Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor

The number of international tourist arrivals in the UAE was forecast to continuously increase between 2023 and 2028 by in total 11.4 million arrivals (+71.74 percent). The arrivals is estimated to amount to 27.26 million arrivals in 2028.

In 2022, which saw most countries end COVID-19 restrictions, Abu Dhabi welcomed a total of 4.1 million visitors in hotels, representing an increase of 24 per cent from 2021, according to the Department of Culture and Tourism.

Depicted is the number of inbound international tourists. According to World Bank this refers to tourists travelling to a country which is not their usual residence, whereby the main purpose is not work related and the planned visitation period does not exceed 12 months. The forecast has been adjusted for the expected impact of COVID-19.

UAE nationals accounted for the largest share of hotel guests in 2022, with a share of 29 percent, which is equivalent to nearly two million guests.

Indian nationalities came in second at 12 percent, an increase of 31 percent from the same period in 2021. The nationals of Britain, Egypt, the Philippines, and Saudi Arabia followed with a share of 4 percent each.

Dubai welcomed 11.4 million visitors between January 2022 and October 2022, representing a year-on-year-increase of 134 percent, according to Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Dani Demerjian, Cluster General Manager of InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi told Gulf Today that hotel apartments, especially luxury ones built by global hospitality brands, are capitalising on the demand for diversity in housing options. Guests look at the ultimate comfort amidst modern luxury, design, spacious units/ rooms, layout, facilities, and guest accessibility when looking at short-term and long-term stays.

“What’s more is that guests also look at key factors such as the location and extra perks, which includes housekeeping, 24-hour reception, concierge service, access to the swimming pool and state-of-the-art wellness centre, secured underground parking facilities, and access to five-star dining restaurants at the residential complex which is the case for the InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi.”

Demerjian added that hotel apartments target all kinds of market dynamics with different lengths of stay. “InterContinental Residences is ideal for guests longing for enriching experiences as part of their day-to-day lifestyle. Because of its strategic location in the Al Bateen district in the capital and a stone’s throw from some of the central business and leisure facilities in Abu Dhabi, including several government buildings, Marina Mall, and Corniche Beach.”

“The residences will place you at the centre of the action amidst the bustling metropolis and aim at targeting singles, families (big and small) and those with people of determination to its hotel apartments. The residences also offer units built for those who are people of determination, making it a unique and accessible option for all.”

He noted that the UAE being a cosmopolitan city and the recent ease of visa initiatives, they expect many international travelers to visit and stay here for a while. “Long stay requests and plans are available for those who need luxury comfort and services rendered at their highest.”

Highlighting the DCT statistics show that hotel apartments in Abu Dhabi has the highest occupancy in 2022, he mentioned that  guests look for a home away from home experience with hassle-free logistics with the highest technology, comfort, and service execution. That’s where hotel apartments come into play. Hotel apartments are an easier option for those moving countries and emirates since the hotel brand does everything that goes into planning a move for them.

“To offer a sophisticated and stylish residences with a dedicated management team who will deliver the well-known InterContinental service. From concierge service, in-residence dining, to all day dining and other amazing F&B experiences, a lifestyle of luxury and privacy awaits all guests who choose to stay in this property.

Highlighting the hospitality and tourism sector, he disclosed that the international travel has started to bounce back to levels recorded pre-Covid, and we have started to see the demands increasing and especially after the lifting of the Covid restrictions.

“The main challenge for the region and globally is to attract the right talents to work in the hospitality industry. We have noticed that Generation Z has more interest working in other industries where they can have the option of flexible working time and location.”

“The latest development in the hospitality is the focus on the sustainability and responsible tourism. Consumers are actively seeking more sustainable methods of traveling and selecting hotels.”

“Additionally, the travellers are combining business and pleasure by taking advantage of business trips to prolong and explore the surrounding area where our residences would be the perfect option. The business outlook looks positive and especially with the return of Chinese travellers.” Demerjian concluded.