Nov 7, 2011

2 million to Abu Dhabi

Image : AbuDhabiMetro

UAE-Hotels in Abu Dhabi reported a 14 per cent year on year growth in guest numbers for the first nine months, expecting to hit 2 million by January.

Australian guests topped the list of countries contributing to the boom with a 31 per cent increase. Gulf Countries reported a 29 per cent rise, followed by France with 19 per cent and UK and Germany contributing 18 per cent.

Hotel revenue increased by just over AED 3 billion, approximately AU$880 million, which is up 6 percent, as well as boosting F&B income to AED 1.1 billion, approximately AU$322 million.

September’s strong performance will boost the already 1.5 million guests that have stayed in the Emirates' accommodation sector so far this year.

Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, Strategy and Policy Director, Lawrence Franklin, said Abu Dhabi will reach the 2011 stretch target of 2 million hotel guests if the trend continues for the remaining three months.

"We are optimistic given the destination's dynamic events programme, including next month's staging of the third F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix followed virtually immediately by Abu Dhabi Art which will be held on Saadiyat Island in the newly erected UAE Pavilion, which drew over 2 million visitors when it debuted at the World Expo in Shanghai last year adding to our attractions offering. This is all backed up by the catalogue of new hotels and resorts due to open which will see the destination cross-marketed throughout the international chains of major hospitality brands entering the market including Rocco Forte, Westin, St. Regis, Park Hyatt and Jumeirah” he said.