Abu Dhabi hotel performance ‘on par’ with Dubai says report

UAE capital city Abu Dhabi reported hotel occupancy rates ‘on par’ with Dubai by the end of 2020, according to a report from Cavendish Maxwell.

Citing data from STR Global, the UAE Property Market Report hailed Abu Dhabi for its range of measures to stem the spread of COVID-19.

Between 30 November and 6 December, Abu Dhabi had higher occupancy than neighbouring Dubai, boasting 69 percent compared to Dubai’s 65.8 percent.

“Beginning December 31, Abu Dhabi was expected to ease entry rules for tourists from various international destinations while adhering to strict safety measures,” explained Cavendish in its report.

“To make it easier to enter the emirate, 18 new drive-through DPI testing centres were set up on the Abu Dhabi border,” it added.

Looking ahead, Cavendish highlighted a range of measures from Abu Dhabi officials that will help boost its hospitality sector.

“In a continuous effort to increase the appeal of Abu Dhabi for residents and tourists alike, Abu Dhabi Municipality has constructed four new pocket parks in Shakhbout City. Spread over a total area of 24,575 sqm the parks include children’s areas, barbeque spaces and seating areas.”

In its report, Cavendish mentioned three key hotel projects set to enrich the emirate this year. Both set to open in Q1 this year, the Warner Bros Hotel and DoubleTree by Hilton on Yas Island will bring 257 and 641 keys respectively to the area.

Cavendish also mentioned InterContinental Grand Marina set to open in the final quarter of the year with 184 keys.

This article was originally published in Hotelier Middle East