Emirates Palace, the leading Abu Dhabi landmark hotel, has reported occupancy in February rising to 82 per cent compared to 52 per cent on the same month last year.

The hotel is currently participating at ITB Berlin, one of the world’s biggest travel trade fairs, as part of an Abu Dhabi destination pavilion mounted by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA).

“The first quarter this year resembled occupancy levels of back in 2008 and we are seeing signs of an upturn in interest from Europe,” said Hans Olbertz, general manager, Emirates Palace.

“The upturn in interest and performance is due to the many events being staged in the emirate, strong corporate meetings growth and a definite increase in leisure business. We had high occupancy during Chinese New Year and are seeing stronger performance from the European and Russian leisure side,” he added.

Dennis Taskasap, managing director of leading Dutch operator Emerald Travel, said: “My clients have heard of the property, and are hearing more about Abu Dhabi, so are asking me for information.”

“I came here to get to know more about the hotel and the destination so I can go and report back, but the interest in Holland is most definitely there,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service