logo
UAE tourism earns Dhs45b in hotel revenues

UAE tourism earns Dhs45b in hotel revenues

Gulf Today09-04-2025
Inayat-ur-Rahman,
Business Editor
Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, highlighted the continued growth and robust performance of the UAE's tourism sector. He attributed this growth to the wise leadership's directives and forward-looking vision, which led to the development of sustainable policies, strategies, and initiatives that drive the sector's progress.
Al Marri said that hotel revenues in the UAE reached approximately Dhs45 billion in 2024, reflecting a 3% year-over-year growth. Hotel occupancy rates also climbed to 78% last year, ranking among the highest both regionally and globally.
Bin Touq added, 'The UAE continues to advance its national efforts to develop innovative tourism initiatives and projects, while strengthening collaboration with all relevant local and international tourism bodies. These efforts aim to elevate the UAE's status as the best tourism identity globally by the next decade, offering world-class experiences that further enhance the country's appeal to visitors from around the world.'
Ayman Ashor, Cluster General Manager, Al Bandar Rotana and Arjaan by Rotana told Gulf Today that Dubai's extraordinary positioning as a global hub of innovation and luxury has led to a remarkable surge in occupancy rates and average hotel rates.
'This growth is a testament to our commitment to excellence in hospitality, attracting visitors from around the world who seek unparalleled experiences'.
'As we continue to enhance our offerings and invest in sustainable tourism, we are excited to contribute to Dubai's vision of becoming the world's most sought-after destination.' Ashor added.
Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager, Bahi Ajman Palace & Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, said: 'We are proud to contribute to the impressive growth of the UAE's tourism sector, as highlighted by Abdullah Bin Touq Almarri. At Bahi Ajman Palace and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah.
Hamdani added that they have achieved an outstanding occupancy rate of 90% year-to-date in 2024. This achievement underscores the robust demand and appeal of the Northern Emirates as a key destination for visitors. 'Our success is a testament to the commitment and excellence our teams exhibit daily, providing exceptional experiences for our guests.' Hamdani concluded.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

How Hisense's FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign delivered more than 70 million impressions
How Hisense's FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign delivered more than 70 million impressions

Campaign ME

timea day ago

  • Campaign ME

How Hisense's FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign delivered more than 70 million impressions

