Dubai’s hospitality sector is poised for significant growth, particularly for properties at Dubai Parks and Resorts, due to the upcoming expansion of Maktoum International Airport. Hoteliers believe that the completion of this expansion will greatly increase visitor numbers and enhance the overall appeal of Dubai Parks and Resorts.

Faiek El Saadani, General Manager at Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection, emphasized that while major events hosted in the UAE, such as Dubai Expo 2020 and COP28, have not directly resulted in increased visitor traffic for Lapita, the new airport’s opening is expected to positively influence visitor numbers and benefit the entire resort area. He also mentioned that strategic efforts are underway to build footfall and strengthen the market presence of the resort during this interim period.

The proposed passenger terminal at Dubai World Central is designed to accommodate future travel demand, starting with an initial capacity of 150 million passengers, which can be expanded to 260 million upon full completion. This expansion is anticipated to further enhance the attractiveness of Dubai as a travel destination.

Dubai Parks and Resorts is still developing in the market but is benefiting from its proximity to popular theme parks and an increasing number of visitors. The top three source markets for the hotel include the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the UK, and Germany, while new target markets are being identified, including Africa, Finland, and France.

El Saadani stated that there are currently no plans to open a second Lapita resort. Instead, the focus will be on enhancing the existing property through staff training and upgrades to facilities, which include improvements to rooms, restaurants, and overall infrastructure. A budget of Dh10-20 million has been set aside for these enhancements over the next few years.

In 2023, Lapita achieved a full-year occupancy rate of 61 percent, with an optimistic outlook for 2025, projecting a remarkable 81 percent occupancy in the first quarter and an annual projection of 65 percent.

Lapita, which was established in 2017, initially held a four-star classification due to Dubai’s initiatives to boost mid-range hotel supply. However, last year, it was officially recognized as a five-star resort. El Saadani noted that the decision to pursue this reclassification was driven by market demand, guest expectations, and the need for diversification.

He explained that the hotel’s room sizes already conformed to five-star standards, requiring only product enhancements and investments to meet the necessary classification criteria. Achieving five-star status enhances Lapita’s appeal, particularly compared to other destinations like Palm Jumeirah, where travelers might otherwise choose to stay for a similar price.

While some critics argue that the current hotel rating system may be outdated, El Saadani asserted that maintaining global standards is vital to upholding Dubai’s reputation as a premier international destination. He also remarked that establishing a separate Gulf hotel rating system could lead to more confusion rather than streamline the classification process.