Category Archives: Hotels

Hyatt announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with The Red Sea Development Company for a 430-room Grand Hyatt hotel on Shaura Island, the hub of the ambitious Red Sea Project on Saudi Arabia’s west coast. The luxury resort hotel will represent the largest of 11 hotels set to open on the island and will occupy a prime position within this innovative tourist development. Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will be the second Grand Hyatt hotel in the Kingdom and the seventh Grand Hyatt hotel in the Middle East, marking an important milestone in Hyatt’s growth strategy in the region. Slated to open as part of phase one of the Red Sea Project, the property will be designed to reflect the bold and vibrant luxury synonymous with the Grand Hyatt brand, featuring sophisticated design, materials and decor inspired by the iconic elements present in the destination. Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will feature a striking architectural “coral bloom” design, a unique concept that resembles a bloom of coral in the sea from above, that will offer a sense of luxury that blends seamlessly with the natural environment. A tasteful mix of suites and large standard rooms will provide guests with a comfortable and upscale place from which to explore the area’s diverse ecosystem and endless attractions. World-class food and beverage venues and the wider amenities of the hub island, which will include a marina and an 18-hole championship golf course, will complete the luxury hotel experience within a breathtaking setting. Located in close proximity to the soon to be developed Red Sea International Airport, Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will be easily accessible from both international …

Raffles Hotels & Resorts announced Hotel Royalty Since 1887, a brand campaign developed by Accor’s Creative Studio, a diverse cast of modern-day royals, and celebrated film director and artist, Peter Greenaway. Renowned for his evocative films with striking imagery, Peter Greenaway brings his powerful vision to this collaboration, the first commercial project of his career. The campaign pays tribute to the brand’s storied history and prestige through an innovative, emotive, offbeat, and atypical lens – modernising hotel royalty through a multi-generational cast that have always considered Raffles their luxury brand of choice. The new campaign is designed to reinterpret the golden age of travel, with each vignette emulating a painting, layered with saturated colours and textures that feel exotic and daring, yet also familiar. Filmed and shot at Raffles Singapore, the birthplace of the brand, the campaign draws from the fundamental spirit of Raffles, showcasing the extraordinary experience the brand provides. Inspired by Raffles’ philosophy of true luxury being not only about what you do, but also about how you feel, the campaign highlights the brand’s position as a destination for the well-travelled; a meeting point for many cultures, infused with international influences, where stories are told, and legends are made. Showcasing an enchanting, imaginary day in the life at Raffles, the campaign follows a cast of real-life royals – HIRH Catharina von Habsburg, Archduchess of Austria, Princess of Hungary and Bohemia with her mother HIRH Archduchess Anna Gabriele von Habsburg, born von Wrede; HRH Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh, King of Jaipur; George Spencer-Churchill, Marquess of Blandford; HRH Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Denmark; and HH Prince Nikolai of Denmark – as they embark on a series of marvellous and …

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has appointed The Lux Collective, a luxury hospitality management company headquartered in Singapore, to manage two new hospitality projects set in Sharjah’s scenic central and East Coast regions. The announcement took place during Shurooq’s participation at the World Travel Market 2021, under the presence of HE Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), HE Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, Executive Chairman of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), and Paul Jones, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective, held in London, UK, from November 1 – 3, at the Sharjah stand. The nature-inspired LUX* Al Jabal Resort spans a 260,000 sqm area on a spectacular terrain hill overlooking a beach in Khorfakkan, facing the stunning Arabian Sea. The resort is expected to welcome guests in March 2023 and comprises of 45 eco-friendly units and suites that open out to expansive views of aquamarine waters and a jagged mountain range, offering a complete privacy. Set adjacent to the largest conservation park in the region for the largest wildlife safari in the world outside Africa in the city of Al Dhaid in Sharjah, Sharjah Safari, the LUX* Al Bridi Resort is scheduled for a 2023 opening. Upon completion, the project will feature 35 luxurious private tents and the LUX* Me Spa. Another key highlight of the property is the various types of animal encounters that are set in partnership between Shurooq and the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) under safe and secure measures that guarantees protection for both the guests and the animals. Speaking about Sharjah’s growing tourism profile, H.E Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Chairman …

