Dubai: World’s leading hotel group in hospitality, Accor SA has decided to cut 800 jobs in the Middle East and Africa. This is due to the COVID-19 pandemic and sees some positive signs coming out from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, according to the CEO for the Middle East and Africa.
He confirmed that around 25,000 employees working in the region have either reduced working hours or have been furloughed. The group has made 800 jobs redundant, he said in a report.
While the global economic conditions remain tough for the hospitality industry, some positive signs are starting to emerge in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, he said.
Gulf nations have already started to ease lockdown restrictions. Saudi Arabia plans for gradual opening and to return to normalcy by June 21.
Still, research firm STR Global estimates that 30% of jobs in Dubai’s hotel industry are likely to be lost over the summer until demand recovers.
