Experts in the travel and tourism industry gathered yesterday at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 Future Stage to discuss the intricate challenges of navigating the transformation of the hospitality sector.
The opening session, titled “Trends Shaping the Future of Hospitality in the Middle East,” brought together senior representatives from prominent organizations including IHG Hotels and Resorts, Marriott International, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Banyan Tree Dubai, Mastercard, and Silkhaus. This diverse panel provided a comprehensive outlook on the opportunities and obstacles faced by the hospitality industry nowadays.
Read more: Dubai: ATM 2024 begins, to host over 41,000 attendees, 2,300 exhibitors
Recognizing source markets, shifting preferences
Haitham Mattar, managing director, IHG Hotels & Resorts for the Middle East, Africa, and South West Asia, commenced the discussion on hospitality trends with valuable insights into the dynamic changes occurring within the hospitality landscape.
In his speech to trade professionals, Mattar underscored the significance of destinations and hotels effectively recognizing their respective source markets. He noted that the preferences of travelers have undergone a shift due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, causing outdoor adventure to surpass the traditional “beach, sun, and sand” experience as the top choice. To navigate through challenging times, it is crucial for the private sector to align with the vision of their tourism authorities and collaborate harmoniously in order to create attractive travel packages for these markets.
Mattar emphasized the influence of generational shifts and emerging travel behaviors, which have given rise to global travel trends like slow travel. Moreover, he highlighted the increasing consumer willingness to spend up to 31 percent more on hospitality companies that prioritize sustainable practices, considering that the hospitality industry is responsible for 10% of global emissions.
Furthermore, Mattar stressed the pivotal role of innovation in driving the digitalization of the hospitality industry. He noted that technology and artificial intelligence will play a critical role in understanding and enhancing consumer preferences. With the aid of technology, travel anxiety is gradually diminishing, placing the spotlight on enriching the traveler’s experiences.
Evolving market needs
Sandeep Walia, chief operating officer for the Middle East at Marriott International, echoed Mattar’s sentiments regarding the evolving market needs. He discussed trends outlined in the “Marriott Bonvoy Travel Trends Report 2024 and Beyond,” which included slow holidays, sustainability, the rise of AI, and the emergence of dupe destinations—locations similar to traditional holiday destinations but closer in geography—as key travel trends for the next three years.
Furthermore, Rotana CEO Philip Barnes expressed that Dubai’s ATM 2024 presents a favorable occasion to exhibit a diverse array of ambitious strategies for the Group and venture into untapped global markets, thereby broadening the organization’s reach both locally and internationally. Within the exhibition, he revealed plans to introduce 30 new properties across the GCC region, the U.K., and Georgia by 2026. Additionally, Barnes announced plans to establish two hotels on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island and Ras Al Khaimah.
Empowering innovation and entrepreneurship in travel
The 31st edition of ATM, themed “Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship,” also featured the captivating session “Global Stage Welcome: The Gateway to Global Insights,” where Dubai’s tourism objectives for the upcoming years were outlined.
Additionally, the Market Insights Summit, held yesterday, took center stage by exploring the potential of developing markets such as China, India, and Latin America as they establish themselves as significant players in global tourism.
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