Category Archives: Hotels

Dubai’s short-term rental and boutique hospitality professionals gathered at Mama Shelter for the official launch of Short Stay Circle, a new industry-driven community initiative built to inspire collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation across the UAE’s growing STR sector. The launch event brought together operators, hosts, tech providers, consultants, and founders from across the hospitality ecosystem to explore the evolving landscape of guest experience, operations, and sustainable growth. From panel talks to breakout discussions, attendees gained insight into the real-time challenges and emerging trends shaping the future of short stays in the region. The event spotlighted key voices from the hospitality space, including Farida Ahmed, Co-Founder & General Manager, Frying Pan Adventures, Sandy Muirhead, Director, No More Bottles, Giulia Figliuzzi, Group Marketing Director, Hero Experiences and Lauren Hamilton, Founder & General Manager, Ride Skipper. From eco-conscious operations to cultural preservation, each speaker shared the tangible ways their businesses are embedding sustainability into both back-end systems and guest-facing experiences. Frying Pan Adventures emphasised a zero-waste food approach, alongside efforts to re-educate guests and teams on the value of “going back to basics.” Ride Skipper discussed how its salaried driver model supports consistency, care, and longer-term environmental thinking. No More Bottles championed the use of Purezza premium filtered water systems to reduce plastic dependency in hospitality venues. Hero Experiences Group shared its work with archaeologists and local authorities to create immersive, low-impact guest experiences that preserve the region’s heritage and protect fragile desert ecosystems. The conversation also explored how innovation and sustainability must go hand in hand, with speakers noting the growing importance of tracking eco-impact, encouraging mindful consumption, and using technology to reward sustainable behaviours. More than just a networking event, Short …

chatlyn recently opened its Dubai office to strengthen its presence in the Middle East. chatlyn, the AI communication hub transforming how hotels engage with guests across every touchpoint, announced it has secured €8 million in Series A funding led by Smedvig Ventures. With this investment, chatlyn aims to accelerate its mission to become “the AI brain for hotels”—an intelligent system that supports hotel operations (front desk, reservations, marketing, and guest services) and autonomously optimizes guest communications to maximize revenue and satisfaction. “Every day, hotels are missing revenue because a guest inquiry comes in at 2 AM and gets lost in the shuffle, or a staff member can’t quickly find the right response in the right language. In today’s world, you lose potential guests when you don’t respond immediately,” said Nicolas Vorsteher, CEO and Co-founder of chatlyn. “We want to bring back meaningful conversations to the hospitality industry and free up staff’s valuable time for in-person guest interactions. We’re building the AI brain for hotels – an AI that understands hospitality context, speaks 35+ languages fluently, and learns each property’s unique voice to deliver experiences that feel both personal and effortless.” “chatlyn has fundamentally transformed our guest experience from reactive to proactive,” said Garry Loefgen, Head of Commercial at InterContinental Vienna. “Our AI assistant handles over 70% of inquiries instantly in perfect German, English, Arabic, and many other languages, while our team focuses on creating magical moments. It’s like having a multilingual concierge that never sleeps and gets smarter every day.” The round included participation from AnyDesk founder Andreas Burike, Austrian transport leader Blaguss, business angel Mathias Hiebeler (former owner of Grob aircraft, acquired by Helsing), and strategic hospitality angels. The …

7 Management announced its partnership with Park Hyatt Dubai as the two companies work towards the relaunch of one of Dubai’s most iconic concepts, Seven Sisters. Set to open in Q4 of 2025, the brand-new space will be nestled in the heart of Dubai Creek Resort – one of the city’s hidden gems, and rapidly growing lifestyle destinations. The relaunch of Seven Sisters brings back its original essence, with a refreshed and elevated feel, set against the backdrop of the reflective Dubai Creek and the city skyline. An incredible space offering the perfect blend of waterfront serenity with urban energy, Park Hyatt Dubai and Seven Sisters promise guests an energetic experience with vibrant music, a dynamic crowd, and unforgettable nights – all within a more refined, and design-forward setting. “Seven Sisters has always been close to our hearts, as it was the very first brand we launched in Dubai, marking the beginning of our expansion in the region. So, bringing it back in such a beautiful and evolving part of the city feels just right,” said Rabih Fakhreddine, Founder and Group CEO of 7 Management. “Dubai Creek Resort is fast becoming one of the city’s prime lifestyle hubs, and Park Hyatt is the perfect partner to help us take this concept to the next level.” More than just a new opening, this partnership marks a significant milestone as the two renowned brands join forces for the rebirth of Seven Sisters, promising to bring a bold and elevated experience that reflects both 7 Management’s and Park Hyatt Dubai continued commitment to innovation, and delivering world-class experiences to Dubai’s everchanging night life scene. “We are delighted to welcome Seven Sisters to Dubai Creek …

