Category Archives: Hotels

Aleph hospitality to develop and operate Fauchon branded hotels in the Middle East and Africa

Dubai headquartered Aleph Hospitality has announced its partnership with France based Fauchon Hospitality at a recent signing ceremony in Paris. The agreement names Aleph Hospitality as the exclusive developer and operator of the glamourous Fauchon L’Hôtel portfolio in the Middle East and Africa. Founded in 1886 by Auguste Fauchon, the world-renowned Fauchon brand is a luxury contemporary gastronomy leader with a unique French DNA, comprising a collection of over 100 retail boutiques, gourmet cafes and restaurants in 50 countries. In 2018, Fauchon opened its first luxury boutique hotel, Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris, followed by Fauchon L’Hôtel Kyoto in 2021 as the Parisian brand’s first international hotspot. Today, Fauchon Hospitality has five glamourous boutique hotels in the pipeline with the aim to become a global hospitality company with a luxury collection of 20 hotels by 2030. Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality, said: “We are well aware that an opportunity of this grandeur doesn’t happen very often. We are excited and humbled to be partnering with Fauchon Hospitality. We look forward to delivering the brand’s legendary glamorous Parisian ‘art the vivre’ experience to hotel guests in the Middle East and Africa. We believe the region has tremendous potential for the aspirational and sophisticated brand experience offered by Fauchon L’Hôtel.” With a focus on cosmopolitan cities and luxury leisure destinations, the Fauchon L’Hôtel portfolio will comprise boutique hotels, retreats, beach clubs and residences in exceptional locations with superior culinary concepts and indulgent private services beyond the usual five-star hospitality experience. The unique brand promise and concept is centered around the acronym ‘GLAM’: Gourmet, featuring Fauchon’s bespoke reinvented in-room mini bar, the Gourmet Bar; Location for a lively and luxurious lifestyle; …

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Amaala unveils first hotel brand with focus on luxury and longevity – Clinique La Prairie

Amaala and The Red Sea, announced a partnership with leading longevity clinic and wellness brand, Clinique La Prairie. The partnership involves the development of a high-end 36,115 sqm Clinique La Prairie Health Resort within Amaala, which is located on Saudi Arabia’s north-western coastline. The exclusive resort will offer 13 villas, as well as housing 52 rooms and suites. “Clinique La Prairie’s world-renowned facilities and health and wellness experiences, set against Saudi Arabia’s extraordinary natural landscapes, will take our visitors on transformative personal journeys inspired by arts, wellness, and the purity of the Red Sea. The resort’s subtle beauty – a product of Islamic architecture and modern craftmanship – will deliver a serene place in which to unwind, meditate and rejuvenate,” said John Pagano, Group CEO, Red Sea Global. Clinique La Prairie’s approach to wellbeing prioritizes longevity. This is symbolized by the central “Longevity Plaza” leading to four distinctive areas of the resort corresponding to each one of the property’s pillars – medical care, nutrition, movement and wellbeing. These sections will host a vast array of activities and facilities, including all the latest technologies developed over 90 years by Clinique La Prairie to enable clients to live a longer, healthier, and fuller life. The resort also features a diagnostics lab, museum, beach club, workshop and training rooms, private dining space, and even a cooking school, ensuring visitors can embark on an inimitable journey of rejuvenation and self-discovery. Landscaping around the property is vital to architect John Heah’s vision for the resort. Idyllic gardens are used to establish a sense of place and tranquility and add to the connected journey for visitors. Clinique La Prairie has a unique approach to wellbeing, combining …

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Collective Retreats to open sustainable retreat in Trojena, the mountains of NEOM

