Category Archives: Hotels

RAK Properties announced its partnership with Nikki Beach Global luxury lifestyle resort, branded residences and beach club operator, to develop Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah, a new branded resort at Mina Al Arab in Ras al Khaimah. The resort, developed in partnership with RAK Properties, will bring Nikki Beach’s Celebration of Life atmosphere to Mina Al Arab, a luxury lifestyle destination that offers the tranquillity of island life with beach access and panoramic views of the Gulf. Guests will have a vast array of rooms and villas to choose from in the 155-hotel key resort, as well as access to the brand’s signature Nikki Spa, Tone Gym, and restaurant concepts. While Nikki Beach is renowned for its lively luxury beach club and resorts destinations around the world, the brand has recently announced several new resorts worldwide where visitors can experience a more relaxed barefoot luxury environment. Further details of the hotel development and opening date will be announced in due course. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah will be designed by Gensler, a unique global architecture, design, and planning firm that creates authentic and memorable experiences by integrating community, health, and lifestyle into their creations. Gensler, as industry leaders in driving sustainable change and net-zero buildings, align with RAK Properties’ own vision to integrate the resort with the beautiful natural environment of Mina Al Arab, while ensuring the new concept fits seamlessly into the Nikki Beach worldwide portfolio of barefoot luxury properties. Gensler will follow the Barjeel guidelines set by the RAK Municipality, integrating local products and natural materials in all aspects of the building and its interiors, connecting with local artists to highlight the …

As Future Hospitality Summit 2023 kicks off, Hilton has announced plans to increase its presence in the Middle East by more than 125% in the years ahead. Openings across the region continue, bringing Hilton’s ambitious expansion plans to life. In Qatar, LXR Hotels & Resorts welcomed The Plaza Doha to its portfolio earlier this year, further strengthening Hilton’s luxury presence in the country. In addition, Hilton celebrated the debut of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts on the African continent with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis in September. More openings are expected in the months ahead across a range of brands and countries, including: Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour Hilton Riyadh Olaya Hilton Cairo Nile Maadi Embassy Suites by Hilton Dubai Business Bay Hampton by Hilton Kuwait Salmiya   In Saudi Arabia, a key development market, multiple new properties were signed in August, including a Conrad Hotels & Resorts property in Riyadh’s Laysen Valley, two hotels in Abha, and a Canopy by Hilton at the Porta Jeddah Development. With these signings, Saudi Arabia has become Hilton’s largest pipeline market in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and fourth largest globally. Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said, “Our multi-brand growth strategy continues to show results, with close to 100 hotels – totalling almost 25,000 rooms – set to open in the Middle East in the near future. We are also proud to be managing an active pipeline, with approximately 70 percent of our Middle East projects currently under construction. We look forward to seeing these hotels come to fruition in the years ahead, while continuing to agree new properties.” Hilton will …

Rove Hotels is poised to make its way across the GCC and beyond with its ambitious expansion plan as it targets the milestone of 10,000 rooms in operation or under development  over the next five years. Homegrown in the UAE, Rove Hotels currently boasts over 3,400 operational hotel rooms across its various properties. It has garnered a reputation for seamlessly blending sustainability, innovation, and local art to curate spaces that resonate with modern explorers. From co-working areas to eco-friendly operations, world-class service scores and many innovative offerings, such as the region’s only hotel rooms designed for gamers, Rove Hotels constantly pushes the boundaries of what a lifestyle hospitality brand can offer. Rove has already proven its ability to manage a varied portfolio of properties with distinctive propositions, such as city hotels, event-led hotels, beach properties and even a theme-park hotel located at the Middle East’s largest amusement park destination, Dubai Parks and Resorts. With this expansion strategy, the Rove brand is prepared to weave its narrative of community-centred travel and off-the-beaten-track exploration into the fabric of even more regional urban destinations. This strategic decision to establish a strong Middle East presence comes after Rove’s record commercial performance numbers in 2022, the brand’s best-ever year. Paul Bridger, Chief Operating Officer of Rove Hotels, said recently of the expansion plans, “In this exciting new phase of Rove’s journey, we’re looking forward to taking our unique lifestyle hospitality concept to new destinations. As a homegrown brand, we are thrilled to see the tremendous growth in tourism that the region is experiencing, and we believe that Rove Hotels can play an important role in providing accessible quality accommodation options for travellers.”

