Category Archives: Hotels

Innovative new digital pathway maps out route to net positive hospitality

The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance has launched a ground-breaking new digital version of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality at COP28 in Dubai. This cutting-edge tool provides hospitality companies with a clear roadmap to accelerate their ESG progress, enabling them to navigate the stages of the pathway with ease. The latest edition of the Pathway includes over 80 pages of comprehensive guidance, as well as brand-new resources and case studies showcasing best practice. Developed by and for the industry over a period of two years, the Pathway underwent rigorous consultation with the Alliance’s hospitality and affiliate donor members, expert partners, and sustainability professionals from academia and consulting firms. Today’s update introduces a Progress Tracker, developed in collaboration with EY, which allows companies to understand and record their progress along the Pathway, providing valuable insights to measure their impact. The digital pathway offers comprehensive guidance, including checklists, tools, and resources, addressing 10 crucial topics within an ESG framework. In the hospitality industry, with its complex ownership and management structures, it can be challenging to identify responsibilities in sustainability. This Pathway aims to support the entire sector, from sustainability leaders to those just beginning their journey, in embracing sustainability. Speaking at the UNWTO Side event at COP28, Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, highlighted how this first-of-its-kind resource sets out a clear and ambitious journey for the entire sector to embark on together. Mandziuk affirms, “At the Alliance, we believe that every hotel can and must go beyond minimizing negative impact and work to truly give back to the community, the destination, and the planet, regardless of their starting point. This digitised version of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality provides …

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Marriott International and Palm Hills Developments sign agreement to open the Ritz-Carlton Cairo, Palm Hills in Egypt

Slated to open in 2027, Marriott International, Inc. signed an agreement with Palm Hills Developments to open The Ritz-Carlton Cairo, Palm Hills, signaling a commitment to strengthening its portfolio of properties across the company’s luxury brands in Egypt. The hotel will be located in Palm Hills West Cairo, in close proximity to the Great Pyramids of Giza, “We are thrilled to work with Palm Hills Developments to bring a new level of exceptional luxury and unrivaled elegance to West Cairo,” said Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer – Middle East, Marriott International. “Cairo is a sought-after leisure destination synonymous with some of the world’s most outstanding historical and cultural sites. We continue to see a opportunities to thoughtfully grow our iconic brands in Egypt and other destinations where we know our guests want to travel most.” Expected to open in 2027, the luxury property is expected to include 150 guestrooms and 50 one-, two- and three-bedroom serviced apartments, and will bring The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary service and exquisite design to West Cairo. Comprehensive facilities are anticipated to include five dining destinations, a spa, fitness centre, pool, children’s club and state-of-the-art meeting and event facilities. Commenting on the signing, Palm’s Hills Developments Chairman and Group CEO, Yasseen Mansour said, “We would like to welcome Marriott International as our new prominent collaborator in Palm Hills October as we are always eager to work with best-in-class partners, and bringing Ritz-Carlton on board is a milestone for our company, that aligns perfectly with our strategic vision of encouraging the tourism sector along with elevating the offerings of the real estate industry in Egypt. This collaboration underscores our commitment to complement PHD’s communities and hence maximize their …

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Millennium Place Hotel Mirdif wins Best 4 Star Lifestyle Hotel at Arabian Travel Awards 2023

Millennium Place Hotel Mirdif emerged winner as the ‘Best 4 Star Lifestyle Hotel’ at Arabian Travel Awards 2023. Shady Dawad – General Manager – Millennium Place Hotel Mirdif shared, “The Arabian Travel Awards is a fascinating assembly of innovators in the hospitality industry. Being consistently named the Best 4-Star Hotel is an incredible experience. This demonstrates our dedication to providing excellent guest service. The award is a powerful inspiration for us to ignite our zeal and strive for even greater heights in the year 2024.”    

