The Middle East market is crying out for quality, low cost hotel accommodation to address massive increases in expected tourist levels, according to Gerard Greene, CEO, Yotel, the recently launched luxury pod style hotel concept.
Huge regional tourism growth, says Greene, will see a whole new mid market segment of hotel outfits open up throughout the Middle East. These will provide luxury hotel accommodation at affordable prices, and he has confirmed Yotel is negotiating on several regional properties.
“The Middle East is the world’s fastest growing region for travel and it has a very established traditional four and five star market. However, there are limited exciting design-led properties,” said Greene.
“As travel to the Middle East increases, so does the demand for varied accommodation. The branded budget market such as Express by Holiday Inn and Travelodge has been non-existent in the Middle East up until recently. There is now strong demand for good quality, low priced accommodation.”
Greene is planning to spell out demand and opportunities for low cost accommodation providers at a dedicated seminar he will address at this year’s Arabian Travel Market from May 6 to 9.
The seminar entitled 21st Century Travel – Luxury & Affordability In A Small Space’ – takes place at the Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre on May 8. Greene will examine how the low-cost accommodation providers can adapt to Middle East preferences.
“Hotel customers are now more astute than ever,” said Greene. “They are disappointed with poor or average quality and want value for money, seek a level of excitement from inspirational products and services, and want things to be simple and logical. The consumer market is changing and this is ultimately having an impact on the hotel industry.”
Arabian Travel Market 2008 will be trade only on the first three days, with public invited on the final day.