Hisense has wrapped a 360-degree campaign for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, building on its seven-year partnership with FIFA, across the UAE, Qatar and Oman. Titled 'Own The Moment', the campaign blended digital, physical, and experiential platforms in an effort to meet fans wherever they are: online, in stores, or at on-ground activations. The campaign's intention was to celebrate the extraordinary passion and unforgettable experiences that football evokes, encouraging fans to fully embrace every thrilling moment of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. 'Online, the campaign delivered over 70 million impressions, 10 million views, a reach of 58 million, and generated more than 1 million pieces of user-generated video content, reflecting its viral momentum.' The campaign also builds on Hisense's recent partnership with football club Real Madrid, which was a top contender at this year's FIFA Club World Cup 2025. 'Our collaboration with FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is a reflection of Hisense's ambition to deliver world-class experiences through pioneering user-centric technology,' said Jason Ou, President of Hisense Middle East and Africa. Why Hisense has integrated football into its core messaging As an official sponsor of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Hisense's growing presence in international sport demonstrates a long-term strategy to connect with fans through shared passion points, while continuously advancing its product technology to level up the viewing experience. Speaking to Campaign Middle East on this strategy, Fazalur Rahman, General Manager Marketing, Hisense MEA said: 'What sets Hisense apart is that we don't just sponsor football, we integrate with it.' 'Our strategy goes beyond logos and sidelines; it's about embedding our products into the experience. From high-definition, immersive viewing to smart home tech that supports every moment of matchday, we show, not tell.' Through these partnerships, Hisense aims to affirm its positioning as a trusted partner at the epicenter of football's greatest moments. 'This initiative is very much aligned with our ongoing global strategy to strengthen brand affinity through iconic sporting partnerships, including our work with FIFA, UEFA and Real Madrid,' Rahman said. The strategy behind the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 'Own the Moment' campaign According to Rahman, 'Own the Moment' is a natural transition from the technology brand's previous 'Beyond Glory' campaign. Furthermore, the shift aims to reflects a more immersive, emotionally resonant approach, where fans aren't just spectators, they're participants in the excitement. 'Hisense's long-term vision is to create meaningful, tech-enabled moments for our consumers and sports, especially football, serves as a powerful platform to do that,' Rahman said. 'The campaign effectively reflects how Hisense technology brings fans closer to the action, making every moment more immersive and memorable.' To actualise this, Hisense created several touchpoints for fans to engage with its technology. The campaign included in-person experiences such as The VR zone, Laser TV stadium experiences, and gaming trials, as well as limited-time promotions offering 48 lucky winners a full refund if Real Madrid won the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. 'This approach deepens brand equity by building associations not just with world-class football, but with innovation, entertainment, and everyday excitement, all underpinned by trusted technology,' Rahman said. The brand also launched special edition Real Madrid models spanning Hisense televisions, air conditioners, and Laser TVs. Finally, two winners were also chosen to receive a travel voucher to visit the winning club's country and embrace the spirit of the FIFA Club World Cup firsthand. 'It's about emotionally connecting with consumers during the moments they care about most, and ensuring our technology is creating those memories,' Rahman said. The campaign's roll-out and results The 360-degree campaign launched across digital, physical, and experiential platforms. On social and digital platforms, the campaign was extended through Hisense's football-focused podcast Own The Mic, interactive content, product and ticket giveaways, and real-time tournament storytelling. The campaign came to life in the UAE at Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, where The Hisense Arena created a hub of fan interaction, with VR football trials, FIFA gaming stations, skill-based challenges, and a fully immersive stadium-like viewing zone. 'This physical experience brought the spirit of the game to life,' Rahman said, who stated that within just 10 days, the activation welcomed 108,000 visitors. 1/2 'The space came alive with daily shows, competitions, and games hosted by emcees, giving visitors the chance to win exciting FIFA merchandise and Hisense products. Face painting, football freestylers, and engaging family-friendly activities helped build a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that kept crowds coming back,' he said. 'Online, the campaign delivered over 70 million impressions, 10 million views, a reach of 58 million, and generated more than 1 million pieces of user-generated video content, reflecting its viral momentum,' he added. 'Sales also saw a notable uplift, particularly in the UAE, as fans responded enthusiastically to initiatives like 'Real Madrid Wins, Hisense Pays' and exclusive prize draws.' Localisation a key factor in success of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 'Own the Moment' campaign Rahman says the campaign succeeds because it localised messaging for audiences in the region. 'Localisation is key to campaign resonance and as such, Own the Moment was built with regional audiences at the centre,' he said. 'From tailoring promotions in UAE, Qatar, and Oman to hosting the Hisense Arena in one of the Middle East's busiest shopping malls, every touchpoint was designed for local relevance.' The brand also brought in former Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas for a Dubai-exclusive moment and activated in both Arabic and English to ensure inclusivity. 'Even the choice of prizes, like full product refunds and premium home tech, reflected the consumer aspirations of the region,' Rahman said. 'Going forward, we'll continue to tailor our global strategies with local insight, whether it's through retail partnerships, content collaborations, or exclusive in-market experiences.' Credits: Client: Hisense MEA Digital and social media agency: Glimpse Digital Marketing Chief Executive Officer: Rayan Tarraf Chief Marketing Manager: Janine Alyssa Creative Director: Shannon Rodriguez Copywriter: Ahmed Salem Account manager: Simone Bangera Traffic Manager: Omar Abdulhadi Account Executive: Helena D Silva PR amplification: House of Comms

Kai Beach is perfect for laid back summer plans
Kai Beach is perfect for laid back summer plans

