Forty eight new hotels with 14,178 rooms are likely to open in the GCC this year, at an estimated cost of $7.3 billion, according to data from Dubai-based research company Proleads.

A recent International Air Transport Association (Iata) report revealed that the Middle East had the strongest growth at 25.8 per cent in February, compared to a world average of 9.5 per cent growth over the same month in 2009.

As air travel increases and hotels continue to be developed in the Middle East, The Hotel Show 2010 is ideally placed to help the hospitality and leisure industry capitalise on this regional trend, said a statement.

“As the world begins to recover from the economic downturn and people begin to travel again, this year’s Hotel Show marks an important step for the industry,” said Ray Tinston, sales director, The Hotel Show. “The latest industry figures show this region has not been hit as hard as others and as such it offers great potential to the many international firms looking to promote their goods.”

The Hotel Show 2010 will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 18 and 20 and will showcase the latest products, services, technology and security for the hospitality and leisure sector.

It will see exhibitors from 32 countries, with the UAE heads a list that also includes companies from Thailand, Cyprus, Lebanon, Hong Kong, France, the UK, Spain, Egypt, the USA, Portugal and Germany.

“Research from last year’s event showed that 83 per cent of visitors would, or were likely to, place an order as a direct result of The Hotel Show, amounting to potential revenue of almost $10 billion, proving that the exhibition continues to attract new business in all climates. We hope to build on this, this year and expand The Hotel Show over the next decade,” said Tinston.

The sectors at the event are:
• Interiors & Design
• Operating Equipment & Supplies
• Security & Technology
• The Resort Experience

The Seven Star Conference will once again run alongside The Hotel Show. With the economic climate still at the forefront of the hospitality industry, speakers will discuss topics such as Strategic Marketing for Destinations, Staff Retention and Motivation in Hotels and Marketing in Difficult Times.

Dubai-based celebrity designer Zain Mustafa will also discuss the importance housekeeping plays in the guest experience, reveal his company’s designs and philosophies and encourage more hotels to create Arab 'home from home' designs.

The first Middle East Spa Awards will also take place at this year’s show.-TradeArabia News Service