General Travel News
Economic Slowdown Hits Middle East Hospitality Industry
UAE Hotel's occupancy rates and revenue per available room (RevPar) dropped sharply during the first four months of the year due to the global economic slowdown and the slowing inflow of tourist and business people into the region.
A Deloitte Tourism, Hospitality, and Tourism Middle East partner said the Middle East has been severely impacted by the “low levels of economic activity around the world.” Occupancy rates fell 9.6% and RevPar fell 14.9%. Robert O’Hanlon said based on data provided by STR Global, Dubai occupancy rates fell 16% and RevPar declined 34.5% during the first four months of the year. The percent change is for the four months ending April 2009, compared to the same period in 2008.
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