Airbnb is addressing two of its biggest customer complaints: hidden fees and checkout tasks.
The company next month will introduce a feature that will allow users to see the total price for their stay upfront, before taxes. This includes cleaning and other service fees.
It is also prioritising total price over nightly price in its search results, chief executive Brian Chesky said in a tweet.
“I’ve heard you loud and clear — you feel like prices aren’t transparent and checkout tasks are a pain,” he said.
“You shouldn’t have to do unreasonable checkout tasks, such as stripping the beds, doing the laundry or vacuuming. But we think it’s reasonable to turn off the lights, throw food in the trash and lock the doors — just as you would when leaving your own home.”
Airbnb last year announced it would be reviewing its fee system following customer complaints over transparency.
The company, which has lost about 37 per cent of its share value so far this year, has benefited from strong travel demand following the Covid-19 pandemic but now faces a risk from a surge in inflation.
Reuters contributed to this report
Cultural fiesta
What: The Al Burda Festival
When: November 14 (from 10am)
Where: Warehouse421, Abu Dhabi
The Al Burda Festival is a celebration of Islamic art and culture, featuring talks, performances and exhibitions. Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, this one-day event opens with a session on the future of Islamic art. With this in mind, it is followed by a number of workshops and “masterclass” sessions in everything from calligraphy and typography to geometry and the origins of Islamic design. There will also be discussions on subjects including ‘Who is the Audience for Islamic Art?’ and ‘New Markets for Islamic Design.’ A live performance from Kuwaiti guitarist Yousif Yaseen should be one of the highlights of the day.
The years Ramadan fell in May
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The specs
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo
Power: 398hp from 5,250rpm
Torque: 580Nm at 1,900-4,800rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed auto
Fuel economy, combined: 6.5L/100km
On sale: December
Price: From Dh330,000 (estimate)
