By Lee Copland, Managing Director, Maxxess EMEA | August 15, 2023
The hospitality sector in Dubai is embracing a wave of innovation to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations, riding on the rebound of tourism after the pandemic-induced challenges. As global tourism rebounds, Dubai hotels are seizing the opportunity to invest in advanced integrated systems and infrastructure to offer world-class guest experiences and improve efficiency, both front and back of house.
With international tourism arrivals worldwide witnessing a 60% surge last year, and a further 30% projected growth in 2023 to 1.6 billion, the hospitality industry is poised for a substantial revival. Although these numbers fall short of the pre-pandemic levels of 1.8 billion, tourism receipts are predicted to surpass the 2019 peak, reaching or even exceeding $1.4 trillion. Despite challenges such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and a decline in Chinese tourist numbers, the Dubai hospitality landscape remains resilient.
Dubai’s Remarkable Resurgence: Setting New Benchmarks
Dubai stands as a testament to the revival of tourism. In the first ten months of 2022, the emirate welcomed a remarkable 11.4 million overnight international visitors, marking an astounding 134% increase from the previous year, according to official statistics. The hotel occupancy rate climbed to 71.5%, closely trailing the 73.8% peak recorded in 2019, while revenue per available room reached an all-time high.
Buoyed by this success, Dubai unveiled a new national tourism strategy in December, aiming to host a staggering 40 million hotel guests by 2031 and elevate tourism’s contribution to GDP to a remarkable $122.5 billion.
Maxxess: Pioneering Technological Advancements
Maxxess plays a pivotal role in Dubai’s dynamic hospitality sector, aligning with the nation’s visionary ambitions. A prime example of this innovation can be found at the 750-room all-inclusive Hotel RIU, Dubai. As one of the earliest facilities to open on Dubai Islands in Deira – a sprawling development spanning 17 sq km across five isles – the hotel mirrors Dubai’s futuristic aspirations.
To meet diverse requirements, Maxxess eFusion technology was recommended by contractor Telematics, renowned for its expertise in major ICT and ELV projects. Telematics identified Maxxess eFusion as the ideal solution for seamlessly integrating front-of-house and back-of-house functions, access control, room management, surveillance, fire detection, building control, and HVAC systems. The primary objective was to ensure energy optimization, system flexibility, user-friendly operation, and a unified situational view.
Maxxess eFusion in Action
Maxxess eFusion successfully facilitated comprehensive integration of security and building systems at Hotel RIU. Its feature-rich access control software provided a unified platform for video surveillance, fire and intrusion security, safety, and other site-specific applications. Leveraging over twenty Mercury door controllers, Maxxess eFusion integrated seamlessly with ASSA ABLOY Hospitality electronic locks and readers, providing guests the option of RFID key cards or mobile phone access for enhanced convenience and hygiene.
The integration extended to housekeeping and key management, enhancing efficiency and security. A unified interface allowed real-time monitoring of each door’s status and room occupancy, expediting maintenance and improving guest experiences.
A Vision for the Future
The integration also included Hanwha Wisenet® VMS, managing nearly 300 cameras to ensure comprehensive coverage of the hotel premises. With high-definition cameras catering to varying lighting conditions, Maxxess ensured compliance with Dubai’s stringent security regulations.
Furthermore, the integration extended to environmental systems using the BACnet™ protocol, enabling operators to respond to alerts and optimize HVAC, lighting, and more based on occupancy levels, aligning with UAE’s eco-friendly goals.
Maxxess eFusion proved to be the security backbone at Hotel RIU, streamlining processes, enhancing service efficiency, and offering a unified interface for both front-of-house and back-of-house operations. As Dubai’s hospitality sector continues to flourish, Maxxess’s adaptable and scalable solutions are well poised to shape its future success.