The concept of sustainability has become an increasingly important concept in the luxury travel industry in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE.

Meanwhile, 61% of people say they are willing to pay more for more responsible, eco-friendly and sustainable tourism experiences.

Trends and opportunities in the luxury travel industry will be a key theme during the 30th edition of the Arabian Travel Market, which will be held from May 1 to 4 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

According to YouGov’s white paper 2023, Luxury travel after the pandemic, over the past three years one in 10 consumers have stayed at eco-friendly and sustainable luxury hotels, a trend particularly high among high-income travelers who have increased their sustainable luxury. Hotel occupancy increased by 50% during the same period.

Travel trips

The UAE ranks first in the world in terms of value assigned to leisure travel, with almost two-thirds (58%) of respondents saying travel has become more important to them since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, travel priorities in terms of luxury, with a quarter of the UAE population looking for premium leisure experiences, At the same time 19% pay more attention to quality accommodation while booking flights.

Consumer interest in authentic travel is also growing in this segment, as well as sustainable luxury travel.

More than half (51%) of affluent tourists have sought more rewarding travel experiences since the pandemic began, and a quarter (27%) of them are willing to pay more to stay in secluded villas and suites. Cruise the Gulf as these numbers coincide with the growth of the tourism industry.

Luxury travel

Key names from across the sector will gather in Dubai to discuss the most important trends, challenges and opportunities related to luxury during the luxury travel industry’s spotlight sessions: Sustainable Luxury: At What Cost?, moderated by Joe Mortimer, Destinations Editor of World News magazine, and featuring a panel of speakers, notably:

Amir Gulbarg, Senior Vice President, Operations, Middle East and Africa, Minor Hotels, Candice D’Cruz, Vice President, Marriott International Luxury Brands, and Nadia Ibrahim, United Nations Global Compact Board of Directors, will discuss the event. Especially topics on the environmental impact of luxury hospitality.