Michael Goetz, general manager of Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, discusses the ways in which hotels are adapting leisure offerings to cater to younger travelers, prioritizing technology, sustainability and personalization.
How are hotels adapting their leisure offerings to cater to the younger travelers?
Hotels are increasingly tailoring offerings to younger travelers by prioritizing tech-driven amenities, personalized experiences and sustainability, ensuring a modern, engaging stay. For example, at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, we specifically cater to this demographic by offering electric vehicles, live cooking experiences and digital menu options. Moreover, sustainability remains a priority, with 35 percent of our diverse menu featuring vegetarian and vegan options. Additionally, we actively track the carbon footprint of sourced ingredients and transparently communicate this data to guests through our menus. Consequently, these initiatives, combined with flexible spaces and digital conveniences, guarantee younger guests a meaningful, values-driven experience.
What role do cultural shifts and generational differences play in shaping hotel leisure activities?
At Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, we create unique cultural experiences for our guests, ensuring unforgettable memories during their stay. Our concierge team curates a variety of activities, including desert safaris, ensuring guests experience the authentic spirit of Dubai. Additionally, we offer visits to Dubai’s heritage sites, such as historic mosques and museums, allowing immersion in culture. As a special touch, we serve Emirati coffee upon arrival, providing guests with an immediate connection to local traditions. Furthermore, our sustainable coffee breaks feature locally sourced produce, promoting environmental responsibility while enhancing the guest experience, and local sweets and delicacies are thoughtfully offered in our rooms, allowing guests to indulge in authentic UAE flavors.
With an increasing focus on wellness and sustainability, how are hotels integrating these values into their leisure programs?
At Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, wellness and sustainability are central to our offerings, ensuring a balanced experience for all. Located at JBR, The Walk, our hotel provides easy access to the public beach, perfect for morning runs. Moreover, guests can participate in various fitness activities, such as Zumba sessions and outdoor workouts, promoting an active lifestyle. Our all-day dining restaurant features live cooking stations, allowing guests to enjoy fresh meals prepared in front of them. By offering set menus, we reduce food waste while encouraging guests to begin their day with our signature Mövenpick healthy shots. Additionally, we serve menus crafted from locally and sustainably sourced produce, supporting local agriculture and minimizing environmental impact. Alongside eco-friendly amenities, our waste reduction efforts and energy-efficient technologies ensure a sustainable stay for guests. Furthermore, we provide in-house detox water in our meeting rooms, catering to wellness-conscious consumers who prioritize healthy living.
How are hotels using technology and personalized experiences to create more inclusive leisure options for diverse demographics?
Technology is an integral part of our daily lives, and we aim to seamlessly integrate it into our guest experience. From keyless check-ins to efficient check-outs, we prioritize convenience by using various smart systems to reduce electricity consumption. Moreover, these innovations not only cater to individual preferences but also support sustainability efforts, ensuring an environmentally conscious stay for all. Additionally, we prioritize inclusivity and convenience, creating tech-driven experiences that enhance our guests’ overall comfort during their stay. For more personalized services, we ensure our team is aware of the nationalities of our guests, offering diverse cuisine options tailored to their tastes. Furthermore, we integrate a variety of cuisine options into our buffets and set menus, ensuring a culinary experience that resonates with everyone. To ensure families have a memorable time, we offer a special kids’ menu called “Power Bites,” promoting both fun and healthy eating. By serving kids’ favorites with a nutritious twist, we create a delightful dining experience that families can enjoy together.
What specific leisure trends have you observed lately?
We have seen a growing demand for leisure experiences that prioritize comfort, accessibility and well-being, especially among the aging population. In response, we have evolved our approach through thoughtful design and personalized care, addressing these needs effectively. Our prime location in the heart of JBR provides us with a distinct advantage, positioning us as a lifestyle destination. With seamless access to the beach, shopping malls, cinemas and public transport, we cater to multi-generational travelers. Specifically, we focus on older guests seeking both convenience and enrichment during their stay, enhancing their overall experience. Our six vibrant restaurants and lounges offer a curated selection of nutritious, flavorful dishes tailored to meet diverse dietary needs. To further elevate the guest experience, we have incorporated mobility aids, intuitive room layouts, and personalized service for comfort. By ensuring comfort, dignity and indulgence at every touchpoint, we strive to create an exceptional stay for all. Ultimately, we are redefining what it means to be a lifestyle destination, aligning wellness, accessibility and enjoyment at every stage of life.
