A total of 61 hotel developments worth $8.8 billion are due for completion between now and the end of 2010 across the Arabian Gulf despite the global economic downturn, according to a new survey.

The vast bulk of the new hotel developments are in the UAE with 22 this year and a further 13 due for completion in 2010, said the survey by project research and database company Proleads for The Hotel Show, the region's premier trade show for the hospitality industry and its suppliers.

“These are challenging times for everyone but these latest figures show that hotel suppliers continue to have an expanding market in the Middle East,” said Maggie Moore, director of The Hotel Show, which is set to run from May 24 to 26 in Dubai.

“With thousands of new hotel rooms coming on stream over the next two years, the hospitality industry will need to focus on standards and value for money for customers,” said Moore.

According to the survey, five major hotels were nearing completion this year in Saudi Arabia, followed by seven more in 2010.

Qatar will see five new hotels completing this year and two in 2010, while Bahrain has one finishing in 2009 and four in 2010.

Spending on new hotels is at its highest over the two years in the UAE, accounting for $6.1 billion of the combined $8.8 billion, the survey said.

“There will certainly be downwards pressure on hotel rates in the short term, but one has to remember that hotels in the GCC region recorded some of the highest average rates in the world last year,' Moore pointed out.

“In the meantime, the region is still expected to continue investing in tourism infrastructure, including hotel developments, for long term growth and sustainability,” she added.

The Hotel Show showcases the latest products, services and technologies for all aspects of the hospitality and leisure sector. In 2008 the show featured 1,050 exhibitors from 46 countries.

This year it will have four major product and service sectors: Interiors & Design for furniture, furnishings, accessories and design services; Operating Equipment & Supplies, with food and beverage, housekeeping and back of house products and equipment; Security & Technology; and The Resort Experience, covering all things outdoor; including furniture, accessories and design.

The 2009 event also sees the launch of the first Middle East Spa Summit, addressing issues and trends in spa treatments as well as design, environmental impact, human resources, management and operations topics.

The Seven Star Conference, an established event running alongside The Hotel Show, will have an emphasis on design trends, sustainability, future technologies and marketing for profitability.-TradeArabia News Service