Category Archives: Hotels

A total of 32,621 hotel rooms are currently under construction in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the kingdom prepares to meet pent-up demand from pilgrims returning to its holy cities. That’s according to the latest research from STR, commissioned by Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022, which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from Monday 9 to Thursday 12 May. The analysts found that the country’s revenue per available room (RevPAR) recovery index stands at 52 percent, noting that the absence of millions of Muslim pilgrims has significantly impacted hotel performance in Saudi Arabia. Medina and Makkah witnessed RevPAR rates of just 33 percent and 24 percent, respectively, in 2021. Although significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels, KSA’s hotel performance registered year-on-year gains in 2021 and the sector’s recovery is expected to persist throughout the coming year, with pent-up demand driving further improvements as Covid-related restrictions continue to ease. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME – Arabian Travel Market, said: “As was the case for markets the world over, the global pandemic had a major impact on Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector. Even so, STR’s findings clearly point to an ongoing and sustained recovery, and we are looking forward to exploring the vast untapped potential of the kingdom’s burgeoning tourism sector at ATM 2022.” Hotels in Al Khobar are currently outperforming those in Saudi Arabia’s other major cities, with RevPAR surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2021. Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah, meanwhile, recorded recovery index rates of 88 percent, 85 percent and 56 percent, respectively, last year. In terms of outbound travel, research conducted by Colliers International shows that overseas journeys from the kingdom are set to grow to 6,075,000 in 2022, …

Following the success of the inaugural Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) in October 2020 with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism and the G20 Secretariat, the event will return in a new format for its second edition on 24-25 May 2022 at the Riyadh Airport Marriott Hotel. Hosted by Dur Hospitality, FHS Saudi Arabia is co-organised by The Bench and MEED, along with the Saudi-based SEMARK, and will bring together government leaders, hotel investors, owners, developers, and operators to discuss the growth of the hospitality industry in the Kingdom. “Following the resounding success and feedback we received from FHS in 2020 and AHIC in 2021, we have been working hard behind the scenes to redesign the event and we’re thrilled to bring FHS back with not just one, but two monumental and distinct programmes this year in Riyadh in May and in Dubai in September,” said Jonathan Worsley, Chairman of The Bench. Under the theme ‘Reimagined Horizons’ the programme for FHS Saudi Arabia will be shaped with the help of its newly launched Advisory Board comprising a carefully curated group of senior industry leaders, to ensure the programme addresses the most pressing needs of the market. Key conference themes will include the future of hotel development, human capital and food & beverage as well as the future of flight, destination investment and sustainability and innovation. “We’re excited to have the active and high-level investment communities from both markets back together for what is promising to be an action-packed few days of content, dialogue and networking,” Worsley added. Commenting on the investment sentiment in Saudi Arabia ahead of the Future Hospitality Summit, Philip Wooller, Area Director Middle East & Africa at STR, said: …

LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s collection of independent luxury properties, is pleased to announce the signing of an agreement for a breathtaking new resort surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes on the private Al Nawras Island in Abu Dhabi. Expected to open in 2023, Al Nawras Island, LXR Hotels & Resorts will mark the brand’s entry into the UAE capital. Perfectly situated in one of Abu Dhabi’s most recreational yet tranquil areas and designed with elements inspired by the destination, the resort will offer an exclusive escape on a private, secluded island, while still providing seamless access for those who wish to explore the vibrant city and its cultural experiences. The all-villa resort will offer 80 expansive and elegantly designed beach and water villas as well as a 450 square-metre two-bedroom Royal Villa surrounding a state-of-the-art golf course. “We’re delighted to be bringing LXR Hotels & Resorts to Abu Dhabi with Al Nawras Island,” said Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa, Hilton. “The UAE’s burgeoning capital has established itself as a global hub in recent years and has seen incredible development in terms of hospitality, sports and tourism. I believe Al Nawras Island will complement Abu Dhabi’s luxury hotel landscape perfectly and we look forward to guests experiencing this unique property.” Al Nawras Island will place a strong emphasis on exploration, expression, and wellbeing. Among the property’s world-class leisure and recreational facilities are an upscale gym, fitness studio, and three stunning swimming pools – one indoor and two outdoor, as well as tennis and paddle courts, a private marina, exclusive beach club, and elaborate spa. Additionally, children will have access to an engaging playground, dedicated swimming …

