Category Archives: Hotels

Minor Hotels  announced that it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Soma Bay Hotel Company SAE to develop a hotel under its luxury Anantara brand in Egypt. The first project under this partnership is expected to be announced later this year. Located in Soma Bay, a coastal resort destination on the Red Sea in Egypt, this self-contained, 2,500-acre community is just 45 km south of Hurghada International Airport. Set on a picturesque peninsula, Soma Bay offers a wide range of leisure activities, including diving, windsurfing, and sailing, making it a premier destination. The emerging resort destination also features one of the largest naturally occurring spas and thalassotherapy offerings in the region, where guests can experience a range of seawater-based treatments designed to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and wellness using the healing properties of the Red Sea’s mineral-rich waters. Anantara is set to bring its signature luxury experience to Soma Bay with a new resort and branded residence complex, details of which will be announced soon. Since 2001, Anantara has offered immersive, authentic travel experiences that connect guests to the unique culture, people, and stories of each destination. With over 50 properties across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian Ocean, Anantara’s hotels and resorts are in vibrant cities, tranquil beaches, deserts, and jungles, providing warm, Thai-rooted hospitality and creating unforgettable memories for every traveller. Soma Bay Hotel Company, based in Egypt, operates in the hospitality sector and owns several luxury properties along the Red Sea. Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of parent company Minor International, commented, “We are thrilled to expand the global reach of Minor Hotels with our entry into the Egyptian market. …

SanJeet Director DDP Group moderated an insightful session titled, ‘Wellness and celebratory tourism’ with three industry experts at the Arabian Travel Market. Paul Stevens, COO, MEA and Turkiye for Accor Hotels and Resorts Management, Eddy Tannous – COO – Rotana Hotels and Kathryn Moore – Managing Director Spa Connectors joined in the panel discussion where it was shared the growth of the industry, the many revenue aspects surrounding this multi-billion dollar business which happens to still need a new interface in the age of discovery and to be relevant to the customers.

The Arabian Travel Awards, one of the Middle East’s most prestigious platforms celebrating excellence in travel, tourism, and hospitality, is set to return for its landmark eighth edition on 25th November 2025. This invite-only event will bring together the region’s top leaders and innovators to honour outstanding contributions that continue to define the Middle East’s global travel identity. A symbol of credibility and industry recognition, the Arabian Travel Awards has become a trusted benchmark for excellence across the GCC. Backed by TravTalk Middle East and TravelTV News, the 2025 edition will feature awards across four dynamic segments: Personal Awards, Business Awards, Trending Awards, and Partner Awards—each designed to spotlight individuals and organisations leading change and driving growth. This year’s award categories include industry benchmarks such as Best Business Hotel, Best Green Hotel, Best Destination Management Company, Best B2B Travel Portal, and Best Luxury Hotel, reflecting the diversity and depth of the region’s tourism ecosystem. Winners are selected through a transparent, online voting system, ensuring credibility and inclusiveness. Speaking on the occasion, San Jeet, Mentor, Arabian Travel Awards, noted: “The awards this year come at a pivotal time. With the region witnessing historic growth and tourism becoming a strategic economic pillar, it’s more important than ever to recognise those leading the way. From sustainability champions to digital disruptors, the Arabian Travel Awards is a tribute to those redefining the future of travel in the GCC.” In a testament to its growing influence, the 2025 edition welcomes Embassy Suites by Hilton as its Hospitality Partner, marking the brand’s debut in the UAE. Ziad Tantawi, Cluster General Manager, Embassy Suites by Hilton, said: “As Embassy Suites by Hilton makes its debut in the …

