HE Khalid bin Sulayem, director general, department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, government of Dubai, last month announced that a revised classification ratings system for all Dubai hotels is set to be announced soon. Speaking in Dubai at the launch of the Hotel Show in June, Bin Sulayem said that the current ratings system had been under review for some time and now was time for a change.
“We have been holding consultation meeting across all sectors from developers to hotel management companies, and with new projects coming on stream all of the time we feel there is time for a review.”
Bin Sulayem pointed out that the burgeoning mega projects such as The Atlantis at the Palm would add an extra 2,000 rooms by the end of 2008. But he is confident that the market can sustain the extra capacity.
“Are room rates high?” he responded to one question. “No, not when you see the quality and service levels that are provided in Dubai compared with other destinations.”
The director said that he welcomed the entrance of budget hotels into the market as they have a place in the overall portfolio of properties in Dubai on offer to the traveler. Overall, he said, the market remains robust, exemplified by the products and services on offer at the show.
“We’re encouraged by His Excellency’s comments,” said Maggie Moore, exhibition director, “as they demonstrate the commitment of the Government to place tourism development high on the agenda.
“This is particularly rewarding for our exhibitors who have access to a market that is growing exponentially year on year. There are tremendous opportunities to be had right across the hospitality sector, from interior design to back office technology solutions.”
The Hotel Show organisers, DMG World Media Dubai, confirmed more than 1,000 exhibitors from over 46 countries took part in this year's show held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre– an increase of over 25 per cent compared with last year.
In 2007 the show attracted 10,086 dedicated trade visitors.
