Methodology
Transparency is what makes a win mean something. Here's the full methodology, the jury, and how to reach us.
The performance period is the 2025 calendar year
The STR Club verifies every claim against independent data sources — AirDNA, PriceLabs, DET data, and public records. Operators don't have to assemble evidence packs; we do the research.
Operator and revenue-management awards are decided on verified performance. Operators don't assemble evidence packs — The STR Club cross-checks every submitted claim against independent data: AirDNA, PriceLabs, DET data, and public sources. The one exception is Best Revenue Management, where operators submit a PMS statement for the apartment's full-year 2025 revenue. Where a claim can't be substantiated, the operator is asked to clarify before the jury sees the entry.
Design, AI Tools, Sustainability and Marketing awards are scored by an independent jury against four published criteria — originality, measurable outcome, evidence quality, and replicability — each on a 1–5 scale (maximum 20). A winner needs a score of 12 or above. Jurors recuse themselves from any entry where a conflict is declared.
Industry Pioneer nominees — people leading and shaping the UAE STR industry, regardless of age or tenure — are screened for relevance and substance by the jury chair, then voted on by verified members of The STR Club. One vote per member, no re-voting. Tallies stay private until voting closes.
Every entrant declares relationships with jurors and leadership before submitting. Operators affiliated with The STR Club leadership cannot enter in Year 1. Every decision is logged.
An independent jury reviews the operator entries alongside The STR Club's verification, and scores the design, AI, sustainability and marketing categories. Jurors are selected for their standing in the industry and screened for conflicts.
Director, Strategy Cues
Twenty-one years across global hotel brands and leading STR operators, leading operational transformation, property launches and performance turnarounds. Today he drives operational excellence for hotels and holiday homes at Strategy Cues.
Managing Director, Scale Middle East
Twenty years at the intersection of strategy and execution across consulting, hospitality and technology — leading cross-functional teams, building scalable platforms, and helping high-growth companies scale without sacrificing quality or culture.
Co-Founder & CEO, Scale
Over 20 years in travel and short-term rentals. Founder of Scale and The Book Direct Show — leading conferences for professional property managers, connecting and educating thousands of hospitality operators worldwide.
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