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PIF to acquire minority stake in Rocco Forte Hotels

Rocco Forte Hotels announced that the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a significant minority stake in the group. The Forte family will retain majority ownership and control. The arrangement sees the Italian entity CDPE Investimenti (CDPEI) selling its entire stake. PIF’s investment will include an element of primary equity which will accelerate the brand’s expansion in both existing and new global markets, building on the group’s track record of growth and development that includes eight new properties opened or committed in recent years. Sir Rocco Forte will remain Executive Chairman, alongside Olga Polizzi, who will continue as Deputy Chairman. Charles Forte, Lydia Forte and Irene Forte will also continue to hold key roles in the business. Completion of the transaction is subject to regulatory approval. Sir Rocco Forte, Executive Chairman of Rocco Forte Hotels, said: “PIF is an excellent partner for us going forward. We have established an extremely good relationship during the course of our negotiations. They share the same vision for the brand and the future strategy of the group with the same ambition to take a long-term view. I look forward to working with PIF to expand the group and improve the high level of service we offer our customers. “We thank CDPEI for having shared the past fruitful eight years during which we both successfully accomplished the mission we shared when we started the journey, having significantly enhanced the value of the company and increased the group’s presence in Italy and across Europe.” Turqi Al Nowaiser, Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments Division at PIF, said: “Our investment in Rocco Forte Hotels reflects PIF’s confidence in both the …

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Copthorne Hotel Dubai wins Best 4 Star Hotel at Arabian Travel Awards 2023

Copthorne Hotel Dubai walked away as the winner of ‘Best 4 Star Hotel’ at Arabian Travel Awards 2023. Shady Dawad – General Manager – Copthorne Hotel Dubai shared, “The Arabian Travel Awards is a fascinating assembly of innovators in the hospitality industry. Being consistently named the Best 4-Star Hotel is an incredible experience. This demonstrates our dedication to providing excellent guest service. The award is a powerful inspiration for us to ignite our zeal and strive for even greater heights in the year 2024.”    

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DCT Abu Dhabi launches inaugural Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) hosted its inaugural Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum, a new platform that empowers and connects UAE nationals working across the emirate’s tourism sector. The event saw the participation of DCT Abu Dhabi leadership and over 80 Emirati tourism professionals from across the sector, representing diverse roles such as tour guides, agents, marketers, and managers, among others. The annual forum was incepted to highlight the pivotal role Emiratis play in delivering authentic experiences for visitors, and to facilitate networking and the exchange of invaluable insights about Abu Dhabi’s rapidly growing tourism and hospitality sector. HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “As we continue to grow and elevate Abu Dhabi’s tourism landscape, we must ensure our community of Emirati tourism and hospitality ambassadors are given the tools and resources needed to deliver authentic and unforgettable experiences for all. The Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum will amplify the voices of our Emirati talent, while leveraging their unique perspectives to steer and evolve Abu Dhabi’s hospitality industry.” The Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum aligns with DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission to cultivate a dynamic, diverse and inclusive tourism sector, one that celebrates the rich heritage and warm hospitality that defines Emirati culture.  

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Exploring Paradise: Discovering the Maldives’ Iconic Atolls this Festive Season

From Baa to Ari, Unveil the Beauty of Maldivian Atolls – Unwrap the Gift of Maldivian atolls and Venture into Paradise During the Holiday Season. December in the Maldives is a time of pure delight with its powder-soft white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. With the northeast monsoon ushering in dry, sunny days, it’s the perfect season for exploration. Expect to encounter vibrant marine life, crystal-clear waters, and sunny skies. Before Going To make the most of your Maldivian adventure, here are some travel tips to consider: Book in advance: December is a popular time to visit. Booking your flights, accommodation and activities well in advance is recommended. Check visa requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visa or permits to enter the country. Travel Declaration: Visitors are required to submit this form 96 hours before their flight to and from Maldives. Pack sunscreen and swimwear: Protecting your skin from the tropical sun is paramount, don’t forget your swimwear for all your water adventures. Snorkelling and diving gear: If you have your own gear, consider bringing it along with you. Festive Tips and Things to Do The Maldives offers a treasure trove of experiences that are well loved such as water adventures through snorkelling, scuba diving and windsurfing; delving into Maldivian culture, heritage and local tradition through island exploration; booking wellness escapes to rejuvenate the body and soul at the world-class wellness centres; basking in the Maldivian twilight with cruises and savouring the culinary gems of Maldives with its fresh seafood and aromatic spices.   For this season, enhance your Maldivian experience with a variety of offers from the many world-class properties nestled in this mesmerising country. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa …

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Dynamic Insights and Industry Evolution strategies highlighted at the 6th Annual ROC Commercial Strategy Conference

