Category Archives: Hotels

Emirates Skywards has enhanced its partnership with Marriott Bonvoy to offer members the opportunity to convert Miles to Points, and Points to Miles. The strategic partnership will unlock even more rewards for 35 million members worldwide, who can now enjoy seamless conversions. The new benefit further enhances the already strong collaboration between both loyalty programmes, which currently offers Members the chance to earn twice the rewards on both flights and hotel stays. Members can earn Skywards Miles in addition to Marriott Bonvoy points for stays at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, and Marriott Bonvoy points in addition to Skywards Miles when flying with Emirates. Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, said: “Marriott Bonvoy offers one of the most fantastic hotel portfolios in the industry, and as one of the most valued and recognised loyalty programmes in the world – we’re thrilled to take our partnership to the next level. Our 35 million members have benefitted from this strategic partnership for more than 10 years – earning twice the rewards on flights and hotel stays. And we’ve now opened a world of new rewards with the option to convert Miles to Points. This means members can redeem Points towards stays at more than 30 hotel brands and over 10,000 destinations across 144 countries and territories. At the same time, Marriott Bonvoy members can still enjoy converting Points to Miles to ‘fly better’ with Emirates to more than 140 destinations across the airline’s extensive network. We’re proud of our long-standing partnership and as two global brand leaders – we look forward to delivering more benefits, value, and the very best travel experiences for our members worldwide.” Philip Andreopoulos, Chief Commercial …

Almosafer entered into a partnership with Hotel Management Company “Adeera” to promote world-class Saudi Arabian hospitality to domestic and inbound tourists. The MoU aims to enhance the Kingdom’s thriving hospitality and tourism sector in line with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030. As part of the newly signed partnership, Almosafer, as the first global travel agency, will integrate Adeera’s hospitality brands across its portfolio of B2B and B2C travel & tourism businesses to offer domestic and international travellers seamless access to top-of-the-range Saudi Arabian hospitality. The significant collaboration between the PIF entity and the national champion of Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism sector marks a milestone for the Kingdom’s luxury hospitality sector. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer, said, “As a homegrown company catering to the growing needs of domestic and international travellers, we are proud to connect the world to the unique culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia. Our expansive digital reach and integrated platforms make us the perfect partner to showcase PIF company Adeera’s authentic Saudi hospitality brand and services to the world, and we look forward to enabling a seamless booking experience for more people to enjoy Saudi Arabian hospitality at its best.” Stefan Leser, CEO, Adeera: “Saudi Arabia’s unique hospitality culture is an essential part of its identity and integral to the Kingdom’s ambitious tourism goals. At Adeera, we are committed to bringing this same spirit of warmth and luxury and further elevating it through our carefully curated selection of homegrown hospitality brands in our role as the national champion of the Saudi hospitality sector. Through our partnership with a leading brand like Almosafer and its immense digital reach, we hope to connect tourists further to authentic …

Seven Tides has signed a strategic hotel management agreement with Minor Hotels as the new operator of its five-star DUKES The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, which is located on the west trunk of Palm Jumeirah, effective from 1st August 2025. “This is a strategic appointment as Minor Hotels already successfully manages our existing asset, the neighbouring NH Collection Dubai The Palm, and the agreement will provide enhanced synergy between the hotels,” said Abdulla Bin Sulayem, CEO, Seven Tides. “Furthermore, the proven track record of Minor Hotels in delivering elevated guest experiences, combined with their operational expertise makes them the ideal partner to manage this property. We look forward to a successful collaboration that heightens the appeal of Palm West Beach as one of Dubai’s premier hospitality destinations. “The Barcelo Hotel Group has been managing DUKES for the past six years and has fulfilled all of its contractual obligations to a very high standard. We wish to thank Barcelo Hotel Group for their contribution and wish them success in their future endeavors,” added Bin Sulayem. Delivering an upscale blend of cosmopolitan luxury twinned with tradition, DUKES offers 273 hotel rooms and suite options and 287 serviced apartments with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Guests can enjoy six distinctive dining venues, from a specialty restaurant and pool bar to a beachside lounge and bar, along with a stunning private beach, indoor pool, outdoor infinity pool, lazy river, fully equipped gym and extensive wellness and family-friendly facilities. Located on the vibrant Palm West Beach, one of Dubai’s most desirable lifestyle destinations, DUKES’ prime location also places guests within easy reach of major attractions such as Nakheel Mall, Aquaventure Waterpark, and Ain Dubai, …

