Category Archives: Hotels

Travellers from the UAE are planning to go away for longer and spend more than usual on their summer holidays this year to make up for a lack of breaks abroad over the past two years. The new data, released today by Marriott Bonvoy, the travel loyalty programme, shows that amongst the 85% of people from UAE who already know they will be heading abroad this summer (June-September), 98% say they will be spending more than they usually would – on average by AED11,832 per person. This is compared to their typical spend on summer holidays pre-Covid. This increase in spend is being spearheaded by older holidaymakers aged over 65, who plan to spend an average of AED25,416 more than they usually would – more than any other age group. Meanwhile those aged 45-54 are most likely to be going on holiday (92%). It’s not just more money travellers plan to spend on their summer holidays this year – they also plan to spend more time away than usual. Amongst those heading abroad, nearly three-quarter (73%) say they plan to go away for longer than normal, rising to 83% older travellers aged over 65. Many travellers have not been on a long break in quite some time. In fact, 43% have not been on a holiday of two weeks or longer in three years or more. But that looks set to change this year, with 62% of those going away planning to do at least one holiday of a fortnight or more. Figures from Marriott Bonvoy’s own data strongly back-up this trend, showing that in Europe and the Middle East, the proportion of holidaymakers booking longer 8-14 day stays for …

Marriott Hotels announced the opening of Jeddah Marriott Hotel Madinah Road nestled between the Kingdom’s two Holy cities, Mecca and Madinah. Located in the central business district of Jeddah, the new hotel made up of two tower buildings is within close proximity to the city’s picturesque Corniche Waterfront, Jeddah International Exhibition & Conference Center and the King Abdulaziz International Airport. The hotel is designed to reflect the newest global design vision for Marriott Hotels, featuring sophisticated and intuitively designed spaces for today’s modern traveller, enabling guests to relax, work and find inspiration during their stay. On behalf of the owners of the Jeddah Marriott Hotel Madinah Road, Engineer Faisal Mohammed Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Abdulmohsin Al Hokair Holding Group commented, “We have always been pioneers in the tourism industry by investing in developments in key growth markets.  We are proud to contribute to the Kingdom’s tourism industry which is experiencing unprecedented growth and attracting investors and travellers from across the globe.   Through this collaboration with the Marriott International, we aspire to achieve success and believe that this hotel is a high-value addition to the hospitality landscape in Jeddah and the Kingdom overall.” Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International added, “We are excited to further expand the presence of our signature brand, Marriott Hotels, in Saudi Arabia.  The brand is an ideal fit in Jeddah with its thoughtful service and intuitive spaces that enable guests to be inspired during their stay.” Setting the scene on arrival, guests are welcomed into a bright lobby surrounded by expansive glass windows and lined with flourishing olive trees. This sophisticated and serene space offers a place for guests to relax …

Premier Inn has opened Premier Inn Barsha Heights, bringing a new, contemporary hotel, a diverse range of dining and leisure offerings and the best of British hospitality to one of Dubai’s most vibrant urban neighbourhoods. The 11th Premier Inn in the MENA region and the seventh in Dubai, Premier Inn Barsha Heights is owned by MBT Hotel Management & Hospitality, a division of the renowned, Abu Dhabi-based hotel development and hospitality management company, MBT Development Group. Premier Inn Barsha Heights is MBT’s first hotel project in the UAE. With redesigned guest rooms, a new look lobby and fresh concepts in F&B, Premier Inn Barsha Heights is the showcase for evolution of the already deep-rooted brand in the MENA region. Simon Leigh, Managing Director, Premier Inn MENA, said: “Premier Inn is firmly established as the hotel brand of choice for high value, high quality accommodation in the MENA region.  The opening of Premier Inn Barsha Heights is a key milestone in our continued expansion, reinforcing our commitment to the region and to playing our part in contributing to the Government of Dubai’s tourism goals. “Our unique new hospitality offering bears all the hallmarks of our much-loved, award-winning brand – an enviable location, excellent value, exciting places to eat and drink and of course our good night guarantee – with a stylish new twist. We’re delighted to bring our famous British charm to this buzzing community and are confident that Premier Inn will quickly become Barsha Heights’ chosen destination for quality accommodation, great food and classy yet casual leisure, appealing to a wide range of guests, including short term business travellers, family holidaymakers, local residents and nearby businesses.” Niveen Ibrahim, Chief Operating …

Carlton Hotels and Suites is earmarked to welcome guests to its newly launched luxury hotel, Carlton Dubai Creek. Located near Dubai Creek Water Canal with views of Al-Seef district and stunning vistas of Burj Khalifa, Carlton Dubai Creek is an upscale, all-suite hotel featuring 126-kitchenette equipped studios and plenty of facilities for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel is managed and operated by the Carlton Hotel and Suites group, which is a Dubai based multinational hospitality company that manages Hotels in the Middle East and across Europe. With over 25 years of experience in the Hospitality sector, Carlton Hotel and Suites is globally recognised for creating some of the most unique, distinctive and affordable guest experiences. The group’s portfolio consists of 5 operating properties in Dubai including Carlton Tower, Carlton Palace, Carlton Downtown and Carlton Barsha. “We are delighted to expand our portfolio further in the UAE. We want our guests to be able to experience the rich Middle-Eastern culture along with a blend of modern hospitality through Carlton Dubai Creek. The hotel is strategically located along the creek making it ideal for both tourists and guests on a short business trip to access key tourist spots and business hubs easily.” says, Hosni Abdelhadi, CEO of Carlton Hotel and Suites With Middle-eastern inspired architecture blended with modern hospitality, Carlton Dubai Creek Hotel features two types of rooms. A spacious all-equipped twin studio room with kitchenettes, and one bedroom suite with a choice of walk-through balcony that features stunning views of the creek and Al-Seef district as well as breathtaking views of Burj Khalifa. Starting from AED 365 for a studio and AED 465 for a bedroom suite, Carlton Dubai …

