Introduction
The first six months of this Trumpian year may have brought more war, tariffs, re-armament of Europe and renewed inflationary pressures, but tourism remains in rude health. Perhaps too much so, note demonstrations around Spain and Italy against mass tourism.
Destinations around the Middle East suffered material performance decline as Ramadan moved into peak seasons for many. In GOPPAR terms, Riyadh was worst performer (-18.1%), followed by Bahrain (-11.5%) and Jeddah (-10.8%). Perhaps the region went to the beautiful country of Oman for the celebrations instead, where Muscat’s GOPPAR grew by a hugely impressive +54.8%. The best improved destination in occupancy was Muscat (+14.5%) and in ADR was Cairo (+25.1%).
Development costs have been relatively stable and new development remains muted.
A great many deals were done in H1, particularly Ruby‑related (2x properties and the company itself) and several more corporate deals were agreed and concluded. France and Germany were especially busy but lack of data in these secretive nations means we could not publish the details.
Tourism remains in rude health.
Perhaps too much so…
Our final page feature seeks to provide hoteliers and designers with some useful pointers around re-thinking hotel fit out and refurbishment strategies and possible circular fixes to solve the NZC challenges of the modern age, and thanks to our friends at RLB for such insights and ideas.
Philip Camble
Director, Whitebridge Hospitality
Editor, EMEA Hotels Monitor
EMEA Hotels Monitor August 2025 — Source: Whitebridge Hospitality
About WhiteBridge Hospitality
Whitebridge Hospitality is a specialist advisor to investors, developers and operators in the hospitality industry around the globe. We provide investment, operational and planning advice, and guidance in respect of the entire hospitality spectrum, including: hotels, mixed-use developments, conference and exhibition centres, spas, leisure facilities, casinos, visitor attractions and sporting venues. Our uniquely qualified team can provide services throughout an asset’s life cycle, from site selection and acquisition, through master planning and feasibility studies, to operator selection, operational and asset strategy advice, to sale and agency services.
Philip Camble
Director
+44 20 7195 1482
Whitebridge Hospitality
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