Minor Hotels signed a strategic hotel management agreement for a prominent beachfront property on Dubai’s iconic Palm West Beach in collaboration with valued partners, Seven Tides. Effective by 1st August 2025, the addition of this new resort and serviced residences—currently operating as Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel—to Minor Hotels’ managed portfolio further strengthens the group’s growing footprint in the United Arab Emirates and establishes it as the largest operator on the Trunk of the Palm. The resort, which includes 273 hotel keys and 287 serviced apartments, boasts a premier beachfront location adjacent to NH Collection Dubai The Palm, which launched in February 2023. This agreement will see Minor Hotels’ total key count on Palm Jumeirah increase to 1,524 keys across three properties including Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort and NH Collection Dubai The Palm under three distinctive brands, reinforcing the group’s long-term commitment to the region. Located on the vibrant Palm West Beach, one of Dubai’s most desirable lifestyle destinations, the property offers direct access to a lively beachfront promenade featuring upscale restaurants, beach clubs, and entertainment venues. Its prime location also places guests within easy reach of major and is a convenient 30-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travellers. The property comprises a range of room and suite options, and the 287 serviced apartments include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Guests can enjoy six dining venues, from a specialty restaurant and pool bar, along with a private beach, infinity pool, lazy river, and extensive wellness and family-friendly facilities. Minor Hotels will also implement a soft refurbishment of the guest rooms and public spaces prior to a rebranding of …

Barceló Hotel Group announces the expansion of its presence in the Middle East with the opening of Barceló Hotel & Residences, Bahrain, adding 195 keys to its robust portfolio. This marks the group’s debut property in Bahrain, with the contemporary hotel located in the bustling heart of the capital, the historical district of Seef. This new addition is ideally suited for both business and leisure travellers seeking a sophisticated stay in one of Manama’s most prominent neighbourhoods. The new Barceló Hotel & Residences, Bahrain rises in a 20-story building topped by a rooftop with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and an exciting culinary offering. The property boasts 195 spacious and modern designed rooms equipped to guarantee maximum comfort. The hotel also features interconnected rooms, ideal for families and groups travelling together. Each accommodation offers amazing views of the city centre and is meticulously furnished, making it an ideal destination for an urban getaway with family, or a vacation with friends. At Barceló Hotel & Residences, Bahrain, guests can unwind at the hotel’s state-of-the-art spa, take a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool, or maintain their fitness routine at the fully equipped gym. The wellness area offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, while the kids club provides a fun environment where parents can drop their children to enjoy engaging activities. In addition, the club lounge offers a private space for relaxation and refreshments for guests throughout the day. The hotel also features two extensive meeting and business centres, making it an ideal choice for business conferences and social gatherings. Moreover, the property features four exceptional dining venues that blend traditional Middle Eastern flavours with modern international cuisine. The A la Carte …

According to Cavendish Maxwell report, Oman is currently home to around 270 hotels and resorts, with 24,000 rooms between them,more than half are in the Upscale, Upper-Upscale and Luxury segments. Another 5,800 rooms across 35 hotels and resorts are set to come online by 2030, with 54% in the Upper Upscale and Luxury segments, suggesting a shift towards high-value tourism. Tourism is on the increase in Oman, reflecting growing demand and confidence from international visitors and domestic travellers. Oman’s four airports handled 14.5 million passengers in 2024 – a year-on-year increase of 2.5%. Muscat and Salalah handled 12.9 million and 1.5 million passengers respectively, highlighting Muscat’s role as the country’s primary air travel hub, and Salalah’s strength as a seasonal destination. Hotel guests and revenue surpassed pre-pandemic levels in 2024, with 2.15 million guests staying at Oman’s 3-5 star hotels in 2024 – a 3.6% jump on 2023. Hotel revenue rose 6.1% to 243 OMR. With guest numbers continuing to rise, Cavendish Maxwell predicts a positive but stable outlook for the country’s tourism sector. Hotel occupancy rose by an average 2.4% in 2024, with the Upper Midscale and Midscale segments seeing the biggest jumps: 11.1% and 8.9% respectively. Average Daily Rates – ADRs – reached 53.4 OMR, with the Upper Midscale and Midscale sectors recording increases of 3.8% and 5.7% respectively.

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Holiday Inn Riyadh Al Malaz in Saudi Arabia, a new hotel in Riyadh’s vibrant Al Malaz district. The hotel will house 115 contemporary rooms and suites spanning 11 floors, complete with marble bathrooms, high-speed internet, and satellite television for increased comfort and convenience. Its room categories include: 64 king rooms, 24 queen rooms, 16 twin rooms, and 10 downtown-facing suites, ensuring an extensive selection of stay options to anticipate diverse guest needs and preferences.The Open Lobby offers a vibrant communal space, designed with the needs of the modern traveller in mind, where guests can relax and connect with friends, family or other guests. The public space includes a contemporary media lounge to unwind with friends, a coffee bar for a chat over a quick bite, and an e-lounge for those who need to catch up on the day’s news or work, while still being part of its social vibe. Guests will be able to enjoy a ‘bright place to connect’ with stylish and contemporary accommodation near iconic landmarks such as Burj Al Faisaliyah, Kingdom Tower, King Abdullah Park, and Al Masmak fortress. Holiday Inn Riyadh Al Malaz is a 30-minute drive from King Khaled International Airport, a short walk from Riyadh Metro station and centrally located near the Riyadh’s dazzling neighborhood, financial, historical, and recreational areas. Holiday Inn Riyadh Al Malaz will feature three dining destinations: The Palms Restaurant, a cozy, all-day dining restaurant with a wide array of fresh dishes; Sky Lounge, a casual relaxed restaurant offering International and Levantine cuisine; and Lobby Aroma Costa Café, a charming coffee and sweet treat bar in the lobby. The property also includes a pool …

Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina is proud to announce that it has been awarded 1st place in the Digital Reputation Award for the 5-star hotel category by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This remarkable recognition reflects not only our online reputation but the deep-rooted culture of service excellence we uphold as part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts family. At Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, every guest experience is shaped by our unwavering commitment to True Hospitality — a promise to recognize, understand, and anticipate the evolving needs of our guests. Our success in achieving this award stems from a purposeful alignment with IHG’s global service standards, coupled with a relentless drive to personalize each stay. From our front-of-house interactions to behind-the-scenes operations, our team continually challenges themselves to go beyond expectations — whether by acting on feedback in real time, anticipating unspoken needs, or curating seamless stays that reflect genuine care. “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from DET,” said Raffi Torikian, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina. “This award is not just a reflection of positive reviews, but of the human connections we build every day — the thoughtful gestures, proactive service, and consistency that make guests feel truly valued.” We extend heartfelt thanks to our guests for their trust and continued support. Their honest feedback and shared experiences have been instrumental in shaping the high standards we strive to maintain. At Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, we take immense pride in the dedication and passion our team brings to every aspect of the guest experience. Their commitment to recognizing individual needs, exceeding expectations, and upholding the highest standards of hospitality reflects the true spirit …

Rixos Tersane Istanbul is enhancing its offerings to cater to the needs of discerning travellers from the GCC region. In an exclusive interview Managing Director of Rixos Tersane Istanbul, Cetin Pehlivan shared insights on how the property is positioning itself as a premier destination for GCC families and holidaymakers seeking cultural richness, modern comfort, and exceptional service in the heart of Istanbul. “GCC countries represent a key market for us,” the Managing Director emphasized. “Guests from the Gulf value authenticity, comfort, privacy, and exceptional service — all of which align perfectly with the Rixos brand and the unique positioning of Rixos Tersane Istanbul,” he added. Set against the backdrop of a 600-year-old Ottoman shipyard, the hotel blends historical charm with world-class hospitality. With panoramic views of the Golden Horn and a family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a seamless fusion of heritage and luxury — an ideal match for travelers from the GCC. In preparation for the high season, the hotel has rolled out a range of enhancements tailored to Gulf travelers. These include Arabic-speaking staff, halal-certified dining options, family-oriented suites, and culturally sensitive concierge services. Additionally, guests can look forward to exclusive experiences such as private boat tours, access to top cultural events, and bespoke itineraries highlighting Istanbul’s art, gastronomy, and wellness scenes. “Our goal is to make every guest from the Gulf feel not just welcomed, but understood and appreciated,” said the Managing Director A standout feature at Rixos Tersane Istanbul is its “Discovery Routes” — a complimentary series of curated excursions that invite guests to explore Istanbul’s vibrant history and culture. Highlights include private cruises along the Golden Horn, visits to the Istanbul Modern and the Rahmi M. Koç …

In an exclusive interview with TravelTV Middle East, Saurabh Tiwari – Area Director Middle East & CIS, Taj Hotels part of IHCL  shared that there are two hotels in the pipeline for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. One will be in the cultural capital of Diriyah Gate in Riyadh with 200 rooms whilst the other will be in Mecca with an inventory of 350 rooms. ” Saudi Arabia is growing at a phenomenal pace—it’s already among the world’s top 20 economies and is well on its way to breaking into the top 10. With numerous giga projects underway and nearly a trillion-dollar economy, the momentum is unstoppable. The opportunities here are vast; it’s not just one runway, but six major runways of growth and potential. The future truly looks bright. As for Taj Hotels, we currently operate three exceptional properties in Dubai. Now that we’re well-established there and our growth in India has been remarkable, we’ve turned our attention to Saudi Arabia. We’ve already signed two hotels—one in the holy city of Mecca and another in Riyadh. We’re actively engaging with promising partners and like-minded investors who recognize the strength of our brand. And it’s not just about Taj—it’s also about the power of Brand India. There’s a strong Indian diaspora here in Riyadh, over 1.7 million people, not to mention the countless pilgrims from the subcontinent who visit Saudi Arabia. They know our brand, they trust it, and they connect with it. We’re confident that Taj will thrive in Saudi Arabia, and we’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead.”