dnata has been announced as exclusive representation partner for Sun Resorts Mauritius hotel group to cater for increased demand from GCC travellers. Adding to its extensive hotel representation portfolio, dnata Representation Services will now act as sales and marketing partner for Sun Resorts properties across the GCC countries, offering travellers local expertise and a personalised service, as they return to the beautiful island since its full reopening for tourism. With a spread across the island, Sun Resorts’ Mauritius footprint includes four resorts, La Pirogue, Sugar Beach, Ambre, and Long Beach, whilst the group also owns iconic leisure island, Ile aux Cerfs, featuring the world-famous championship golf course designed by Bernhard Langer. Popular with golf enthusiasts from the region, guests with Sun Resorts are offered complimentary green fees at three signature golf courses during their stay: Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, Anahita Golf Club, and Tamarina Golf Club. Sébastien Doussin, DVP – Global Ground Services & Destination Management at dnata Travel Group, commented: “The Indian Ocean islands have always proved popular with GCC travellers, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, offering luxurious and secluded island retreats. With Mauritius fully reopening for tourism we have certainly seen an increased demand for travel there. “With our local expertise, we are delighted to represent Sun Resorts Mauritius across the GCC, particularly as a brand which attracts various demographics of travellers across the leisure, corporate, and MICE segments. This also includes travellers with a keen interest in sport due to the quality of the golf courses in Mauritius. With the GCC region producing a number of golf enthusiasts due to the abundance of world-class courses in destinations such as Dubai, we can certainly see …

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA)announced plans for Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. A 300-year-old site located just outside of Riyadh, Diriyah is considered to be the birthplace of the Kingdom and the capital of the first Saudi state. The area is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, At-Turaif, the valley and lush palm groves of Wadi Hanifah, and will soon include the Diriyah development – an acclaimed project that pays homage to the history of Saudi Arabia. Located 15 minutes from the centre of Riyadh, Diriyah will comprise 13 unique districts inclusive of residences, hospitality offerings, office space, retail, museums, cultural institutions, outdoor attractions and more. The development is a key driver of the Kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030. Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority commented, “It is a delight to be partnering with Four Seasons. Renowned for their unforgettable guest experiences, Four Seasons is working alongside DGDA to elevate what travellers can experience within Diriyah, showcasing their timeless approach to hospitality whilst staying true to Diriyah’s rich cultural past. We are excited to share further developments on this project in the coming months.” Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia will include approximately 150 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, expansive meeting and event spaces, a wellness spa with seven treatment rooms and a fitness centre, as well as two outdoor pools with private cabanas. The Hotel will also offer four culinary outlets, including a poolside restaurant and sunset lounge. The Diriyah development will become one of the Middle East’s most walkable, pedestrianized cities, and upon completion will be the world’s largest cultural and heritage site. It has been designed to …

Accor continues to expand its luxury footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the signing of its first Sofitel property in the Holy City of Madinah, scheduled to open in 2023. With plans to revamp and rebrand under the Sofitel marque next year, the hotel will continue to operate under white label while it undergoes a comprehensive renovation to position it at the pinnacle of the luxury market in Madinah.  Upon completion of the revitalization works, the hotel will stand out as a beacon of modern luxury and French savoir-faire, blending the brand’s unique sense of joie de vivre with the very best of the locale. Partnering with Waqf Sheikh Abdul Bari al-Shawi, represented by the principal of Sheikh Hamza al-Shawi, the hotel ownership is part of a joint charitable entity that donates a portion of its annual profit to treat patients in need in Madinah. “The agreement reinforces and advances the humanitarian message the Waqf stands for. We could not think of a better group to collaborate with than Accor and look forward to a successful partnership in the coming years,” mentioned Sheikh Hamza al-Shawi, Principle and representative of the Waqf. The hotel boasts a landmark location in the centre of Madinah, a short walk from the northern entrance of the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. The property features 469 keys, including the most luxurious suite in Madinah, two- and three-bedroom suites, three dining outlets, an executive lounge, two meeting rooms and a fitness centre with a gym. “The hotel is another great addition to our luxury portfolio in the Kingdom and the region overall”, says Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey. “The new Sofitel Madinah …

