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Impact and Misconceptions of AI in Hospitality

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2 years ago

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AI in Hospitality Hudini

By Prince Thampi, Founder and CEO of Hudini

AI in hospitality is here to stay, but which technologies will immediately impact the industry, and how do we overcome adoption hurdles?

Let’s be clear. Artificial intelligence in the hospitality industry is here to stay. All over the world AI-powered technology is being implemented in hotels in some form or other, and over the next decade AI will evolve to become even more sophisticated, driving a record transformation of the industry.

AI in hospitality globally was valued at USD 90 million in 2022 and is estimated to reach USD 8,120 million by 2033, with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 60%, according to research by WeMarket. Further to this, research by Colliers International estimates 73% of manual activities in the hospitality industry have the technical potential for automation.  

THE IMMEDIATE IMPACT OF AI

Today, AI fuels hotel technology across a spectrum of features and services already. Here, I’d like to spotlight three areas where I believe AI is poised for significant growth and impact in the industry.

  1. Revenue and cost

The strength of AI-driven analytics is the ability to analyse huge amounts of data with a speed and accuracy beyond human capabilities. This is valuable in many aspects of hotel operations, but especially critical in roster optimisation and dynamic pricing strategies. Previously, these used to rely on manual predictions based on historical trends. With data-driven analytics and algorithms, a multitude of variables such as past booking patterns, room occupancy rates, seasonal trends, competitor rates, and even local events can be computed in real-time, allowing hoteliers to make informed pricing and staffing decisions.

  • Conversational experiences

Hotels need to be accessible on the same channels as their guests. Chat-based conversations are expected by today’s travellers, and, quite frankly, this is an easy win for hoteliers. Automated and assisted conversations – including WhatsApp, WeChat, Siri, Alexa and Messenger – are the new norm within customer service. What’s more, multilingual AI assistants can bridge language gaps effortlessly by communicating with guests in their preferred language. In the future, we will see more advanced options, such as sentiment detection, emotive conversations, and human-bot cooperations be deployed in customer service. 

  • Assistive technology for staff

A digital assistant for hotel staff can help manage daily operations while, at the same time, increase efficiency and alleviate staff burnout. Automated tasks include data entry, digital communication across the property, unified guest communication across multiple channels, guest check-in, and ID registration. Furthermore, assistive tech can automate the verification of guest meal/entitlement plans in outlets, integrate the verification with point-of-sale systems, and present dashboards with a bird’s-eye view of operations and analytics to support decision making.

DEBUNKING MISCONCEPTIONS

Tech adoption accelerated during the global pandemic with the immediate need for contactless solutions. However, looking at other sectors such as retail, banking and e-commerce, it seems hospitality as an industry still lags when it comes to digital transformation. Some hoteliers may not fully understand how AI technology works or how it can benefit their business. This lack of understanding can lead to skepticism and hesitancy about investing in AI solutions. So, let’s look at some of those misconceptions.

AI is expensive
It is a common misconception among hoteliers that a huge investment is required to deliver results. The truth is that there are many cost-effective AI applications that start giving a return on investment within the first year. For example, at Hudini we have seen customers using chatbots in customer service operations save 15-30% man-hours per year, and savings of 60-70% man-hours per year with AI powered check in solutions.

AI is only for large hotel chains
No, size doesn’t matter. Independent and small hotels can also leverage the benefits of AI depending on how it is deployed. Face recognition, for example, can be implemented for compliance purposes and guest convenience regardless of the size of the hotel, and a digital concierge can upsell in any type of hotel based on existing guest data.

AI is impersonal
58% of guests feel that AI improves their hotel booking and stay experiences, according to Hotel Tech Report. Personalisation, made possible by AI-powered data handling, is key here. Also, future generations of guests, such as Millennials and Gen Z, prefer contactless self-service available round the clock. AI in customer service, such as chatbots, automated social media messaging, and push notifications can reply instantly to inquiries 24/7.

