Category Archives: Hotels

Shurooq’s integrated infrastructure project in Khorfakkan includes luxury hotel, water park and over 200 residential units

As part of its efforts in redefining the leisure and travel landscape of Sharjah and the region with an exciting expansion of portfolio offerings, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), has revealed details of its upcoming integrated large-scale development project in the Eastern enclave of Khorfakkan comprising a 5-star hotel, the first waterpark in the Eastern region, and more than 200 residential units. Scheduled for completion in 2024, the luxury 5-star hospitality project, operating under the Autograph Collection by Marriott International and built on 38,000 sqm opposite the Khorfakkan port, will feature 75 deluxe units, pools, restaurants, and a ballroom for special occasions. The proposed rooms include 62 single rooms, 5 double rooms, and 8 luxury suites offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and offers unparalleled luxury for visitors to the tranquil eastern enclave. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), revealed details of the project currently under development, during a phone call to (Al Khat Al Mubasher) radio show on Wednesday (June 22). The expansive project will also see the development of the first waterpark in the Eastern region of the emirate and caters to the ever-growing demand for tourism and leisure experiences in the East Coast. Ahmed Al Qaseer pointed out that the project would also include more than 200 residential units which will be serviced by retail stores, restaurants and a host of other outlets on the ground level, adding that off-plan sales would commence with the announcement of a detailed overview of the project in the third quarter of the current year. The Acting CEO noted that the project will be completed in 2024. Shurooq’s new project …

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flydubai prepares for a record-breaking summer, expects over 3 million passengers

flydubai is preparing for a record-breaking summer, building on the momentum from the tremendous performance in the first quarter of 2022 and the surge in demand for travel. The carrier is gearing up to welcome three million passengers over the busiest summer in the airline’s history. Over the summer period, an average of 8,500 departures per month are scheduled across flydubai’s network of 102 destinations, which exceeds pre-pandemic levels. Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “while the global aviation sector has been slowly recovering from the repercussions of the pandemic, we have seen Dubai steadfast in its approach to enable the return to free flows of trade and tourism. The decisions made early on in the pandemic have enabled us to ramp up our operations to cater to the pent-up demand in record time. This would not have been possible without the hard work of our people, the collaborative approach taken by the key stakeholders in the UAE and the confidence our passengers have in our operations.” “Our agility and preparedness, strong business model and the scheduled aircraft deliveries this year, will see that we are well placed to overcome the challenges through which we as an industry continue to navigate. We look forward to an exceptional summer of connecting people, opening up underserved markets and providing our customers with more options to travel,” added Al Ghaith. Returning to a single hub operation flydubai’s flights to more than 30 destinations, which were temporarily operating out of Dubai World Central (DWC), return to operate from Dubai International (DXB) from 23 June. This follows the successful completion of the 45-day period Northern Runway Rehabilitation programme at DXB. Between 09 …

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Dubai tourism to promote industry jobs to high school graduates

With admissions open for the September 2022 intake at Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), students seeking to pursue higher education are encouraged to explore vocational opportunities and hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom in order to develop successful careers within the tourism and hospitality industry. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, global travel and tourism employment is expected to grow in 2022 by 3.5%, comprising 9.1% of the total global job market, a figure which is set to increase further in 2023 and beyond.  As the tourism industry rebounds, now marks a crucial time for high school students who are carefully considering their prospects and planning a roadmap for a successful career. DCT runs the first-of-its-kind multi-disciplinary educational platform in the region with an aim to create a dynamic and forward thinking workforce of exceptional talent who will be at the forefront of the future tourism workforce in the UAE and the wider MENA region. Providing students with vocational training in tourism, retail business, culinary arts, hospitality, and events, DCT helps to foster the talent pool within the emirate and encourage young Emiratis and expatriates to take up suitable careers within the tourism industry.   In order to leverage opportunities within the growing tourism and hospitality sector, DCT is urging young people at this significant point in their lives to explore vocational education and training to be able to successfully position themselves for gainful employment in the tourism ecosystem. Essa bin Hadher, General Manager of DCT, commented: “In a few months’ time, high school leavers across Dubai will be focused on taking the next steps towards their future careers …

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Residence Inn by Marriott welcomes its largest and tallest Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road

Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai announced the completion of the hotel’s rebranding as Residence Inn by Marriott following its renovation.  Enjoying a prime location on Sheikh Zayed Road near the city’s key business and leisure attraction such as the Dubai International Financial Centre, Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Emirates Towers, and World Trade Centre, it is the world’s largest and tallest hotel to join the Residence Inn by Marriott brand. With a global presence of over 870 hotels in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Central America, Residence Inn is the world leader of the longer stay lodging segment. The Residence Inn experience is designed for guests to travel the way they love to live by blending comfort with style in flexible and intuitive spaces. “I am proud to welcome guests to experience the world’s largest and tallest Residence Inn by Marriott and enjoy exceptional comfort and freedom that the brand is renowned for around the world,” said Khaled Saab, General Manager for Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road. “Conveniently located merely 11 kilometres away from the Dubai International Airport, the Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road offers guests more possibilities to live their way or wind down with redesigned spaces. In addition, being part of the Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program unlocks for our guests a world of exclusive member benefits and extraordinary experiences including complimentary Wi-Fi, member-only rates, and points that take you places.” Featuring 430 modern residential rooms and suites, many of which boast impressive views of the Sheikh Zayed Road and Jumeirah coastline, Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road offers travellers a ‘home-away-from-home’ experience with …

