Category Archives: Hotels

IDeaS has signed a master service agreement with Adeera Hospitality in Saudi Arabia. The agreement provides a framework for Adeera Hospitality to implement IDeaS solutions across the entirety of their upcoming luxury properties in Saudi Arabia. Wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Adeera Hospitality is a hotel management company responsible for developing distinctive new Saudi hospitality brands. Adeera’s ambitious plans include launching a portfolio of 60+ all-new hotels among multiple brands over the coming five years. IDeaS was selected as Adeera Hospitality’s strategic partner for its best-of-breed solutions, proven expertise, and reputation for reliability and scalability. The adoption of IDeaS G3 RMS will enable hotels and resorts managed by Adeera to optimize their revenue strategies through powerful forecasting, precision pricing and effective inventory management capabilities. The first hotel in the roll-out is the Grand Hotel King Fahd Financial District in Riyadh, scheduled to open in 2026. Thomas Grundner, Chief Commercial Officer of Adeera Hospitality, said“Our partnership with IDeaS represents a significant step forward in establishing Adeera’s commercial framework. As we gear up to unveil a new era of Saudi-born hospitality brands, it is crucial that our hotels implement cutting edge data intelligence and revenue management from the very beginning. IDeaS technology and expertise will empower us to enhance pricing strategies, improve forecasting accuracy and elevate performance throughout our expanding portfolio guaranteeing that we provide tangible value to our owners and outstanding experiences to our guests.” Adeera Hospitality was particularly drawn to IDeaS’ advanced Group Evaluation functionality, which enables rapid assessment of a group’s total value as well as the impact of any potential displaced business. Additionally, the breadth of IDeaS’ forecasting and dynamic revenue optimization capabilities offers the flexibility for …

Mandarin Oriental announced the opening of Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, the Group’s second property in the city. Located within Wasl Tower, an architectural masterpiece on Sheikh Zayed Road, the hotel brings Mandarin Oriental’s signature blend of Asian heritage and local character to the heart of Downtown Dubai, curating a vertical boulevard where hospitality, culture and commerce unite. The urban property features 259 elegant guestrooms and suites, 224 private residences and 10 dining venues, all crowned by a rooftop helipad designed for discreet VIP arrivals. Developed in partnership with Wasl Hospitality, the hotel sets a new benchmark for contemporary luxury in the city. Designed by UNStudio and engineered by Werner Sobek, Wasl Tower is defined by its sculptural twisting form and the region’s tallest ceramic façade. Innovative ceramic fins enhance airflow and support natural cooling, whilst integrated energy-efficient technologies position the building as a model for sustainable vertical living. The interiors, by London-based G.A Group, draw from Mandarin Oriental’s Asian heritage and the dynamic character of Downtown Dubai. The hotel’s guestrooms and suites feature warm, understated palettes and custom furnishings, alongside expansive views of the Arabian Gulf or the Dubai skyline. A curated art collection runs throughout the property, featuring works by regional and international artists in hues inspired by the desert landscape. Sitting atop the hotel, are The Residences at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai — the brand’s first residential development in Dubai, set to launch in 2026 — offering a lifestyle defined by privacy, service and skyline views. Dining is at the heart of the hotel’s experience, beginning with Yù & Mì, a modern Chinese bar and restaurant inspired by the cultural energy of 1960s Hong Kong. At the forefront, Yù serves …

Marriott International, Inc. announced that it has signed an agreement with Invest İnşaat to debut Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy® in Türkiye. Situated at Vadistanbul area, one of Istanbul’s most prominent business and lifestyle destinations, the project further expands Marriott’s growing portfolio of extended stay and premium apartment-style accommodations across the region. Construction of Invista, Istanbul, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy has commenced, with an anticipated opening in 2026. Access Hospitality will collaborate with Marriott International and Invest İnşaat as the third-party operator for the franchised property. “Marriott International continues to see rising demand for premium apartment-style accommodations in major primary and secondary cities,” said Begüm Kaya, Senior Director, Development – Türkiye, Marriott International. “We look forward to working with Invest İnşaat to introduce Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy® in the country. This milestone highlights our commitment to expanding innovative lodging options in the market that meet the evolving preferences of today’s travellers.” Bahattin Uçar, Chairman of Invest İnşaat added, “We are proud to once again collaborate with Marriott International on this landmark project. Vadistanbul represents the future of urban living in Istanbul, and bringing Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy to this vibrant development reflects our shared vision to deliver world-class hospitality and lifestyle experiences in Türkiye.” Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy offers a truly independent stay with sizable living spaces and sophisticated locally inspired design, making each stay refreshingly unique. Located within the Maslak Koru phase of Vadistanbul, the property will feature a curated selection of 130 studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments designed for travellers seeking space, comfort, and flexibility. Plans for each unit include a separate living area, full kitchen, and in-unit laundry amenities. The property is also slated to include a fitness …