AI will replace the hotel staff
No, AI will never replace all the staff human staff and the work they do. In fact, one hotel in Japan tried operating with 100% robot staff, and it failed. Instead, AI increases staff productivity by handling manual and repetitive work, for example check-ins, standard guest queries, and wake-up calls. 70% of guests find chatbots helpful for simple inquiries but prefer human interaction for more complex requests, according to Hotel Tech Report.

AI cannot be integrated into the existing software
Yes and no. AI might not integrate into the existing software unless vendors upgrade their products, but it can definitely run alongside. A good middleware solution can feed data from these systems as well as data captured from user experiences into clean data sets. AI models can leverage this data to create personalised experiences for guests and automation for staff – without having to upgrade or replace the existing systems in a hotel’s tech stack. Even though a hotel may have a multi-vendor landscape of 10-30 different systems, it is still possible for middleware technology to connect with these systems, to create a common façade, reducing the complexity to a handful of business services, scalable and secure.

In conclusion, the benefits of integrating artificial intelligence in hotel management and operations far outweigh the hesitations. The technology is here to stay. My advice to hoteliers and owners: you’d better get onboard.

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Hospitality

Radisson Hotel Group expands French Riviera footprint with Cannes Seaside opening

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39 minutes ago

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July 10, 2026

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Set against the sparkling backdrop of the Mediterranean coastline, Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside welcomes guests to one of the French Riviera’s most iconic destinations. The contemporary 100-room hotel marks the latest addition to Radisson Hotel Group’s growing portfolio in France, combining Radisson’s signature hospitality with relaxed Riviera charm and offering effortless access to Cannes’ celebrated beaches, cultural landmarks and year-round events.

Location

Located on Avenue du Docteur Raymond Picaud, just minutes from La Croisette, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès and the historic quarter of Le Suquet, the hotel is equally suited to business travelers attending international congresses as it is to leisure guests discovering one of Europe’s most glamorous seaside destinations.

“France remains one of Radisson Hotel Group’s most important strategic markets, and Cannes is one of Europe’s most recognised leisure and events destinations. The opening of Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside further strengthens our presence on the French Riviera while offering guests a contemporary hotel in an exceptional seaside setting. We are delighted to continue growing our portfolio in destinations that combine international appeal with authentic local experiences,” said Yilmaz Yildirimlar, COO Managed Hotels, Europe, Radisson Hotel Group

Accommodation

Inspired by the Riviera lifestyle, Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside has been designed to create a welcoming atmosphere where contemporary comfort meets Mediterranean refinement. Bright interiors, calming coastal tones and thoughtfully designed social spaces are complemented by sea views and landscaped surroundings, creating an inviting destination throughout the year.

The hotel features 100 guestrooms across four room categories, including Standard, Superior and Premium Rooms, together with Junior Suites. Many rooms include private balconies overlooking the Mediterranean Sea or the hotel’s gardens, allowing guests to fully embrace the relaxed rhythm of the destination.

Dining and Bars

Dining takes center stage at La Palma Restaurant & Bar, where Mediterranean flavors are served throughout the day in a bright and welcoming setting. Guests can enjoy generous breakfast buffets, seasonal dishes inspired by regional ingredients and handcrafted cocktails while taking in panoramic sea views from the outdoor terrace.

Whether gathering with family, meeting colleagues over lunch or unwinding after a day exploring Cannes, La Palma Restaurant & Bar provides a vibrant social hub overlooking the Mediterranean.

Meetings & Events

In addition to its leisure offering, Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside provides flexible spaces for meetings, conferences and private events. Two naturally lit meeting rooms can accommodate up to 150 guests and are equipped with modern audiovisual technology, flexible layouts and tailored catering options.

The hotel also offers distinctive outdoor venues, including its terraces and seasonal swimming pool with sunbeds, creating memorable settings for receptions, celebrations and special occasions by the sea.

The Destination

From the hotel, guests are perfectly positioned to discover everything Cannes has to offer. Wander along the iconic palm-lined Boulevard de la Croisette, browse luxury boutiques, explore the charming cobbled streets of Le Suquet or visit the renowned Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, home of the world-famous Cannes Film Festival.