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of its newest five-star resort: Wyndham Alanya. Nestled along Türkiye’s scenic Mediterranean coast, the newly built resort invites guests to experience a blend of modern luxury, family-friendly amenities, and authentic local charm. Located just 20 kilometers from Alanya’s vibrant city center, Wyndham Alanya is perfectly positioned for a peaceful retreat or a base to explore Antalya’s most beloved resort destination. The hotel features 188 beautifully appointed guest rooms, ranging from standard to deluxe, superior, accessible rooms, and a luxurious king suite all designed to meet the diverse needs of travelers. From leisure-seekers to adventure enthusiasts, every guest at Wyndham Alanya will find something to love. The resort offers: • A full-service spa complete with a salt room, steam room, and traditional Turkish bath • Indoor and outdoor pools ideal for both relaxation and recreation • A state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and basketball courts for active guests • Four on-site restaurants, showcasing both local and international cuisines An Ideal Stay for Families Wyndham Alanya embraces its role as a destination for travelers of all ages, making it an ideal choice for family getaways. Dedicated children’s play areas and baby cot options ensure younger guests are well taken care of. For a memorable experience, families can enjoy gondola tours around the property; a unique activity that combines fun, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. Helping to make travel seamless, the resort also offers convenient airport and beach shuttle services, reflecting Wyndham’s commitment to comfort and accessibility for every guest, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. “With Türkiye set to welcome over 70 million international visitors in 2025, we’re thrilled to introduce Wyndham …

According to the latest research by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts it was shared that 54% of Gen Z women in the UAE travelled internationally in the last six months, compared to 34% of men. This trend reflects a growing sense of independence, mobility, and cultural engagement among young women in the region. Notably, more than half (51%) of female respondents said that safety and security risks are a key consideration when planning their travel, indicating that their choices are both adventurous and intentional. This reflects a generation that is confident in exploring, but conscious of the conditions that make them feel secure and supported while doing so.

Barceló Hotel Group announced the rebranding of Occidental Al Jaddaf to Barceló Al Jaddaf and its upgrade to 5-star. This rebrand marks the Spanish hospitality group’s first Barceló Hotel in the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the group’s focus on delivering exceptional guest services to the GCC market, characterised by the elevated service and personalised attention that defines the Barceló brand. Barceló Al Jaddaf ticks all the reasons why of the Barceló Hotels & Resorts DNA: an excellent location, a singular and purposeful design, a stay that never fails to surprise with all the must-haves and nice-to-haves, with a defined character, attitude and social vibes, healthy gastronomy with local flavours and genuinely local experiences. Ideally located just minutes from Dubai’s cultural and business landmarks and Dubai International Airport, Barceló Al Jaddaf caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate travellers. The property boasts 365 meticulously designed rooms and suites, each featuring contemporary interiors that blend elegance with modern amenities. Barceló Al Jaddaf stands out by offering guests a uniquely tailored experience through attentive service, curated dining and leisure offerings that reflect the vibrant energy of the city. The standout feature of the Barceló Al Jaddaf rebrand is B-Heaven, a chic Mediterranean fusion restaurant with arresting views, a carefully curated menu and a privileged location in the hotel, by the swimming pool, giving it an “urban beach club” vibe and ambience. B-Heaven is making its debut in the GCC, having already garnered acclaim at other Barceló properties worldwide. Offering a refined space for both relaxation and social gatherings, B-Heaven provides a 180-degree panorama of Dubai’s Skyline, serving as an urban retreat by day and an elegant and lively haven by night. …

Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Marriott International which aims to further boost the city’s international visibility, diversify the destination offering, elevate guest experiences, and nurture next-generation industry talent. The MoU extends the long-standing collaborative efforts between DET and Marriott International, and marks another important step in advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. Signed by His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, and Sandeep Walia, COO, Middle East & Luxury, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Marriott International, the MoU reinforces their commitment to accelerate the growth of the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors. The MoU sets the foundation for potential collaborations whereby Dubai will be prominently promoted to guests worldwide through Marriott International’s portfolio of hotels. In addition, potential joint marketing initiatives including multi-channel advertising, high-impact social media campaigns, and influencer collaborations will spotlight Dubai’s unique attractions, cultural heritage, and exceptional experiences, aiming to drive wider international awareness and visitor demand. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, said: “The growth and resilience of our tourism sector is driven by robust strategies and the collective commitment of forward-thinking partners such as Marriott International. The new MoU is inspired by visionary leadership to ensure Dubai remains at the forefront of global tourism and hospitality innovation. By leveraging the reach and expertise of one of the world’s most prominent hotel groups, we are amplifying Dubai’s global profile and delivering richer experiences to our …

