Category Archives: Hotels

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group signed an agreement with the Al Khozama Company to manage and ultimately brand the Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh.  The Group will take over the management in the first quarter of 2021. The hotel is undergoing an extensive guestroom and public area renovation which will be completed at the end of 2021, after which it will be rebranded Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh. The Al Faisaliah Hotel is in the heart of the Central Business District of Riyadh, providing easy access to corporate offices, government buildings, high end shopping, restaurants and cafés. It forms an integral part of the mixed-use Al Faisaliah Centre, designed by Foster & Partners. The hotel comprises 321 guestrooms and suites, with new interiors designed by Adam Tihany Design, New York. Also featured are a variety of refreshed restaurants, lounges and bars, including the popular top floor venue which commands outstanding views of the city. Revitalised function spaces will cater to social events and business meetings, while an indoor swimming pool, male and female spa areas and a fitness centre complete the leisure facilities. “The Al Faisaliah Hotel has been a leading light in Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector since opening its doors 20 years ago. We are pleased to be partnering with Mandarin Oriental to further develop the hotel and to create the most luxurious and sophisticated property in the region,” said Khalid Abuhaimed, CEO of Al Khozama. “We are delighted to further strengthen Mandarin Oriental’s presence in the Middle East by introducing the brand to Saudi Arabia and bringing the Group’s legendary service to Riyadh,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. “We look forward to collaborating with …

Rotana announced the highly anticipated opening of its 35th property in the UAE, in the prestigious Al Jaddaf district of Dubai. In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mana bin Khalifa al Maktoum, Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel Dubai was officially inaugurated, further cementing the group’s expanding footprint and commitment to the region’s thriving hospitality sector. Speaking at the official opening, Guy Hutchinson, President and CEO of Rotana said, “I am grateful to the team at Al Jaddaf Rotana and the wider Rotana team, whose vision, resilience and determination have allowed us to reach our goal of a 2020 opening as originally planned. Al Jaddaf Rotana represents a huge milestone for Rotana. As a homegrown brand, we are committed to further developing and diversifying the hospitality industry in the UAE in line with the government’s broader economic and tourism objectives.” Haytham Omar, General Manager, Al Jaddaf Rotana said, “Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel Dubai represents an incomparable fixture in Dubai and the UAE.  We are committed to offering innovative ways to improve the guest experiences that embody the Rotana way of living. The concept of creating moments of ‘Treasured Time’ is central to this promise.  The district of Al Jaddaf has much to offer guests in the way of unique experiences and I am confident this hotel will become the property of choice for those seeking a comfortable, easily accessible and stylish home away from home for either business or leisure.”

Miral, Abu Dhabi’s curator of experiences, appoints Hilton, to bring two of its new and unique hospitality offerings to Yas Island, while it invests AED 627 Million in their development. The WB Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Warner Bros. branded hotel, will be operated and managed by Hilton under its upper-upscale Curio Collection by Hilton brand, while the serviced residences to be managed by DoubleTree by Hilton. B.R. Kiran, Chief Portfolio Officer at Miral said, “Hilton is a globally recognized partner and we are honored to be partnering with them to bring the Curio Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton brands to Abu Dhabi for the first time. This supports our strategy and vision of creating unforgettable experiences for every guest on Yas Island, while increasing the diversity of hospitality options available to them. We are confident that residents and visitors alike will welcome the diverse and flexible range of new accommodation options, whilst enjoying the unmatched experiences and unique attractions available to them on Yas Island.” Carlos Khneisser, VP of Development, MEA at Hilton said, “We are proud to be partnering with Miral on these two new hotels which will see us introduce two new brands to Abu Dhabi. The WB Abu Dhabi, which will be part of Hilton’s Curio Collection is a magnificent example of the sort of unique guest experiences we look for with our Curio Collection, while DoubleTree by Hilton Yas Island Residences continues the successful growth of this brand in the UAE. Miral has a clear vision to develop Yas Island into a global destination and we look forward to being a part of this transformation.”

