Hotel demand in Abu Dhabi dropped 22 per cent during the first five months of the year, compared to the same period in 2009, the latest report from Jones Lang LaSalle has revealed.
Thomas Rowntree, Intercontinental Hotel Group’s commercial vice president, Middle East and Africa, tells Alicia Buller about his plans for regional domination.
Hotel occupancy rates for the Middle East and Africa were weighed down by Abu Dhabi last month, says report.
Drop in tourist numbers only a short-term issue, Amari spokeswoman claims.
For years, Dubai has stood as the UAE’s most popular tourist hotspot. But with a rising number of hotel rooms and attractions springing up, Abu Dhabi could soon steal the limelight.
In anticipation of the Formula One race last year, Abu Dhabi beefed up its pool of luxury hotels, while Dubai also launched some new venues. Commerce rounds up the UAE’s latest stay-over additions.
