Seasoned hotelier Sebastien Mariette has witnessed Aqaba’s development firsthand. As GM of Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea and area GM of Kempinski Levant and KSA, he shares his insights on the popular Red Sea destination, how the hospitality sector is shaping up and the contributions of Kempinski to its growth.
What makes Aqaba’s hospitality sector unique?
Aqaba’s hospitality sector stands out due to its stunning coastal location, which lies between three countries, enhancing its appeal. Additionally, it boasts a rich cultural heritage and diverse outdoor activities, such as water sports and thrilling desert excursions. Moreover, it is conveniently located near Jordan’s top attractions, several of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like Petra. Wadi Rum is another nearby UNESCO site, making Aqaba an excellent base for exploring these iconic Jordanian landmarks. Our Kempinski hotel in Jordan, located on the Red Sea’s shores, offers a prime location that enhances the guest experience. Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea combines luxury with local traditions and the warm hospitality of Jordan, creating a remarkable stay. In conclusion, this unique blend of luxury and tradition ensures a distinctive and memorable experience for every visitor to Aqaba.
What are some of the challenges faced by the hospitality industry in Aqaba?
The challenges faced are similar to those of any neighboring touristic city within our region, particularly seasonal fluctuations. Moreover, these fluctuations in tourism are often driven by geopolitical issues and competition from nearby destinations such as Egypt and Greece. Additionally, competition from Turkey further intensifies the challenges. However, substantial opportunities also exist for Aqaba to capitalize on and enhance its position in the regional tourism market.
By promoting year-round activities, it is possible to attract more visitors, thereby significantly extending the tourism season and economic benefits. Furthermore, enhancing local experiences and attracting international events can also boost visitor numbers and elevate the country’s global profile. In addition, emphasizing Aqaba’s unique cultural heritage and natural beauty will help differentiate it as a truly dynamic destination. With strategic marketing and continuous infrastructure investment, Aqaba has the potential to thrive and become a year-round traveler hot spot.
How do you envision the future of Aqaba’s hospitality sector?
I believe it has the potential to become a top destination for sustainable tourism, highlighting our stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Moreover, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, significant investments are being made to elevate the country’s tourism appeal. Additionally, with the supervision of Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah, marketing efforts will attract a diverse range of travelers. These efforts will enhance our image as a destination known for various tourism opportunities, including leisure, cultural and adventure experiences. Furthermore, this vision aligns with the crown prince’s commitment to developing Aqaba as a vibrant hub for tourism activities. By fostering economic growth and community engagement, Aqaba can thrive while preserving its unique environment for future generations.
Ultimately, these strategic initiatives will position Aqaba as a leading destination that balances tourism, culture, and sustainable development.
In your opinion, what differentiates local travelers from international guests?
Both categories are primarily leisure travelers, with local business currently holding a more dominant position, especially during weekends and holidays. Moreover, international tourists typically have longer stays compared to domestic travelers, contributing significantly to Aqaba’s tourism industry throughout the year.
Additionally, these international tourists often use Aqaba as a starting point for exploring Jordan’s southern touristic attractions, enhancing their experience. Furthermore, key attractions like Petra, Karak and Wadi Rum are popular destinations for those beginning their journey in Aqaba.
Do you have any news you would like to share with our readers?
As a luxury hospitality operator in Jordan, Kempinski has established a strong reputation for providing unparalleled and remarkable experiences. Specifically, whether in Aqaba or the Dead Sea, our commitment to excellence drives us to deliver beautiful performances consistently. Moreover, we prioritize upgrading our facilities and services regularly to ensure we continually surpass our guests’ expectations with excellence. Additionally, we are focusing on sustainability, having been certified by EarthCheck as venues that deliver responsible accommodations and events. Furthermore, we take this responsibility very seriously, striving to engage and positively influence the local communities surrounding our hotels.