The 6th edition of the annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference commenced with a day of insightful dialogues and expert discussions, setting the tone for a transformative event in the realm of hospitality and tourism. The opening addresses by Mona Faraj, Managing Director of HSMAI Middle East, and Bob Gilbert, President & CEO of HSMAI, welcomed a diverse assembly of industry professionals, setting the stage for a day packed with knowledge-sharing and innovation. The plenary sessions began with a captivating talk by Steven van Belleghem, a Customer Experience Enthusiast, who outlined the journey from customer service aspiration to actualization, likening companies to ‘Diamonds in the Rough’ striving for CX excellence. Following was a spirited panel discussion on Destination Marketing, moderated by Iva Skrlec, Hilton’s Director of Destination Marketing for MEA & Turkey. Panelists, including Liam Findlay of Miral Destinations, Nicholas Hall of the Digital Tourism Think Tank, and Alka Winter from Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, explored the critical role tourism boards play in molding destination narratives and driving demand. Marie-Louise Ek, Hilton’s VP of Human Resources MEA, shed light on the ‘Crafting Essential Leadership for Modern Work Realities,’ addressing the megatrends influencing hospitality leadership. The conference then delved into the interconnectedness of commercial decisions and asset value, with a discussion led by Omar Eltahry, a seasoned Hospitality Advisor, and panelists from Accor, United Hospitality Management, and Mashreq, who shared real-world insights on revenue enhancement and asset management. Mona Faraj, Managing Director of the Middle East chapter of HSMAI said, “As we celebrate the opening of 6th annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference, we use this opportunity to chart the future of our industry together with hospitality pioneers …

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ENVI Lodges expands Oman portfolio with its second luxury ecolodge to launch on the shores of Al Sifah

Luxury ENVI Lodges announced plans to add a second property to its portfolio in Oman. ENVI Al Sifah is set to open in late 2025 and will be located on a preserved sandy beach where a lush wadi meets the Arabian Sea. It will feature 40 luxury sea-view tents created by Tenthouse Structures, each designed to withstand the coastal climate while providing natural ventilation to ensure guest comfort. This new eco-retreat, nestled on the pristine shores of Al Sifah, only an hour away from Muscat, promises an unparalleled beach experience, connecting guests with the beauty of the Omani coastline and its rich cultural heritage. The announcement comes just weeks after ENVI announced its entry into the Sultanate with mountain ecolodge ENVI Al Jabel Al Akhdar. The ecolodge, owned by a consortium of Omani investors, will include common facilities such as a restaurant serving seafood and locally sourced cuisine, a wellness centre, a swimming pool, a kids’ club, and an activities centre. Outdoor spaces will be available for fireside theme nights and will include an open-air beach cinema. Experiences curated at the ecolodge will connect guests to the Omani culture and include dhow restoration and cooking workshops. For relaxation, meditation and yoga sessions will be offered, while adventure enthusiasts will be able to enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, paddle boarding in the Gulf of Oman, hiking, and the opportunity to discover nearby Bandar Khayran, a hidden gem beach known for its breath-taking views and sustainable fishing. ENVI Lodges is committed to sustainable tourism and will implement eco-friendly practices, including renewable energy sources, water conservation, recycling, and waste management programmes. The company also aims to engage and support local communities, starting with the rehabilitation …

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6th ROC ME Commercial Strategy conference kicks off today

With TravTalkME as the media partner, the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International – Middle East (HSMAI ME) kicks off its sixth edition of  ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference from 28 to 29, November 2023 to boost the Middle East’s hospitality sector. With the finest leading industry leaders under one roof, this year’s conference aims to take the Middle East hospitality sector to the next level where attendees can expand their network by connecting with trailblazers and peers, gain insights from seasoned professionals and learn about the latest trends and strategies. “The 6th annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference is a unique gathering of industry pioneers, where competitors unite to shape the future and elevate their skills. It’s the pulse of innovation in the hotel industry, bringing together all the commercial thought leaders from sales, marketing, revenue management, distribution, hotel brands, and owner groups here in the region to share current and future trends. The conference will feature a range of topics, discussions, and best practices, led by world-class regional and international experts,” said Mona Faraj, Managing Director of the Middle East chapter of HSMAI. “This year’s ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the hospitality industry with global standards in mind. Here, we break down competitive barriers and come together as a community, committed to setting new standards of excellence and driving the future of hospitality forward,” added Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, President and CEO, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI). “We at Atomize are honored to be the Platinum Sponsor and delighted.” The 6th annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy …

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