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Latest Stat and Trends for Restaurants’ Loyalty Programs in the UAE and KSA

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2 years ago

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By Naji Haddad, VP – EMEA at Deliverect

In the competitive restaurant landscape of the UAE & KSA, leveraging loyalty programs can significantly boost customer spending, enhance retention, and drive growth. This article explores key strategies and the latest trends in loyalty programs tailored for the customers in the two countries.

The importance of Loyalty Programs

As the restaurant market flourishes, loyalty programs have become essential for building a dedicated customer base. These programs reward guests for returning and staying engaged with your brand, ultimately generating more revenue. The evolution from simple analog rewards to sophisticated, tech-driven systems mirrors the rapid development in consumer expectations in this region.

Historically, loyalty programs were basic, today they use technology and data analytics to deliver personalized and engaging experiences. In the restaurant industry, common loyalty program features include point-based systems, discounts, free items, and exclusive offers tailored to local tastes.

For instance, many popular UAE restaurants and cafes, like Açaí Spot’s loyalty program, enhance the dining experience by fostering community and rewarding repeat visits. Customers appreciate the straightforward 10% cash back on all purchases, which encourages regular patronage and makes them feel valued.

Additionally, loyalty members receive early access to new menu items, creating excitement around fresh offerings. To promote the program, the brand leverages in-store promotions, social media, and staff education to highlight its benefits effectively.

Recent research indicates that the loyalty market in Saudi Arabia has experienced a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6% from 2019 to 2023. Looking ahead, the market is poised for continued expansion, with a projected CAGR of 8.5% from 2024 to 2028. This growth is expected to elevate the market’s value from approximately US$1.04 billion in 2023 to an impressive US$1.59 billion by 2028.

  1. Key Statistics on Restaurant Loyalty Programs

Adoption Rates

The popularity of loyalty programs has surged in the region over the past decade, especially post-pandemic, as restaurants seek ways to re-engage with their customer base and drive sales. Recent trends show that restaurants in both countries are increasingly recognizing the advantages of these programs for customer retention and repeat business, which is part of a broader trend towards customer-centricity.

Customer Participation

Participation rates in loyalty programs are high across demographics in the region, especially among millennials.  In 2021 alone, 54.7% of millennials were active in restaurant loyalty programs, making them the largest user group. Millennials (24-39) are known for being digitally savvy and wanting personalized experiences, and they see huge value in their tailored rewards and offers. According to YouGov data, 27% of UAE consumers are loyalty program enthusiasts.

Impact on Revenue

Data shows that with each monetary transaction, users maximize their point earnings. Additionally, loyalty programs have a measurable impact on restaurant revenue. 

On average, loyalty program members generate 12-18% more incremental revenue growth annually than non-members. These stats prove these programs work not only to attract and retain key customer segments but can also increase the amount of dollars spent on your business’s menu items. 

These financial benefits show the importance of effective loyalty programs to drive growth and stay competitive in the restaurant industry. However, it is essential to explore the emerging trends shaping restaurant loyalty programs today to understand how these programs continue to evolve and adapt and how restaurants can fully take advantage of their benefits.

  • Trends Shaping Restaurant Loyalty Programs

Personalization and Customization 

Personalization is a game-changer in the restaurant industry. Using data analytics, restaurants in the UAE can track customer behavior and preferences to offer targeted rewards.

For example: Açaí Spot’s loyalty program leverages customer data to tailor rewards and promotions, ensuring they resonate with individual preferences.

Personalized reward programs and offers are key to attracting and keeping customers. This curated approach enhances the customer experience, builds a stronger emotional connection with the brand and attracts repeat business and loyalty.

Technology Integration

Technology integration has revolutionized customer engagement with loyalty programs. The rise of mobile apps and digital platforms has simplified access and interaction, empowering customers to effortlessly track their rewards and receive tailored offers. These platforms facilitate a more convenient and streamlined connection with brands, enhancing the overall experience. Restaurants in both countries are increasingly embracing personalized, technology-driven solutions while exploring cashback options to deepen customer engagement.

