Future of UAE luxury resorts: What do young tourists want?

Many fancy hotels are adjusting their offerings to fit the dynamic and hybrid lifestyles of younger, digital-savvy travellers

By Ali Sajwani

The rise of ‘bleisure’

As its name suggests, ‘bleisure’ combines elements of both business and leisure tourism. Younger demographics are demonstrating a greater willingness to mix work and travel, enjoying the comfort and relaxation offered by luxury resorts without falling behind on their professional commitments.

According to research conducted by Cebr on behalf of Edyn, 51 per cent of Millennial and Gen Z respondents cited remote working facilities as an important consideration when choosing accommodation abroad.

Greater flexibility in terms of when they take their vacations, coupled with the ability to work remotely, is enabling ‘bleisure’ guests to capitalise on lower taxes.

These days, many luxury resorts are adjusting their offerings to fit the dynamic and hybrid lifestyles of younger, digital-savvy travellers, supplementing existing amenities to facilitate individuals who wish to work during their stay. In turn, these destinations are succeeding in boosting occupancy during traditionally off-peak travel seasons.

Ali Sajwani, Managing Director, DAMAC Properties

Solo trip

While it is true that a greater numbers of Millennial and Gen Z consumers are starting families, many others are looking for solo travel experiences. According to data published by Condor Ferries, 58 per cent of Millennials say they would go on vacation alone, and 26 per cent already have.

Personally, I do not find this trend surprising.

Going on vacation with family and friends can be great fun, but solo travel allows people to challenge their personal boundaries and embark on adventures without having to consider the needs of others. Given the shifting attitudes towards mental health and wellbeing among younger demographics, I can understand why some might see lone trips as the perfect opportunity to clear their minds, destress and learn more about themselves.

Giving the right impression

Many young travellers now choose aesthetically pleasing holiday destinations, so they can update their social media channels by uploading photos and videos of their trip. In fact, 48 per cent of people cite Instagram as an influence when choosing a destination for their next holiday.

On the surface, ‘Instagrammability’ may seem like a superficial reason to visit a destination, but I think this trend reflects a broader requirement among younger travellers – namely the prioritisation of experiential vacations.

Millennial and Gen Z travellers are looking to experience unique landscapes, iconic architecture and well-designed accommodations. They want to enjoy truly luxurious destinations while informing others about available offers.

As you might imagine, the widespread desire for ‘Instagrammable’ locations is having a pronounced effect on the luxury hospitality industry, with high-end resorts working to create more opportunities for guests to snap themselves in their lobbies, rooms and even while they’re eating.

In my opinion, the growing popularity of photogenic locations is serving to elevate standards within the luxury resort segment, opening up new and exciting opportunities for experiential travel. This trend is also providing free marketing for many destinations, so it really is a win-win situation.

A focus on authenticity

Many Millennial and Gen Z consumers are looking for luxury resorts that offer more than surface-level ‘bling’. Indeed, younger travellers are demanding unique experiences that provide opportunities to immerse themselves in the culture and heritage of the communities they are visiting.

According to the Condor Ferries research, an overwhelming – 86 per cent – of Millennials travel for cultural enrichment, actively avoiding tourist hotspots. What’s more, over half (60 per cent) of respondents rank authentic culture as an essential part of their vacation.

It is hardly surprising, therefore, to see high-end resorts going above and beyond to ensure guests have access to authentic experiences. From traditional décor and cuisine to local heritage tours and educational programmes, today’s luxury hospitality providers are placing as much emphasis on enrichment as they are on opulence.

Responsible travel options

Younger travellers have played an instrumental role in placing sustainability at the top of the luxury hospitality agenda. While this is an issue that spans generations, with people of all ages placing a high importance on environmental and social responsibility, many Millennials and members of Gen Z are looking to minimise their carbon footprints by going on vacations that positively contribute to local communities.

In terms of demographics, the youngest consumers are leading the charge for sustainable travel. According to a study conducted by Expedia Group, 56 per cent of Gen Z respondents want green and eco-friendly accommodation, and a similar proportion (54 per cent) say they are willing to pay more for green options. Younger generations are also demanding more ethical tourism activities, such as those that benefit local businesses and conservation efforts.

It is great to see Millennial and Gen Z consumers having a positive impact on the luxury resort segment, helping to raise standards across the board. I look forward to seeing how young travellers continue to reshape this industry in years to come.

Ali Sajwani is the Managing Director for Operations and Technology at DAMAC Properties

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