year period."

Welcoming Emirates' decision to renew its commitment to Asian football, World Sport Group Senior Vice President Nick Mould said: "We are delighted Emirates has decided to continue and indeed enhance its support of and involvement in Asian football.  We believe Emirates will help build Asian club and national team competitions while at the same time serving Emirates' broader sponsorship and marketing objectives." 

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates today announced Dnata's launch of operation into Saudi Arabia.  Also pictured at the conference were Gary Chapman, President  Dnata & Associated Companies(L) and Sheikh Mubark Al Suwaiket, Chairman Al Suwaiket Group of Companies (R).

More Retail Outlets and Further Investment Planned

Dnata Agencies, the region's leading travel management company, today announced plans to open a state-of-the-art, integrated Dnata Travel Centre in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

Modeled after its own flagship office in Dubai at the Dnata Travel Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, the new centre in Saudi will employ the same concept of providing a "one-stop shop" for retail and corporate travel services, and operate as Dnata's headquarters in the Kingdom .

Dnata's move marks its biggest investment outside Dubai, and will be operated as a tripartite partnership with National Flight Services and Al Suwaiket Trading and Contracting Company, both well-established diversified groups of companies based in Saudi.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates Group said: "Dnata is pleased to partner with National Flight Services (NFS) and Al Suwaiket Trading and Contracting Company, to set up operations in Saudi Arabia." 

He added: "Dnata Agencies' venture in the Kingdom will be its biggest investment outside Dubai to date. Last year, Dnata started operations in Kuwait and this year we look forward to serving retail and corporate customers in the Saudi market with high quality travel services."
 
"Dnata has almost 50 years of experience in the travel industry, and during this time we have established a solid reputation and firm operating base in the UAE. It makes business sense to expand Dnata's operations into other regional markets, as it optimizes the IT systems and manpower expertise already within the company." 

Gary Chapman, President Dnata said: "Saudi Arabia is undoubtedly the biggest travel market in the region outside of the UAE, and one of the most lucrative. There is also great potential for travel demand to grow, particularly given the Kingdom's recent initiatives to develop the tourism and trade industries." 

"Together with our partners, we aim to provide travelers and companies in Saudi Arabia with top-class professional travel management services, and a broad range travel products through our various specialist divisions."

Dnata will introduce several firsts in the Kingdom, including the region's first all-ladies Call Centre operation and a 24-hour hotline that will allow customers to access travel services round the clock, every day of the year. 

Other than the Dnata Travel Centre in Al Khobar, Dnata Saudi also plans to open four more retail outlets, including a travel shop at Dammam International Airport. All Dnata's retail facilities will feature the company's proprietary travel management system which has sophisticated customer relationship management capabilities.

Sheikh Mubark Al Suwaiket, Chairman Al Suwaiket Group of Companies said: "We are very pleased to introduce in Saudi, the broad range of international travel products and services offered by Dnata Travel. We are investing in cutting-edge travel and management systems, and are confident that customers in our country will benefit from having high quality travel products at value for money."

In the coming months, Dnata will roll out a series of travel products and services tailored to the Saudi market through its proprietary brands like AXIS Holidays for wholesale leisure; Dnata Holidays for retail leisure sales; World of Events for promoting both inbound and outbound conferences; Instone Marine Travel for marine travel services; and much more.

Mr. Aied bin Thuwab Al-Jaied, Chairman of NFS said: "With the many activities and investments in the pipeline, Dnata Saudi will not only benefit travelers and companies in the Kingdom, but will also generate employment opportunities for Saudi nationals."

Dnata Saudi has already recruited local nationals to run and manage its operations and has plans to boost its recruitment there, in collaboration with the respective government organizations in the kingdom.

As part of its commitment to operations in Saudi Arabia, Dnata also intends to initiate training programmes for young local nationals in the fields of Travel management, customer service excellence, leadership development, call centre management and other travel industry operations. 

