Most of the five-star properties in Dubai are expecting close to full occupancy during the one-month period of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). Many hotels are looking forward to occupancy rates of 80 percent or higher.
A cross-section of the hotels that were contacted has reported that the traditional exhibition season combined with the Festival period has attracted a great deal of interest from tourists residing in different parts of the world. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) visitors continue to reserve rooms in large numbers, this year hotels are also witnessing interest from new regions such as the African continent.
The JW Marriott Hotel, is expecting up to 85 percent occupancy during the Festival season according to Director Sales and Marketing, Jeff Strachan. “We will be hosting a mix of nationalities mainly from the GCC countries. We expect to be fully booked by around the Eid period,” he said.
The Metropolitan Hotel, Dubai has experienced keen interest from residents in the African nations. Says Executive Assistant Manager, Sales and Marketing, Manu Madan “We have had a lot of last minute bookings. A considerable number has been from the African continent notably countries such as Kenya, Ghana and Tanzania. Besides, hotel guests are from Europe, the UK and the Asian subcontinent.”
Al-Bustan Rotana has confirmed 80 percent occupancy during this Festival season. According to Front Office Manager of the hotel, Christine Chevalaz, the bookings are mainly from GCC nationals followed by a considerable number of European tourists.
The Intercontinental Hotel has had a lot of last-minute bookings, notably just three days prior to the Festival. “We are running on 80 percent occupancy and this figure is expected to increase. The hotel hosts a mix of nationalities, notably from the GCC countries. The Shopping Festival attracts a lot of tourists from Europe as well,” said Public Relations Manager, Katerina Fajgar.
DSF will be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from January 15 to February 15, 2003. The 32-day long festivities will focus on a celebration of humanity and family values. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