It was announced at WTM the previously managed five star hotel by Hilton Worldwide under the name of Hilton Dubai Creek will be rebranded as Golden Sands. The Dubai-based AA Al MOOSA Enterprises LLC, a dynamic and service-oriented conglomerate that includes a wide spectrum of business interests, announced the rebranding of one of its five star hotel properties located in a strategic area in the emirate of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Previously managed by Hilton Worldwide under the name of Hilton Dubai Creek, the property’s rebranding to Golden Sands Hotel Creek comes in line with AA Al MOOSA Enterprises new strategy to strengthen its own local brand Golden Sands, which has been successfully present in the market for more than 30 years. Officially opened on 25th of October 2021 by His Excellency Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, Mr Khalid Al Naboodah, Mr. Faisal Al Moosa, Director of Al Moosa Enterprises; and Mr. Mohammad Khoori, General Manager of Golden Sands Hotels and Hotel Apartments. HE Dawoud Al Hajri expressed his fondness of the property and wished Golden Sands as a local operator the best throughout its new venture.” “There is no doubt that the UAE hospitality industry is constantly evolving, therefore we must be flexible and adapt our strategies to meet the ever-growing market needs,” Mr. Faisal Al Moosa said. “We maintain a productive and friendly relationship with Hilton Worldwide, and are confident that Golden Sands management will achieve our aspirations for this property.” For his part, Mr. Mohammad Khoori noted, “We strongly believe in this area as an essential tourism and business destination for Dubai, and we are delighted to be here to support the government’s vision …

SLS Hotels & Residences, a brand from Ennismore, in collaboration with The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), which spearheads the development of The Red Sea Project, announced SLS Red Sea will open its doors in Q1 2023. The project will bring 150 hotel rooms including 12 suites and 15 villas spanning over 800,000 square feet of single story accommodation. The property will feature expansive one, two, three and four bedroom Pool Villas each with ample space and the privacy afforded with one’s own private swimming pool. Ennismore’s top culinary and mixology experiences including Seabird, Fi’lia and Floating World will ensure this phenomenal new property speaks to the most discerning guests. The Ciel Spa, a state of the art fitness center and Altitude Pool along with a ballroom for special occasions and meeting rooms complete this distinguished offering. SLS is part of Ennismore, a creative hospitality company rooted in culture and community, with a global collection of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Ennismore is a joint- venture with Accor, formed in 2021 Chadi Farhat, SLS Brand COO & Head of Middle East & Asia Pacific states, “We are happy to announce SLS Red Sea in collaboration with John Pagano and his team at The Red Sea Development Company. We are excited to be working with architect Piero Lissoni again to deliver our signature SLS experience at this stunning property. We truly believe that once open, the property will be a highly sought-after destination for global travelers and locals alike with its exclusive spa, lounge and culinary concepts.”   John Pagano, Group CEO, The Red Sea Development Company, “We are pleased to partner with Ennismore & Accor for …

Marriott International, Inc. has signed an agreement with The Red Sea Development Company to develop two luxury hotels as part of the highly-anticipated Red Sea Project in Saudi Arabia. The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and The Red Sea EDITION are expected to further enhance Marriott International’s footprint across the Kingdom where it currently has a portfolio of over 30 properties with more than 9,000 rooms across ten brands.   “We are excited to be working with The Red Sea Development Company to introduce St. Regis Hotels & Resorts and EDITION to one of Saudi Arabia’s most-anticipated projects,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “These milestone signings illustrate Marriott International’s commitment to the growth of the tourism sector in the Kingdom and highlight increased demand for lifestyle and luxury accommodations and experiences.”   The St. Regis Red Sea Resort Solidifying St. Regis’ position as a global leader in luxury, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort marks the brand’s introduction in Saudi Arabia and the continued growth of its portfolio in the Middle East. Situated on a private island, the resort is expected to feature 90 villas, two signature restaurants, an outdoor pool, fitness centre, and spa, in addition to a Children’s Club. Expected to open in 2023, the exclusive resort will offer the brand’s visionary spirit, avant-garde style and bespoke service.   The Red Sea EDITION EDITION Hotels redefine the concept of luxury by offering an unexpected collection of one-of-a-kind hotels. Located on the Red Sea Project’s main island, Shaura, The Red Sea EDITION is slated to open in 2023 with 240 guestrooms, including one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. The property is set …

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) – the organisation responsible for delivering the required infrastructure, host country planning and operations, and legacy projects for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ – has signed an agreement with Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, to manage operations and deliver services to Qatar’s host country real estate portfolio through the end of 2022. The agreement was signed in Doha, Qatar, in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. H.E. Ali Al Kuwari, Minister of Finance and Chairman, Katara Hospitality, and H.E.  Hassan Al Thawadi, SC Secretary General, were also in attendance. Engineer Yasir Al Jamal, Chairman of the SC’s Operations Office, and Vice Chairman, Technical Delivery Office, signed the agreement alongside Sebastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Accor, and Katara Hospitality’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Humphries. The agreement will see Accor provide personnel to operate what will be the largest serviced real estate operation in the world, and include front office (check-in/check-out), operational supplies and equipment as well as housekeeping services among others. The agreement will make use of the country’s full real estate portfolio, further illustrating Qatar’s commitment to sustainability.   H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the SC said: “This groundbreaking agreement is another example of how Qatar’s approach is truly historic – not only in terms of setting the highest delivery standards, but also for legacy planning. By making full use of existing residential apartments and villas in Qatar, we can offer visitors a range of affordable and comfortable options; while also ensuring we have a sustainable hotel market that does not leave …