Atlantis, The Palm unveils “A World Away” brand campaign created to reshape perceptions, spark imagination, and reignite global awareness, the campaign positions Atlantis, The Palm as far more than a holiday destination. It is a world rich with energy, wonder, and emotion—where guests are invited to leave the ordinary behind and step into the extraordinary. Whether it’s a guest overcoming their fears on the iconic waterslide Leap of Faith, or a quiet moment spent face-to-face with marine life, every experience becomes a fulfilled dream. For the first time in Atlantis history, a campaign of this scale is conceived, produced, and executed entirely by the in-house brand and marketing teams—ensuring the final product is creatively ambitious, deeply authentic, and true to the spirit of the resort. To bring the story to life, the Atlantis team collaborates with Bruce Macdonald, winner of the New York Film Festival and International Film Talent Awards, whose cinematic direction anchors the emotional depth of the campaign. He is joined by Simon Duggan, the acclaimed Director of Photography behind The Great Gatsby and Hacksaw Ridge, and a two-time AACTA Award winner for Best Cinematography. The visual narrative is further enhanced by London-based photographer Jonathan Stokes, known for his work with National Geographic Traveler; FPV drone expert André Larsen, one of the world’s top talents in aerial filming; and underwater cinematographer Mike Rall, founder of Base Films and a recognised leader in his field. Filming takes place across several of Atlantis, The Palm’s most iconic locations, including the grand main lobby, the awe-inspiring Underwater Suite, the renowned Lost Chambers Aquarium, world-class culinary venues under the most Michelin-awarded destination in the region, and the record-breaking Aquaventure World. Visually, “A …

Accor has introduced a unique hospitality experience by launching the first Roland-Garros themed room in the Middle East, located at the Pullman Downtown Dubai. The immersive concept brings together sport, culture, and travel in a distinctive setting designed to appeal to tennis fans and global travellers alike. Speaking at the unveiling, Paul Stevens, COO – EMEA at Accor, emphasized the group’s commitment to creating memorable and culturally enriched guest experiences. “We aim to go beyond traditional hospitality by integrating elements of global events and culture into our offerings. This themed room is a celebration of the Roland-Garros legacy, offering guests a chance to engage with the spirit of the tournament in a completely new way,” he said. The Dubai installation marks the first of its kind in the region, with three more themed rooms set to debut in São Paulo, Tokyo, and France. Through this initiative, Accor continues to push the boundaries of experiential travel, creating spaces that resonate with passion and purpose.  

Rotana announced a new multi-faceted sustainability partnership with Ecolab and  Stella Hospitality. Together, the three organisations will support Rotana in advancing its sustainability objectives across operations and guest touchpoints — from reducing water and energy consumption to phasing out single-use plastics and enhancing in-room product design. The partnership builds on a renewed agreement with Ecolab, marking 20 years of collaboration, and introduces Stella Hospitality into Rotana’s supplier ecosystem for the first time. The partnership was formalised through individual agreements with Ecolab and Stella Hospitality, following leadership-level engagements with representatives from all parties. “This renewed partnership with Ecolab, and the addition of Stella Hospitality, reflects our determination to make a meaningful and lasting impact,” said Philip Barnes, Chief Executive Officer at Rotana. “It’s about moving beyond intention to action — reducing resource use where it matters and making conscious choices that shape a better guest experience.” Scaling Measurable Sustainable Impact Across Operations and Guest Experience As part of the renewed partnership, Ecolab will continue to implement technologies that help Rotana reduce water, energy, and chemical use while maintaining high standards of hygiene and operational efficiency. These outcomes are tracked using Ecolab’s eROISM (Exponential Return on Investment) proprietary tool, which measures both environmental and financial impact — enabling smarter, data-driven decision-making across hotel operations. This approach directly supports findings from Ecolab’s global Watermark Study, which shows that consumers remain very concerned about climate change and are increasingly willing to support businesses that prioritize sustainability. By applying smart systems that optimise water and energy use, the partnership ensures Rotana remains ahead of these challenges. “This partnership shows how data-driven collaboration can deliver measurable environmental progress at scale,” said Stefan Umiastowski, Senior Vice President …