The author discusses the evolving definition of luxury for women, moving beyond flashy aesthetics to focus on emotional intelligence in design. Citing a recent stay at a high-end Dubai hotel, the author notes a lack of intuitive, thoughtful details that cater to women's needs, from the placement of a hairdryer plug to the overall "feel" …
What Women Want: The Future of Luxury in Hospitality
The author discusses the evolving definition of luxury for women, moving beyond flashy aesthetics to focus on emotional intelligence in design. Citing a recent stay at a high-end Dubai hotel, the author notes a lack of intuitive, thoughtful details that cater to women’s needs, from the placement of a hairdryer plug to the overall “feel” of a space. A roundtable discussion with female leaders in the luxury sector confirmed that true luxury for women is about what the heart feels, not just what the eyes see.
The Importance of Intentional Design
Designing for women goes beyond superficial aesthetics like color palettes. It’s about intention and sensory details. Pallavi Dean, a Dubai-based designer, emphasizes that hotels should consider things like lighting, privacy, and practical spaces for a handbag or skincare. Research from FINN Partners backs this up, showing that affluent female travelers seek experiences that are restorative, culturally immersive, and emotionally resonant. These women are looking for connection, wellness, and intention, not just exclusivity.
Quiet Influence and Deep Impact
The article highlights the significant, often behind-the-scenes, influence of women in the Middle East on decisions related to travel and lifestyle. When a woman recommends a brand or a space, it carries weight and shapes perception in ways a billboard never could. The future of luxury, therefore, lies in creating experiences that feel generous and intimate, not transactional. The ultimate luxury, as one roundtable guest put it, is “not needing to explain what you need. The space already knows.”