The Emirates SkyCargo team share the joy and the award: (from left) Mr Charlie Li, Cargo Executive Shanghai; Ms Noryate Abd Rahman, Cargo Manager Singapore, Mr Peter Sedgley, Vice President Cargo Commercial Operations and Mr Jacky Lau, Cargo Manager Hong Kong

Close on the heels of winning a clutch of awards in the UK and declaring record financial results, Emirates SkyCargo has won the 'Best Cargo Carrier Middle East' accolade at the 19th Asian Freight and Supply Chain Awards (AFSCA) for the third consecutive year. The awards ceremony and gala dinner took place at the Intercontinental Hotel in Hong Kong recently and was attended by over 400 senior figures from the travel, transport and logistics industry.

The AFSCAs are widely regarded as the most authoritative and prestigious awards for the industry in Asia and one of the highlights of the Asian freight industry calendar.

The honour comes as Emirates SkyCargo continues its rapid expansion worldwide offering excellent service, innovation and flexibility to its customers.

On receiving the award, Peter Sedgley, Emirates' Vice President Cargo Commercial Operations said: "Emirates SkyCargo is delighted to win this AFSCA award, which is highly respected in the cargo industry. We are flattered to be recognised by the readers of Cargonews Asia, who have voted us as the best cargo carrier in the region. Through our cargo hub in Dubai, we continue to enhance our services to offer customers an ever-increasing choice and convenient access to markets in Asia Pacific, Indian Sub-continent, Africa, Europe and North America."

Emirates SkyCargo now serves a global network of 77 destinations in 54 countries, including 22 destinations with its six freighter aircraft. It has launched belly-hold services to nine routes since January 2004, including Seychelles in January and Seoul on 1st May this year. The cargo division will commence new belly-hold services to Alexandria and Hamburg later this year; and to Beijing in February 2006.
 
From Hong Kong, Emirates SkyCargo currently offers nine dedicated Boeing 747-400 freighter services each week to Dubai, in addition to belly-hold services in the airline's 12 weekly passenger services. To the existing two weekly direct services, Emirates will add three more in September, increasing it to a direct daily service from 1st October, taking its total number of services between Hong Kong and Dubai to 17 per week.  

The AFSCAs awards are organised by Cargonews Asia, the leading trade publication newspaper in the region, with its readers invited to vote for their favourite companies in each category. The awards recognize excellence among companies from Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, reflecting the global nature of the cargo industry serving Asia's shippers.

The AFSCA award come fast on the heels of Emirates SkyCargo's triumph at the annual awards presented by Air Cargo News, UK, where it won 'Best cargo airline to the Middle East' for an unprecedented 17 consecutive years; 'Best cargo airline to the Indian Subcontinent' for the eighth time and 'Best cargo airline to the Far East' for the second 

About Emirates SkyCargo:
Emirates' 76-strong fleet, which includes 70 wide-bodied passenger jets and six freighters (four 747-400Fs and two 747-200Fs) is one of the youngest in the skies. Emirates SkyCargo now serves 77 destinations in 54 countries in Europe, North America, Middle East, Africa, the Indian subcontinent and the Far East.  

It moved 838,400 tonnes of freight in 2004-05 - an increase of 27 per cent over the previous year - while the division's revenue grew by 42 per cent to Dhs 3.4 billion (US $940 million), accounting for a record 21 per cent of the airline's operating revenue. 
 
In 2005 it has won a clutch of awards: 'Best Air Cargo Carrier - Middle East' from Cargo News Asia for the third consecutive year; 'Best Cargo Airline to the Middle East' (17th year running), 'Best Cargo Airline to the Indian subcontinent' (8th year) and 'Best cargo airline to the Far East' for the second time from Air Cargo News. In 2004 it was declared 'Air Cargo Carrier of the Year' by IFW, UK; and 'Logistics Service Provider Award 2003' by STMicroelectronics, the global semiconductor company.

Emirates SkyCargo's Priority Service assures on-time delivery throughout the world, while the extensive trucking and off-line partner networks ensure comprehensive coverage where customers need it most.  SkyChain, the one-stop web shop with many value-added features, enables customers to obtain information as well as transact business online.