Research Article

Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact

Volume: 28 Number: 28 June 28, 2026
TR EN

Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is redefining the hospitality industry by transforming operational models, enabling hyper-personalized guest experiences, and driving strategic innovation. This study offers a comparative analysis of AI integration across nine leading global hotel chains, employing a conceptual framework that maps AI maturity against innovation impact. Drawing on Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOI) (Rogers, 2003) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) (Venkatesh et al., 2003), the research tests hypotheses on how perceived advantages, complexity, and facilitating conditions shape integration trajectories. Using qualitative content analysis of corporate reports and strategic communications, four orientations emerge: Basic Automation, Operational Efficiency, Personalized Experiences, and Strategic Innovation. Findings reveal pronounced disparities in AI integration: innovation leaders such as Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, and Radisson leverage advanced technologies—including generative AI, IoT, and immersive digital platforms—to achieve differentiation and competitive advantage, while others prioritize cost optimization through dynamic pricing and predictive maintenance. Beyond operational gains, AI is increasingly positioned as a strategic imperative influencing sustainability, cybersecurity, and guest engagement. The study advances theoretical understanding by integrating socio-technical and innovation diffusion perspectives, highlighting that technological maturity alone does not guarantee experiential differentiation. Practical recommendations guide managers in aligning AI investments with innovation objectives, while theoretical insights underscore the need for integrated frameworks linking technological readiness, strategic orientation, and human-centric values.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Tourism (Other)

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

June 28, 2026

Submission Date

November 25, 2025

Acceptance Date

April 9, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 28 Number: 28

APA
Artuner Özder, C. G. (2026). Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research, 28(28), 1-39. https://izlik.org/JA49FN29MZ
AMA
1.Artuner Özder CG. Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research. 2026;28(28):1-39. https://izlik.org/JA49FN29MZ
Chicago
Artuner Özder, Ceren Gül. 2026. “Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact”. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research 28 (28): 1-39. https://izlik.org/JA49FN29MZ.
EndNote
Artuner Özder CG (June 1, 2026) Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research 28 28 1–39.
IEEE
[1]C. G. Artuner Özder, “Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact”, Journal of Travel and Tourism Research, vol. 28, no. 28, pp. 1–39, June 2026, [Online]. Available: https://izlik.org/JA49FN29MZ
ISNAD
Artuner Özder, Ceren Gül. “Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact”. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research 28/28 (June 1, 2026): 1-39. https://izlik.org/JA49FN29MZ.
JAMA
1.Artuner Özder CG. Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research. 2026;28:1–39.
MLA
Artuner Özder, Ceren Gül. “Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact”. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research, vol. 28, no. 28, June 2026, pp. 1-39, https://izlik.org/JA49FN29MZ.
Vancouver
1.Ceren Gül Artuner Özder. Artificial Intelligence Integration in Global Hospitality: A Comparative Analysis of AI Maturity and Innovation Impact. Journal of Travel and Tourism Research [Internet]. 2026 Jun. 1;28(28):1-39. Available from: https://izlik.org/JA49FN29MZ