Millennium Hotels & Resorts MEA is pleased to announce the latest addition to its expansive portfolio in the UAE with the opening of Copthorne Lakeview Hotel & Executive Apartments at Dubai Investments Park in partnership with Properties Investment LLC. Hamid Sidine, Chief Operating Officer of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa, said: We are very proud to open our latest hotel in the UAE and continue our strategic expansion across the Middle East region. We aim to create memorable experiences for our guests across all our hotel destinations and this hotel is no exception with its spectacular views and a relaxing atmosphere near the Dubai Expo 2020 site, Copthorne Lakeview is the ideal destination for the local community, business and leisure travellers” Overlooking a picturesque lake, the Copthorne Lakeview Hotel & Executive Apartments Dubai Investments Park encompasses 165 rooms and 43 apartments of one and two bedrooms. It offers an outdoor pool area that includes a separate children’s pool and a relaxing terrace. The hotel adjoins a shopping mall that consists of a large grocery shop, Choithrams, a nail salon, a hairdresser, a kids play area, and several restaurants. Copthorne Lakeview Hotel & Executive Apartments offers a choice of dining options including a specialty all-day dining restaurant, Poolside Bar, and a British style gastro-pub, Neighborhood. It also provides banquet spaces with a private entrance, a large outdoor terrace to host special events and outdoor receptions, and five event rooms. For golfers the hotel is located near three championship golf courses and is also within a 15-minute drive to Dubai Expo 2020 site and a 20-minute drive from Al Maktoum International Airport. Copthorne is a renowned brand that provides …

Deutsche Hospitality is expanding into the United Arab Emirates by joining forces with Al Hamra the leading lifestyle developer and investment company in Ras Al Khaimah to take on management of the Al Hamra Residences and Al Hamra Village Hotel. The resorts will use the Steigenberger Residences and MAXX by Deutsche Hospitality brand names in future. This expansion will enable Deutsche Hospitality to gain market entry to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. “The partnership with Al Hamra represents an important milestone in Deutsche Hospitality’s growth strategy in the Middle East,” said Marcus Bernhardt, CEO of Deutsche Hospitality. “The United Arab Emirates is a very attractive market, and the potential for our eight hotel brands is high. Collaboration with a strong local partner will enable us to leverage this potential in the best possible way.” Benoy Kurien, Group CEO of Al Hamra, said: “As Ras Al Khaimah’s premier lifestyle developer and investment company, we are focused on enhancing the destination appeal of the Emirate and driving regional and global partnerships that create exceptional value for our customers and guests. Our strategy supports the vision of the leadership to enhance Ras Al Khaimah’s reputation as a regional tourism and investment hub. The expansion of Deutsche Hospitality in the Middle East through the management of our award-winning assets further highlights the growing global investor appeal of Ras Al Khaimah and the high returns that Al Hamra delivers through its existing income generating assets.” Siegfried Nierhaus, Vice President Middle East, Deutsche Hospitality, added: “In light of the constantly growing demand in the Gulf, we are delighted to be working with Al Hamra to enhance our presence in the region. We are confident that …

Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed an agreement with Baraka Lodges LTD. to enter the safari segment in Africa. JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will be located within the Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife conservation and wilderness regions. Offering discerning travellers an unparalleled setting, the elegant retreat expects to welcome guests in 2023. Overlooking the famed banks of the River Talek and on the edge of the reserve, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge’s prime location will offer guests a distinctively elevated camp from which to discover the Masai Mara National Reserve, its stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and endless plains. Plans for the new-build lodge feature 20 private tents, including one presidential canvas-topped pavilion and two interconnecting canopied suites, ideal for families, each with a private terrace overlooking the river. Shared spaces will include a restaurant, lounge bar, spa, and a large outdoor terrace with fire pits that will play host to traditional Masai dance performances in the evening. The untamed landscape will offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to: lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve is also host to the annual great wildebeest migration, when more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania. “As a brand rooted in mindfulness, we cannot think of a more perfect retreat for the mind, body, and soul than the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya,” says Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will offer guests a luxurious backdrop to make once-in-a-lifetime memories as they connect with nature and …

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group announced a management agreement to rebrand the historic Shepheard Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. This will be the Group’s first hotel in Egypt and further expands the brand’s portfolio in the region. The celebrated Shepheard Hotel first opened its doors in 1841 and remains a landmark in the city, respected by the local community and well known internationally.  A comprehensive renovation of the property is already underway and Paris-based interior designer, Sybille de Margerie, is tasked with preserving the building’s heritage design while enhancing the facilities and services.  Upon completion, currently anticipated for 2024, the hotel will re-open as Mandarin Oriental Shepheard, Cairo. Situated on the eastern shore of The Nile river, in the heart of Downtown Cairo, the property will feature 188 rooms and 88 suites, many with balconies, providing excellent views over the city, the Nile and Gezira island. The hotel is ideally located to explore the city’s renowned attractions such as the historical Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili Souq and Al-Azhar Mosque, and provides easy access to the river, key commercial buildings, and vibrant shopping, restaurants and cafés. Mandarin Oriental Shepheard, Cairo will feature five restaurants and bars, including a rooftop restaurant for al fresco dining, as well as an exclusive club lounge.  The hotel will also offer expansive function spaces, including a rooftop ballroom, making this the ideal destination for conferences and social gatherings of all sizes. An all-encompassing Spa at Mandarin Oriental will provide eight treatment suites and offer the tailored experiences and signature treatments for which the Group is renowned. Further wellness facilities include an indoor lap pool, a rooftop swimming pool, a beauty salon, fitness centre and a kid’s club. The …

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: …