Abu Dhabi hotels post 16pc rise in guests
Abu Dhabi, November 4, 2010
Abu Dhabi has recorded a 16 percent rise in hotel guests in the first nine months of this year compared to last year with a 14 percent increase in the number of guest nights.
Latest figures from the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) showed that 1,326,463 guests stayed in the emirate’s hotels and hotel apartments from January to September last, with guest nights climbing to 3,596,388.
“Growth in September, 26 percent on the same month last year with a 25 percent increase in guest nights, is strongly influenced by year-on-year variations in the timing of Eid holidays,” explained Lawrence Franklin, strategy & policy director of ADTA.
“Revenue in September benefited from the same factors, it rose by 12 percent on 2009. Year-to-date, food and beverage revenues recorded a 15 percent growth and have become an increasingly important factor now accounting for 37 percent of all revenues compared to 33 percent this time last year,” said Franklin.
He said: “Domestic tourism continues to perform well showing a 16 percent increase in guest generation in the first nine months to break the 500,000 mark. The UK retains the overseas market top slot with a 50 percent growth representing 83,239 guests.
“We are now well within striking distance of our 2010 hotel guest target of 1.65 million. With the addition to our leisure stock of the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park and with the emirate preparing to host major business events, such as November’s Abu Dhabi international petroleum exhibition and conference and the first World Green Tourism Abu Dhabi conference and exhibition, the prognosis is good,” said Franklin
ADTA figures also show that additional room capacity continues to drive down overall occupancy levels, which have fallen 17 percent year-on-year and average room rates, which are down by 21 percent.
“Market dynamics are making Abu Dhabi more competitive than at any time in its recent history. However, we also recognise the need for balance between operational performance and consumer value. Our strategies, developed with industry partners, to maximise the opportunities presented, will help ensure a positive 2011 when we look to achieve a 15 percent overall rise in hotel guests,” concluded Franklin. – TradeArabia News Service