Hotel occupancy reaches nearly 100% during the Festival
Dubai is experiencing high hotel occupancy rates as the Eid Al Adha break approaches. Tourists from abroad are attracted to the city due to competitive rates, a wide range of hotel options, excellent dining choices, top-notch amenities, and enjoyable indoor activities designed for the summer season.
During the six-day holiday, which is the longest break of the year, UAE residents will have the opportunity to relax and celebrate the Festival of Sacrifice. While many people are choosing to travel abroad, staycations within the UAE have become popular in recent years, thanks to the government's focus on domestic tourism.
Data from booking.com reveals that nearly 98% of hotels near Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa are fully booked during the Eid break. Waterfront hotels are also in high demand, with occupancy rates reaching close to 90% for the busy week.
As of Wednesday, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown, and Dubai Marina reported occupancy levels of 88%, 83%, and 85%, respectively. With the upcoming extended break, occupancy rates are expected to rise further as more tourists visit the city and residents plan staycations.
Residents or tourists?
According to Juan Carlos Reina, the general manager at Dukes The Palm, occupancy rates during holidays like Eid Al Adha are usually strong due to various factors such as family gatherings, religious pilgrimages, vacation travel, cultural events, tourism, special offers, and business travel. The hotel attracts a diverse range of guests, including foreign tourists from the UK, Germany, and Russia, as well as local guests, especially during the summer season.
Sam El Asmar, the corporate vice president of revenue at Rotana, predicts that occupancy rates at their resorts and beach properties across the UAE will exceed 90%, while city hotels are expected to reach 80% as residents opt for staycations during the long weekend.
During the summer, Rotana is witnessing an increase in reservations from neighboring GCC countries, the UK, the US, Russia, China, and other regions, according to El Asmar.
Tarek Medhat, the director of sales and marketing at Shangri-La Dubai, mentioned that their hotel receives guests from diverse nationalities around the world. During Eid, they observe a noticeable increase in visitors from the local market and GCC countries, particularly Saudi Arabia. Currently, the hotel boasts an occupancy rate of 80%.
Ayman Ashor, the cluster general manager of Al Bandar Rotana and Arjan by Rotana, stated that during Eid Al Adha, they expect occupancy rates of around 90%. At Al Bandar Rotana, the guests comprise a balanced mix of UAE residents and international tourists. The festivities of Eid Al Adha attract many residents seeking a relaxing and luxurious staycation in the city. Additionally, Dubai's reputation as a global tourist hotspot brings in a high number of foreign tourists.
What attracts tourists in summer?
Luxury hotels in the emirate are offering special discounts, indoor leisure activities, a variety of dining experiences, and exclusive spa and wellness offers to attract more tourists to the city.
Ayman Ashor mentioned that they are providing a special 15% discount on room rates for the Eid holiday, along with an exclusive two-day Eid brunch on the first and second days. These offers significantly contribute to the increased occupancy during this period.
"We continuously innovate to enhance guest experiences and increase occupancy rates. We have various options available, including our special 15% Eid discount, specially curated Eid holiday packages, cultural festivities, and a unique two-day brunch at Salt & Pepper restaurant. We also offer gourmet dining options, leisure activities, exclusive offers on spa and wellness facilities, and access to local attractions. Other hotels in the region also use similar strategies,"
added Ashor.
Tarek Medhat mentioned that their Eid staycation packages include an elevated brunch with international delicacies, a complimentary upgrade to the next room category, early check-in and late check-out, and a 20% discount on all restaurants and bars throughout the stay.
Sam El Asmar stated that as part of their summer campaign, members of Rotana's loyalty program can enjoy a 15% discount on deluxe rooms and a complimentary extra bed when booking a family stay. Kids under the age of 6 will enjoy free dining, and there will be a 50% discount for kids up to the age of 12.
News Source: Khaleej Times
