Dubai's hotels and short-term rental properties, especially those near popular winter spots, are nearly fully booked as the city gears up for festive celebrations and new season attractions. Leading hotel groups in the UAE are experiencing a significant boost in occupancy rates, averaging a 5-6 percentage point increase due to the seasonal shift.
Industry experts note that the UAE is anticipating a surge in visitors, particularly from Western Europe, ahead of the long winter break. Hospitality specialists emphasize that guests prioritize convenience and reliability when selecting accommodations, favoring hotels near popular winter attractions and outdoor events.
Nadia Purkayassta, Regional Head of Revenue Management at Premier Inn Middle East, explains why certain locations are preferred. For instance, Premier Inn Dubai Silicon Oasis provides easy access to Global Village and Emirates Dubai 7s, while Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf is close to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Guests at Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre can easily visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and Premier Inn Dubai Barsha Heights is near some of Dubai's most beautiful beaches.
The festive season is expected to see strong occupancy, especially during European school holidays. The GCC market is trending towards last-minute bookings, influenced by regional conflicts. As weather conditions change in Europe and school holidays approach, the hotel is welcoming more international guests from the UK, France, and Germany.
Hotels are also adjusting prices and offering value-added deals to attract guests as the weather improves. Premier Inn will launch a Black Friday sale from 21 November to 4 December, offering up to 40% off across all properties.
Short-term rental seekers also prefer properties near iconic locations to avoid traffic. Vinayak Nahtani, CEO of bnbme Holiday Homes, notes that proximity to landmarks like Burj Khalifa, Museum of the Future, and Dubai Eye at Palm offers convenience and an immersive experience, ideal for tourists and business travelers.
The hospitality industry's positive trend is also attributed to the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) collaborating with national airlines and partners to explore new market opportunities. World-class events and exhibitions hosted in the country are contributing to this promising outlook.
Thomas Schmelter, Area General Manager of IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City, highlights a positive impact on occupancy levels with cooler weather. Occupancy has risen by an average of 5-6 percentage points over the past two weeks. By late October, occupancy levels are expected to peak, driven by international leisure arrivals, especially from Europe and the CIS.
Inbound corporate travel to Dubai is also expected to grow by the end of the year. Lyndon Travasso, Assistant Director of Revenue at Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai, notes an increase in corporate stays and revenue, with more bookings made directly with hotels. Dubai Government and Dubai Tourism's initiatives to host world-class events are anticipated to boost inbound corporate travel by 5% towards the end of the year.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
