SynopsisDubai's tourism is bouncing back, with visitor numbers expected to recover before hotel rates. Accor, a major hospitality player, notes a long-term growth trend in the Middle East despite regional challenges. While demand is strengthening, pricing is anticipated to lag, with a full performance recovery projected by early 2027. The sector is also seeing increased demand for longer stays, boosting serviced living options.AFPInternational visitors to Dubai to return ahead of hotel rate recoveryDubai’s tourism recovery is expected to see international visitor numbers return ahead of hotel room rates, as demand stabilises and airline connectivity improves, according to hospitality major Accor, as reported by Gulf News.The French multinational hospitality company said the Middle East hospitality market, including Dubai, continues to be on a long-term growth trajectory despite short-term disruptions caused by regional geopolitical tensions, reported Gulf News.However, the company cautioned that recovery in pricing will lag behind occupancy improvements.Also Read: Germany cuts cost of travel protection fund for tour firmsThe group stated that while inbound demand is gradually strengthening, hotel rates are unlikely to return to earlier peak levels in the near term. It added that it expects a full performance recovery across the region only by Q1-Q2 2027, according to Gulf News.UAE hotel revenues per available room (RevPAR) have declined in recent months amid travel disruptions, underscoring volatility in the sector.Accor also underscored rising demand for long-stay accommodation, driven by travellers seeking more flexible lodging options, which is supporting growth in the serviced living segment.Also Read: How Dubai is trying to bring tourists and investors back after months of regional tensionsThe company, however, said temporary discounting is unlikely to permanently impact pricing, citing resilience in room rates following the post-pandemic recovery period, Gulf News cited in its report.Reaffirming its regional outlook, Accor said it continues to pursue expansion and refurbishment plans across the Middle East while maintaining focus on employee retention and internal redeployment during the current slowdown phase, as reported by Gulf News. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)...moreElevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea.Subscribe Now