13 March 2016
Dubai based brand enrichment company reveals insights and predictions for the future of the region's vibrant Travel and Tourism industry

DUBAI, UAE - Leading authority in brand experience creation for the travel industry, Insignia Worldwide, unveils comprehensive insights into the key events, challenges, opportunities and innovations set to impact the travel and tourism industry this year in the Middle East.

Over the past 18 months, the Middle East has experienced a number of geopolitical and economic challenges, creating disruption to feeder markets and adding further pressure to a year which was characterised by terror attacks, currency fluctuations and the lowest oil prices the world has seen in over a decade.

Released for download today, The Insignia Trendlines Report analyses in detail the industry trends which are predicted to shape the nature of business over the next 12 months as the region feels the impact of a boom in hotel supply and continuing economic and geopolitical challenges.

Insignia Worldwide CEO, Gaurav Sinha, commented, "As a leading authority in brand creation for travel, hospitality and destination brands, we are privileged to be at the frontline of brand innovation within this vibrant sector, a position which has allowed us to drive the agenda for insights and access key people who have helped us shape our worldview, something we are glad to share in this report"

A region saturated with five-star hotels, the report details opportunities for boutique hotels, independent operators, lifestyle accommodations and peer-to-peer models, such as the renowned Airbnb. Other predicted trends include a spotlight on the untapped destination of Iran, growing demand for authentic, home-grown experiences and a rejuvenation of Dubai's historic district, the sourcing of sustainable talent and the need for local hospitality schools, and a boost in merger and acquisition activity allowing hoteliers to tap into new visitor segments and markets.

This report is the first in a series of comprehensive material published by Insignia Worldwide, Gaurav Sinha added, "Later this year we will share our insights on how social media platforms will disrupt the online bookings segment as they transform into powerful revenue channels"

The Insignia Trendlines report is now available for free download at http://reports.insigniadigital.net/

Courtenay Guy
Account Manager
Insignia PR
cg@insigniaworldwide.com
+971503620456/ +9714393434

About Insignia Worldwide:
Insignia Worldwide is the world's first brand enrichment company dedicated to travel and destination brands, and provides clients with brand strategy, communication, design, digital engagement and media buying services. The company has been the creative force behind 120 hotels and resorts across 20 countries, 145 restaurants and lifestyle venues and has provided support for over 28 pre-openings in 14 countries and works with some of the world's most revered luxury hospitality brands.

www.insigniaworldwide.com

About Gaurav Sinha:
Gaurav Sinha founded Insignia Worldwide in 2003, and stands as the visionary mastermind behind the world's first brand enrichment company, specialising in travel and destination brands. As a creative protagonist, Gaurav has accumulated a formidable portfolio of achievements that has solidified his status as an internationally recognised leader in his field.

Gaurav has been based in Dubai for the past 22 years and previous to launching Insignia, he spent a decade in advertising with his last sting at Lowe. He then took on the illustrious role of Head of Marketing for Hilton Worldwide in the Arabian Gulf between 1998 - 2002. A respected brand strategist, Gaurav is recognised for his innovative thinking, inspiring leadership and business acumen.

In 2014 he was noted as Indian Entrepreneur of the Year by Entrepreneur Middle East Magazine and has enjoyed a variety of accolades such as being listed at #47 in Arabian Business Magazine's Top 100 Most Influential Indians in the GCC. Furthermore in 2014, his most recent initiative, The Travel Marketing Council, was awarded 'Innovation of the Year' at the Arabian Business StartUp Awards.

© Press Release 2016