Hotel managers in the United Arab Emirates anticipate a considerable rise in hotel occupancy rates, with summertime levels expected to approach 90%.
This hope is a result of the UAE's accomplishments in becoming a popular year-round travel destination worldwide. Particularly, Dubai remains a popular destination for tourists for business and vacation alike.
Active Local Markets
Local markets in the UAE remain vibrant throughout the summer months, with a high demand for accommodation offers at local tourist destinations. Despite some residents traveling abroad, this outbound travel is not expected to significantly affect hotel occupancy. Hotels are also targeting major international markets, particularly appealing to visitors from colder regions who prefer the UAE as a summer destination due to its less crowded environment. Strategic agreements signed with international tourism companies during events like the Arabian Travel Market are also expected to boost tourist numbers.
Preparing for Summer
Osama Sharrouf, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Jannah Hotels and Resorts, announced that the group is preparing for the summer with special accommodation offers. This preparation is in response to the UAE's growing reputation as a regional and international tourist hotspot year-round.
Mohamed Al Akkad, General Manager of Wyndham Residences The Palm, projected occupancy rates between 85% and 90% during the summer. The hotel's location on Palm Jumeirah, a major entertainment hub in Dubai, and its various accommodation options for families and long-term stays contribute to this expectation. Al Akkad highlighted the ongoing activity in both local and international markets during the summer, with notable demand from German tourists.
Ghaith Adnan, Senior Director of Public Relations and Communications at Four Seasons Hotels Dubai, acknowledged a general decline in occupancy rates during the summer due to travel abroad. However, he noted an increase in hotel accommodation in recent years, driven by Dubai's elevated status as a tourist destination. Many residents who do not travel abroad are planning internal hotel stays, further supporting occupancy rates.
Fadi Amash, General Manager of the Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel, anticipates occupancy rates between 70% and 80%, fueled by strong local demand and the influx of travelers from colder regions. The hotel also targets major markets like Saudi Arabia, India, and Britain, which helps mitigate the impact of some residents traveling abroad.
Imad Ramzi, General Manager of the Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah and Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira, reported an expected increase in occupancy rates during the summer, compared to the same period last year. This increase is attributed to strategic agreements with international tourism companies. Ramzi emphasized the importance of the local market during the summer, along with significant contributions from markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Luciano Fontana, General Manager of Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk Hotel expressed optimism about occupancy rates during the summer. Dubai remains a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers. While some residents travel abroad for vacations, the influx of international visitors from Europe, North America, Asia, and the Gulf countries compensates for local departures.
Elizaveta Miroshnichenko, Sales Director at Al Habtoor Polo Resort, noted a significant increase in occupancy levels this year, with expectations to exceed 70% on average during the summer. Despite a typical decrease in local market guests due to rising prices in Europe from events like the European Cup, the resort anticipates maintaining a substantial market share, focusing on visitors from the UK, Germany, USA, China, and the Gulf region.
Ahmed Abdel Nabi Abdel Shafi, Manager of Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport, highlighted the promising occupancy rates expected during the summer. Dubai's status as a primary travel destination ensures continued strong demand.