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Sheraton Hotels and Resorts unveils new Sheraton Jeddah hotel in keeping with the kingdom’s vision

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts unveiled Sheraton Jeddah Hotel. The newly renovated hotel exemplifies the brand’s worldwide elevation of the guest experience, showcasing signature key elements from the new concept that create an environment where guests are truly at ease, whether working, meeting, or relaxing. Drawing on its roots as a community hub for locals and guests at flagship locations, the new approach for Sheraton creates an intuitive and holistic experience with places to connect and be productive. “We are delighted to introduce Sheraton’s new design vision in Saudi Arabia and look forward to welcoming guests to discover the modernised look,” said Ahmed Hozaien, Area Vice President – Saudi Arabia, Bahrain & Egypt, Marriott International. “Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has a long-standing history in this market, and we are proud to build on this legacy showcasing the brand’s contemporary updates as part of its global transformation. The reimagining of Sheraton Jeddah Hotel reinforces our commitment to offering premium accommodation for leisure and business travellers who are seeking an elevated experience, while enjoying all the familiar comforts of the Sheraton brand.” Following extensive renovations, Sheraton Jeddah Hotel offers 172 redesigned guestrooms and suites. Guests are welcomed into a natural light-filled space with warm, residential appeal, along with new tools for productivity including a height-adjustable worktable with integrated power and charging stations, while still retaining some of the classic Sheraton signature amenities such as the iconic Sheraton Sleep Experience bed. Enhanced technology in the guestrooms include upgraded internet connectivity and 55-inch TVs with built-in Chromecast and live streaming. Flooded with natural light and featuring soft finishes and light wood tones, the guestrooms offer expansive views of the Red Sea. The new lobby serves …

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InterContinental Hotels & Resorts unveils limited-edition suites in collaboration with leading artist Claire Luxton

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has collaborated with acclaimed British artist Claire Luxton to unveil a series of fully immersive experiences at InterContinental London Park Lane, InterContinental New York Barclay and InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Bookable now through to mid-July, the experiences celebrate the joy of worldliness and the beauty of global travel as told through a Claire Luxton lens. The Claire Luxton Experience at InterContinental Dubai Festival City heroes a limited-edition suite which have been designed and curated by the artist and depict her interpretation of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. Taking cues from her personal travels and inspirations, Luxton brings the brand to life through the natural flora and fauna signature to her artwork in combination with an array of sensory experiences, including a drawn bath and soundscape. Every detail and room accent across the suite has been transformed to reflect the artist’s style with features including bespoke artwork, lighting and soft furnishings, that represent InterContinental hotels in Japan and Southeast Asia, respectively. A drawn bath experience with a curated soundscape, aromas and florals enhances the stay for guests. Additional discoveries in the suite include a special playlist and coffee table books reflecting Luxton’s travels. Guests booking the suite at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City will also be offered a massage for two in the hotel’s luxury spa. Claire Luxton said: “I’m thrilled to partner with InterContinental Hotels & Resorts again, interpreting the brand’s story of worldliness. Global travel inspires my work, and I hope it shines through in every detail of the collaboration, from the foyer florals and the hotel team’s custom scarves to the drawn bath experience and the artworks themselves. Each flower and animal within my work …

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Accor signs two new Mövenpick projects in Turkey

Accor signed Mövenpick Living Çamlıvadi and Mövenpick Living Saklıvadi in partnership with Artaş Group and the developer of Vadistanbul in Turkey. The announcement of the two new projects was made at a signing ceremony which took place at the Mövenpick Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel, between Mark Willis, CEO India Middle East, Africa & Turkey for Accor; Yiğit Sezgin, Chief Commercial Officer India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey for Accor; and Süleyman Çetinsaya, Chairman, Artaş Group. The Mövenpick Living Çamlıvadi is set to open by October 2022 while the Mövenpick Living Saklıvadi in November 2023. “As the world’s leading augmented hospitality group with more than 5,300 properties in over 110 countries, we are excited to announce the involvement of premium brand Mövenpick with the Çamlıvadi and Saklıvadi projects under an agreement with Artaş Group, Turkey’s real estate and construction leader. We are confident that both projects will add great value to the tourism industry in such a popular location of Istanbul,” said Yiğit Sezgin, Chief Commercial Operator India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey for Accor. Residences with hotel grade comfort There are 164 residences in Mövenpick Living Saklıvadi, and 65 residences in Mövenpick Living Çamlıvadi. All one bedroom, two bedroom and penthouse apartments are elegantly decorated with meticulously designed details. Each apartment enjoys complimentary internet connection, same-day laundry service, a restaurant with buffet service for breakfast, and a winter garden. Guests will not have to skip their fitness routine as they can take advantage of a full-fledged gym equipped with exercise gear, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and resting room. Moreover, an exclusive indoor and outdoor manège are offered to the service of the hotel guests who are interested in horse riding. …

