Category Archives: Hotels

Ascott has added a record number of over 14,200 units across 71 properties worldwide for 2020, with the aim of growing its global portfolio to 160,000 units by 2023. Despite COVID-19, this exceeds the number of units secured in 2019, marking a fourth consecutive year of record growth for the group. Kevin Goh, CapitaLand’s Chief Executive Officer for Lodging and Ascott’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “COVID-19 has validated the resilience of Ascott’s business model as property owners continue to sign new management and franchise contracts with us, allowing us to achieve our fourth consecutive year of record growth in 2020. Through these new contracts, we continue to build our future recurring fee income stream. In 2021, over 80 properties with about 17,000 units are slated to open across the world. We will continue to look for opportunities to expand our presence through management contracts, franchises, strategic alliances, and stand ready to seize good investment opportunities.” Vincent Miccolis, Ascott’s Regional GM for Middle East, Africa, Turkey and India, said, “Despite the challenges the hospitality industry faced across the world in 2020, our sustainable business model has allowed us to stand firm performance-wise. While we continue reinforcing our position in the Middle East, where we have established a strong presence in key markets such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, our focus over the next five years is to strengthen our geographical presence in the emerging markets within Africa. We will continue to focus on strengthening our regional portfolio even further, to meet our ambitious growth plan of 10,000 units by 2025 and bring Ascott brands to key countries where the demand for internationally branded hotels and serviced apartments …

Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai unveils its family-friendly winter staycation packages inclusive of free tickets at any of the five Emaar entertainment attractions located at The Dubai Mall. Starting at AED 659/, the deal is inclusive of a one-night stay in a one-bedroom apartment, plus breakfast for two adults and two kids aged six and below. As part of the package, guests will get one day-pass at Kidzania Dubai, or they can opt for two tickets from any of these four attractions at The Dubai Mall: Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, VR Park, or EkartZabeel. For added convenience, Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai offers guests complimentary shuttle drop off at The Dubai Mall during their hotel stay. Alternatively, the free tickets can be used within 30 days from the check-in date. To add more perks to the fun-filled staycation, guests will also receive 20% off at Kenza Restaurant and  in-room dining orders, and AED50/ gift voucher at the newly-opened Rayya Wellness.

sbe in collaboration with World of Wonders Real Estate Development announced SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences is set to welcome guests, residential, hotel and local alike, in the second quarter of 2021.The highly anticipated project soars 75 floors to the sky and is located in Downtown Dubai’s Burj Khalifa District. Split between 254 uniquely designed hotel rooms, 321 hotel apartments and 371 branded residences, the luxurious new hotel property is one of the tallest in the city. SLS Dubai features sbe’s signature culinary concepts Fi’lia, authentic Italian restaurant, and Carna by Dario Cecchini, a contemporary steakhouse from the legendary butcher from Tuscany, Italy. S Bar, sbe’s mixology lounge is located in the lobby, as well as signature rooftop nightlife venue, Privilege. EllaMia is a sophisticated café that brings its dedicated Los Angeles-based coffee culture to Dubai and at 12 Chairs Caviar Bar, caviar takes centre stage, reserved for only 12 guests, to experience and indulge. A state-of-the-art Fitness Center, salon and the exclusive Ciel Spa will cater to guests’ beauty, wellness and fitness needs. Chadi Farhat, Chief Operating Officer, sbe states, “We are excited to open our doors to Dubai’s diverse travellers and residents, welcoming them with the signature SLS style of luxury, hospitality and comfort. Naturally as a major destination for global travellers, Dubai was the ideal location for our next SLS hotel. Home to over six of sbe’s signature culinary and nightlife experiences, SLS Dubai will be the ultimate lifestyle destination in Dubai”.

