Dec. 30--The number of hotel guests staying in Abu Dhabi's 137 hotels, resorts and hotel apartments rose 14 per cent during first 11 months of 2012, official data shows.

The statistics released by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) disclosed that 2,171,680 hotel guests stayed in the emirate's accommodation during January to November end this year. The guests accounted for 6,312,359 guest nights. "This is extremely encouraging particularly when viewed in context of the significant number of rooms we now have available, which currently stands at 23,516," said Mubarak Al Muhairi, director-general, TCA Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is currently gearing up for the January opening of the much anticipated Yas Waterworld waterpark and the Q1 opening of the luxury beachfront Ritz Carlton Grand Canal Abu Dhabi -- a five-star resort which will mark the entry of the prestigious Ritz Carlton brand into the UAE capital.

"We are very positive about achieving our 2.3 million guest target for this year, and ending 2012 on a satisfactory note while looking forward to attaining more guest gains during 2013 when we have a mainline attraction and new resorts opening," Al Muhairi said.

Last month proved to be the busiest this year in terms of guest nights with some 207,335 guests accounting for 676,593 guest nights. November's results remained static in terms of guest numbers compared to the same month last year.

"November's lengthier stays are likely down to the staging of the Grand Prix and an acceptance of the lead-up marketing campaign which focused on spelling out just how much there now is to do and see in Abu Dhabi," said Al Muhairi.

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(c)2012 the Khaleej Times (Dubai, United Arab Emirates)

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