Collective Retreats, a pioneer in outdoor experiential hospitality, has announced a partnership with NEOM to open a next generation, ultra- sustainable retreat in Trojena, the snow-capped mountain destination located in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Slated to open at the start of 2026, Collective Trojena will re-imagine the outdoor hospitality experience – offering guests unprecedented access to discover and explore the region’s spectacular and incomparable beauty located 50km from the Gulf of Aqaba. The retreat will feature approximately 60 open-air guest rooms and innovative meeting space concepts as well as dramatic water features, communal campfires and inspired culinary experiences, evoking the intrepid spirit of the Collective Retreats brand while showcasing a masterstroke blend of natural and developed landscapes. Collective Trojena will also offer direct access to the development’s full array of year-round and world-class outdoor activities including skiing and snowboarding, high altitude training, paragliding, mountain biking, hiking, and water sports as well as culture-forward programming around film, art, music, and food. “We founded Collective Retreats with the singular goal of changing the way people travel.  We want travelers to see the world with renewed curiosity and a greater appreciation for conservation of the extraordinary natural beauty that surrounds us,” said Collective Retreats CEO and Founder Peter Mack. “Trojena provides the ultimate backdrop to achieve this mission in ways we never imagined.  In addition to giving a global audience a new perspective on this spectacular mountain setting, we are committed to demonstrating that luxury travel should not be extractive and it’s possible to both preserve the environment  and deliver extraordinary guest experiences.” Set within NEOM, Trojena is paving the way for the next frontier in sustainability by powering the mountain destination with a …

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Premier Inn MENA plans KSA venture under Middle East expansion

Premier Inn MENA plans to take Britain’s biggest hotel brand to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2023 as part of its Middle East expansion, with discussions with several investors and potential business partners under way. Premier Inn, which currently has 11 hotels across the UAE and Qatar, is also planning further expansion in its existing markets and elsewhere in the region as part of its long-term Middle East growth strategy . Simon Leigh, Managing Director, Premier Inn MENA, said: “Premier Inn’s focus for 2023 is to further evolve our brand and footprint in the region – on our existing ‘home grounds’ of the UAE and Qatar, elsewhere in the GCC and in other markets in the wider Middle East. “With its huge investment in tourism under Vision 2030, a bid to host EXPO 2030 and world-class developments in full swing across the country, Saudi Arabia offers excellent opportunities for Premier Inn.  We would be immensely proud to bring our much-loved brand to the Kingdom and be part of its ever-growing tourism and hospitality sector. Fruitful discussions are continuing, and we are confident that Premier Inn will make its KSA debut this year.” Premier Inn also plans to launch a new, higher-grade room category in the Middle East, as well as more enhancements at its existing properties this year, reinforcing its commitment to the region and to maintaining its position as MENA’s hotel brand of choice for high quality, high value accommodation. “2022 was a record year for Premier Inn MENA in terms of trading and growth, fueled by large-scale events such as Expo 2020 and the World Cup, the continued post-pandemic bounce-back, and the opening of our 11th property, …

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Emirates Palace officially rebranded as Emirates Palace Mandarin Hotel

Emirates Palace Hotel has officially rebranded as Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, signalling a new golden era as part of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group portfolio. This exciting chapter will celebrate and build upon the hotel’s distinctive legacy while introducing unparalleled experiences for guests, further cementing its position as world’s most iconic beachfront resort. Commenting on the occasion, H.E. Mohammed Al Junaibi said: “We are thrilled as Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi enters a new golden era of hospitality. Guided by the legacy and expertise of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, the resort is set to become an icon of global luxury in line with our leadership’s quest to extend world-class hospitality to anyone visiting or living in the UAE.” Commenting on the rebranding, James Riley stated, “Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi marks a milestone for our brand and confirms our commitment to the region. The palace is a globally recognised landmark in the UAE and we are delighted to manage a property with such rich historical and cultural relevance.” The beachfront palace boasts renovated rooms, innovative dining experiences, and brand-new spa and sports facilities, each elevated by Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service. The reimagined accommodation will include the region’s very first vegan rooms with compassionate design, sustainable bedding, plant based in-room dining options and cruelty-free bath amenities. The hotel’s new signature suites offer a haven of sophistication and style, complete with priority access to the resort’s facilities, whilst The EP Club comprises 660 square metres of elevated living, dining, and relaxing areas exclusively for members and suite guests. Crown Your Love at the Palace by Chaumet represents a highlight of the resort’s grand wedding offering, providing a luxury …

