Market Trends

🏨 Madrid’s hotel, located 700 meters from Atocha Station, was sold post-2022 completion, featuring 230 rooms and 99 parking spaces, yielding a 19% IRR. In Seville, EXTENDAM plans a 184-room hotel in Nervión by early 2028, with amenities like a panoramic pool and BREEAM certification. Madrid and Seville are key markets with high RevPAR. The projects align with trends favoring connectivity and upscale offerings, emphasizing Spain’s strong tourism fundamentals and development potential.

🍴 The Pie Safe, run by family and friends, is known for its unique approach in Deary, Idaho. With ~20 staff, co-owner John organizes biannual summer and winter trips, fostering a familial relationship. Despite narrow restaurant margins, it has consistently been profitable. Beyond the restaurant, the family has revitalized Deary by restoring the train depot and opening a quilt shop and butcher shop, creating a comprehensive experience for visitors.

🌴 In summer, the idea of personalization in hotels is challenged. As people seek novelty during leisure travel, familiar experiences might not satisfy. Surprises and unfamiliar experiences create memorable moments. Brands delivering unique experiences, rather than familiar comforts, often provide the most talked-about visits. Is it time to rethink personalization in hospitality?

🏖 Saudi Arabia's tourism industry achieved a record-breaking year in 2024, welcoming 115.9 million tourists. This included 29.7 million international visitors, marking an 8% increase from the previous year and a 70% rise from 2019 figures. March 2024 saw a peak of 3.2 million visitors, coinciding with the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. International tourist spending increased by 19%, with visitors staying an average of 19 nights. Saudi ranks first among G20 nations for international tourist growth.

🏨 Health tourism is booming in 2025. Hotels must adapt to attract health-conscious travelers, increase revenue, and build loyalty. Wellness travel is a key trend, and properties can capitalize on this by offering specialized services. The emphasis is on staying competitive and meeting evolving guest expectations. Written by Vanshikha Dhar and featured on the Hotelogix Blog, this article highlights the importance of integrating wellness into hospitality offerings.

🕵️ In 2024, the global demographic landscape shifted as those over 65 outnumbered those under 15, a trend expected to double in 30 years, according to the WHO. This age group is redefining travel, seeking adventure and unique experiences. Despite their growing influence, the hospitality industry remains focused on Gen Z. As older travelers drive change, the question remains: will hospitality adapt to mindsets over demographics, creating spaces that reflect desires rather than age?

🗺️ Visitor preferences in the Gulf region are shifting, says a PwC Middle East and Mabrian Technologies study. The new "Stay Play Shop" framework emphasizes cultural connection and emotional engagement, advocating for dynamic, visitor-centric ecosystems. It highlights the importance of public-private partnerships and sentiment measurement. PwC's Nicolas Mayer and Philippe Najjar stress creating generational legacies, while Sonia Huerta underscores satisfaction metrics, aiming to enhance economic impact and visitor loyalty through integrated experiences.