Hub71 Startup Atiom Reveals What GCC Travelers Want From Hotels in 2025
Hub71-based startup Atiom has launched a new report detailing the evolving preferences of GCC travelers for their hotel stays in 2025, highlighting key areas for the hospitality sector to focus on.
Key Findings from the Report
The report, titled "Future of Hospitality in GCC 2025," surveyed over 1,100 GCC travelers and identified several critical factors influencing their hotel choices:
Technology Integration: Seamless tech experiences, including digital check-in/out, in-room controls via apps, and strong, reliable WiFi, are paramount.
Sustainability: There is a growing demand for hotels with demonstrable environmental and social responsibility initiatives.
Personalization: Travelers expect tailored experiences, from personalized greetings to customized service based on their preferences and past stays.
Unique Experiences: Hotels offering distinctive cultural activities, local excursions, or exclusive amenities are highly valued.
Staff Interaction: Despite the rise of technology, attentive, personalized, and efficient staff service remains crucial for a positive experience.
Value for Money: While not the sole driver, travelers still expect competitive pricing and packages that offer perceived value.
The research indicates a shift towards travelers prioritizing experiences, authenticity, and conscious choices alongside traditional service expectations.
Implications for the Hospitality Sector
These findings provide valuable insights for hotels and hospitality companies operating in or targeting the GCC market. Understanding these evolving demands is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and attracting the future generation of travelers. For hospitality tech startups in the region, the report underscores opportunities in areas like seamless digital solutions, sustainable practices integration, and tools facilitating personalized guest experiences and enhanced staff performance. Adapting to these preferences will be key to success in the coming years.
About Atiom
Atiom is a technology company based in Hub71, Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem. The company provides an employee experience and engagement platform designed to empower, connect, and upskill frontline teams. Their focus on employee experience aims to directly impact customer service quality, particularly relevant in service-driven industries like hospitality. The report leverages Atiom's expertise in understanding employee performance's link to guest satisfaction.
Looking Ahead
The report's focus on 2025 signals the immediate need for the GCC hospitality sector to adapt. Hotels that invest in technology, sustainability, staff training (enabled by platforms like Atiom), and unique offerings aligned with these preferences are better positioned to capture market share and meet the expectations of modern GCC travelers. The data highlights the strategic importance of balancing technological innovation with authentic human interaction in delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Source: Zawya