Category Archives: Hotels

His Excellency the Minister of Tourism, Mr Ahmed Al-Khateeb, inaugurated the first phase of the expansion and renovation of the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh. With an investment of over 255m SAR, the renovation will enhance the quality and services the Four Seasons Hotel and ensure the property is keeping pace with the acceleration of growth in Saudi’s tourism sector. The opening ceremony was attended by a number of officials and dignitaries. Led by His Royal Highness Prince Al-Waleed Bin Talal, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kingdom Holding Company, Engineer Talal Ibrahim Al-Maiman, CEO of the Kingdom Holding Company, and Mr. Guenter Gebhard, Regional Vice President and General Manager of the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. The opening ceremony was followed by a tour of the new pavilions, modern architecture and offerings. The new design is a reflection of Saudi identity. The new architecture and design features beautiful Saudi architecture and will take hotel guests and visitors on a journey to the depth of authentic culture, combined with the luxury and elegance which Four Seasons has been known for since its opening in 2003.

Barceló Mussanah Resort unveils the launch of its eco-friendly guest programme, VIP of The Day; in partnership with One Tree Planted, a non-profit organisation focused on global reforestation. Aligning with its The Future is Green initiative, Barceló Mussanah Resort will plant over 500 trees by the end of 2023 in the Sultanate of Oman, as part of its innovative programme. Mussanah’s flagship beach resort invites one VIP guest of the day to create a positive impact on their environment. The lucky guest will receive a welcome gift upon their arrival at the stellar beach property; planting an agroforestry tree on their behalf from One Tree Planted. The eco-friendly guest will also receive an e-certificate for their efforts and contribution towards preserving the environment. As part of The Future is Green initiative, the programme enhances the property’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism in the Sultanate of Oman. The VIP of Day programme will support Barceló Mussanah Resort’s commitment to enhance carbon sequestration, improve soil and water conservation, reserve carbon, and moderate climate change by providing shade. Furthermore, the planted trees will also offer a natural habitat to increase wildlife and refine the land’s capacity to weather climate change. Dermot Birchall, General Manager of Barceló Mussanah Resort, says, “Partnering with One Tree Planted and launching our VIP of The Day programme takes us one step further on our combined journey to help preserve the planet. This represents a significant step forward in our promise to reduce our impact on the environment and engage with our community in such an impactful endeavour. By gifting a tree to our guests, we welcome them to be a part of our commitment, raising awareness and inspiring …

Rooted in its mission of providing signature wellness programs that empower guests to regain control and enhance their well-being when they need it most while traveling, Westin Hotels & Resorts – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s® portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands – has reimagined its Gear Lending program, featuring the latest in high-tech recovery and total body strength training equipment. Rolling out at the brand’s over 230 properties globally beginning this month, the next generation WestinWORKOUT® Gear Lending program will encompass a library of kits allowing guests to borrow the equipment they need – whenever they want – to optimize their stay and feel their best. The program is available to guests at The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa and will be rolled out at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina in February. Over the past decade, through both operational and consumer feedback, Westin has evolved and enhanced its Gear Lending program to meet consumers where they are today. The acclaimed, on-demand program focuses on helping guests maintain their workout routines, wherever they go, without the added bulk of packing fitness gear. Westin tapped fitness powerhouses for the first two kits of its re-energized Gear Lending program, providing guests with high-quality fitness essentials in-room, on-demand. Global high-performance wellness brand Hyperice features its game changing massage and compression recovery products that are ideal for post-workout recovery, as well as soothing stiffness and tension from long travel. Additionally, direct-to-consumer fitness accessories brand Bala features its beautifully designed and highly versatile total body fitness pieces, providing opportunities for guests to move well both in their guest room and outside, wherever the day takes them. Whether an avid runner that …

Registration is now open for the Future Hospitality Investment Summit Saudi Arabia, taking place at Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh from 7-9 May 2023. The Future Hospitality Investment Summit (FHIS) is an international platform by event organisers The Bench where some of the world’s most influential hospitality investment decision-makers connect, exchange knowledge, explore new partnerships and shape the future of the hospitality sector. This will be the sixth industry conference organised by The Bench for the Saudi market with the 2022 event drawing over 500 attendees from more than 20 countries, featuring 110 speakers and 46 sponsors and partners. The 2023 conference programme will include tracks from the Saudi Arabian Hospitality Investment Conference (SHIC) and Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF), with a continued focus on sustainability, innovation, start-ups and human capital development, as well as the event’s signature culinary tours that offer a glimpse into exquisite restaurant concepts that are all the buzz in the Saudi market which start with a lunch hosted by LPM Riyadh on May 7th. This year’s conference theme, ‘Invest in Change’, highlights the importance of the positive change that can be brought forward through the investment in time, intellect and expertise in the hospitality industry to keep up with changing times and trends to better shape the future of the industry. The newly established Advisory Board for FHIS Saudi Arabia, featuring 37 senior industry leaders from across the Kingdom and wider region, came together in November to discuss the theme and help shape the agenda for this year’s conference. “Following our sold-out edition of FHIS in Riyadh last year, we are very excited to be back in the Kingdom this year with our host sponsors …

Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai, part of Accor – a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues across 110 countries, has been awarded a five-star rating by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The hotel celebrated the achievement with an experiential event showcasing its brand-new facilities. Making the evening extra special was a unique atmosphere. Guests were treated to an exciting line up of live entertainment featuring soulful melodies of a saxophonist, a breathtaking acrobat show, and an enchanting performance by a violinist. “We are proud to welcome guests to experience Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai which is ‘locally exquisite and exquisitely local’, something that the brand is renowned for around the world,” said Tyrone Lodder, Cluster General Manager of Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai. “The hotel is centrally located only 10 minutes’ drive to Dubai’s key business hubs and leisure destinations such as Dubai Festival City, Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai World Trade Centre. Elevating the guest experience is an array of exquisite facilities and beautifully redesigned spaces enriched by traditional UAE rituals, customs, and culture. “What sets Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai, apart from other upscale hotels is its holistic approach to design and hospitality which is infused with a deep cultural sensitivity of the rich heritage of the UAE,” added Tyrone. “From the moment guests enter the property, they are taken on a multi-sensory journey that immerses and awakens all five senses. From aesthetics to scents, every detail has been carefully crafted to provide an unparalleled 360-degree experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.” Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai, boasts 257 premium guest rooms designed with Emirati touches in the layout and décor. …

Hospitality Management Holding (HMH) is delighted to announce the signing of the Hotel Management Agreement of its newest hotel property ‘Corp Yanbu Hotel and Residence’ in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Located in the beautiful western port city of Yanbu and facing the red sea, the hotel boasts of 112 keys with a combination of spacious guest rooms and hotel apartments and state-of-the-art amenities with unparalleled service. It would incorporate cutting-edge design, while offering exceptional comfort, convenience, superior service, and excellent value, all underpinned with the latest technology. With truly breathtaking views from our outlets on the rooftop terrace, Corp Yanbu Hotel and Residence is designed to cater the needs of families and modern travellers in mind, this urban oasis seamlessly blends the convenience of city living with the comfort of a home away from home. The signing ceremony of the Hotel Management Agreement was supported by Royal Commission of Jubail & Yanbu and was attended by the Director General of the Investment Development Division, ENGR. Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Shanqiti, and marks a significant step in the commission’s efforts to enhance the hospitality industry in the region. This agreement will bring a new level of excellence to the hotels and resorts in Yanbu, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the local economy. ‘Whether your stay is for family leisure or business, ‘Corp Yanbu Hotel and Residence’ will offer the perfect blend of style, service, and value that will make your stay truly unforgettable. With popular amenities and a prime location, Corp Yanbu Hotel and Residence, will be the ultimate destination for the savvy traveller looking for a memorable experience’ said Ahmed Al Shagdali, …

Dubai-based independent hotel management company, Aleph Hospitality, has signed an agreement to operate The Pelican Hotel in Accra, marking the Group’s first entry into Ghana. Located in Cantonments, an affluent suburb of Accra home to various embassies, as well as shopping malls, dining and leisure facilities, the all-suite boutique hotel is set to open in June 2023. A 10-minute drive from Kotoka International Airport, the upscale property features 134 suites and apartments, a cafe, a speciality restaurant, swimming pool, gym, spa and meeting room facilities. Having won three international architecture awards, including the prestigious title of ‘Best Architecture Multiple Residence in Africa,’ The Pelican Hotel is the first of its kind in Ghana, unmatched in its contemporary design and luxurious accommodation. Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality said, “We are delighted to have been entrusted with the management of The Pelican Hotel in Accra and look forward to a very successful opening. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, many cultural attractions and tourism-friendly infrastructure, Ghana is an attractive destination for business and leisure travellers alike, and with tourism as one of the fastest growing sectors in the country, this is a very exciting time for us to enter Ghana.” DevtracoPlus Limited, one of Ghana’s leading real estate companies under the Devtraco Group, is the developer and owner of The Pelican Hotel Apartments. John Kane Entsuah, CEO of Devtraco Group said, “We are excited to continue delivering on our promise of creating value for investors in this strategic partnership with Aleph Hospitality. With years of experience in working with the world’s largest hotel companies, Aleph Hospitality is the ideal partner to deliver the highest level of hospitality …