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Radisson Hotel Group announces its 9th hotel in Nigeria with the signing of the first Radisson Collection in Abuja with 249 keys

Radisson Hotel Group is bringing its luxury lifestyle brand, Radisson Collection, to Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city and governmental powerhouse. Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center, Abuja Nigeria marks the Group’s 9th hotel and 3rd Radisson Collection in the country, placing it firmly on track to achieve 15 hotels in Nigeria by 2025. Located next to the Presidential Palace in Maitama District, one of the most sought after and exclusive areas in Abuja, the hotel will be a 45-minute drive from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the country’s second busiest airport after Lagos. In proximity to the hotel is the city’s most popular market, Wuse market, Jabai Boat Club, a water based recreational facility and family entertainment center, and Abuja National Mosque, also known as the Nigerian National Mosque, built in 1984. The new-build, 249 room hotel will be the city’s first luxury hotel in Abuja, with an expansive range of rooms, from standard rooms and apartments to lofts and presidential suites. Spanning across almost 3000 square meters, the meeting spaces of Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center, Abuja Nigeria will consist of a dividable conference hall, five meeting rooms, a board room, as well as a pre-function area. Erwan Garnier, Senior Director, Development, Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, said: “With a vast potential for significant scale, both Nigeria and its capital city, Abuja have been identified as key markets within our robust development strategy to reach 150 hotels across Africa within the next five years. It is an honor to kick start the year by introducing our beloved luxury lifestyle brand for experience-driven travelers to the city of Abuja as its first luxury hotel.” Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President, Development, Africa …

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Qatar Investment Authority to manage two of the most exclusive hotels in Costa Smeralda

Sardegna Resorts, a Smeralda Holding Company wholly-owned by Qatar Investment Authority  has signed agreements with LVMH Hospitality Excellence, to manage two of the most renowned and exclusive hotels in Costa Smeralda. LVMH Hospitality Excellence belongs to the world’s leading luxury group LVMH Moët Hennessy-Louis Vuitton. The LVMH brand Belmond will manage the Hotel Romazzino, which will open for the 2024 season as the “Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda.” The Hotel Pitrizza will be managed by the LVMH brand Cheval Blanc. The hotel will continue to operate under its current name until 2026, when it will be rebranded as Cheval Blanc Pitrizza, Costa Smeralda, following the completion of the renovation works. These changes are part of the Smeralda Holding Group’s long-term strategy to enhance and enrich Costa Smeralda as a best-in-class destination. This plan was launched in 2017 and includes, among others, tourism initiatives, the introduction of major F&B operators such as Nikki Beach, Zuma, Novikov, Beefbar and Matsuhisa and many more, while aligning with the unique character and heritage of the destination. This new partnership will aim to bring further value to the local community, by bringing increased employment and development opportunities for staff. All employees will remain employed by Sardegna Resorts S.r.l., which will also retain ownership of the hotels’ property and businesses. Through these agreements, LVMH intends to further strengthen its lead in experiential luxury with two new exceptional destinations in Sardegna that will benefit from all the know-how and expertise of the Belmond and Cheval Blanc brands. The two hotels will benefit from renovations allowing Belmond and Cheval Blanc to offer their future clients two new destinations in the heart of Sardegna, which is renowned for …

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Shiji Group updates Hospitality Technology Distribution Infographic to help hospitality professionals plan their own game plan