The introduction of innovative programs by leading players underscores a competitive landscape dedicated to delivering exceptional value to consumers.

However, a seamless experience across multiple channels is also key to modern loyalty programs. Restaurants are now focusing on integrating online, mobile, and in-store interactions to create a cohesive customer experience.

For example, QR code scanning at checkout to accumulate points enhances customer interaction and satisfaction. This integration is crucial for restaurants in the UAE & KSA, where tech-savvy consumers expect such experiences.

  • Future Directions of Loyalty Programs

As loyalty programs evolve, two main trends are shaping their future. On one hand, AI and machine learning will transform loyalty programs by delivering super personal experiences. On the other hand, sustainability and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important as consumers value ethical practices more and more.

  • AI and Machine Learning

These technologies allow restaurants to analyze customer data more effectively, predicting preferences so restaurants can reward and communicate with guests more precisely.

AI-driven micro-segmentation, which enhances targeting and effectiveness beyond generic offers, helps draw consumers in and increase the number of dollars spent. 

  • Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Establishments should aim to match customer values. Some examples are discounts for using reusable containers or eco-conscious packaging. These businesses also align their loyalty programs with broader corporate social responsibility goals.

The future of restaurant loyalty programs is combining AI-driven personalization with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility. Together, these trends set the new standard for how loyalty programs can drive customer satisfaction and long-term business success. 

As restaurants use technology to become more precise with their menu items and loyalty programs, they improve the customer experience and build a deeper connection with their audience. By aligning their loyalty programs with ethical practices and broader social goals, they will resonate more with the values of today’s consumers.

Conclusion

The increasing implementation of loyalty programs highlight their necessity for driving customer retention and revenue growth. As these programs become more tech-driven and socially responsible, restaurants that embrace innovation and mirror their customers’ values will stand out in a competitive market.  

These programs increase customer satisfaction, spending, and repeat visits by rewarding frequent customers with points, discounts, and exclusive offers. Businesses that understand this will build deeper customer loyalty, helping them stand out in a crowded market and remain relevant for years to come.

All these future trends will shape the landscape of loyalty programs, and restaurants that get ahead of the curve and innovate will win customers’ loyalty, while enjoying long-term growth and maintaining a competitive edge in the restaurant industry.

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Hospitality

Terrace Dining, Oktoberfest, and Beach Days Return to InterContinental Abu Dhabi This October

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3 hours ago

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October 23, 2026

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With cooler days and balmy evenings returning to the capital, October brings a welcome change of pace at InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences. From leisurely afternoons by the water to al fresco dining and relaxing staycations, the waterfront destination offers plenty of reasons to make the most of Abu Dhabi’s beautiful autumn weather.

At Bayshore Beach Club, sun-filled days are best spent between the pool and private beach, with day passes, private cabanas and spa treatments offering different ways to unwind. As evening falls, the terrace at Byblos Sur Mer welcomes guests back for Lebanese dining, marina views, and live entertainment. Elsewhere, the new Chamas Series brings Brazilian flavours, churrasco, and lively entertainment to the weekly calendar, while Belgian Café joins the Oktoberfest festivities with ten days of hearty food, beers, and live music. Adding to the line-up, Porto Gina reopens on 15 October, welcoming guests back for Italian favourites and relaxed dining by the marina.

For those looking to extend their time by the water, a family-friendly staycation offers comfortable accommodation, dining, and beach club access, making InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences an inviting address for a leisurely October break.

Belgian Café
A little Bavarian cheer is coming to Belgian Café at InterContinental Abu Dhabi as the popular Oktoberfest celebrations return from 16 to 25 October. For ten days, the much-loved venue will embrace the festivities with hearty food, flowing beers, and live entertainment, bringing a taste of Munich’s famous celebration to the capital.

A special Oktoberfest menu will feature hearty favourites and generous sharing dishes, best enjoyed alongside Belgian Café’s extensive beer selection. Live entertainment on selected evenings will add to the festive atmosphere, making it a lively spot to gather with friends and raise a glass.

