Mataram City Government Optimistic Hotel Occupancy Could Exceed 90%

Mataram (ANTARA) – The Mataram City Government in West Nusa Tenggara is optimistic that hotel occupancy during the MotoGP, taking place from 9 to 11 October 2026, could exceed 90%, as visitor numbers are showing an upward trend compared with last year’s event.

“Information from the head of the Mataram Hotel Association late last week indicated that hotel occupancy was already above 85%. We are targeting at least 90% at the peak of the MotoGP,” Mataram Tourism Office head Cahya Samudra said in Mataram on Thursday.

Although Mataram is in Ring 3 of the event centre at the Mandalika Circuit in Central Lombok regency, the city, as the capital of West Nusa Tenggara, has a range of attractions for tourists and spectators.

These include natural attractions such as nine kilometres of beaches with beautiful sunset views, the historic district of Ampenan, religious tourism and shopping at various souvenir centres.

Sekarbela is a centre for pearl handicrafts, one of Mataram’s leading small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) products. Tourists visiting the city often seek out its distinctive pearl souvenirs.

Another attraction is the cukli craft centre in Rungkang Jangkuk, Sayang-Sayang. Cukli is woodwork decorated with pieces of pearl shell, creating distinctive designs crafted by local artisans.

“Another attraction that is just as appealing is Mataram as a centre for a variety of local specialities. After watching the MotoGP, tourists can enjoy the many dishes available in the city,” he said.

To cater for tourists and visitors, the Mataram Tourism Office has arranged an SME bazaar at Teras Udayana on 9 and 10 October 2026.

The participating businesses will mainly offer local culinary specialities, including Ayam Taliwang, Sate Rembiga, water spinach with chilli sauce (pelecing kangkung), sate pusut and other traditional snacks. Craft and garment businesses will also take part.

“The SME bazaar will also promote Mataram’s culinary tourism and help open up broader market opportunities,” he said.

In addition to the bazaar, the Mataram Tourism Office is arranging live music for tourists and spectators visiting or staying in the city.