Jumeirah, the luxury hotelier based in Dubai, expects to resume hiring by the end of the year following a recruitment freeze, in anticipation of new hotel openings in 2010. Jumeirah Executive Chairman Gerald Lawless said they are optimistic despite the global economic downturn and their visitors are the type of customers “who do not trade down.” Lawless said they aim to operate 30 hotels by 2013.
Jumeirah has suffered, like the rest of the hotel industry, from the global financial crisis because of falling demand as multinational companies tighten their belt and reduce expenses. Lawless said during the first quarter room rates decreased up to 25% but occupancy rates at key beach hotels exceed 90% following various promotional activities.