"Dubai has solidified its position as a global sports tourism hub"

Gulf News speaks to Thomas Schmelter, Area General Manager, IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City, a key figure in the hospitality sector, for an exclusive interview that delves into the evolving landscape of Dubai's tourism scene. As Dubai continues to cement its position as a global hub for both sports tourism and luxury travel, Schmelter offers valuable insights into how IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City is playing a pivotal role in shaping these trends.

1. How has Dubai’s role as a global sports tourism destination evolved, especially with major sports like rugby and golf gaining prominence? Could you share insights into how IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City is contributing to this trend, perhaps through hosting international teams or creating sports-centered experiences?

Dubai has solidified its position as a global sports tourism hub, hosting world-class events like the Dubai Rugby Sevens and prestigious golf tournaments such as the DP World Tour Championship and Dubai Desert Classic. These events not only showcase the city’s commitment to excellence in sports but also attract thousands of international fans and athletes.

At InterContinental Dubai Festival City, we are proud to play a part in this narrative. For instance, several international rugby teams competing in the Dubai Rugby Sevens tournament chose to stay with us, taking advantage of our state-of-the-art facilities, strategic location, and seamless connectivity to key sporting venues. Our commitment extends to creating tailored experiences for athletes and fans, including specialized menus for sports teams, private spaces for team preparations, and a focus on wellness offerings to support peak performance.

Additionally, we cater to sports enthusiasts visiting the city, offering curated packages that combine accommodation with exclusive access to sporting events at world-renowned courses nearby, just like we did for the Dubai Rugby Sevens tournament. This not only enriches the experience for guests but also enhances Dubai’s reputation as a global sports tourism destination.

2. With the festive season underway, what are some of the key trends that visitors are seeking in their holiday experience this year? How is IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City responding to these evolving guest expectations?

This year, visitors are prioritizing personalized experiences and family-centric celebrations while seeking a balance of indulgence and cultural connection. Guests are increasingly drawn to multi-generational travel, where activities cater to all age groups, and are looking for immersive, Instagram-worthy moments that create lasting memories.

IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City has embraced these trends by curating offerings that blend luxury with authenticity. Our ‘A December to Remember’ festive calendar includes a variety of family-friendly activities, such as visits from Santa Claus, gourmet brunches tailored for all age groups, and live entertainment. At the same time, we’ve added exclusive experiences like Chef Pierre Gagnaire’s Festive Afternoon Tea, which offers guests a chance to indulge in Michelin-starred culinary artistry.

To further enhance personalization, our properties provide bespoke options for private dining, festive take-away options, and even tailored menus for intimate celebrations, ensuring every guest's holiday experience is unique and unforgettable.

3. Experiential travel has become a central part of many guests’ expectations. What kinds of immersive or unique experiences are available to guests at IHG Hotels in Dubai Festival City this season that go beyond the traditional festive offerings?

At IHG Hotels in Dubai Festival City, we recognize that today’s travellers seek more than just accommodation—they want experiences that inspire and connect. This season, we’re going beyond traditional festive offerings to provide guests with opportunities to engage in immersive and memorable activities.

Highlights include:

• Michelin-Starred Culinary Journeys: Guests can experience a world of flavours through curated dining experiences led by Chef Pierre Gagnaire, including an elegant four-course New Year’s Eve dinner and a festive Afternoon Tea at CHOIX TT.

• Exclusive Fireworks Views: Guests can enjoy front-row access to Dubai’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks display from the serene waterfront terraces of our properties.

• Cultural Experiences: For visitors interested in exploring the rich heritage of the UAE, they can visit nearby attractions like the Dubai Frame, Al Seef heritage area, and Dubai Creek, to connect with the city’s history while staying in a modern, luxurious setting.

These experiences allow us to redefine traditional hospitality, offering our guests memorable moments that resonate long after their stay.

4. Dubai continues to attract visitors from around the world, even more so during peak seasons. In your view, what are the unique aspects that make Dubai—and specifically the Dubai Festival City area—a standout destination for international travellers?

Dubai’s appeal lies in its seamless blend of modern innovation and cultural heritage, creating a unique environment that caters to diverse traveller interests. The city’s world-class infrastructure, vibrant events calendar, and strategic global connectivity make it a standout destination, particularly during the festive season.

The Dubai Festival City area enhances this experience by offering a one-of-a-kind waterfront destination that combines retail, leisure, and hospitality. Guests staying at IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City enjoy:

• Prime Location: Situated along the historic Dubai Creek, we offer close proximity to iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, and Al Fahidi Historical District.

• Integrated Experiences: From Dubai Festival City Mall’s IMAGINE laser and light show to diverse dining options across our properties, visitors can enjoy a comprehensive destination without leaving the area.

• Unique Accessibility by Boat: Our hotel is the only one in Dubai where visitors can arrive by boat, connecting the traditional districts of Deira and Bur Dubai. Guests can also depart from the hotel by boat with minimal fees to reach the metro station, enabling seamless exploration of both Old Dubai—with its rich heritage sites—and New Dubai, celebrated for its futuristic skyscrapers and innovations.

• Tailored Accessibility: Strategically located just minutes from Dubai International Airport and major transport routes, we provide an ideal hub for both business and leisure travellers.

This combination of waterfront access, cultural connectivity, and modern amenities ensures that guests at IHG Hotels in Dubai Festival City experience the best of Dubai, where the charm of the past meets the vibrancy of the future.