Marriott International Inc. announced its agreement with NEOM to open two luxury properties in Trojena, NEOM’s mountain destination located in the north-west region of Saudi Arabia. The agreement includes Saudi Arabia’s first W Hotel, and a JW Marriott property. “We are excited to work with NEOM to develop these two exciting properties in one of the most highly anticipated developments in the world,” said Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development, Middle East, Marriott International. “W Hotels continues to redefine the luxury hospitality sector, and NEOM is an ideal fit with its vision centered around innovation, creativity, design and exploration, while JW Marriott, one of our flagship brands, will bring its legacy of extraordinary hospitality, thoughtful design and enriching experiences.”

The Hospitality Network announced the dates for the 2023 MEA Stakeholder Conference, scheduled from 7th to 9th November at Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts in Dubai, UAE.  The 2023 MEA Stakeholder Conference is set to attract over 500 decision-makers, including hotel owners, giga developers, operators, and key consultants, collectively operating and developing hundreds of hotels across the region.  By discussing the latest trends and challenges facing the industry, the conference fosters investment into innovation and sustainability as key drivers for the rapid growth of the industry. It also serves as a nexus for various domains such as Information Technology, Engineering and Technical Services, Design and Procurement, helping to enhance inter-departmental communication and facilitating knowledge exchange. This exclusive, invitation-only event will convene senior leaders from across the Middle East & Africa’s hotel industry, fostering collaboration and promoting innovations and sustainability within the sector.

Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island has joined EarthCheck, the world’s foremost certification, consulting, and advisory group for luxury travel and tourism organizations. Moreover, the Ras Al Khaimah resort has proudly achieved the Benchmarked Bronze Status. This marks the initial phase of the ongoing journey with EarthCheck’s certification process. As part of this journey, organizations progress through bronze, silver, gold, and platinum levels and ultimately attain the esteemed EarthCheck Master status. The Benchmarked Bronze Status acknowledges unwavering commitment to measuring and monitoring sustainability performance. “Being a new resort, merely a year old, and at the outset of our pursuit to become a more sustainable hotel, attaining the Benchmarked Bronze Status is an immense accomplishment. We remain steadfast in our dedication to achieving more in this domain while upholding EarthCheck’s quality and purpose,” said Fabien Chesnais, General Manager of Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island. He continues “Every member of our team at Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island is part of this journey. Each staff member undergoes sustainability training, and we’ve established a Green Team that convenes regularly to explore novel ideas and champion sustainable practices within the resort. “We recognize the environmental and cultural assets that draw visitors to Ras Al Khaimah, making it an extraordinary destination with resorts adorned by pristine clear waters and sandy beaches. It is our responsibility to protect and responsibly manage these assets, and we’re resolute in fulfilling our role.” In line with EarthCheck, Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island champions sustainability, prioritizing local suppliers, embracing waste reduction, and transitioning to digital resources. Guests join the cause by opting out of daily linens change, using eco-friendly plunger bottles for bath essentials, and discovering Ras Al Khaimah through local …

Hilton announced the signing of a management agreement with Samrya Hospitality to welcome The Plaza Doha to LXR Hotels & Resorts portfolio. Located in the heart of Doha and offering the highest standards of luxury, the hotel is set to redefine the hospitality experience in the city. Whether guests are seeking a luxurious getaway, a cultural exploration of the areas surrounding the hotel, or on business travel, the Plaza Doha will offer a memorable stay experience and the unparalleled bespoke services that LXR Hotels & Resorts is known for. The Plaza Doha brings a classic Parisian concept to the city, with its magnificent design, sophisticated interiors and attention to detail. The hotel offers 290 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each adorned with Parisian flourishes, inviting guests into a world of refined indulgence. Guests can enjoy a wide range of culinary options, including an American bakery, a juice bar and The Courtyard restaurant.  Several additional outlets are set to open, as well as a bespoke spa and wellness concept. In addition to offering an array of experiences for discerning travelers, The Plaza Doha takes immense pride in being one of Doha’s most magnificent wedding venues. It boasts an entire floor dedicated solely to a ballroom, meeting rooms and two board rooms luxuriously furnished for all business needs. The main highlight is The Grand Ballroom which features a high ceiling, extravagant chandeliers, wall designs and a private connection to a Bridal Suite. The elegant hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of Doha on C-ring road, adjacent to popular museums, Souk Waqif and a ten-minute drive from Hamad International Airport. Its unique location further enhances the allure of this luxury city hotel, …

