The hospitality and leisure sector in the UAE is a cornerstone of the economy and a global benchmark for luxury and innovation. The sector's success is underpinned by strategic government policies like Dubai Tourism Strategy 2025 and Abu Dhabi's 2030 plan, which aim to attract 25 million visitors annually. This has spurred massive private investment, with the UAE having one of the most active hotel development pipelines globally. International hotel groups are expanding aggressively, attracted by high occupancy rates. The leisure segment is equally robust, with the theme park market alone projected to reach US$1.85 billion by 2027. The MICE sector, valued at US$1.5 billion, is another growth area, with venues like Dubai World Trade Centre and Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre hosting global events. With sustainability becoming a priority, opportunities are emerging for eco-friendly developments and tech solutions in guest experience and operations.
Our practice is broad, advising on the complexities of hotel management agreements, assisting both international brands and local owners in negotiating terms that balance operational control with owner interests. We advise on the structuring of mixed-use developments, ensuring compliance with strata laws and zoning regulations. Our real estate team is adept at handling high-value transactions for resort properties and conducting due diligence on hotel acquisitions. In the leisure segment. Our employment law expertise is vital in an industry challenged by high turnover and UAE's stringent labor laws, while our intellectual property practice protects hotel brands, restaurant concepts, and entertainment IPs. We also advise on data protection for guest information, contracts with online travel agencies, and the legal implications of AI-driven guest services.