Abu Dhabi tourism figures surge

Abu Dhabi has showed a 16% rise in hotel guests in the first nine months of the year compared to the same period in 2009, with a 14% increase in the number of guest nights, figures from Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) revealed.

The latest figures from the tourism authority showed that 1,326,463 guests stayed in the emirate’s hotels and hotel apartments between January and September, with guest nights climbing to 3,596,388.

ADTA strategy and policy director Lawrence Franklin said: “Growth in September, 26% on the same month last year with a 25% increase in guest nights to 396,726, was the strongest recorded since March 2009 and is strongly influenced by year on year variations in the timing of Eid holidays.

“Revenue in September benefitted from the same factors, it rose by 12% on 2009. Year-to-date, food and beverage revenues recorded a 15% growth and have become an increasingly important factor now accounting for 37% of all revenues compared to 33% this time last year,” he added.

ADTA figures also show that additional room capacity continues to drive down overall occupancy levels, which have fallen 17% year-on-year and average room rates which are down by 21%.

“Market dynamics are making Abu Dhabi more competitive than at any time in its recent history however, we also recognise the need for balance between operational performance and consumer value. Our strategies, developed with industry partners, to maximise the opportunities presented, will help ensure a positive 2011 when we look to achieve a 15% overall rise in hotel guests,” Franklin asserted.