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its presence in the region with the signing of Wyndham Hotels & Residences Cairo West, marking the debut of its namesake Wyndham brand in Egypt. Located in Cairo West’s vibrant district, this 5-star property will feature 532 elegantly designed accommodations, including 150 hotel rooms and 382 branded residences, all adhering to Wyndham’s latest design and service standards. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including well-appointed standard rooms and a variety of suites. The branded residences will offer a mix of stylish studios, spacious one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, catering to both short and extended stays. Egypt’s tourism industry reached a record high in 2024, welcoming over 15.7 million visitors despite regional challenges1. With this upward trajectory expected to continue, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is committed to expanding its footprint in this key market. The Wyndham Hotels & Residences Cairo West will offer over 1,500 square meters of versatile event space, including a grand 900-square-meter ballroom, meeting rooms, and a pre-function area making it a prime destination for conferences, weddings, and large-scale events. The property will also feature three dining venues, a state-of-the-art fitness center with spa facilities, an outdoor pool, a business center, and a dedicated children’s play area. Construction is set to begin in early 2026, with an anticipated completion date of December 2029. Once open, the hotel will create over 600 jobs, supporting Cairo’s growing tourism sector. Conveniently located in close proximity to the Grand Egyptian Museum and the iconic Giza Pyramids, the property will provide both business and leisure travelers with a prime location to explore the city’s rich heritage. “Egypt’s booming tourism industry and growing demand for …

Hilton announced the signing of an agreement with Wirgan Hospitality to rebrand two of their trading hotels in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Makkah and a DoubleTree by Hilton. Both hotels are set to open before the end of the year, further strengthening Hilton’s presence in the Kingdom and the Holy City. The signings will almost double Hilton’s trading presence in Makkah – by rooms – to more than 4,100 keys. Carlos Khneisser, Chief Development Officer, Hilton, MEA, said, “We recently surpassed the milestone of 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia – and we are thrilled to build on this momentum with the signing of these two properties. As we continue to expand our footprint in the Kingdom, we remain committed to diversifying our portfolio to meet the needs of every traveller. Our partnership with Wirgan Hospitality is testament to this as we introduce our Tapestry Collection brand to the Holy City and bolster our presence with the introduction of DoubleTree by Hilton to the Aziziyah district of Makkah – enhancing Hilton’s hospitality offering in a key global destination.” Omar Al Harbi, CEO, Wirgan Hospitality, said, “We are proud to partner with Hilton to support the future growth of the two exceptional properties we have developed in Makkah. As one of the most significant destinations in the Kingdom, Makkah holds deep religious, cultural and spiritual importance. These openings reflect our ongoing commitment to elevate the hospitality offering in Makkah and the Kingdom in line with Vision 2030, and to leverage Hilton’s global reach and commercial engine.” Located near Jabal Al Noor, one of Islam’s most sacred sites, the 1,386-guestroom …

The Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA) announced a focused strategy to deepen its engagement with the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) B2B tourism sector. This initiative is aimed at positioning Georgia as a premier, high-value partner for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) operators, travel agencies, and investors, capitalizing on the nation’s rapid tourism growth and strategic development plans to create significant new partnership opportunities. “We are building a foundation for long-term growth by forging strategic alliances with the GCC travel trade and investors to jointly develop high-quality, innovative tourism products that cater to the evolving demand for authentic and immersive experiences. Georgia’s dynamic tourism landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for partnerships and collaborations as we continue to nurture the country’s growing reputation as a preferred international travel destination,” said Mrs. Maia Omiadze, Head of Administration at the GNTA. The GCC outbound travel market, projected to more than double to USD 158.8 billion by 2034, represents a pivotal growth segment. Georgia has successfully captured this demand, with arrivals from key GCC markets experiencing triple-digit growth in recent years. This aligns with the country’s broader tourism success, which saw over 2.9 million international visitors in H1 2025 and a record USD 826 million in Q1 revenue, contributing 7.2% to the national GDP. This proven demand presents lucrative opportunities for B2B collaboration in high-yield sectors. As a core component of this strategy, GNTA is launching a targeted promotional and educational campaign across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait throughout Q4 2025. The program includes destination webinars and in-person events, offering GCC tour operators, OTAs, and MICE agencies exclusive access to Georgian suppliers, in-depth market knowledge, and co-marketing frameworks.

Barceló Hotel Group announces the opening of Barceló Business Bay Dubai, a new 4-star lifestyle design hotel featuring 230 rooms, perfectly positioned in the heart of the city near the world-famous Burj Khalifa. Located in the vibrant Downtown Dubai district, the city’s iconic hub for shopping and entertainment, home to Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain, Barceló Business Bay Dubai promises guests an exceptional experience in the most cosmopolitan and modern area of the city. In the Downtown Dubai district lies Barceló Business Bay Dubai, a contemporary hotel defined by its sophisticated design. Its 230 rooms cater to families, couples, and business travellers alike, offering versatile spaces ideal for meetings and events. Among its highlights is a stunning rooftop pool on the third floor. On the culinary side, the hotel features a restaurant serving dishes inspired by local flavours and fusion cuisine, along with a Sports Bar and Shisha Bar. To complete the experience, guests can enjoy a fully equipped gym and a wellness area offering advanced treatments, each designed to encourage moments of relaxation and self-care. As part of its strategy to strengthen its footprint in Asia, Barceló Hotel Group inaugurates its third property in Dubai and fourth in the United Arab Emirates with the opening of Barceló Business Bay Dubai. Recognized as a key destination for its strategic location bridging East and West, and for its unique blend of modern luxury and traditional culture, the company once again chooses Dubai as its base for further growth. “The opening of Barceló Business Bay Dubai reinforces our commitment to expanding in strategic, high-potential destinations,” says José Canals, Chief Operations Officer of Barceló Hotel Group for the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Asia. “Dubai is a …