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Deutsche Hospitality announces Steigenberger Residences in Doha by Q3

Deutsche Hospitality announced the successful signing of the Management Agreement for the Steigenberger Residences Doha, Qatar. Complementing the recently opened flagship Steigenberger Hotel Doha, the Residences will include 278 uniquely furnished apartments offering the warm comforts of a home and a space that allows guests to revel and relax in. The Steigenberger Residences Doha is planned to open in Q3 2022 – just in time for the World Cup 2022 in Qatar, starting November 21st, 2022. “The Steigenberger Residences are the perfect supplement to our existing luxury Steigenberger Hotel Doha,” comments Siegfried Nierhaus, Vice President Middle East, “Both products will offer tourists and business travellers the highest quality comfort and service of the Steigenberger brand to perfectly suit the different travel occasion to guests from all over the world. The Residences will attract long staying guests and families alike.” Sheikh Abdellah Sheikh Abdulla bin Abdulrahman bin Seoud Althani, the owner of the Steigenberger Hotel and Residences Doha, Qatar: “Following the successful opening of the iconic Steigenberger Hotel Doha. The premium guest experience will extend further with the launch of Steigenberger Residences Doha. The unique German hospitality, Steigenberger Hotel and Steigenberger Residences will compete with the world-class luxury hotels across the globe. Doha will soon welcome guests for the major football sports event, I am proud that we will be supporting the nation and providing the best service and experience Doha has to offer.” Ranging from one, two, and three bedroom units, the Residences feature modern design elements and aesthetic touches such as gleaming marble floors that create an opulent contemporary atmosphere. Guest facilities include a rooftop swimming pool, gym, yoga room, the GOCO Spa and the culinary offer of five …

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dnata partners with Deutsche Hospitality to support its GCC expansion

dnata has signed a partnership agreement with Deutsche Hospitality to serve as its exclusive representation partner across the GCC countries. The announcement comes as the German hotel group expands its GCC footprint with its recent opening of the Steigenberger Hotel Doha in Qatar, the opening of the IntercityHotel Dubai Jaddaf Waterfront and the takeover of the management of the Al Hamra Residences and Al Hamra Village Hotel in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The pipeline includes a further IntercityHotel in Muscat and a Jaz in the City Hotel in Dubai. Through extensive regional sales and marketing support dnata Representation Services will strengthen Deutsche Hospitality’s brand presence in the GCC market and drive business to its growing number of hotels. The hotel group currently runs more than 160 hotels in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe, with more than 40 in the planning and construction phases in locations of importance for business and leisure travel from the region. John Bevan, Divisional Senior Vice President at dnata Travel Group commented: “We look forward to bringing in dnata Representation Services’ regional expertise to support in Deutsche Hospitality’s expansion. A hotel group synonymous with high standards, Deutsche Hospitality is set to cater for the growing need for a range of hotel options across the region from economy to midscale to luxury. We are delighted to become an integral part of its journey.” Johanna Lamke, Vice President Sales at Deutsche Hospitality commented: “The Gulf region is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing markets for us. With dnata, one of the leading suppliers in the region represents us. We look forward to working together to expand the brand presence and commercial activities.” …

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StayWell Holdings announces launch of Park Proxi brand and concept, debuting with Park Proxi EL Hayat Sharm in Egypt

StayWell Holdings announced the launch of a new hotel brand, Park Proxi, a unique hotel offering that has flexibility and hoteliers at its core. Park Proxi will allow hotel owners to co-create and customise the hotel they desire, by deliberately minimising the brand mandatories that usually accompany a hotel design. This approach creates space for true collaboration, and from room styling to flexible zones to the hotel logo, to a choice of 7 signature colours, Park Proxi offers owners the opportunity to develop a hotel that suits not just their personal tastes, but also cultural preferences. Designed to create a truly local hotel experience, the Park Proxi model welcomes collaboration with hoteliers to take advantage of the best that each location has to offer. Based on the understanding that no-one knows an area quite like a local, the Park Proxi hotel brand aims to partner with local businesses to create a true neighbourhood network that becomes available to guests through partnerships and recommendations. Integrating into its neighbourhood will be a core value of the brand, as will amplifying the businesses around each hotel. The first country in the world to sign a Park Proxi hotel is Egypt, with the Park Proxi EL Hayat Sharm hotel officially signed on the 10th June 2022. The 194-room resort style hotel located within Nabq Bay will boast a spa, multiple F&B outlets, nightclub, 3 swimming pools, and an amphitheatre. Known for its sheltered beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs, the Sharm EL Sheikh location includes rooms that overlook the Red Sea. Simon Wan, President of StayWell Holdings is excited to see the new brand come to life around the country and the world. “Our …

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