Neorcha has partnered with Dubai-based TIME Hotels to launch its new performance-based App in the Middle East. It is the first hotel group to introduce the new Neorcha App across its property portfolio. The deployment of additional mobile and contactless guest services is aligned with the Group’s “Sanitised& Ready” protocol, launched in partnership with global leading hygiene solutions provider Diversey, to embrace the new normal as the hotels welcome guests after COVID-19 restrictions were eased over the summer. Joseph Fayad, Corporate Director of Information Technology at TIME Hotels commented, “The implementation of innovative technology is crucial to our recovery post-COVID-19, and our future growth within the tourism industry. As pioneers of the tourism industry, we want to be early adopters of new technology. The partnership with Neorcha helps us achieve this and underscores our commitment to our guests by ensuring seamless interactions at every step of the customer journey.” Rogerl El Khoury, Managing Director and Founder of Neorcha, said: “We are delighted to welcome TIME Hotels as the first hospitality group to implement our new performance-based App, enabling its hotels to provide seamless and contactless self services to its guests as part of the group’s commitment to offer the highest safety standards.”

Accor opens new Pullman in one of the most sought after locations in Dubai, Business Bay. The group has partnered for the very first time with Twenty 14 Holding; an Abu Dhabi based Hospitality Company, with acquisitions and management of assets throughout the globe. “We are very pleased to add Pullman Downtown Dubai to our expanding network in the city through this exciting partnership with Twenty 14 Holding” says Mark Willis, CEO India, Turkey, Middle East & Africa for Accor “There is no doubt that this property is set to become a flagship for the Pullman in Dubai due to its ideal fit with the brand.” “The partnership between Accor and Twenty 14 Holding brings to fruition a sophisticated and urban property in the heart of Dubai,” says Alexander Musch, General Manager at Pullman Downtown Dubai “We are excited for the launch and eager to welcome guests to an elevated experience at Pullman Downtown Dubai.” “We are pleased to partner with the Accor Group and be part of their strong footprint and network in the region”, said Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of Twenty14 Holdings. “Pullman is aligned with our expectations and vision as an asset owning company, and with Accor’s loyalty program and management expertise, we are confident that guests at our property will get to experience the best of global hospitality.”

Aparthotel Adagio Dubai Deira, has opened the doors to its newest property in Deira, Dubai, offering guests an unforgettable ‘home away from home’ experience coupled with the convenience of hotel services and facilities. Perfectly juxtaposing the rich past of Dubai with its futuristic present, the modern property is located within the heart of Dubai’s heritage center and boasts panoramic views of the city, allowing guests to celebrate the story of Dubai from its early establishment to its opulent present and future. Aparthotel Adagio Dubai Deira features 189 fully furnished contemporary apartments including 69 studio apartments, 90 one-bedroom and 30 two-bedroom apartments. All apartments have been designed keeping comfort and convenience of guests at the forefront and come fitted with fully equipped kitchens, washing machines, private balconies and offer complimentary WiFi and indoor parking. Commenting on the launch of the hotel, Robin Solomon, Hotel Manager of Aparthotel Adagio Dubai Deira said “We are thrilled to have launched Aparthotel Adagio in Deira and to strengthen the brand’s incredible expansion locally and internationally. This property especially stands out because of its unique location and distinct offering that caters to a variety of audiences. From business travelers to families and couples, there is something to match everyone’s needs”. He added, “The Adagio brand is rooted in offering guests a truly unique and comfortable modern home style living experience and we look forward to welcoming guests and treating them to an experience they will always cherish”.

