by As the world continues to recover from the pandemic and restrictions are being gradually lifted globally, the effect is a predicted increase in UAE tourism. The summer months are not what you usually call busy in the UAE because of the heat levels. However, this year is shaping up to be the most active and most exciting for UAE tourism.
Hotels in the country are expecting the busiest season ever, with a prediction of occupancy rates doubling. The figures touted for this season is going to be a significant increase on last year. But, what are the factors responsible?
Read on as we break it down:
Incentivised Hotel Bookings
In the UAE, to increase the surge in tourists, many hotels are running incentivized offers. Many of these offers are available throughout the year, but most of them are promoted during the season. One of such areas in the UAE deploying this approach is Ras Al Khaimah.
Hotels in Ras Al Khaimah are expected to witness the highest occupancy rates in the summer season because of the recent drive from the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA). This move will lead to a collaboration with different Dubai-based tourism bodies.
With the continuous support of its leader, Ras Al Khaimah has continued making strides to become a go-to destination for tourists.
In a similar effort to last year’s campaign, WANASA offers a wide range of prizes, benefits, and discounts to entice hotel bookings. Several complementary experiences are included with these offers, including the Jais Sky Tour, Jebel Jais Flight, Bedouin Oasis Camp, Al Hamra Golf Club, and Suwaidi Pearl Farm.
Only guests who stay three or more nights are eligible for the deals. A 40 percent discount will also be applied to the admission fee to Dubai Parks and Resorts.
Efficient Vaccination Campaign
With 9 million vaccines administered, and over 70%, the UAE is among the leading countries in the world when it comes to the Covid-19 vaccination campaign. The country has made headway in the race to vaccinate its populace against Covid-19. A study by Oxford University’s Our World in Data project showed that it had the world’s third-fastest vaccine campaign.
Staycation Going on Strong
UAE residents don’t appear to be keen on traveling during this period.
“Many residents are hesitant to book international holidays and vacations, so this will result in a busier than usual holiday season for many hotels and resorts,” says Stijn Bastiaens, VP and Commercial Director for the Middle East, Africa.
According to him, staycations will continue to be popular because people cannot travel outside the country. “They are discovering the benefits of a staycation, and they have discovered that Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah all have excellent staycations. The demand from this segment continues to grow because even traveling to another emirate is an adventure.”
UAE’s Uniques Selling Proposition
The UAE can provide something many other usual holiday destinations may be unable to offer – which is freedom. Certain countries will still be challenging to visit this summer. People won’t have the freedom to do as much as they could in the UAE – meaning people need alternatives.
Many have been cooked up inside their homes in the past year, and they need to step out. UAE has several resorts, spas, and hotels that offer services and facilities to provide a fully immersive experience.
Wrapping Up
As the whole world continues to make sense of and adjust to the new normal, it is only fitting that many will feel they have earned some time off after last year’s troubles.
The dilemma is, not many regions in the world are equipped and prepared to provide this experience.
But, the UAE has proven to be an exception. And it’s no secret that this is perhaps the most significant and most crucial year for hotels in the country so far.
