The multi-billion dollar medical travel sector could become an important new source of demand when traditional demand drivers are under increasing threat, according to JLL Hotels' most recent research report. The property services firm belives that the medical travel sector has potential to develop into a lucrative niche market for hotel operators and investors.
The multi-billion dollar medical travel sector could become an important new source of demand when traditional demand drivers are under increasing threat, according to JLL Hotels' most recent research report. The property services firm belives that the medical travel sector has potential to develop into a lucrative niche market for hotel operators and investors.
The medical travel industry is driven today by Asia, particularly popular destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and India. 'These countries are developing first-class facilities with highly-skilled medical specialists, many of whom trained abroad,' said Mark Wynne Smith, CEO for EMEA at JLL Hotels. 'International tourists are attracted by the high-quality and relatively low-cost healthcare offered,' he adds.
With destinations such as Eastern Europe, Turkey and Dubai getting in on the act, this market is poised for rapid expansion in the future. As travellers become more discriminating, they will continue to seek out hotels and resorts that offer a complete array of amenities. Medical spas, medical travel and rehabilitation at desirable destinations will play a large role in the new generation of spa resorts.
'In Dubai alone, there are at least 120 spas, health clubs and clinics offering wellness services. By 2015, the United Arab Emirates could be amongst the top spa destinations in the world with an estimated 200 hotels offering world-class facilities,' said Mark Wynne Smith. There is enormous potential for partnerships between hotel chains, property developers, airlines, insurance companies and financial institutions, JLL said.
