Emirates Palace posts record growth in 2007

The surge in occupancy was prompted by a dramatic increase in leisure travellers and almost full occupancy of its luxurious palace suites last year.

The impressive results confirm Emirates Palace's continuing rise to prominence as the leading luxury destination in Abu Dhabi, and in the region. "It was a great year for Emirates Palace," said Hans Olbertz, General Manager of the Abu Dhabi's iconic landmark. "Overall, occupancy figures increased by 19% over levels in 2006, the best in the hospitality industry in this part of the world; and we doubled our bookings for leisure guests".

Olbertz said the British topped the arrivals list in the hotel last year, accounting for 8.8 % of the total population of tourists who came. Guests from Germany followed closely in second, accounting for 8%.

"In total, 40% of our guests came from European markets, which is one of our traditional strongholds. Even with our continued strength in this region, we intend to develop this market further, because it has so much potential; while at the same time exploring emerging markets which have shown a keen interest in the luxury experience offered by Emirates Palace,"

Olbertz added.

Emirates Palace's remarkable achievement, according to Olbertz, resulted from a well-executed campaign in Europe, which included roadshows in Europe and the GCC in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), promotional partnerships with trade partners, and sponsorships of high profile sporting events. "However, word of mouth gives us a strong push in these markets, when guests who have stayed with us recommend the hotel to family and friends. This and the tireless efforts of our trade partners have combined to produce the kind of occupancy levels we experienced last year," continued Olbertz.

With momentum on its side, Olbertz is confident Emirates Palace can continue its growth in 2008 and beyond. "Our hardworking staff are highly skilled in providing our guests with a truly memorable leisure experience. The service has been impeccable and has consistently matched, even exceeded, world class standards. The hotel itself, with its remarkable architecture and luxurious amenities, has become a magnet for tourists all over the world eager to experience something even better than the extraordinary, whether it is a vacation, a business trip, or a corporate event."

Adding lustre to Emirates Palace is the year-round calendar of world-class cultural programs, as well as entertainment and sporting events. "In partnership with the ADTA, which has been unwavering in its support, we intend to project the hotel and Abu Dhabi as the centre for tourism, culture, and entertainment in the region," Olbertz remarked.

The past year has also resulted in a bountiful harvest of recognition for Emirates Palace, including citations as the, World's Leading Conference Hotel and World's Leading Suites, in addition to nine other prestigious regional accolades from the World Travel Awards. Another highly coveted accolade was given to Emirates Palace last year, when it won the Best 5-Star Leisure Hotel Award from MENA Travel Awards, in addition to equally prestigious honours, such as the Best 5-Star Leisure Hotel and the Best Conference/Convention Centre in the region. Rising in prominence in the luxury lifestyle industry, during 2007 Emirates Palace was included in Robb Report's World's 100 Most Luxurious Hotel's List, Conde Nast Traveller's Gold List; and is the only hotel in the region to have been given the World Perfection Award by Seven Stars and Stripes.