The DAMAC Group is excited to announce the official launch of Paramount Hotel Midtown following the success of Paramount Hotel Dubai. Synonymous with entertainment, bold imagination, and, above all, creativity, Paramount Hotel Midtown is steeped in the rich 110-year history perfected by Paramount Pictures. Set in the heart of Business Bay, Dubai, Paramount Hotel Midtown held its soft opening in February offering timeless Hollywood elegance. Perfectly located at a stone’s throw from Sheikh Zayed Road, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and The Dubai Mall, the hotel is poised to be a haven for the young at heart. Commenting on the second launch, Jean Faivre, Senior Vice President Hospitality, DAMAC Hotels & Resorts, said: “The Paramount proposition is special, with rich history to live up to. We’ve been immensely successful with our first property and we are now looking forward to our second opening, which will without doubt be a unique addition to Dubai’s vibrant hospitality scene.” Paramount Hotel Midtown brings to life contemporary Californian magic with its Hollywood-chic styles and impressive views. Exuding grandeur, the hotel’s gold-dipped lobby is splashed with retro artwork, a perfect grand entrance in true Hollywood star style. Designed for high-life lovers, the hotel offers 281 elegantly decorated contemporary rooms and suites including Scene Rooms, A-List Suites and a Paramount Suite, decked out with balconies overlooking the Dubai coastline or Burj Khalifa. The hotel offers unique gastronomic experiences at its restaurants designed to delight every palette, featuring Paparazzi Tuscan, CineScope and Melrose Bar & Lounge. Raising the bar with panoramic skyline views, Malibu Sky Lounge and Pool Bar are set to be the talk of the town. Pleasure meets business in the …

Millennium Hotels & Resorts MEA is expanding the Studio M brand with a new property now open in Al Barsha neighbourhood, in partnership with Jersey Properties LLC. Studio M is a standout lifestyle concept that embraces technology and allows people to socialise and interact, offering a unique place to rest and play. Studio M is one of Millennium’s newest brands providing an alternative lodging experience with a vibrant design and technology integrated into cool spaces to help guests unleash their sense of creativity. Hamid Sidine, Chief Operating Officer of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa, said: “We are delighted to introduce Studio M Al Barsha that comes as part of our continuous efforts to provide innovative lifestyle concepts that address the guests’ changing expectations and contemporary functionality.” “Studio M brand founded in Singapore and Studio Al Barsha is the second hotel in Dubai under this brand after Studio M Arabian Plaza Hotel & Hotel Apartments. Studio M Al Barsha will offer a chic urban concept featuring thoughtful and well-designed spaces with the “cool” factor combined with stylish rooms and fuss-free technology”, he added. Studio M Al Barsha offers 155 rooms and has been thoughtfully designed with vibrant colours, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and premium amenities that will suit the guests’ all needs. The hotel is within two minutes walking distance to the Mall of the Emirates and close to various attractions in Dubai. The nearest metro station is the Mall of the Emirates station. The hotel F&B offering includes Hello Grab N Go which provides an innovative and convenient way to dine in or out with a variety of freshly prepared and pre-packaged foods, Level ONE that offers tasty …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of a Management Agreement with Al Rabea Hotels and Trading Co. for Holiday Inn Najran – a conversion property in Najran city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The hotel is returning to the IHG family having operated as a Holiday Inn hotel from 1995 to 2015. With this signing, IHG is continues to diversify its portfolio in the country to cater to a new segment of travellers, while aligning with the government’s growth plan for secondary cities across the Kingdom. The new hotel is expected to be fully rebranded by end of 2023, with completion across two phases. Located in the heart of Najran city, Holiday Inn Najran boasts of a stunning setting, surrounded by a lush landscape of trees and overlooking the mountains. Located 20 kms from the city centre and 18 kms from the airport, the hotel will be easily accessible by the visitors. Following the renovation and rebranding, the hotel with 87-keys will offer 82 well-appointed rooms and five villas for business and leisure travelers, complemented by recreational facilities including an outdoor pool, a gym, a sauna and a steam and jacuzzi. In addition, the hotel will offer various dining options including an all-day dining, a coffee shop, a lobby lounge and a poolside lounge. Business guests will also have access to four spacious meeting rooms equipped for casual meetings to formal presentations. Speaking on the announcement, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “It is our great pleasure to welcome back Al Rabea Hotels and Trading Co to the IHG family, and once again establish our presence in the city of Najran. As IHG …

The highly anticipated JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh will make its debut in Riyadh’s new commercial and business district early Q2 of 2022, giving guests a new paradigm of five-star experiences to enjoy. Occupying the most coveted address in the capital, and a stone’s throw away from King Abdullah Financial District, the new property will stand tall amongst the skyscrapers of the city. Spanning 66 floors, with 349 rooms and suites, unrivaled world-class dining outlets- both for the meat lovers, the environmentally conscious and the night owls- as well as exceptional facilities, including business, and wellness, the flagship hotel will exude the brand philosophy of warmth, presence, and unity through every corner and detail, from design to service. Opening just in time for the summer, JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh is totted to be home to a lap of luxury, style, and comfort where guests can look forward to a transformative and elevated stay.