Category Archives: Hotels

Wyndham Debuts Days Hotel by Wyndham Brand in UAE

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is further expanding its international footprint with the opening of the newly built 131-room Days Hotel by Wyndham Dubai Deira, its first property in the UAE under the renowned economy brand. Ideally located close to Dubai’s popular landmarks with a direct access to the Dubai Metro, the launch of the Days Hotel by Wyndham Dubai Deira joins the recent openings of the Super 8 by Wyndham Dubai Deira and Wyndham Dubai Deira as part of the Deira Enrichment Project and as a continuation of Wyndham’s rapid growth across the region. Days Inn by Wyndham is one of the largest and most recognised economy hotel brands in the world, with a global portfolio of 1,600 properties. The launch of Days Hotel by Wyndham Dubai Deira follows the brand’s debut in Turkey in June 2021 and marks the eighth hotel brand Wyndham has launched in the UAE, following the recent debut of the La Quinta by Wyndham brand in Bur Dubai. Michel Augier, Regional Director, Middle East and Africa, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, said: “Dubai is one of the most sought out destinations for travellers from all corners of the globe, looking for a variety of accommodation options, making it the ideal location to launch our Days Inn by Wyndham brand. The launch of the Days Hotel by Wyndham Dubai Deira perfectly complements the recently opened Wyndham Dubai Deira and the Super 8 by Wyndham Dubai Deira, which are already situated within the spectacular Deira Enrichment Project and our portfolio of over 60 hotels in the Middle East and Africa. We look forward to continuing to expand our brands and offerings in destinations we know our travellers want to be, …

Read More »

First Novotel in Madinah to open in 2025

Accor is growing its portfolio in Saudi Arabia partnering with Taiba Investments and opening the first Novotel Brand in the Holy city of Madinah. Once open the property will include 394 keys, 3 Food & Beverage outlets as well meeting rooms and retail space. Since the launch of the vision 2030 for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2016, Accor has continuously been involved in the development of the hospitality landscape including, but not limited to, the introduction of unique development projects across the Kingdom, now adding a greenfield project with the first Novotel in Madinah. The group is partnering with Taiba Investments, considered to be one of the largest real estate companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which provides various services such as real estate property investment, development and management. ‘We are delighted to be partnering with Accor to develop our new hotel in the Holy City of Madinah, says Eng. Saleh Habdan Al-Habdan, Chief Executive Officer from Taiba Investments Real Estate Company”. We are confident that this new property will benefit greatly the hospitality landscape of the city and Kingdom overall, offering travelers a new and convenient accommodation option”. Novotel Madinah will be in close proximity to the Holy Mosque, and directly on King Faisal Road at its intersection with Amr Bin Al Aas Street, offering guests easy access to every main road of the city. Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport is only 23 minutes away from the hotel while Madinah Train Station is located at 13 minutes from the property. “This is a great opportunity to introduce the first Novotel property to the Holy City and increase further Novotel’s footprint in the Kingdom” says Mark Willis, …

Read More »

Accor expands luxury footprint in Djibouti by 2024

Accor is adding a new flagship property to its portfolio in Africa with Fairmont Djibouti. Set to open in 2024, the hotel will feature 155 rooms and 10 serviced apartments, with five food and beverage outlets combined with 1,398 sqm of meetings & events facilities. Located in Djibouti City, the capital of Djibouti and one of the country’s most affluent areas, the hotel will be strategically located by the beach in Plateau Du Serpent offering its visitors convenient proximity to the port of Djibouti. In addition, the property’s enviable seafront location will provide guests with unparalleled views, positioning Fairmont Djibouti as the “preeminent hotel” in the Djibouti market. “Accor has always been a key player in the tourism industry across Africa,” says Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, “and Djibouti is no exception. We are confident that this project will greatly benefit the hospitality landscape of Djibouti with the introduction of one of Accor’s flagship luxury brands, Fairmont, while supporting government efforts for its “Djibouti vision 2035”. Accor is partnering with Carnegie Hill Hospitality, a company founded in 2018 which has positioned itself as a major player in the real estate sector in Djibouti, headed by Mrs Haibado Ismail, and showcases the strong ambition to be a leader in the tourism sector through “greenfield” developments and strategic partnerships in all segments of the hotel and real estate sectors. When speaking about the new Fairmount project, Mrs Habaido Ismail states: “It’s not about building one more hotel. The partnership with Fairmont and Accor underlines our desire to create a unique place, emblematic of Djibouti. At the heart of our approach, there is a desire for authenticity. It is …

Read More »