Red Sea Global (RSG), the multi-project developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, The Red Sea and Amaala, has achieved commercial close on a financing agreement to support its Joint Venture (JV) with Almutlaq Real Estate Investment Co. (AREIC), a subsidiary of the Al Mutlaq Group (AMG). The SAR 1.081 billion (USD 288 million) green financing was provided by Gulf International Bank Saudi Arabia (GIB). The initial joint venture with AREIC was signed in July 2022 and valued at SAR 1.6 billion, for the development of Jumeirah The Red Sea. The resort is a 159-key luxury property situated on The Red Sea destination’s hub island, Shura. Shura Island forms part of the first phase of development, and will comprise 11 luxury, premium and lifestyle hotels and resorts, residential units, a championship golf course, 118 berth marina, and a comprehensive retail, dining, and entertainment offering. Tariq Almutlaq, Chairman of AREIC, said: “We’re delighted to achieve commercial close on our joint venture so soon after signing the agreement and it is testament to Red Sea Global’s best-in-class management team that it has been able to happen. Already progress is being made at pace to bring the destination to life and we are excited to continue helping Red Sea Global achieve its vision.” Abdulaziz Al-Helaissi, CEO of GIB, said: “Red Sea Global has made an ambitious commitment to being conservation-positive, supported by its partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. GIB is proud to enable this activity through the provision of green finance, and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts generated on sustainable development goals.”   GIB is the fifth Saudi bank to support RSG in the …

Dubai’s quintessential desert resort, Bab Al Shams is now accepting reservations, as it prepares to enter a new era, reopening on 10 February 2023 under the Rare Finds vertical of Kerzner International. The extensive reimagination of the iconic desert resort will introduce a completely renewed aesthetic whilst maintaining the resort’s authentic identity. Captivating destination experiences and vibrant entertainment will be the beating heart of the reborn resort, spreading an intangible energy to every stay, imprinting everlasting memories. Guests can return to reimagined, world-class culinary experiences such as modern Arabic cuisine, a rooftop lounge, and al fresco dining. Championing local producers and using responsibly sourced ingredients, each outlet will showcase the exceptional array of sensorial and theatrical dining available throughout the resort. The much-loved desert infinity pool will also return, offering guests the opportunity to escape from city life and enjoy the tranquil surroundings from plush sun-loungers and private cabanas. The Desert Spa will invite guests to step into a calming mirage to unwind and rejuvenate through both traditional and contemporary treatments. In keeping with Rare Finds’ focus on discovering a destination in a truly authentic way, Bab Al Shams will offer an endless selection of expertly curated itineraries and bespoke outdoor activities, tailored to each individual guest. Bab Al Shams will provide a dreamy setting for weddings, events and celebrations, for corporate meetings and incentive retreats with indoor and outdoor event spaces that can host up to 500 guests. At the helm is General Manager Gilles Sohier, a member of the Kerzner team for more than 20 years, joining the legacy resort from his most recent post as Resort Manager at One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai.   Be among the …

Dubai Investments has signed a deal with Millennium Hotels & Resorts, a global hotel group to open ‘Grand Millennium Resort, Danah Bay, the Group’s latest flagship freehold project in the UAE, located at the heart of the Marjan Island. The deal was signed by Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO, Dubai Investments and Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, CEO of Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Middle East & Africa. The hotel will be operated under the Grand Millennium brand, with 300 rooms and positioned as an upper upscale resort with exciting specialty dining options and a host of beach recreational facilities, designed to deliver an enriching resort-style experience in Ras Al Khaimah. “The tourism sector in Ras Al Khaimah has been enjoying a period of growth and profitability and has chalked out several ambitious plans to continue the growth of this sector. Over the years, Dubai Investments has maintained a healthy portfolio of hotel projects through its mixed-use developments and the inclusion of Grand Millennium Resort – Danah Bay is another perfect addition. Positioned among the list of  promising hotel projects that will benefit from the mixed-use development features and the ideal location of the project, the upcoming hotel will optimally leverage the growth phase of Ras Al Khaimah especially in meeting accommodation needs, with a particular focus on the luxury travel and the MICE segments, ”said Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO, Dubai Investments. Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim added; “We are delighted to extend our relationship with our esteemed partners Dubai Investments. This signing comes as part of our ambitious development plans in the region, with a focus on expanding in key locations and growing our resort portfolio. We are also …