Accor announced the signing of Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah, within walking distance of the holy Mosque set to open by 2026. This will be the largest Sofitel property int the world with 1141 rooms and suites. “We are honored to introduce Sofitel in Makkah, a city that holds immense spiritual and cultural importance. Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will stand as a symbol of hospitality, serenity, and connection — a place where our French zest meets Saudi authenticity. This extraordinary project reflects our ambition to create meaningful cultural bridges through luxury hospitality in one of the world’s most sacred destinations.” — Maud Bailly, CEO Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will occupy a prime location within the prestigious Jabal Omar master development, providing direct pedestrian access to the Haram, Islam’s holiest site. The hotel will feature 1,141 elegant rooms and suites across two towers – Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah North and Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah South – each offering breathtaking views of the Holy Mosque and the surrounding cityscape. Designed to blend French art de vivre with Saudi cultural heritage, the hotel will feature a collection of refined restaurants and lounges, executive meeting facilities and fitness centers. Across the towers, guests will discover six distinctive dining venues — including elegant all- day dining restaurants, a signature fine-dining destination celebrating French and Middle Eastern fusion cuisine, and intimate lobby lounges perfect for gatherings and reflection. A Club Millésime executive lounge will provide exclusive experiences for distinguished guests, combining culinary craftsmanship with personalized service. Beyond dining, Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will offer curated sensory experiences that celebrate both French refinement and the spiritual essence of Makkah — from thoughtful …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) hosted an exclusive CIS (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia) Marketplace in Al Ain Region on 14 October, connecting over 200 travel trade partners from the region with more than 50 Abu Dhabi-based stakeholders, including hotels, attractions, and destination management companies. The event is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with industry partners from key markets and boost visitor numbers to the emirate. Abu Dhabi has experienced a significant uptick in hotel guests from the CIS region, with Armenia and Ukraine seeing increases of 17.4% and 48.5% respectively (July year-to-date) compared to the same period in 2024. This positive trend is further bolstered by enhanced accessibility, reflected in strong increases in CIS flight capacity, with key markets like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan growing by nearly 17% and 22% respectively. These figures, coupled with high visitor satisfaction rates, paint a clear picture of CIS travellers eager for more of what Abu Dhabi has to offer. The event featured a range of discussions, networking opportunities, and familiarisation activities designed to ignite collaboration and educate CIS travel partners on Abu Dhabi’s extensive offering. From the vibrant capital city to the historic sites of Al Ain Region, the array of diverse experiences makes Abu Dhabi a destination with endless travel possibilities. Attendees will also experience traditional Emirati performances and engage in cultural workshops. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The CIS region is a crucial and fast-growing market for Abu Dhabi, and building strong local partnerships is essential. This marketplace offers a direct way to present Abu Dhabi’s unique attractions and, more importantly, it allows us to listen, collaborate, and …

Rashed Darwish Al Ketbi (RDK) Commercial Investments and Marriott International announced a signed agreement to open a St. Regis resort in Abu Dhabi’s Mirfa region. Expected to open in 2029, The St. Regis Mirfa Beach Resort, Abu Dhabi is anticipated to offer an all-villa, waterfront sanctuary nestled along the serene shores of Mirfa featuring the timeless elegance of the St. Regis brand. “We continue to witness a robust appetite for luxury experiences across the UAE and look forward to introducing the St. Regis brand to the tranquil coastal enclave of Mirfa,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “The St. Regis Mirfa Beach Resort, Abu Dhabi will offer a truly distinctive escape—one that honours the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, while delivering the timeless elegance and bespoke service that define the St. Regis legacy.” “We are proud to expand our longstanding relationship with Marriott International through the introduction of the St. Regis brand in Mirfa — a location of remarkable natural beauty and untapped potential,” said Raja Zeidan, Chief Operation Officer of RDK Commercial Investments. “Guided by our visionary Chairman, Mr. Rashed Darwish Al Ketbi, this collaboration reflects our continued commitment to shaping exceptional destinations that honor their environment while setting a new benchmark in luxury hospitality for the region.” The St. Regis Mirfa Beach Resort, Abu Dhabi is anticipated to feature a collection of 63 private beachfront and floating villas designed in harmony with unobstructed views of the coastline. Each villa is expected to offer a seamless indoor-outdoor experience with expansive sea views, floating pools, upper and lower decks, skylight flooring, shaded canopies and private lifts. Other planned amenities include an array …