The celebrations run alongside Belgian Café’s popular weekly offers, from All-day Mussels on Tuesdays to Burger & Brew on Thursdays and a traditional Sunday Roast, giving regulars and newcomers plenty of reasons to pull up a chair throughout October.

All-Day Mussels
Date: Every Tuesday, all day.
Price: AED 95 for two pots of mussels.

Burger & Brew
Date: Every Thursday, all day.
Price: AED 95 per person for a burger and a pint of Stella.

Sunday Roast
Date: Every Sunday, 1pm to 5pm.
Price: From AED 95 per person for a traditional Sunday Roast served with Yorkshire pudding, mashed potato, and sautéed vegetables.

Oktoberfest
Date: 16 to 25 October, with live entertainment in the evenings.
Price: À la carte.

Bistro 81 at InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi
A new addition to Abu Dhabi’s dining scene, Bistro 81 at InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi brings the charm of a Mediterranean brasserie to the capital. Relaxed yet refined, the restaurant celebrates seasonal flavours, sharing-style dishes and the pleasure of good food enjoyed in equally good company.

From leisurely breakfasts and morning coffee to Mediterranean-inspired lunches and elegant dinners, Bistro 81 moves naturally through the day. With contemporary interiors, warm hospitality, and an inviting atmosphere, it’s a welcome new address for residents and visitors looking to settle in over a meal, catch up with friends, or enjoy an unhurried evening.

Byblos Sur Mer
Overlooking the private marina at InterContinental Abu Dhabi, the four-time MICHELIN-selected Lebanese restaurant brings together authentic Lebanese cuisine, warm hospitality, and live entertainment in a beautiful waterfront setting.

The weekly line-up offers plenty of reasons to visit, from a three-course Business Lunch and daily Happy Hour with 50% off beverages to Layali Byblos on Friday and Saturday evenings, where live singers, music and belly dancing accompany a four-course menu. Sundays bring Brunch Al Lubnani, a leisurely four-course Lebanese feast with live entertainment.

Adding to the October calendar, celebrated singer Sobih Tawfiq takes to the stage on 31 October for a special performance, promising an evening of Lebanese food, music and marina views.

Business Lunch

Date: Monday to Friday, 12.30pm to 4.30pm.

Happy Hour

Date: Daily, 4pm to 7pm.

Brunch Al Lebnani

Date: Every Sunday from 1pm, with live entertainment from 2pm to 6pm.

Sobhi Tawfiq Live Performance

Date: Saturday, 31 October, 10.30pm to 2.30am.

For reservations or further information, call 050 721 1079.

Chamas
The unmistakable energy of Brazil takes centre stage at Chamas Churrascaria, where flame-grilled meats, handcrafted cocktails, and live entertainment set the tone for lively evenings. At the heart of it all is the traditional churrasco ritual: Passadores carve 12 premium cuts tableside, paired with a generous gourmet salad selection.

The newly introduced Chamas Series gives each evening its own character. Wednesdays bring Churrasco & Caipirinha Night, pairing flame-grilled cuts with refreshing Brazilian cocktails, while Thursdays take a more leisurely turn with Vinho & Churrasco, celebrating the pairing of grilled meats and wine. Fridays turn up the energy with a Carnival-inspired evening of samba dancers, live percussion, and Latin rhythms, bringing the excitement of Brazil’s famous celebrations to the restaurant alongside its signature churras co dining.

The entertainment continues throughout the week, with live singers from Wednesday to Saturday, 7.30pm to 10pm, and Chamas After Dark DJs every Friday and Saturday from 10pm to 1 am.

12-Cut Churrasco Experience
Date: Tuesday to Sunday, from 6pm.
Price: AED 260 per person for 12 premium cuts and a gourmet salad selection.

Evening Bites
Date: Daily, from 5pm.
Price: From AED 65 per dish.

Churrasco & Caipirinha Night
Date: Every Wednesday, 6pm to 11pm, with live entertainment from 7pm to 10pm.
Price: AED 260 per person, including 12 premium cuts, a gourmet salad selection, and one carafe of Caipirinha.

Vinho & Churrasco
Date: Every Thursday, 6pm to 11pm, with live entertainment from 7pm to 10pm.
Price: AED 260 per person for 12 premium cuts and a gourmet salad selection, and 50% off bottled wines.

