October 2012

The GCC hospitality sector is poised for a healthy growth owing to factors such as favourable economic conditions combined with infrastructure development, increased bids to host high profile global events and government support to the private sector. All these factors have contributed to the steady increase in tourist arrivals which in turn has facilitated the growth of the hospitality industry in the region.

The GCC hospitality industry has been high on the investment radar of businesses given the macroeconomic trends and the rise in business/ leisure visitors to the region. The industry has strong fundamentals and is beginning to realize its potential. Accordingly, we believe that the industry presents itself as an excellent opportunity for all stakeholders.

Industry Outlook

Alpen Capital in its GCC Hospitality industry report estimates that the GCC hospitality market is anticipated to grow at an annual rate of 8.1% to USD28.3 billion by 2016 compared to USD19.2 billion in 2011.

Occupancy rates are expected to average around 67-73% between 2012 and 2016. As business and leisure tourism continues to grow and the up-scale hotel segment account for most of the demand for hotels, ADR is likely to average around USD212-USD247 between 2012 and 2016. Saudi Arabia is expected to remain the largest GCC market in terms of revenues, followed by the UAE. Qatar is expected to be one of the fastest growing market, driven by rising business tourism and leisure tourism as the country prepares itself for the FIFA World Cup 2022, and in order to achieve its 2030 national vision.

For more details please click here to access the complete version of the GCC Hospitality Industry Report.