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Hotels across the UAE have reported that they will be enjoying full occupancies for the Eid break, as guests arrive to make the most of the weekend.
Hospitality experts have noted that visitors made bookings for the Eid break well in advance, with many even booking hotel rooms as soon as Ramadan started. They further reported that bookings accelerated during the middle of Ramadan, as families finalised their plans for the holiday.
Bassam Zakaria, GM at Kingsgate Hotel by Millennium Hotel and Resorts, told Khaleej Times that the staff at the hotel were working day and night to make sure that the hotel is on full standby.
"We are expecting full occupancy for sure, and the majority of our guests are UAE residents and those from the GCC that are coming to enjoy the Eid festivial activities," he said.
Kamel Zayati, GM at Al Raha Beach Hotel, says that he also expects the hotel to be operating at full capacity on the first two days of Eid.
"Visitors are looking to relax and are opting for resorts that are offering great value for money and activities that keep them entertained. To keep the kids entertained, we have scheduled to play kids movie every evening, and in the morning they can explore and hone skills such as swimming, taekwondo, and gymnastics," he said. "We have received a lot of interest from residents and bookings are in full swing. Since it is a public holiday, we have received bookings from a mix of nationalities including UAE and GCC nationals and expats."
Linda Abdul Hay, director of Public Relations at Atlantis The Palm, also pointed out that it was important to have a mix of activities that different guests can enjoy. Visitors can look forward to a range of activities at the hotel, during the Eid break, including Aquaventure Waterpark, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, different diving experiences at the Ambassador Lagoon, Sea Lion Point, and Dolphin Bay.
"Eid is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and visitors generally look for activities that help them spend time together, whilst breaking free from the usual chores," she said. "With world-class facilities ranging from entertainment to shopping and relaxation, visitors favor staying at Atlantis, The Palm. It gives them an opportunity to experience not just the adrenaline rush at our entertainment facilities, but also witness a divine relaxation at our premium suites and spa and indulge in some culinary delights at our top-rated restaurants."
While many guests will have booked their stays well in advance, taking advantage of the special offers listed on the hotel websites, Kevin Lawless, GM at Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, says that it is not uncommon to see walk-ins.
"Residents are making bookings, and we have seen an influx in bookings and inquiries during the last week of Ramadan. The majority of bookings are from UAE residents, but we are expecting walk-ins from the GCC, mainly Saudi nationals during the Eid holidays. We have beach and recreational activities for adults, as well as play areas and entertainment for kids. Additionally, we planned for an Eid day Brunch and BBQ night."
"We tend to receive guests mainly from Saudi Arabia, followed by the UAE, and Kuwait," revealed Glenn Nobbs, GM of Copthorne Hotel Dubai. "This year we have extended our promotions to Oman, so we are looking forward to an increase in visitation from across the border too. With the current booking trend, I think we will realistically reach about 90-95 per cent occupancy. Given our location, we tend to find that our guests like to spend a lot of time relaxing by the pool, visiting friends and family, and enjoying the special shopping discounts."
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