Radisson Hotel Group on track to reach 50 hotels in North Africa by 2025

Radisson Hotel Group, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has set a record in its North African expansion, with the signing of nine hotels, to date this year. This has boosted the Group’s North Africa portfolio, comprising of of the Maghreb countries along with Libya and Egypt, to over 30 hotels in operation and under development, placing them firmly on track to reach over 50 hotels by 2025. Alban Mabille de Poncheville, Director, Development, North Africa at Radisson Hotel Group says, “We are delighted to be leading the market in North African hotel expansion, setting a record for ourselves and the industry. Our flagship brand, Radisson Blu, has been one of the leading brands in the region and as we continue to grow and diversify across North Africa, we look forward to capitalizing on our brand name and introducing new brands in the area such as Radisson, in the upscale segment and Radisson Collection, our entry level luxury brand. The market has shown a great potential in various segments but also in different product types, from resorts to city hotels but also serviced apartments and boutique hotel offerings. We aim to further accelerate our presence across all North African countries and key cities and also expand in new touristic areas as recently announced with the launch of our resort offerings across Morocco.” In response to the need for independent hotel owners to gain further brand exposure and consumer confidence, the group launched a new brand, Radisson Individuals, aimed at individual hotels with strong service scores and existing hotel identities who wish to remain independent or may be considering overtime transitioning to one of the group’s core brands. Mabille de …

Read More »

Hyatt Regency Cairo officially opens

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Cairo West. The 250-room hotel marks Hyatt’s return to Cairo and strengthens its growing brand footprint in North Africa. As part of the Hyatt Regency brand, the hotel is designed with productivity in mind to deliver seamless experiences and an energizing hub for both business and leisure travelers alike. Hyatt Regency Cairo West is conveniently located within the well-established Pyramid Heights Business Park. Its closeness to business hubs, mega malls, and some of Egypt’s top tourist attractions such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Grand Egyptian Museum make it a premier destination for meetings, events, and travelers. “We are proud to be opening our doors and we look forward to welcoming guests to our contemporary spaces and versatile venues,” said Tarek El Masry, general manager at Hyatt Regency Cairo West. “Hyatt Regency Cairo West is situated on a high hill that overlooks the city and the Great Pyramids of Giza, providing the perfect setting for business meetings, relaxing stays and everything in between.” Featuring 250 contemporary guestrooms that include 26 suites, for the first time in Cairo, Hyatt Regency Cairo West introduces Spa Rooms that offer in-room massage and amenities such as an in-room hot tub, a sauna and a massage table. The interior of each room is inspired by Egyptian culture with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Pyramids of Giza or the hotel’s beautiful pool and gardens. Equipped with the latest technology and amenities, every room has smart mirrors and sensor LED lighting controls. Guests can also book a Regency Club room and upgrade their stay by gaining exclusive access to the Regency Club Lounge. At the Regency Club …

Read More »

Rove Hotels crosses 3,000 operational rooms in Dubai with the opening of Rove City Walk

Rove Hotels has just opened Rove City Walk, crossing 3,000 operational rooms in the Emirate of Dubai. Rove City Walk is the brand’s latest property, located in Dubai’s coolest creative lifestyle community, home to the latest and most popular hangouts. The hotel offers Rovers (guests) the perfect excuse to experience City Walk’s iconic urban lifestyle by being at the heart of it all – directly opposite to the biggest event arena in the city – Coca-Cola Arena Dubai. This makes it the ideal  spot for those attending or organising events, shopping at high-end retail stores, experiencing some of the hottest dining outlets, cinema, family-friendly attractions and, even an indoor tropical forest full of exotic plants and creatures, among others. “At Rove, we believe in offering Rovers – the modern global nomads, a fun, fuss-free and affordable accommodation while they explore without borders. With convenience and great service as the key to everything the brand has to offer, we are always looking for well-connected locations to add to our collection of ever-growing hotels. The latest addition – Rove City Walk, brings Rove’s much-loved concept and accessible hospitality to one of Dubai’s most premium locations, and gives visitors an unbeatable jump-off point to start their Dubai adventure from.” says Paul Bridger of Rove Hotels. Rove City Walk features artsy modern design themed around music. The hotel’s instagrammable interiors include musical instruments, a collection of vinyls and references to regional and international artists, both past and present, at every corner. Furthermore, Rovers checking into Rove City Walk will be greeted to the tune of local DJ’s and musicians, who will be performing at the hotel lobby at key times. The hotel features a …

Read More »

Premier Inn Ibn Battuta Mall opens the doors of brand-new extension

Premier Inn Ibn Battuta Mall unveiled a brand-new extension, making it the largest Premier Inn hotel in the Middle East, recently. The new facilities were officially unveiled at a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Omar Khoory, Nakheel Chief Assets and Hospitality Officer and Mark Whitlock, Regional Operations Director, Premier Inn Middle East, reinforcing the world leading property developer’s growing partnership with Premier Inn Middle East. The new development at Premier Inn Ibn Battuta Mall has seen the extension of the hotel’s family-friendly all-day dining restaurant, Nuevo, and an enhanced room offering, increasing the number of guest rooms to 594. Rooms have been refurbished in a contemporary, refreshed style, while ensuring the brand’s signature comfy Hypnos bed is included to guarantee the same great night’s sleep the global Premier Inn brand is famed for. As one of the closest hotels to the site of Expo 2020 Dubai, guests have the option to be part of the magic and visit the biggest showcase the world has ever seen with direct access from the Dubai Metro, connected to the property, or jump in a taxi straight to the venue within just 20 minutes. Omar Khoory, Nakheel Chief Assets and Hospitality Officer, said: “The award-winning Premier Inn Ibn Battuta Mall has gone from strength to strength since it opened in 2016, and the new extension highlights just how popular this hotel is – with holiday makers, business travellers and the long-term guests who call it home. With its convenient location and modern facilities, the hotel is a firm favourite for mid-scale accommodation in Dubai. We are proud that Ibn Battuta Mall is the home of what is now the largest Premier Inn in the …

