This year, Chreli Abano & Spa experienced a significant increase in occupancy, according to Jaba Mamatsashvili, Executive Director of the bath management company Abanotubani Group. During the summer tourist season, occupancy rose 30%, with baths operating at 90–100% capacity, while in the low season, occupancy increased by 15%.
Mamatsashvili highlighted that the growth is partly due to the company expanding with a new branch and continuing to leverage its growth potential. Balneological tourism, or visits focused on therapeutic sulfur baths, remains a key attraction in Old Tbilisi’s Abanotubani district, which draws visitors for its history, culture, and famed sulfur water.
This year, the geographic profile of tourists has shifted. While Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkey have traditionally dominated, Mamatsashvili notes an increase in visitors from Saudi Arabia and China. Additionally, tourists from the UAE, India, Israel, Mexico, and even Japan booked directly, reflecting a diverse global interest in Georgia’s thermal baths.
“The reality is that tourists come specifically for balneological purposes,” Mamatsashvili said. “Despite regional challenges, Israelis love Georgia, and we also hosted tens of thousands from China, India, and the UAE. The summer season proved that our services and cultural heritage continue to attract a wide range of international visitors.”
