RASHA TUBEILEH (ABU DHABI)
The tourism sector in Abu Dhabi is experiencing exceptional results this summer, marked by increased hotel demand and a significant influx of tourists.
Experts attribute this to the availability of covered tourist sites, picturesque beaches, and exclusive offers.
The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi’s new campaign, “101 Experiences and More in Abu Dhabi,” has played a crucial role in this success, showcasing a variety of cultural and entertainment events aimed at families.
Last summer, Abu Dhabi recorded impressive tourism figures, particularly in July and August.
Yas Island achieved outstanding results in hotel occupancy and tourist numbers.
According to data from the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, hotels in the emirate saw a 21 percent increase in guests last summer, welcoming approximately 1.25 million hotel guests compared to one million during the same period in 2022.
June witnessed a 33 percent growth in hotel guests, July saw a 23 percent increase, and August experienced a 22 percent rise.
Amal Harb, Vice President of Marketing at Rotana Hotels, anticipates exceptional performance in the group’s hotels this summer, particularly beach resorts and those near entertainment cities.
This is due to joint promotional efforts with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and Miral, along with discounts and free offers for children and families.
Harb expects a record occupancy rate of up to 80 percent during July and August.
Tarek Labib, Director of Commercial Affairs for India, Middle East and Africa at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts (IHG), noted that the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s tourism and hospitality sector experienced a significant boom last summer, making it one of the best summer seasons for the group in recent years.
He expects an occupancy rate of approximately 72 percent this summer, attributing this to Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a distinct travel destination.
Abu Dhabi boasts several covered tourist and cultural destinations suitable for all seasons, including SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros.
World Abu Dhabi, CLYMB Abu Dhabi, Snow Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, Qasr Al Hosn, and the Al Qana Project, especially the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi.
Yas and Saadiyat Islands achieved remarkable results last year. Yas Island saw over 34 million visits, a 38 percent increase compared to 2022, while Saadiyat Island visits increased by 44 percent, supporting the sustainable development goals of Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector.
Yas Island theme parks experienced a 96 percent increase in visits during July and August 2023, and hotels on Yas Island saw a 90 percent increase in occupancy rates from June to August 2023.