Hospitality sector evolves with time

Covid-19 disrupted several industries across the globe, particularly the hotel industry. However, the industry showed resilience and continues to flourish with countries easing travel restrictions. Now, hotels should look into the changing consumer needs to shape the future.

Expo 2020 Dubai has had a crescendo effect on all markets in the region—mainly in the UAE with the influx of international travellers into the city. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is another market heavily investing in its tourism and hospitality efforts with leading hotel groups putting an important focus on the market, in line with the Saudi Vision 2030. Qatar is going to see another boom as the FIFA World Cup 2022 is expected to result in extremely high demand for the region, including key transit hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

According to a recent report by Colliers, the market forecast for the MENA region remains positive with most markets expected to improve on 2021’s performance. The priority for most in 2022 will be to minimise a resurgence of Covid-19, building consumer confidence in key source markets. With this comes the responsibility of the hospitality industry to adapt to evolving consumer needs. The sector is ever -changing and consumers today are making more conscious decisions. Here are five key trends shaping the future of the hospitality industry.

The mix of business and leisure travel

The hospitality sector has seen an emerging trend of professionals extending their business travel for leisure. The increase in flexible work culture has forced hotel groups to consider things such as spacious lounge spaces and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.

Extended stay gains momentum

Requests for extended stays have been frequently seen across the region. For instance, at Radisson Hotel Group in Dubai, the average length of stay has increased to five nights.

Luxury travel makes a comeback

As international and domestic travel begins to return to pre-pandemic levels, leisure travelers are looking for luxury and resort properties to spend time with families or partners.

Increase of sustainable travel

The pandemic has accelerated the attention on sustainability and responsible business, as well as the need for the hospitality industry to work together.

The future of the hospitality sector is looking extremely promising with the GCC becoming a leading hub for international and domestic travel.