Photo used for illustrative purpose.

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Deputy Editor

The UAE’s hospitality sector is on solid growth track and is marching ahead of Expo 2020. The UAE is among the top countries in terms of COVID-19 vaccination rates and testing, which have helped to create a safe environment for tourists.

Hotels in the UAE were the world's second busiest after China in 2020 due to government efforts to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, encourage domestic tourism and take measures to accelerate the sector's recovery.

This was stated by Mohamed Al Aghoury, Cluster General Manager, Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort, during an exclusive interview with Gulf Today.

“A year has passed since COVID-19 took our world, since then, the new norm to live by have emerged.  Exactly the same period last year, for the first- time, the Holy month of Ramadan have been celebrated in an unconventional way from the customary ways and traditions.  Adapting to survive, our lives have transformed and changed.”

“To date, while some countries are still in a deep struggle of containing the COVID-19 virus and its new variant, causing doubts to travel, we the residents of Dubai in UAE is indeed fortunate to be able to move with the times confidently,” Mohamed added.

Mohamed Al Aghoury.

A rock solid confidence knowing that the government’s several initiatives highlighted to vaccinate all members of society to acquire immunity has achieved its highest record, helping to reduce the number of cases and control the spread of the virus.

“As we thrive to the ongoing recovery, the holy month this year will be different to the last, though both fall under the same circumstance.” 

While Ramadan celebrations used to be a widely generous sharing of blessings to everyone:  relatives gathering in tents and community banquets outside the mosque, these social manifestations had drastically changed its course.

In keeping the traditions offered pre-Covid, this year, the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort has tailored a modified version of Iftar and Suhor offerings, notably in compliance with the Dubai Tourism initiatives and mandates.

 Although different families cannot celebrate together, however, at Sheraton JBR, guests can make memories with their loved ones of the same household as they come together to break the fast.  

“With our sumptuous and exquisite Middle Eastern and International delights awaiting at our Palm Garden Restaurant and Terrace, our guest will surely enjoy the traditional flavors of Ramadan.”   

“On the protocols of social distancing guests can opt out to sit together either inside or in our terrace extended to the beautiful and spacious gardens, where Hadiqa our well-known Arabic restaurant that offers a late night Sohour from our authentic a la carte menu.” Mohamed concluded.