Saudi hospitality industry adapts for millennials

Sarah Jacotine, May 16th, 2016

A new report by Euromonitor International reveals that nearly a third of the population in Saudi Arabia (10.3 million people) are millennials, requiring the hospitality industry to adapt to this growing consumer segment.

The report entitled Millennials – A new Breed of Travelers was prepared for The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia and defines this demographic group – classified as people aged 18-36 – as "the first global generation", who “customise and adjust products and experiences to meet their unique needs”.

It also states that millennials are “tech-dependent” and “love to travel”.

Ahead of The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia 2016, which runs from May 17-19, Samsung reports growth in the number of hotels in KSA adopting its smart technologies that the technology company says cater to millennial travellers.

Samsung country solutions manager Ahmed Skaf said: “In an increasingly connected world, hospitality providers are expected to deliver distinctive, high-tech experiences which exceed guest expectations. The rising demographic of millennial travelers, particularly in Saudi Arabia where there is a significantly young population, are also looking for a high level of personalisation and autonomy.”

“We have seen a significant increase in the last three years of the number of hotels adopting our Samsung Smart Hospitality Solutions in Saudi Arabia.

“Nearly all of the leading hotel chains in the Kingdom have now effectively devised online purchase and payment options, and the importance has shifted to tech elements such as instant check-in processes and digital signage solutions which Samsung provides.”

Smart hospitality covers services like instant check-in and video displays for real-time information, such as weather reports and exchange rates.

“Features such as this can boost guest engagement, encouraging travellers to spend more time in hotel ‘social spaces’ such as lobbies,” Skaf commented.