Hotels' Pet Policies in Egypt: An Exploratory Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Hotel Studies Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt

2 Higher Institute of Tourism and Hotels (EGOTH), Alexandria, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Traveling with pets for tourism has become increasingly popular as more people view their pets as integral members of the family. This trend has prompted adjustments in the tourism industry, with accommodations, transportation services, and tourist attractions adapting to the needs of pet owners. While numerous studies have explored the intersection of pets with tourism and hospitality worldwide, none of them have specifically focused on hotels' pet policies in Egypt.
Aim: This study aims to explore the current state of hotels' pet policies in Egypt.
The methodology: A qualitative research design based on an interpretive philosophical worldview was adopted to explore the hotels' pet policies in Egypt.  The study used the booking websites (Tripadvisor, and Booking.com), the hotels' websites, simulated guests with pets who planned to stay for 5 nights, and semi-structured interviews with hotel managers/ representatives.  The study was conducted on five-star resorts in Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt. Data was thematically analyzed.
Findings: The results exposed that most hotels/ resorts mentioned that they are pet-friendly hotels, however, few of them provide particular services for pets.  Most of the hotels accept small pets if they are protected by their owners. Few hotels provide special pet service but for an extra payment.  Guarding pets with guests with disabilities may receive special service and care. Future comprehensive pet policies are required. 

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