ORZU Hospitality Group announced its launch in the UAE, as it outlines its strategic roll-out plan for the months ahead. With three venues scheduled to open by Q1 2021, all located at The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, and seven further launches scheduled throughout 2021 within the UAE, the team, headed by respected industry leader Mirzo Hafizov, previously part of the renowned Jumeirah Group and the Bulldozer Group amongst other reputed brands, has a bold vision for the UAE. ORZU Hospitality Group, (Orzu meaning ‘dream’ in English), is founded on the principles of bringing high quality, unique and authentic culinary experiences to the UAE, drawing on the combined experience and pedigree of the management team and their ability to develop and operate commercially successful concepts. This includes and is not limited to combining gastro eclectic authentic cuisines from Asia together with techniques and local ingredients from the UAE. Digital business solutions are also a priority for the group, introducing completely new approaches to hospitality in the UAE, placing Orzu ahead of the competition. Mirzo Hafizov comments, “I have a long-held, deep-rooted passion for the art of hospitality and a specific love of the culinary industry in the UAE, with its exciting, diverse range of cultural influences. It is also home to many talented chefs and hospitality experts. As such, I’m pleased to announce the launch of ORZU Hospitality Group and the imminent opening of three new venues, which I hope will be welcomed as a positive addition to the existing scene.”

Morpho Hotels & Resorts announced its official brand entry into the Middle East market, and it will soon open its doors to the UAE residents and tourists in 2021. The advent of the pandemic has brought about a change in a traveller’s expectations while choosing a hotel. The brand aims to revolutionise the hospitality industry in the region with the introduction of new hotels equipped with optimised and digitised operations with a strict adherence to the highest levels of hygiene and safety to deliver an exceptional experience for all its guests. Dipinder Benjamin, CEO of Morpho Hotels and Resorts commented, “Despite the various challenges presented by the pandemic, we are committed to launch our next phase of growth bringing with us a fresh approach to the hospitality industry. The Morpho brand will provide affordable and accessible accommodation with the highest service standards in conjunction with intuitive technology.” The Group also announced its strategic partnership with Wakira Investments, a Dubai-based seasoned food investment company, which owns popular local restaurants including Kulcha King, Nom Nom Asia and El Greco. The partnership signals the Morpho hotels commitment to expand its footprint through joining forces with Wakira Investments in the Middle East, Africa, Turkey, Iraq, and the Levant. Nader A. Bassit, CEO of Wakira Investments said, “Morpho’s vision and ambition are a perfect match to Wakira’s DNA. Morpho Hotels has a strong leadership team backed by decades of experience and innovative management systems. Wakira Investments is a blend of solid professionals and seasoned shareholders, both with many years of market experiences ranging from hospitality, retail, food processing, investments, to restaurants, and is keen on bringing growing concepts to its region. We look forward to …

IHG Hotels & Resorts launched their loyalty partnership to give IHG Rewards members an even wider selection of luxury and lifestyle hotels to indulge in while they earn and redeem points. This month, the first selection of over 400 handpicked Mr & Mrs Smith hotels are available to book by IHG Rewards members through IHG’s direct channels (including IHG.com and IHG mobile app). New hotels will be added each week, with the full selection of stylish properties available to book by early December. This exclusive partnership more than doubles the number of luxury and lifestyle hotels which members can choose from; complementing IHG’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio of hotels and resorts across Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent® Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants and Hotel Indigo. IHG Rewards members will be able to experience even more of the world’s most sought-after luxury and lifestyle hotels, including Smith’s most seductive stays, such as Thyme in the Cotswolds, UK; Caldera House in Jackson Hole and Casa Morada in Islamorada, near Key West; Florida, US; Oltrarno Splendid in Florence, Italy and The Retreat at Blue Lagoon in Iceland. This includes hotels in 11 new destinations where IHG is not currently present: Barbados, Belize, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Croatia, Iceland, Sweden, Morocco, Mozambique, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. As well as earning and redeeming loyalty points for their stays, IHG Rewards members can expect great extras on arrival at each Mr &Mrs Smith hotel. Elite IHG Rewards members will receive Bonus Points on eligible room rates according to their tiers, while InterContinental Ambassadors and Royal Ambassadors and Kimpton Inner Circle members will receive a …

Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of its first Park Inn by Radisson in Riyadh, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s capital city. The opening of the hotel strengthens the brand’s presence in Saudi Arabia to nine hotels, and brings the group’s portfolio across the country to over 45 hotels, resorts and serviced apartments in operation and under development, accelerating Radisson Hotel Group’s expansion.Riyadh is the largest city and capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with a flourishing financial business hub and a vibrant social scene. This modern, cutting-edge metropolis boldly strides towards the future, while remaining firmly rooted in tradition and its historical past. As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the country is continuing its commitment to international tourism by welcoming them to experience first-hand the country’s rich history, traditional old souks, and myriad of forts, palaces and museums, which have transformed Riyadh into an ideal location for both business and leisure travellers. Park Inn by Radisson Riyadh embraces the brand’s ‘feel good’ atmosphere with its fresh and energetic hotel offering and vibrant environment, connected through design, technology and social spaces. Located in the Al Malaz business district, the hotel features 192 contemporary rooms and suites. Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President, Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group, said, “We are delighted to open our first Park Inn by Radisson in the city of Riyadh, especially during this challenging time. In line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, we are excited to further grow our presence across the Kingdom, and work together to make Saudi Arabia a must-visit destination. We remain committed to expanding our position in the Saudi market, as the Kingdom remains a key focus area …

Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights is one of the first hotels to have achieved GBAC STAR accreditation this week. The Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a Division of ISSA, provides training, guidance, accreditation, certification, crisis management assistance, and leadership to government, commercial and private entities looking to mitigate, quickly address, and/or recover from biological threats and real-time crises. “GBAC STAR is the gold standard of safe facilities, providing third-party validation that ensures facilities implement strict protocols for biorisk situations. Accreditation empowers facility owners and managers to assure workers, customers, and key stakeholders that they have proven systems in place to deliver clean and healthy environments that are safe for business.” says Patricia Olinger, Executive Director of the Global Biorisk Advisory Council. GBAC STAR is performance based and developed by experts who have spent their careers focusing on creating protocols for facilities to reduce risk during outbreaks. Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights, being a prominent hotel that welcomes all guests for a safe and healthy stay has ensured their accreditation along with several other initiatives taken with internal as well as external stakeholders.The world has changed, our care has not. Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights proudly takes a step forward to put their guest’s safety and well-being first with this accreditation.

In line with the Ajman Tourism Development Department’s guidelines and precautionary measures, Ajman Saray is the first hotel in Ajman to be awarded the BV Certification by His Highness Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. This ensures the emirate continuous efforts in positioning itself as a favourable tourist destination for the UAE residents and as well as international visitors.The award comes after Ajman Tourism Development Department’s ongoing efforts in ensuring the safety of tourists, guests, visitors, hospitality employees in the Emirate. The BV Certification is a testament to Ajman Tourism’s comprehensive and strict precautionary measures in making the Emirate a safe destination to travel. Upon awarding the BV certification to Ajman Saray, His Highness Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi Chairman of Ajman Tourism Development Department expressed his gratitude by saying, “It gives me immense pleasure to award the first BV certification to Ajman Saray that has been extremely cooperative in complying with every preventive measure efficiently. The high-standard checks instructed by Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) were carried out in cooperation with Ajman Medical District and Ajman Crises Management Team.” He further added that “These checks are part of the preventive programs of the UAE health authorities to reinforce the precautionary measures to limit the spread of coronavirus that include all employees in Ajman hotels, to safeguard and promote a healthy work environment for every staff member.” The certification Bureau Veritas (BV) embodies a comprehensive checklist to confirm compliance with strong hygiene practices, social distancing, and other precautionary recommendations to guarantee the highest levels of safety. It further regulates field audits to monitor that the protective measures are executed efficiently. Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) welcomes its guests for …

Meliã Desert Palm Dubai now welcomes guests to celebrate their special day in an elegant outdoor setting, especially in the winter months. With the recent announcement made by the Supreme Committee of Crisis & Disaster Management in Dubai permitting hotels to host weddings for up to 200 people. Meliã Desert Palm Dubai’s rustic and chic venues deliver an exclusive experience, away from the city’s noise, to not only host dreamy weddings but also proposals and bridal showers. For those looking to enjoy the outdoor splendour, the Olive Garden lends an air of history, nature and romance in an unforgettable location.The 300-year-old olive trees provide the perfect locale against the backdrop of the 160-acre polo field and the wide acres of green lawns graciously accommodate guests for a seated dinner with sufficient social distancing between the tables.For those that prefer being indoors for an intimate gathering, the spacious Polo Rooms can be transformed with gorgeous décor. The Polo Rooms provide complete private access so guests don’t need to pass through the main hotel building. Alternatively, Meliã Desert Palm Dubai offers a selection of exclusive, romantic spaces including The Courtyard, The Museum Lawn, The Green Veranda and The Argentinian Table, which can all be set up as per the couple’s requirements, and in adherence with the guidelines issued by the government. The resort’s in-house wedding planner boasts excellent experience in the overall requirements of both local and international wedding parties and can organise western, Arabic and Asian-style weddings. The planner will guide the couple through selecting themes, dramatic backdrops, customised menus, floral arrangements, entertainment and lighting for the day, and assist in sourcing all the requirements. Executive Chef Gaston Silva Herrera and …