Just offshore, the tranquil Lérins Islands provide a peaceful contrast to the city’s vibrant atmosphere, while museums, local markets and waterfront cafés showcase the authentic character of the French Riviera throughout the year.

“We are delighted to welcome guests to Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside. Every aspect of the hotel has been designed to reflect the warmth and relaxed elegance of Mediterranean hospitality. Whether guests are visiting for business, leisure or a special celebration, we look forward to creating memorable experiences in one of France’s most iconic destinations,” said Samia Briki, General Manager, Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside

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Hospitality

MAJESTIC HOTELS INVITES FAMILIES TO ENJOY A SUMMER GETAWAY WITH THE “KIDS GO FREE” PROMOTION

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48 minutes ago

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July 10, 2026

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Majestic Hotels is welcoming families this summer with the launch of its “Kids Go Free” promotion, offering guests the chance to enjoy a memorable getaway without the added cost of accommodating young travelers.

Under the promotion, one (1) child aged 12 years and below can stay free of charge with the addition of an extra bed at the following participating properties:

  • Majestic City Retreat Hotel, Mankhool
  • Majestic Premier Hotel, Bur Dubai
  • Majestic Cove Hotel, Garhoud

What’s Included

  • Bed & Breakfast bookings: Guests will receive a complimentary extra bed and breakfast for the child.
  • Room Only bookings: Guests will receive a complimentary extra bed for the child.

Promotion Details

  • Stay Period: Until 31 August 2026
  • Booking Period: Reservations must be made by 31 July 2026

The offer is applicable across all room categories, with the exception of Economy Rooms at Majestic City Retreat Hotel, and is subject to availability.

Families are encouraged to book early, as the offer is subject to availability and rooms are expected to fill quickly during the summer season. Website- https://majestichotels.com/central-hotel/

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Hospitality

Make Saturdays a Family Affair with a Weekend Family Lunch and Redeemable Pool & Beach Access at Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa

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20 hours ago

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July 9, 2026

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Saturdays just got even more exciting at Sevilla, the elegant all-day dining destination overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Families are invited to indulge in a vibrant Weekend Family Lunch every Saturday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, combining an exceptional international dining experience with redeemable access to the hotel’s pool and private beach.

Designed to bring families together while enjoying the best of dining and leisure, the experience is priced at AED 210 per adult, with 50% savings for children aged 5–12 years, while children under 5 dine free.

Guests can indulge in an extensive family lunch buffet featuring an exceptional selection of fresh salads, chilled seafood, international cheeses, Arabic specialties, and globally inspired main courses. Highlights include a live sushi counter, succulent carving stations, a made-to-order pasta station, authentic Arabic mixed grill, Asian noodle station, traditional Lamb Ouzi, and an irresistible array of handcrafted desserts, complemented by fresh juices and infused water.

Following lunch, guests can continue their day by relaxing at the pool or unwinding on the private beach with redeemable pool and beach access, making it the perfect weekend escape for families.

For those looking to enjoy the facilities without lunch, the property also offers redeemable pool and beach access:

  • Weekdays: AED 125 per person
  • Weekends: AED 175 per person

The offer is designed to enhance the guest experience by combining exceptional dining with leisure, providing outstanding value while creating memorable family weekends.

With breathtaking Gulf views, elegant interiors, and a beautiful outdoor terrace, Sevilla offers the perfect setting for a relaxed afternoon of international cuisine, live culinary theatre, and quality family time.

Weekend Family Lunch

  • When: Every Saturday
  • Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Price: AED 210 per adult
  • Children (5–12 years): 50% off
  • Children below 5 years: Complimentary
  • Includes: International family lunch with live cooking stations and redeemable pool & beach access.

Whether it’s a leisurely family lunch, a weekend celebration, or a day by the water, Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa offers an ideal destination where exceptional hospitality meets beachfront tranquillity.

For bookings, please direct them to F&B Reservations at +971 56 545 0274 or email fbsecretary.alraha@danathotels.com

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