What's On

time4 days ago

  • What's On

Kai Beach is perfect for laid back summer plans

White sands, clear blue waters and a guaranteed good time is always on the menu at Kai Beach Abu Dhabi. You may even spot a bottlenose dolphin or a sea turtle. Whether you want to visit for breakfast, a beach day, or simply some cocktails and a catch up, a barefoot wander along the 500-metre beachfront is always good for the soul. Breakfast Tray Start the morning off in the right way with Kai's Beach Breakfast Tray. From 7am to 11am, choose from three curated trays of breakfast, royal english breakfast, Kai's health breakfast or oriental sunrise breakfast Prices are Dhs90 or Dhs95 depending on your tray of choice. Munch & Chill If you want to do a full day of relaxing, this is a great option and it's designed for both solo escape's and couple's retreats. Enjoy a full day of beach access to chill, you'll even get a private teepee hut plus a three-course menu featuring a starter, gourmet sandwich and a dessert for those sweet cravings. It's from Monday to Friday, 7am to sunset, and Dhs150 per person, with a bottle of beer included. If you're going as a couple it's Dhs300 per couple and you'll even get a bottle of wine to share. Sips of Summer Cocktails are always a good choice whether they are served beachside or at the restaurant, especially when they are priced at Dhs45 per cocktail. Available from 7am until sunset. Hops & Burgers Choose your burger: beef, crispy chicken, crab cake or vegetable with avocado, enjoy the accompanying glass of beer for Dhs85 and enjoy the sound of the waves for a moment of pure bliss. This offer is available every day from 10am to 7pm so send it in the group chat and off you go. Early Bird and Sundown Offers If you're an early bird, enjoy beach access during the weekdays for cheaper if you enter before 9am, or if you prefer sunset, from 4pm to 6pm. It's Dhs75 per person for either. You can check the offers out here. @kaibeachsaadiyat Images: Provided > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

4 of the best dishes to try in Abu Dhabi this week: July 21 to 24
4 of the best dishes to try in Abu Dhabi this week: July 21 to 24

What's On

time21-07-2025

  • What's On

4 of the best dishes to try in Abu Dhabi this week: July 21 to 24

Friends and foodies – we're back with a new list of dishes you need to try in Abu Dhabi. Old, new, classic and iconic, these plates in the capital will satisfy all your cravings this week. From rich, peppery starters to refreshing sorbets and hearty seafood mains – this is your week in Abu Dhabi, in food. The starter: Marinated sweet peppers at LPM Abu Dhabi We all love a good LPM moment – these marinated sweet peppers, drenched in silky, rich, olive oil, are a classic favourite of the enlightened and a great way to introduce yourself to the legend of LPM. Location: LPM Abu Dhabi, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island Times: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 1am, Saturday and Sunday, 12.30pm to 1am Cost: Dhs45 Contact: (0) 2 692 9600 @lpmabudhabi The raw: Tuna tataki at Strawfire Strawfire's carefully-curated menu features a selection of dishes that highlight fresh ingredients cooked over the open flame. Sample the tuna tataki from the raw plates, served with pickled onion, garlic chips and ponzu. Location: Strawfire, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Times: Daily, 6pm to 12am Cost: Dhs98 Contact: (0) 2 690 7999 @strawfireabudhabi The main: Wild Chilean sea bass at 99 Sushi Bar If you're looking for a taste of seafood in the capital, this spot is just where you need to be. Try this wholesome, hearty, flavourful main – wild chilean sea bass with yuzu buerre blanc, chimichurri and kaluga caviar. Location: 99 Sushi Bar, Four Seasons, Al Maryah Island Times: Daily, 12pm to 3.30pm, 7pm to 12am Cost: Dhs310 Contact: (0) 2 672 3333 @99sushibaruae The dessert: Orange sorbet at Antonia The capital's beloved Italian spot has just what you need to stay refreshed this summer – sample the orange sorbet at Antonia for a summer sweet tooth satisfaction like no other. This is a home made sorbet made from Amalfi oranges from Sorrento. Location: Antonia, across various locations Cost: Dhs40 Contact: @ Images: Socials/Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store