ADDIS ABABA- Skylight Hotel, a subsidiary of Ethiopian Airlines Group, is expecting new customer influx as it expands operations by managing resorts constructed under the Dine for the Nation project.
According to the hotel’s Business Development Director Kagnew Fiseha, the expansion initiated last month, allows Skylight to operate resorts located across states and further enhance the country’s tourism offerings.
He noted that the move has already led to an increase in both domestic and international customers.
“Since the inauguration of these new resorts, we have seen a rise in the number of tourists. Our extensive promotional efforts are also continued,” Kagnew said.
The Director emphasized that Skylight Hotel, known for its high international standards of service, is expanding its reputation by incorporating these resorts and providing more recreational options for visitors.
One of the key challenges in attracting foreign tourists in Ethiopia is the lack of modern hospitality infrastructure, including hotels and resorts. While the country is globally recognized for its vast and unique tourist attractions, insufficient infrastructure has been a barrier. However, the addition of these new resorts is a significant step towards addressing this gap, he underlined.
Kagnew expressed optimism about further infrastructure development, saying that more resorts and hotels are expected to be built to meet growing demand in the sector.
Domestic tourism is growing since more Ethiopians are traveling to states where the newly managed resorts are located. Additionally, international organizations have started to hold meetings and conferences at these venues, according to him.
The Ethiopian Airlines is believed to advance the promotion and managerial aspects of these sites by practicing its hospitality expertise learned from its Skylight Hotel experience.
In an agreement signed with state administrations, the airlines has recently taken the responsibility to operate and manage the resorts and lodges constructed under the Dine for Nation project including Gorgora,HalalaKella, Chebera Churchura Elephant Paw, and Wonchi Eco Lodges.
According to Kagnew, the Airlines Group is also considering expanding its services to include aircraft capable of landing on both airstrips and water bodies, catering to guests who value both privacy and luxury, he added.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER 2024