Shiji Group published a new version of its popular Hospitality Technology Distribution Infographic. This updated and fully customizable version – which can be edited using PowerPoint – has been designed to assist hoteliers, revenue managers and IT teams in visualizing their existing distribution technology landscape and outlining the strategies and technologies they want to introduce over the coming years. In this new version of the infographic automation is the big theme and Shiji believes that companies that embrace this transformation will lead in the future year. This year’s edition dives deeper into the hospitality partners, providers, and competitors on the market, making it the most exhaustive ever. Speaking about the new launch, Greg Bergman, COO Shiji Distribution Solutions, explains: “Our long-running Hospitality Technology Distribution Infographic is a fantastic way to observe how the hospitality technology industry evolves from year-to-year. This graphic is more significant than ever since the first thing hotel brands should do after a crisis is boost distribution, which enhances brand exposure. The great news is that many of the firms we admired and knew before COVID have braved the storm. In this version of the infographic, there are many familiar logos and companies, indicating that they are trusted tech partners with industry knowledge and expansion readiness. But of course, there’s many new additions too, particularly within the field of automation. We cannot wait to see what the future holds!”  

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Dubai’s Jumeirah Mina A’Salam unveils a new look

Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Madinat Jumeirah’s boutique beachfront retreat, reveals the extensive refurbishment of its rooms, suites, ballrooms and Amal Club Lounge. The new look and enhanced ambience was created with discerning travellers in mind. Tasteful yet striking, the aesthetic has been skillfully crafted to ensure cohesiveness with the property’s traditional Arabesque exteriors. Large windows mean rooms are bathed in natural light and cooled by a fresh sea breeze, while a neutral colour palette and mesmerising views of the beach, combined with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts’ signature amenities and bedding, create a sense of tranquillity. Occasional pops of colour enliven the soothing environment. Jaime Simpson, General Manager of Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, says: “In collaboration with La Bottega, we have re-energised our beloved hotel, being mindful not to erase any of the property’s warmth and heritage. For our returning guests, it is still the much-loved boutique beachfront resort that is their familiar home away from home, which has now been completely refurbished. We are excited to see their reaction to the hard work and investment we have put into the hotel. We also welcome a new generation of Jumeirah Mina A’Salam guests to experience our signature dining experiences and renowned service, as we strive to deliver beyond expectations.” Sahar Al Yaseer, founder of La Bottega by Intice, says: “It was an honour to work with Jumeirah Mina A’Salam on the refurbishment of its rooms and suites. The idea behind the new contemporary interiors was to reflect a more timeless, luxurious and tranquil atmosphere synonymous with the Jumeirah brand. The symmetrical balance achieved by the interiors’ neutral tones flows seamlessly and positively impacts guests’ wellbeing, which is something we always strive for in …

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Jumeirah Group expands presence in Europe with acquisition of Le Richemond hotel in Geneva

Jumeirah Group acquires legendary Le Richemond hotel on the banks of Lake Geneva, Switzerland; the luxury hospitality company is focused on international expansion as it targets strategic gateway cities. Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hospitality company and member of Dubai Holding, today announced the acquisition of its first property in Switzerland as it continues its growth trajectory and international expansion. The flagship property – Le Richemond – was founded in 1875 and is located on the banks of Lake Geneva in a prime location at the heart of the city’s business district and a short walk from the city’s luxury designer boutiques. The acquisition forms part of the Group’s strategy to build its brand profile in gateway destinations across the world. The move signals Jumeirah’s appetite for investment in key cities that support the diversification of its portfolio and build brand equity as a globally recognised luxury hotel operator. Geneva, as a thriving city, synonymous with luxury living, with a strong international business community and a robust high-end tourism sector, will support Jumeirah’s vision to become one of the world’s top five luxury hotel brands. The art deco property with its charm and grandeur has been a popular destination for well-known personalities throughout the years. The hotel features 109 keys with 87 rooms and 22 suites, boasting stunning views across Lac Léman and the mountain peaks of Mont Blanc. The property will undergo extensive renovations, which will commence as soon as possible, to reposition and elevate the guest experience to a level consistent with Jumeirah’s brand expectations. Jumeirah plans to introduce its signature wellness and fitness concepts and will also focus on bringing its culinary expertise to the banks of …

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