Read More »

The House Hotel Jeddah CityYard, a lifestyle destination, opens next week

The House Hotel Jeddah CityYard, part of Jeddah’s first lifestyle destination City Yard – a vibrant and connected community home to upscale gourmet venues, community events and entrepreneurial networking – is opening next week in the city’s trendy commercial hub – Al-Rawdah. The House Hotel is a Kerten Hospitality luxury boutique hotel brand known for its distinctive properties that tell a story. Marrying art and culture with a blend of classic and contemporary styles, this collection of hotels offers guests boutique luxury experiences tailored for each property. Maria Bou Eid, GM of The House Hotel Jeddah CityYard, said, “We are thrilled to be opening our doors for our first guests very soon. Our team is ready to share a taste of the real authentic hospitality and personalised experiences in our lifestyle hotel, which is also part of such a dynamic mixed-use destination curated by our visionary owners – that now offers experiences to stay, connect, dine and have a place to be inspired. This will be the space where interaction between local and international guests will come naturally creating memories.” The 114-roomkey hotel will be the focal point of the trendy City Yard complex – Saudi Arabia’s first mixed-use lifestyle hub in the city’s upmarket district making its mark as a luxury design-led hotel connecting guests and residents, offering luxury and soft touch hospitality. The hotel venue is part of the vision of Pure Houses, City Yard owners, to bring transformative brands together that build a destination and create an opportunity for entrepreneurial networking, local community and pop-up events. The purposefully-built lobby staircase will not only be a place to socialise, but to also meet others over coffee and Arabic …

Read More »

Park Regis Kris Kin Dubai All Set To Welcome Expo 2020 Visitors

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, the vibrant hotel that connects the historic and modern Dubai, is ready to welcome visitors to the city as the doors to the much-awaited Expo 2020 opens on October 1. The world’s most significant and impactful event ever to take place in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) will welcome participants from different nations, multilateral organisations, businesses, and educational institutions who will witness the event with the theme of “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future.” To date, 191 nations have confirmed participation at the event, which will last for 182 days until March 31, 2022. “The opening of Expo 2020 will be a historic event for the UAE and an exciting period for the hospitality industry. We have been preparing for years, and Park Regis Kris Kin is all set to welcome visitors and participants to the largest cultural gathering in the world. We have seen a steady pick up on group inquiries for Expo, which in turn complements our forecast of recording a strong occupancy during Q4 of 2021,” noted Colin A. Baker, Regional Director, Middle East, StayWell Holdings. The mega event is forecasted to bring in 25 million visitors to the country, of which 11 million are international travelers. With 12,000 new keys expected to be added in the second half of 2021 in Dubai and 1,400 in Abu Dhabi, the industry gears for a good recovery. “Expo 2020 remains a great contributor to the hotel’s occupancies during the six-month event. We are closely monitoring the countries travelling inbound, which may still have travel restrictions when Expo begins whilst being optimistic that these [restrictions] will be lifted before the opening,” reveals Baker. …

Read More »

Farnek launches hotel Management Company

Farnek has developed its hospitality division into an all-embracing hotel management company under the leadership of renowned UAE-based international hotelier Walter Knight.  Knight was originally responsible for structuring and developing Farnek’s fledgling hospitality division earlier this year. Farnek started by providing a comprehensive range of outsourced and third-party services, including concierge services, housekeeping, property operations, maintenance, energy consultancy (POMEC). Farnek’s endeavours met with early success, securing numerous contracts which included the new Expo Village, situated on the Expo 2020 site. Farnek is currently responsible for managing the reservation services, concierge, front office services and housekeeping, for the 2,273 apartments. Furthermore, under the trade name of Farnek Hotel Management, the company can now expand its services to cover all aspects of hotel and resort management from initial consultation to day-to-day operations.  Knight, director of hospitality commented: “Originally we were aiming for a service offering, which not only embraced traditionally outsourced FM and manpower services, but also managing revenue driven services, such as central reservation offices and associated sales services. “Now with our hotel management licence, we can approach hotel developers, investors, owners and management companies direct with a full suite of services including consultancy, management, outsourcing and manpower services proposition.” Farnek is no stranger to the hospitality sector in the Middle East and has been supporting the UAE’s hospitality sector for over 40 years, in which time it has amassed an extensive portfolio of hotel contracts, which include five-star brands such as Marriott, Sheraton, Sofitel and Rotana. Its consultancy division has been helping hotels and resorts become more sustainable over the past 15 years. Indeed, Farnek’s Hotel Optimizer software, can record, analyse and benchmark a property’s energy and water consumption, as …

Read More »