Red Sea Global (RSG), The Red Sea and Amaala, has become the first company in Saudi Arabia to receive the prestigious Mostadam Diamond Certification for its flagship Turtle Bay Hotel. Mostadam’s expertise and guidance is playing a pivotal role in creating vibrant and sustainable communities in the Kingdom. Red Sea Global has worked closely with the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing to help define the innovative Mostadam criteria. Together, they are creating vibrant and sustainable communities in the Kingdom, paving the way for a more sustainable and ecologically responsible housing sector for current and future generations. This esteemed accolade, received under the patronage of HE Minister of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing, Majid bin Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Hoqail, recognizes RSG’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and green building practices, including energy efficiency, renewable energy uptake, water use efficiency, improved connectivity, enhanced health and comfort, as well as integrated construction waste management. The hotel comprises 144 keys arranged in multiple blocks overlooking the Red Sea. “We consistently embrace sustainable practices in our developments, from design through to operations. We have chosen to power our destinations using 100% renewable energy sources and are incorporating state-of-the-art waste management systems into our infrastructure. This certification is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability, regenerative tourism development and environmental stewardship.” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. Red Sea Global has constructed 5 solar farms to enable the first phase of The Red Sea to be off grid powered solely by sunlight, with more than 760,000 solar panels, in place. The group also announced a multi-utilities concessions agreement for Amaala this week, and across the two destinations, expects to save one million tons …

The luxury five-star hotel in Fujairah, Rotana Resort and Spa opened a mini golf course amidst the magnificent Hajar mountains and the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean in time for the upcoming season. Located near the kids’ club, kids and parents can play at the 300 sqm course every day from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. The child can learn self-control and perseverance to achieve great results and can burn around 300 calories per hour at the 6-hole course in a fun environment and friendly atmosphere. All ages are welcome to the new mini golf course where the cost of one hour is AED 50 including two putters and two balls, the cost of 30 minutes is AED 35 including two putters and two balls, and the cost of any additional hour is AED 15 including one putter and one ball. Guests can also enjoy their time at the large swimming pool that is now open until midnight till the end of September 2023 along with Sharkeys and pool bars serving tropical cocktails and fresh juices to the guests. The 1073 m2 swimming pool is 1.3m deep and features kids, babies, and adults parts with a slider for kids for a day full of fun and excitement. Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa includes impressive collection of diverse dining options comprising Waves Beach Restaurant, a trendy venue offering a dining experience to suit every occasion with a delicious à la carte dinner menu, and Mozaique which offers an expansive buffet with a vast range of international dishes. Bar Muda lounge bar and terrace is one of Fujairah’s most popular lounge bars where guests can have a good time with friends …

Valor Hospitality Middle East signed an agreement with owning company Ezz Asass International to manage the Four Points by Sheraton branded property. This agreement also marks the second collaboration between Valor Hospitalty Middle East and Marriott International in Oman. Scheduled to open in 2024, the 85 room hotel is in the city of Duqm, on the southern coast of Oman. The hotel is strategically located within the Special Economic Zone of Duqm (SEZAD), and within minutes from the SEZAD Headquarters and opposite the Police Training centre. With recent projects announced in Duqm, the hotel will offer a convenient choice for corporate travellers and a slowly growing leisure segment are being drawn by stunning beaches. The Four Points by Sheraton Duqm is anticipated to reflect the brand’s promise of ‘travel reinvented’, providing everything that matters most to today’s travellers seeking balance on the road. A timeless style coupled with comfort and genuine service allows guests to kick back and relax.  The  hotel will feature guest rooms with abundant daylight, an airy atrium lobby, two dining venues, indoor pool and gym, meeting rooms and private car parking space. “Since announcing our first property in Oman last year, we are so pleased to grow our presence with a second Four Points by Sheraton, in Duqm this time”, said Julien Bergue, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Valor Hospitality Middle East. “We are fortunate to have a trusted and reliable businesses owner in Ezz Asass International. We’re naturally excited to partner with Marriott once again. With 300+ keys confirmed in Oman we hope to establish a base here in the coming months” Bergue continued. Hamad Abdullah Al Harthy, Chairman of Ezz Asass International, said, “We are …