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Hotel revenues tumble in Abu Dhabi
A new report has found that hotels in Abu Dhabi suffered sharp declines in revenue and occupancy over the past year due to a rapid influx of new hotels in the capital. By contrast, revenues at Dubai hotels appear to be stabilising, perhaps indicating that the worst of the economic downturn is behind them.
Hotel pipeline poses challenges for UAE
The UAE has by far the largest number of hotels in the development pipeline in the Middle East, which could pose problems for the country's hospitality sector as it seeks to return to growth in the wake of the downturn. However, experts say it's difficult to predict when, and how many, of these hotels will actually come online and the extent to which additional supply will impact the market.
Middle East airlines increase global market share
After bucking the global downturn in 2009, Middle East carriers show no sign of slowing down this year as passenger demand continues to rise and carriers add capacity and routes in a bid to capture a larger share of the global market.
Hotel investment to rise in Dubai
More hotels are expected to change hands in Dubai in 2010 following a sharp slowdown in hotel investment last year, as economic conditions improve and demand rises for cheap assets. However, experts say that investment activity in Dubai's hotel sector is still likely to be relatively low due to the profile of owners in the emirate and rigidity of the market.
Slow recovery seen in Middle East premium class travel
First and business class air travel throughout the world was hit hard by the economic crisis as individuals and companies cut back on their travel budgets. While premium travel was slightly more buoyant on Middle East routes, carriers in the region still face challenges as they try to attract more premium class traffic.
Budget hotel brands target UAE market
Over the past decade the UAE has gained a reputation as a luxury destination with the launch of numerous high-end hotels that have grabbed the attention of travellers across the world. Thanks to a steady rise in demand, room rates soared and remain among the most expensive in the world, but the onset of the global financial crisis has led to a sharp decline in revenues and occupancies across the country.
Dubai's cruise industry poised for growth
In the wake of the financial downturn, cruise tourism has emerged as the strongest growth area in Dubai's hospitality sector, with increased popularity expected in 2010 thanks to a new terminal facility and the arrival of more luxury cruise liners.
Dubai tourism to profit from Burj Dubai launch
The worldwide attention being focused on the opening of the Burj Dubai is likely to provide a much needed boost for the tourism industry in the emirate.
Middle East tourism remains bright spot in downturn
The relatively strong performance of hotels in the Middle East - especially Lebanon and Saudi Arabia - compared to the rest of the world during the downturn is one of the major trends that have been seen so far in the region's hospitality sector in 2009.
Marketing UAE as one destination offers long-term benefits
Branding the UAE as one destination, rather than focusing solely on Dubai and Abu Dhabi, would greatly benefit the country's tourism industry, especially in light of the economic downturn and the Dubai World debt crisis, according to an industry expert.
Business jets to lead aviation sector resurgence in GCC
A new study says the business jet market will continue to grow in the Middle East, led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and be a key driver for the airline industry in the region over the next decade in the wake of the economic downturn.
Gulf carriers quiet at Dubai Airshow
Middle East carriers were for the most part silent at the 2009 Dubai Airshow as most of the orders at this year's event were made by carriers outside the region.
The Address hotels eye growth beyond Dubai
The Address Hotels + Resorts, the hotel brand of Emaar Hospitality Group, is seeking to expand in Europe and Asia following the successful roll out of its hotels in Dubai. Launched in 2008, the brand has opened five properties in Dubai, including The Address Downtown Burj Dubai, The Address Dubai Mall, and The Palace - The Old Town. Most recently, the company added the Montgomery Dubai to its portfolio and opened The Address Dubai Marina.
Ski slope remains big draw at Kempinski MoE
The general manager of the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates says business remains strong despite the launch of Dubai Mall and the opening of several new budget hotels within walking distance of the property.
New hotel rises in Empty Quarter
The Middle East is teeming with new hotels offering world-class quality and comfort, but few are able to deliver an experience that captures the unique heritage of the region. However, this month will see the opening of one of the more adventurous projects in the Gulf, the Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort, which aims to give travellers a truly unique desert experience.
