Nada has joined AltoVita as the Director of Client Relationships for the Middle East, playing a pivotal role in our expansion plans into new territories and driving demand from the region. With a decade of experience in luxury hospitality sales, Nada has worked with prestigious brands such as JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton, where she has developed an extensive network and in-depth market knowledge.
As a proud Moroccan national, Nada relocated to Dubai over a decade ago after graduating from a renowned hospitality school in Switzerland. Her diverse background and expertise position her as a valuable asset to AltoVita, enabling us to strengthen our client relationships and elevate our presence in the Middle Eastern market.
Can you describe the current mobility/business travel landscape in the Middle East — and what makes it unique from other countries?
The region has experienced extensive economic growth driven by the ambitious plans of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar to diversify away from oil and gas through heavy investments in tourism, real estate, and technology. Saudi Arabia’s new policy requiring regional headquarters to move to Riyadh to conduct business with the Saudi Government has led to more regional and international moves for short and long-term assignments. Meanwhile, the UAE's easing of visa processes and the introduction of multiple options that don't require local sponsors have resulted in an increase in project-based moves and more companies choosing the UAE as their HQ to facilitate employee and business travel and take advantage of low corporate tax.
We are observing more steady travel trends that were previously influenced by weather changes and the long summer months. Accommodation rates are on a higher trajectory in key locations like Riyadh and Jeddah due to limited supply and a continuous increase in travel demand. Dubai is maintaining its lead in both occupancy and number of visitors. The region's growing need for foreign talent, combined with international interest in investment and expansion, suggests an increased demand for extended stays and comprehensive support for employee relocations. Companies will likely require robust assistance with local knowledge in managing these moves efficiently.
What do you enjoy most about your role, and what do you find most challenging?
I enjoy working on brand awareness and introducing the region to AltoVita’s innovative solutions in business travel and extended stays. The region heavily relies on hotels for both business travel and extended stays due to their standardized service and tempting reward programs. However, the increased rates and limited availability have made it difficult for companies to create well-rounded and cost-centric travel programs. AltoVita offers an alternative with serviced apartments, providing flexibility and cost efficiency that can help companies overcome these challenges.
How do you see AltoVita helping companies in the Middle East with their accommodation programmes?
AltoVita’s biggest asset is its flexibility and commitment to tailor-made solutions. The region is diverse in terms of work styles, challenges, and workforce demographics, and AltoVita excels in adapting to these varied needs. We provide consultative support to our clients, helping them create effective processes, track the effectiveness of their accommodation programs, and work with a provider that prioritizes service quality and security as central pillars of our delivery.
What in your opinion makes AltoVita so unique in the Middle Eastern market compared to other vendors out there?
AltoVita stands out in the Middle Eastern market due to its unique blend of extensive global reach and cutting-edge technology. AltoVita ensures a broad selection of vetted accommodations tailored to client needs and with proprietary APIs, streamline the booking process, providing seamless integration and real-time inventory access, which is crucial in the fast-paced Middle Eastern market. Additionally, AltoVita’s commitment to a human-centric approach includes dedicated 24/7 guest support, offering personalized assistance and enhancing the overall experience. The combination of advanced technology with a strong focus on human support and customizable solutions makes AltoVita particularly well-suited to meet the diverse demands of the region.
What are your predictions for the next 12 months in the Middle East?
An upward demand for extended stays, shifting the focus from short-term booking windows to more strategic planning to ensure availability. The rise in service providers within the serviced apartment sector, along with the proliferation of online booking tools, to address the need for self service booking process and live inventory. Additionally, an increase in regional spending on business travel, both outbound and inbound, as more companies either relocate to the region or expand their operations internationally.
What do you enjoy most about living in Dubai?
I enjoy the ease of living in the city, where you can complete even the most complex transactions through an app. The government has done an excellent job facilitating bureaucracy and providing residents with fast process to finish any paperwork. Additionally, the high level of security is something I deeply appreciate and never take for granted.
If you had to move, which country would you most like to relocate to?
New Zealand, hoping to get the Dubai experience in terms of safety but replace the desert with fresh air and beautiful scenery.
