Research survey reveals over 76% of spa operators expect revenue growth in 2016.
Revenue growth is anticipated for the Dubai spa market, according to a report issued by Colliers International featuring the results of a survey completed by 25 leading spa operators between January and February 2016.
The results from the survey indicated the major challenge faced by the growing spa industry in Dubai has been the sourcing of skilled manpower, followed by an increase in price sensitive customers and influx of new spa entrants to the market.
Colliers International in the MENA region head of hotels Filippo Sona said: “Given that Dubai currently offers a very limited number of spa-specific college level courses and training programmes, it is not surprising that recruitment of therapists was identified as the biggest challenge that the market faced last year. At present operators rely on external training which is both time consuming and costly. Changes are on track, however, as spa courses are being introduced into curriculums.”
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“An area that does need further attention, however, is the continuous stream of new entrants offering the latest in design and technology. The Dubai hotel spa market, for example, witnessed 11 new opening in 2015 alone. This presents spa operators with a dilemma. Should I invest in new trends? Or cater to the rise of value-driven consumers? The answer is knowing your market and knowing when to say yes to an emerging trend,” Sona added.
Sona concluded: “Despite the challenges, the Dubai spa market has remained resilient and continues to grow. Over 76% of respondents expect spa revenues to continue to grow in 2016 which is a tremendous result and indicative of the rising growth of the industry and its ability to drive guest bookings.”
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