Dubai’s Luxury Hospitality Sector Thrives in 2025
As we step into 2025, Dubai’s luxury hospitality sector is enjoying a remarkable resurgence. Recent data published by Cavendish Maxwell highlights how five-star hotels are driving increases in occupancy rates, room availability, and average daily rates. This revitalization points to the city’s growing allure as a premier travel destination.
Rising Hotel Inventory and Occupancy Rates
From January through August 2025, Dubai’s hotel inventory has reached around 152,300 rooms across 818 establishments. Notably, five-star hotels comprise about 54,100 of these accommodations, showcasing their dominance in the market. The overall occupancy across the city stands at an impressive 78.5 percent, reflecting a year-on-year increase of approximately three percentage points. In particular, five-star properties have seen a significant surge, with occupancy rates climbing by 4.1 percent.
Spotlight on IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City
A key player in this hospitality boom is IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City. This four-hotel complex seamlessly captures the essence of Dubai through a blend of top-tier hospitality, culinary offerings, and adaptable event spaces. Conveniently situated near Dubai International Airport and major commercial districts, Dubai Festival City is also easily accessible to the main routes leading to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and beyond.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Located on the serene Dubai Creek, IHG Hotels at this location artfully combine the historical charm of Old Dubai with the vibrancy of its modern skyline. The complex includes four distinctive properties: InterContinental Dubai Festival City, InterContinental Residence Suites, Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, and Holiday Inn & Suites Dubai Festival City. Together, these hotels create a vibrant hub for hospitality, dining, and events, appealing to a diverse range of travelers.
Exceptional Amenities and Experiences
The collective offerings at these properties encompass extensive event spaces, diverse dining venues, and a comprehensive range of leisure and business facilities. This makes Dubai Festival City a top choice for visitors looking for memorable connections and comfortable stays.
Emphasizing Intentional Travel
According to Pranav Vohra, Cluster Commercial Director of IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City, the city’s success as a hospitality destination lies in its variety of experiences and guests. “What we are observing now is less about standard stays and more about intentional ones,” he notes. Travelers increasingly seek meaningful interactions, remarkable culinary experiences, and sustainable practices alongside the comfort they expect. IHG’s Festival City cluster is strategically positioned to cater to these evolving guest preferences, blending business needs with lifestyle and cultural elements.
A Versatile Venue for Events
Events by InterContinental Dubai Festival City boasts one of the city’s most comprehensive event portfolios. Whether it’s hosting large conventions or intimate waterfront gatherings, the venue offers a myriad of choices for any occasion. The main arena serves as a landmark for major events while a dedicated event center overlooks Dubai Creek and features ballrooms, meeting rooms, and outdoor spaces perfect for both corporate and social gatherings. The surrounding hotels also provide additional venues, enriching the experience with a variety of restaurants and bars.
Strengthening Dubai’s Global Position
As Dubai continues to cement its status among the world’s most visited cities, luxury establishments like IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City play a crucial role in defining the city’s international appeal. Their success illustrates a broader trend where exceptional service, sustainability, and authentic experiences converge to shape the Emirate’s dynamic tourism landscape, attracting visitors from across the globe.