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is once again making waves with the launch of its latest water sports adventure—the Jet Car Experience. Set against the backdrop of the island’s turquoise lagoon, the Jet Car offers an exciting way to explore the ocean in comfort and style. With its sleek automotive-inspired design and smooth performance, this water ride is perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to add a little adventure to their stay. Whether cruising under the sun or capturing perfect picture moments, the Jet Car adds an extraordinary and refreshing twist to island leisure. Launched in anticipation of the resort’s whimsical Easter festivities, the Jet Car sets the stage for an action-packed holiday in paradise. From Easter egg hunts and creative kids’ programs to beachside feasts, live entertainment, and themed dining events — Easter at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is a celebration for every generation. Easter Holiday Offer – book by April 20, 2025, for stays until December 23, 2025. Enjoy free seaplane transfers for one guest with a 4-night stay, plus up to 30% off villas and beach dining. Book a 90-minute spa treatment and receive a 120-minute upgrade for free. Two children can enjoy complimentary wakeboarding or water skiing with two paying adults. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or serenity, the Jet Car experience and Easter escape at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi deliver the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and family-friendly fun.

Hilton announced the signing of two new properties in Cairo’s New Administrative Capital, Hilton Cairo New Capital Downtown and Hilton Garden Inn Cairo New Capital Downtown, in partnership with Panax Company, part of Selim Holding Group. Expected to open in 2028, this latest signing reinforces Hilton’s continued growth strategy in Egypt where the global hospitality company aims to triple its presence and exceed 40 trading properties across the country in the coming years. Strategically located in the heart of a transformative new capital designed to become a hub for business, culture, and innovation, both hotels will sit along the city’s Green River – a vast, landscaped park inspired by the Nile. The properties will be just minutes away from key landmarks including government ministries, the Central Bank, the Presidential Palace, and the Central Business District. Cairo International Airport is a 30-minute drive, ensuring convenient access for both domestic and international travellers. Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said: “The signing of these two new hotels in the Egyptian New Administrative Capital further reaffirms our commitment to continue diversifying and expanding our presence in the country. As one of the region’s most ambitious urban developments, we see strong potential in the New Administrative Capital’s evolution as a thriving economic hub, and we look forward to launching these outstanding properties to deliver an exceptional guest experience.” Hilton Cairo New Capital Downtown will feature 100 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed to foster energizing connections and offer comfort for all travellers. Guests will be able to enjoy the best of local and global culture through a variety of dining options including a lobby café, an all-day dining …

With just under a month to go before the Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia gets under way, investors, developers, government decision makers and regional hospitality leaders are gearing up for three days of networking, learning, debate and deal making in Riyadh with TravTalkME as media partner. Nearly 300 investors – almost one in four of all delegates – attended last year’s event, which created more than US$1.1 billion worth of business opportunities and saw 17 deals signed. With KSA’s hospitality and tourism transformation in full swing in line with Vision 2030, the stage is set for a wealth of new partnerships, signings and collaborations at FHS Saudi Arabia 2025. In the run up to FHS Saudi Arabia, I spoke to leaders from Taiba Investments, Al Khozama Investment Company, Baraka and AlNahla Group for their take on investing in KSA. Read on for insight on where these investors are heading, the importance of hospitality projects to Saudi’s overall real estate offering, how tourism targets can be met and what excites them most about KSA’s future tourism offering. With unprecedented expansion in real estate, tourism and hospitality in KSA, the opportunities for investment are seemingly endless. What are investors focusing on in terms of location and asset class? Taiba Investments is looking to solidify its position in the hospitality and real state sectors and aiming for sustainable growth by expanding in key hubs like Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah to elevate KSA’s status as a premier global destination. The company is looking to strategically expand its portfolio with several hotel openings, such as Rixos Obhur Jeddah, Makarem Burj Al Madinah, Crowne Plaza Takhassusi, Sheraton Madinah, Novotel Madinah and Riyadh Marriott Hotel Mursalat. …