Friday Samba

Date: Every Friday, 6pm to 11pm, with live entertainment from 7pm to 10pm.
Price: AED 260 per person for 12 premium cuts and a gourmet salad selection.

Chamas After Dark

Date: Every Friday and Saturday, 10pm to 1am, with DJ

Price: À la carte

Fishmarket
An Abu Dhabi institution since 1989, Fishmarket at InterContinental Abu Dhabi has welcomed generations of diners with its distinctive market-to-table approach to seafood. This October, rediscover the charm of this much-loved waterfront restaurant, where there is no set menu, and every meal is a matter of personal taste. Browse the impressive display of fresh fish, seafood and vegetables, choose your favourites and leave Chef Sawai and his team to prepare them just the way you like. A new selection of rice and noodle dishes adds further variety to a dining tradition that has stood the test of time.

Fresh Seafood Selection

Date: Daily, noon to 11pm.

Price: À la carte

Porto Gina
A little slice of Italy returns to the Abu Dhabi waterfront as Porto Gina reopens on 15 October, welcoming guests back with a refreshed menu, familiar Italian hospitality and a relaxed setting overlooking the marina at InterContinental Abu Dhabi.

The new menu brings together Italian favourites, beautifully prepared classics and new dishes worth discovering, setting the scene for leisurely dinners by the water. For those who enjoy the Italian tradition of aperitivo, L’Ora Italiana offers another reason to settle in, pairing an aperitivo board with two glasses of Spritz for a relaxed start to the evening.

L’Ora Italiana
Date: Daily, 5pm to 8pm.

Bayshore Beach Club
With October bringing the return of beautiful weather to Abu Dhabi, Bayshore Beach Club at InterContinental Abu Dhabi is an inviting place to spend a day by the water. Set along a private stretch of beach, the club offers the choice of a refreshing dip in the pool, a leisurely afternoon by the sea, or a long lunch with drinks in the sunshine. The Bayshore Day Pass makes it all the more appealing, with food and beverage credit included to enjoy throughout the day. On Saturdays, DJ Mary adds to the atmosphere with poolside music from 2pm to 5pm.

For those who prefer a little more privacy, the cabanas provide a dedicated space to settle in for the day, while a two-hour spa treatment offers another way to unwind, combining a 90-minute massage with a choice of a 30-minute facial or body scrub.

Day Pass
Date: Daily, from 8am to 8pm

Private Cabana

Date: Daily, from 8am to 8pm

Massage Offer

Date: Daily, 10am to 10pm.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi Staycation Offers
With its private beach, waterfront dining and inviting pools, InterContinental Abu Dhabi offers plenty of reasons to turn a day out into a relaxing staycation this October. Whether planning a family break, a weekend with friends, or a few days enjoying the capital’s beautiful autumn weather, two stay offers make it even more appealing.

The Family Getaway offers 50% off a second room when booking any room category, giving families and friends more space to enjoy their time together, with access to Bayshore Beach Club included. For those who prefer everything taken care of, the All-Inclusive Staycation combines an overnight stay with dining and selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages across participating venues, plus full access to Bayshore. Designed for two adults and two children, the package also includes complimentary accommodation and dining for children under 12.

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Hospitality

Form Room welcomes new JVC residents with a complimentary coffee and exclusive discounts

Published

5 hours ago

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October 23, 2026

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Moving into a new neighbourhood is all about discovering the places that soon become a part of your everyday routine. From finding your go-to coffee order to choosing a favourite spot for a casual catch-up, these little discoveries help a new place feel like home. To welcome new residents to Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Form Room is introducing a special offer designed to make those first neighbourhood moments even better.

The playful pet-friendly Aussie café and neighbourhood eatery is offering eligible new JVC residents a complimentary coffee from its espresso menu on their first visit, followed by 15% off the espresso menu on their second and third visits. Available to residents across JVC, the initiative reflects Form Room’s community-focused approach – encouraging newcomers to stop by, get acquainted with the café and make it part of their local routine.