Anantara announces the reopening of its Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts from February 1. Lush landscapes, archaeological marvels and exotic wildlife await just 25 minutes from the mainland, and three unique resorts welcome guests with signature hospitality for unforgettable journeys. As one of the top resorts in the Middle East, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Resorts combine pristine beach retreats with natural wonders, world-class service and opulent accommodation, alluring the perfect balance of off-grid island getaway, five-star luxury and once-in-a-lifetime experiences in this singular setting. Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort offers guests the chance to get rooted in the natural world. Nestled in the Arabian Wildlife Park, an oasis of African-lodge-style villas is surrounded by a lush landscape. Excursions into the park include nature walks and drives, while a unique “Spa Cabana in the Savannah” experience promises utter bliss. Savannah Grill and Savannah Lounge serve up delicious delicacies from all over Africa, and vibrant Boma Nights bring the bush culture alive through music and al fresco cookery. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara welcomes families with modern amenities, elegant traditional touches and culinary adventures. Gourmet seafood entices at Amwaj, international buffet breakfasts await at The Palm and Al Shams serves bites and delights by the pool. Meanwhile, on the tranquil beachfront, Anantara Spa welcomes guests with timeless relaxation experiences, from the ancient rituals of Arabia, to age-old eastern health practices, performed by experts using natural products. Guests at all three of the island’s Anantara resorts are invited to discover the spa delights available in each location.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—the first Grand Hyatt hotel in the Kingdom. The 368-room luxury hotel including 54 residential units is situated in the commercial and retail heart of Al Khobar with a connecting bridge to Al Rashid Mall. Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences is the sixth Hyatt-branded hotel in Saudi Arabia, and the fifth hotel under the Grand Hyatt brand in the Middle East, making it an important milestone in Hyatt’s growth strategy in the region. Reflecting a bold and vibrant design, the hotel offers an ideal destination for both business and leisure guests to celebrate moments that matter, both big and small. “We are thrilled to open the first Grand Hyatt hotel in Saudi Arabia and we look forward to welcoming guests seeking magnificent moments from this iconic destination,” said Nizar Weshah, General Manager at Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences. “Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences celebrates these moments and exceeds guest expectations by delivering iconic cuisine, breathtaking design and unparalleled service.”

Amilla Maldives Resort and Residencies has partnered with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy (MAGC). As one of the region’s most prominent hospitality and tourism consultancy, sales and representation groups, MAGC will help elevate awareness within the GCC region of the five-star resort, which is located in the renowned Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. MAGC is recognized in the GCC as an indigenously grown industry leader in tourism and hospitality representation. With two decades of experience with global clients in both the government and private sector, this exciting partnership will actively drive brand recognition of Amilla Maldives in the Middle East market. The Middle East region is one of the fastest growing, tourist-generating regions in the world, as outbound travel quadrupled within the last 20 years, according to the United Nations World Travel Organization. This partnership is the result of Amilla Maldives’ ongoing evolution. Having redefined and rebranded its enticing and pioneering unique selling points, as well as launched a revolutionary Residence Ownership scheme, the innovative Maldives resort is driving awareness amongst travellers and travel industry players in key strategic markets within the region.  The move is timely, since Amilla has weathered the pandemic through its dynamic response and development of exemplary COVID-prevention protocols and is now looking forward to nurturing new and developing markets (as well as welcoming back established markets). While the travel industry as a whole continues to navigate the changing landscapes, there are signs of hope on the horizon thanks to newly developed vaccines.  

Ascott has entered into a franchise agreement with Al Majed Hotel Management WLL, announced the signing of its newest property, Somerset Al Mansoura Doha, set to open in Qatar’s capital in Q4 2021.The new serviced residence marks the group’s second property in the country under the name of “Somerset Al Mansoura Doha”, and will operate as a franchised property, in partnership with Al Majed Group Holding, a family business established in 1943. Mr. Vincent Miccolis, Ascott’s Regional General Manager for the Middle East, Africa, Turkey & India, says: “We are delighted to sign the franchise agreement with Al Majed Hotel Management WLL, to develop Somerset Al Mansoura Doha in one of the city’s most prominent central districts.  Doha is a modern and thriving city with rapidly developing infrastructure and progressive architecture, and we are confident that this new property – under our award-winning Somerset brand of serviced apartments – will provide exclusive extended-stay offerings for business and leisure travellers.” Jacob V Jacob, CFO & VPA, Al Majed Group Holding said, “ Ascott is a reputed global brand and our association will ensure that Somerset Al Mansoura offers the best of serviced apartments in the country. Located in the heart of Doha, Somerset Al Mansoura serviced apartments are designed to provide the utmost in comfort and convenience with a range of leisure and recreation facilities.We are sure that guests will experience the true essence of Qatari hospitality blended perfectly with Ascott authenticity at Somerset Al Mansoura in Doha.”