IDeaS and services successfully deployed its G3 Revenue Management System (RMS) to help maximize profitability at the luxurious flagship resort, ERTH Abu Dhabi. Inspired by the UAE’s heritage – past, present and future – and former home of the UAE Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel, ERTH Abu Dhabi entered a new chapter in its journey in 2021 with its reinvention as an independent luxury resort, event venue and recreational center in the capital. ERTH, meaning legacy in Arabic, features 237 elegant rooms, 42 suites and 13 villas as well as a wide range of restaurants and lounges, 2,800 square meters of meeting and events space including its signature ballroom, extensive wellness, sport, fitness and leisure facilities and a 9,000 sqm Central Production Unit that can cater up to 100,000 meals per day. The rollout of the IDeaS revenue management solution will enable the hotel team to further automate and optimize its processes backed by advanced technology. Benefits of the partnership include:    

Novotel Deira Creekside and Novotel Suites Mall Avenue announce the launch of their NOVO25 campaign. Inspired by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community in the UAE, NOVO25 is all about embracing fresh beginnings, fostering connections, and creating positive change. Under the pillar “It’s Time to Unwind or Bond”, this yearlong campaign invites guests to come together, strengthen family ties, and be part of building a stronger, more connected community. Get ready to dive into an array of exciting experiences designed to inspire, entertain, and engage. From learning new skills to supporting sustainability, NOVO25 has something for everyone. “We’re incredibly excited to launch NOVO25 and invite our guests to join us in a year of meaningful experiences designed to help families and friends unwind, bond, and create lasting memories,” said Nishan Silva, Regional General Manager, Dubai & Emirates North, UAE “This campaign reflects our deep passion for sustainability in hospitality and our unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community. NOVO25 goes beyond offering fun and surprises; it is about nurturing relationships, championing sustainable practices, and playing our part in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for both our guests and the world around us.” As part of their commitment to sustainability and community engagement, both hotels are proud to collaborate with Project REEFRAME, led by FREESTYLE DIVERS, in a vital coral reef restoration project in Fujairah. This ambitious initiative aims to restore and rebalance ocean and coral reef ecosystems, contributing to the preservation of marine biodiversity and raising awareness about ocean conservation. Through this collaboration, the hotels are reinforcing their dedication to environmental responsibility and the well-being of our …

Marriott International, Inc. and Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) announced an agreement to bring a luxury resort and residential development under The Luxury Collection brand to Ras Al Khaimah. Situated within Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s flagship development, the project is anticipated to blend the brand’s authentic take on luxury while providing residents an elevated and exceptional living experience. The Luxury Collection Resort in Al Marjan Island is anticipated to comprise 466 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, along with 29 expansive villas. Design plans for the resort include multiple dining venues, a spa, fitness center, kids club, swimming pool, and padel court. The property is also slated to feature more than 3,500sqm of meeting and event space, including a 1,300sqm ballroom.

Rove Hotels announced the opening of its newest property, Rove Al Marjan Island. Situated on the idyllic beachfront of Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah and just an hour from Dubai, Rovers (guests) can enjoy the familiar, fuss-free Rove service with an added element of sun-kissed adventure. Brimming with local culture, dynamic dining spots, and pristine white sandy beaches, this is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled family vacation. Well connected, the property offers easy access to five international airports and is located just five minutes from the UAE’s first integrated resort with gaming, which is set to open in 2027. Bringing their signature Rove charm to one of the UAE’s most sought-after destinations, the hotel is perfect for staycations as well as long-term stays, offering Rovers the chance to explore the Emirate’s rich culture and an endless array of exciting activities. Developed by Marjan and with asset management provided by Stirling Hospitality Advisors, the property features 441 rooms with two types of Rove Rooms with all the usual comforts. Guests can choose between island vistas or stunning sea views, with 30% of the rooms interconnecting, making it ideal for families. Whether planning a short getaway or an extended stay, Rove Hotels ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience. The hotel design creates a bright, welcoming atmosphere with interiors inspired by local culture. Beyond aesthetics, Rove Al Marjan Island embodies the brand’s strong commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the property adheres to Ras Al Khaimah’s Green Building Regulations (Barjeel). It implements numerous eco-friendly initiatives, including eliminating single-use plastics, providing refillable water bottles in every room and F&B outlets, and composting 100% of food waste. These efforts are …