Dubai Gears Up for a Busy Event Season as Industries See Strong Demand

Hospitality, mobility, and retail sectors report a surge in bookings and sales ahead of major events like GITEX, Dubai Airshow, and Formula 1.

Dubai is buzzing with anticipation as the city prepares for its much-anticipated event season. Key players across sectors, including hospitality, mobility, and retail, are witnessing a significant rise in demand, driven by large-scale events that draw global attention. From major trade shows to cultural festivals, Dubai’s world-class venues are set to welcome a vast array of attendees, and businesses are gearing up for a busy quarter.

Mobility Sector Sees Surge in Vehicle Reservations

Soham Shah, CEO of Selfdrive Mobility, noted that the influx of business and leisure travelers is leading to a substantial increase in vehicle bookings. “With the event season in full swing, we are observing a surge in reservations, fueled by major events such as GITEX Global, Dubai Airshow, and the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix,” he said. This rise is especially pronounced in luxury sedans and SUVs, with a 25% increase in bookings compared to last year.

Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, and Palm Jumeirah are experiencing the highest demand, being close to event venues and business hubs. Shah anticipates further growth in vehicle bookings, with a projected 30% increase for short-term rentals over the next quarter, underscoring the recovery of Dubai’s travel and tourism sector.

Holiday Home Rentals on the Rise

The hospitality sector is equally optimistic. Vinayak Mahtani, CEO of bnbme holiday homes, reported a 15% increase in property reservations for high-end units like two-bedroom apartments, penthouses, and villas in prime locations such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and Palm Jumeirah. “We’re seeing demand go up, with pricing for our properties rising by 20%. The momentum is building steadily as we prepare for the peak season,” Mahtani said.

A key trend driving this growth is the return of pre-Covid behaviors, with European travelers booking well in advance, particularly for the Christmas, New Year, and Easter periods. This early planning has significantly improved lead times for businesses, allowing them to better prepare for the surge in visitors.

Fashion Brands Capitalizing on Festive Spirit

Retail is also set to capitalize on the busy season, with Softlogic’s Chairman, Ashok Pathirage, announcing the launch of their Sri Lankan Boho brand, COCO by Cotton Collection, in the UAE this September. “This season offers a unique opportunity to connect with our audience and gather valuable feedback,” said Pathirage.

The launch coincides with the festive energy of the season, with the brand’s free-spirited bohemian style aligning perfectly with the celebratory atmosphere. Softlogic aims to create a strong community around the brand, fostering customer loyalty and driving sales through direct engagement at a time when consumer spending is on the rise.

Hotel Bookings Set to Increase as Cooler Weather Approaches

Michael Chan, General Manager of Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai, also expects a rise in bookings as the traditional cooler season approaches. “We are seeing a gradual increase in booking activity, especially with the upcoming trade events and conferences,” said Chan. The hotel’s strategic location near the World Trade Centre and easy access to public transportation are key factors driving demand.

Despite a 27% drop in tourism this past summer, last-minute bookings rose by 15%, signaling a growing trend toward spontaneous travel. Looking ahead, Chan forecasts a 6% rise in occupancy rates for the final quarter of the year. However, revenue may see a slight dip, with average daily rates (ADR) expected to decline by 3%, influenced by global factors such as COP-28’s impact last year and reduced spending power among travelers.

Outlook for the Season

As Dubai enters its peak event season, businesses across sectors are optimistic about sustained growth. The city’s strong recovery in travel, tourism, and events is evident in the rising demand for luxury rentals, holiday homes, retail products, and hotel stays. From mobility to hospitality, the uptick in bookings reflects not only the return of large-scale global events but also Dubai’s enduring appeal as a hub for business and leisure.

This season promises to bring significant economic opportunities, as key industries continue to benefit from the resurgence of travel and tourism, and the city welcomes visitors from around the world. With many events still to come, Dubai is once again proving itself to be a premier destination for both business and pleasure.