To redeem the offer, residents must present a valid tenancy contract confirming their JVC address, alongside a valid Emirates ID for verification. Once their complimentary coffee has been redeemed, they will receive a Form Room loyalty card, which can be used to claim 15% off the espresso menu on their next two visits. Both subsequent visits must take place within 15 days of the first visit, and the loyalty card must be presented each time.

Form Room brings Australian café culture to JVC, combining specialty coffee with all-day dining in a welcoming neighbourhood setting. Inspired by the nostalgia of a school lunch table, the café centres its menu around hearty sandwiches, alongside a selection of food and drinks designed for everything from a quick coffee stop to a relaxed meal with friends.

With its pet-friendly indoor and outdoor spaces, Form Room offers a laid-back setting for residents to connect, unwind and enjoy good food and good company. The new resident offer builds on this neighbourhood spirit, giving those who have recently moved to JVC a reason to discover a local favourite while settling into their new surroundings.

Whether stopping in for a morning coffee, a quick break during the day or meeting someone new in the neighbourhood, Form Room invites JVC’s newest residents to pull up a seat and feel at home.

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Hospitality

Cambridge Health Group partners with Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches to embed hospitality excellence across its regional healthcare network

Published

5 hours ago

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October 23, 2026

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Cambridge Health Group (CHG), the GCC’s leading post-acute care provider and a subsidiary of Amanat Holdings PJSC (“Amanat”), announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches (“the Academy”) at the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit 2026. The collaboration aims to bring hospitality expertise into healthcare delivery through tailored workforce training and service standards designed to improve the experience of patients, families and visitors across CHG’s facilities in the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The partnership brings together CHG’s experience in post-acute care, rehabilitation and long-term care with the expertise of Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, which is part of Les Roches Global Hospitality Education – ranked second in the world for Hospitality & Leisure Management in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject. By applying hospitality principles to healthcare environments, the collaboration will explore how to strengthen the skills, processes, and service practices that shape everyday interactions with patients and their families while supporting a consistent, personalised experience of care as CHG expands its regional network.

The collaboration will begin with on-site assessments of hospitality-related service standards and practices across CHG’s hospitals in the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This will guide the development of bespoke training streams: a Leadership Development Programme for management and leadership teams; a Frontline Hospitality Excellence Programme for employees in patient experience, customer service, call centres and other relevant functions; and a Train-the-Trainer (TOT) Programme to develop internal champions who can deliver training and reinforce standards across the wider workforce. The Academy will design and deliver the programmes, drawing on its faculty and industry experts.

Through a phased rollout, the initiative aims to extend hospitality training to full-time employees and outsourced staff, while integrating service excellence standards into the onboarding of new team members. The approach is designed to build sustainable internal capabilities and promote consistent, compassionate and responsive experiences for patients and their families across CHG’s facilities.

Wael Abdallah, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cambridge Health Group, said: “At Cambridge Health Group, we have built a regional healthcare network recognised for both the quality of our clinical care and our commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for patients and their families. Maintaining and advancing these standards requires continued investment in our people and a strong culture of service excellence. Our partnership with Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches builds on this foundation, bringing hospitality expertise into our healthcare environment to further elevate the standards of care, compassion and service across our expanding network.”

Georgette Davey, Managing Director, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, said: “We are delighted to formalise our partnership with Cambridge Health Group, marking an important step in extending the Academy’s reach beyond traditional hospitality and building closer ties with the healthcare sector. Hospitality and healthcare may serve different purposes, but both place people at the centre of the experience. Through knowledge exchange and practical collaboration, we look forward to applying hospitality expertise in a new context and supporting a more personalised, compassionate patient experience.”

Beyond training and service development, the MoU also establishes a framework for thought leadership, applied industry engagement and knowledge sharing between the two organisations. This includes opportunities for senior leaders and subject-matter experts to participate in guest lectures, joint industry projects, case studies, industry discussions, selected events and forums, encouraging the exchange of expertise and best practices between the healthcare and hospitality sectors. Specific initiatives under the collaboration will be developed and implemented subject to separate written agreements between the two organisations.

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