IHG® Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of a Management Agreement with The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), an affiliate of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) to open the InterContinental Resort Red Sea in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Situated within the premium Red Sea Development destination, the new InterContinental Resort is scheduled to open during Phase One of The Red Sea Project’s development. Activity for the first phase of development is well underway and is on track to be completed by the end of 2023. Speaking on the announcement, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “With a strong legacy in the country, we remain committed to leveraging the growth opportunities that are aligned with Saudi’s Vision 2030 and the priority destinations highlighted within the Saudi Tourism Strategy. We are excited to partner with The Red Sea Development Company, one of the world’s most ambitious regenerative projects, to strengthen our offering in Saudi Arabia and collaborate on sustainability related initiatives to protect the natural, historical and cultural environments that make this destination unique. These initiatives are in line with IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow, a 10-year action plan focused on commitments to drive change for people, communities and the planet. We also look forward to building scale in the Kingdom to deliver a landmark development that will cater to the needs of diverse guest profiles expected to visit the country in the coming years.” The announcement comes during Intercontinental Hotel’s and Resorts’ diamond anniversary celebrations, marking 75 years of pioneering luxury travel with a celebration of rich heritage, iconic hotels and exclusive experiences.  The brand has become synonymous with bold exploration, travel and cultural discovery and …

Accor expands its luxury footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a new property – Fairmont Red Sea – a luxurious family, wellness and nature focused resort part of the upcoming landmark The Red Sea Project (TRSP). TRSP is being developed as an exquisite ultra-luxury destination within a pristine 28,000 square kilometer area. Once complete, it will offer visitors the exclusive opportunity to explore a unique and diverse region of the world, including experiences for nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, cultural explorers and wellness seekers. With more than 200 km of untouched coastline, an archipelago of more than 90 unspoiled islands, dormant volcanoes, rich nature and marine habitats, and ancient archaeological sites, the destination will set new standards in sustainable development and further position Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map. The group is partnering with the Red Sea Development Company, a closed joint stock company owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) Company. “We are pleased to partner with the Accor Group for the expansion of the Fairmont brand at our Red Sea destination. The Red Sea Project aims to deliver a unique barefoot luxury experience to our guests, and the name Accor has become synonymous with luxury the world over. We are proud to have the Group’s prestigious Fairmont brand at the development and look forward to working together to set a new global benchmark in regenerative luxury tourism. This is truly a milestone moment for the brand, for TRSDC and for the Kingdom,” said John Pagano, CEO at TRSDC.   Fairmont hotels are well-known for offering more than luxurious rooms, exceptional dining and outstanding locations: through heartfelt service, the delivery of meaningful experiences and a true and …

DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel and Residences opened its doors to guests. Located in the heart of Sharjah’s vibrant arts and cultural scene, overlooking the Al Majaz Waterfront and in close proximity to the city centre, this new hotel offers warm ambience and engaging hospitality. “I am delighted to have opened the first DoubleTree by Hilton in Sharjah, offering guests stylish and spacious guestrooms, incredible dining options and service that will truly wow our guests,” said Vikram Jamwal, General Manager. “Sharjah has so much to offer – from rich culture, a vibrant arts scene, to unique events – and DoubleTree by Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences is poised to become a lifestyle destination of choice for travellers to the Emirate.” DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences features 156 guestrooms and 108 design-led family-friendly apartments ranging from one to three bedrooms. It also offers modern meeting rooms appointed with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and a fully equipped and functional business centre. Each of the guest rooms, apartments and meeting rooms offer an exceptional Al Majaz Waterfront view with floor-to-ceiling windows.   “We believe the opening of this hotel represents a milestone moment in the development of Sharjah as a unique and welcoming destination for visitors” said Mr. Marwan Al Zaiem, Chairman of Al Marwan Group. “With incredible lake views from every room and fully equipped apartments, the design of this hotel is entrenched with the rich historical and cultural heritage of Sharjah all to offer each of our guests a very memorable experience.”   Dining options available at DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences include Majdolin, an upscale Levantine restaurant – led by Executive Chef Bilal Saleh …