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Travel habits across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region are changing. More travellers are now choosing accommodation only bookings over traditional package deals. This shift reflects a growing preference for flexibility, customisation, and value-driven choices.
For travel agents, this trend opens new opportunities to serve clients better and grow business. Understanding what is driving this change and how to respond can help you sell accommodation smarter and stay ahead.
Why accommodation only is on the rise in the GCC
Need for flexibility and control
Today’s traveller wants freedom. Instead of fixed tours or rigid itineraries, they prefer to plan their own sightseeing, select preferred room types, and explore destinations at their own pace. Booking accommodation separately gives them the flexibility to personalise their experience.
Shorter trips and frequent holidays
Many travellers now take multiple international trips a year, often during long weekends, festivals, or school breaks. These trips are short and fast-paced, making flexible hotel-only bookings more practical than large travel packages.
Focus on comfort, not just cost
While value for money is important, today’s traveller often prefers a comfortable, well-located hotel over the cheapest option. Clients are also willing to upgrade for better breakfast options, early check-in, sea views, or proximity to famous landmarks.
How travel agents can sell accommodation only smarter
Know what matters to your client
A hotel near the Eiffel Tower, one with a kids’ club in Dubai, or a halal-friendly resort in Bali, these are the small details that help close a sale. Go beyond price and focus on location, dining, views, and room size to show added value.
Respond fast with reliable tools
International bookings often require quick decisions. Using platforms like Stuba, agents can access live inventory, instant confirmation, and flexible cancellation policies. This helps reduce waiting time and gives clients more confidence to book.
Support both leisure and corporate clients
Agents can now offer a range of hotels suited to business travellers from city centre properties near convention centres to work friendly stays. These options are increasingly popular and help agents build long term relationships.
Use hotels to upsell experiences
For international travellers, where they stay plays a big role in how they experience the destination. Boutique hotels, heritage stays, and sea-facing rooms offer great upsell opportunities. Share the experience, not just the room.
The role of a trusted B2B partner
Accommodation only offers lots more flexibility and Stuba system gives them access to worldwide inventory fast and securely. By combining these strategies, travel agents can position themselves as indispensable advisors in the accommodation-only booking landscape, driving more bookings and building stronger client relationships in a rapidly evolving market.
