Dubai’s hotel room inventory will reach 54,000 in 2010 according to Ishraq Gulf Estate Holding, a leading regional hospitality figure. This represents a 40 per cent increase over figures for 2008. CEO for Ishraq Gulf Estate Holding said the huge increase in hotel rooms will present a challenge for the hotel sector, which has been struggling during the global economic recession.
Sami Ari Ansari said 2009 has been an extremely difficult year for the hospitality industry in Dubai because room inventory increased 17 per cent and this drove the occupancy rate down 35 per cent compared to 2008. Ansari is a member of the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC)’s advisory board. He said “Signs of improved demand for the remainder of 2009 are evident, nevertheless pressure continues on room rates as a result of fierce competition.”
