Pullman unveiled its latest venture in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), with the rebranding of Marjan Island Resort & Spa to the premium Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island. This milestone occasion signifies the debut of the first Pullman Resort in the United Arab Emirates and marks a strategic partnership that further reinforces Accor’s commitment to the growth and development of RAK tourism and its hospitality sector. Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island opened its doors on 5th February, after a thoughtful refurbishment of its 300 rooms and suites that further aligns the guest experience with the Pullman brand. Additional upgrades are expected to continue throughout the year, with refreshed dining concepts set to launch in Q4 and a room renovation programme to follow in early 2025. Currently, the family-friendly resort houses five dining outlets offering a variety of cuisines, including traditional Arabic, flavorful Asian, authentic Lebanese, and Italian, among others. Upholding Pullman’s legacy as a modern brand for the new generation, the resort will emerge as a beacon of hospitality excellence in Ras Al Khaimah. With captivating, licensed Food & Beverage concepts that promise to revolutionise the dining scene, alongside state-of-the-art swimming pool and wellness amenities, and a variety of retail outlets, the property is set to establish itself as a stand-out stay option where style meets success. With seamless experiences that guests appreciate, as well as the flexible and professional service the brand is renowned for, the resort will cater to the cosmopolitan tastes of globetrotters, inviting weekenders, expatriates, and families from around the world. Commenting on the strategic venture, Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer for the Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Middle East, Africa & Türkiye at …

Rotana announced the appointment of Philip Barnes as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 March 2024. Commenting on the announcement, Selim El Zyr, Vice-Chairman of Rotana, said: “We are proud to welcome Philip Barnes as the new CEO of Rotana. With a rich history of leadership and a deep understanding of the global hospitality landscape, Barnes is poised to elevate our brand delivery and levels of excellence. We eagerly anticipate his innovative direction and vision that will shape Rotana’s next chapter and build on our growing pipeline across key markets.” Completing almost 25 years as part of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Barnes held several senior leadership positions worldwide, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Most recently, he held the role of Regional Vice President of Southern California (2020 – 2022). Previously, he also worked with leading hospitality brands such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and Shangri La Hotels & Resorts among others. In the Middle East, Barnes was Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ Regional Vice President of the United Arab Emirates (2009 – 2011). In this role, he oversaw the operations for Fairmont Palm Dubai, Fairmont Bab al Bar Abu Dhabi, Fairmont Ajman, Fairmont Fujairah, and pre-opening Fairmont Abu Dhabi. Prior to this, he also held the position of Vice President of the Middle East (2007 – 2009) for the group, overseeing the developments and planned openings in South Africa, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. “I am privileged to join Rotana – a homegrown brand synonymous with providing guests with the highest service levels across the region. I look forward to working closely with the wider team …

In January 2024, Qatar recorded the reception of 702,800 visitors, marking the highest monthly level of visitor entries ever. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries took the lead in terms of the total number of visitors, accounting for 53% of the overall visitor count. These numbers coincide with the significant event at the beginning of the year, the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™️. Qatar presents a diverse tourism scene that blends cultural heritage with modernity and development. The country offers visitors various experiences catering to all tastes, from cultural exploration to sports and adventure, as well as artistic exhibitions and educational conferences.

West F5 Investments LLC has signed a franchise agreement with Marriott International to open the Marriott Marquis Dubai within the Jewel of the Creek complex in Dubai. Scheduled to open in March 2024, the premium hotel and serviced apartments are part of the first phase of the new iconic destination developed by Dubai Developments. The property, leased by West F5 Investments LLC, will be operated by Dubai-based independent hospitality management company, Aleph Hospitality. The signing ceremony held at Jewel of the Creek was graced by the attendance of His Highness Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashed Al Maktoum and attended by HE Eng Essa Al Maidoor, Director General of Dubai Developments; Khaled Shaker, Director of Investments and Strategic Projects of Dubai Developments; Naresh Kumar Bhawani, Chairman of West F5 Investments LLC; Prem Gopalani, Managing Director of West F5 Investments LLC; Sandeep Walia, Chief Operations Officer – Middle East at Marriott International; Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality, and Neil George, Partner and Executive Director of Aleph Hospitality. Scheduled to open in March 2024, the new-build Marriott Marquis Dubai will comprise 590 keys consisting of 434 well-furnished hotel guest rooms and suites plus 156 serviced apartments featuring limitless views of Dubai Creek and the city skyline. The property is anticipated to feature extensive business and leisure facilities including six food and beverage outlets, conference and meeting facilities, a business centre, gym, spa facilities as well as swimming pools in each tower. In addition, the development will include a large retail area with a promenade on the Dubai Creek and a Marina with 85 berths. “We are delighted to open Marriott Marquis Dubai in collaboration with Marriott International and …

Dorchester Collection opens The Lana, Dubai, the first hotel in the Middle East. Offering 225 rooms and suites with eight dining concepts, The Lana is the tenth Dorchester Collection hotel and represents the next chapter in the brand’s unparalleled, global sensibility of service and quality. The first new opening for the group in more than a decade, the property sets a new benchmark for design and timeless care and enchantment in the city of Dubai. The Lana will also be home to the first Dior Spa in the UAE, set to open in April 2024. An architectural statement designed by Foster + Partners, the hotel represents the ultimate expression of trusted hospitality and elevated living, offering 225 rooms and suites and eight new dining concepts; including four that have been created with three of the world’s most celebrated chefs. The hotel’s sophisticated interiors have been designed and executed by the famed Parisian duo, Gilles & Boissier and incorporate a carefully curated section of more than 50 art pieces, commissioned by local and global artists. Commenting on the opening, Christopher Cowdray, president of Dorchester Collection, said, “As Dorchester Collection welcomes its first guests in the Middle East, we are entering a new era in our company history. The Lana is one of the year’s most anticipated hotel openings, and we are certain it will be celebrated for its remarkable design, superb location in one of the world’s most vibrant cities and a dining scene that will undoubtedly attract much local and international attention.” Conceptualised and managed on behalf of Dubai-based developers: OMNIYAT, The Lana is the first step in curating a new phase for the Downtown Dubai neighbourhood. Speaking about his …

The Department of Tourism Development in Ajman is introducing authentic Emirati culture and cuisine for an immersive experience for visitors by strategic partnerships with 4 and 5-star hotels in the Emirate of Ajman. This new step is part of the coordination between the concerned authorities to enhance the tourism scene and cultural interaction in the Emirate of Ajman, as well as to achieve the Department’s vision to support the sustainable development of the tourism sector. These steps are in line with the Department’s strategic vision, which announces a special initiative entitled “Training Hotel Chefs to Prepare Emirati Popular and Traditional Dishes”. The aim of this initiative is to enhance the tourist experience by enriching their experience by tasting the authentic flavours of Emirati cuisine, in preparation for the holy month of Ramadan in 2024. Recognising the pivotal role culinary experiences play in attracting tourists, the department relied on the expertise of Emirati chef Khulood Ateeq. H.E. Mahmoud Khalil Al Hashemi, Director General of Ajman Tourism Development Department, said: “Emirati cuisine is a cornerstone of our cultural heritage and we believe that by incorporating these authentic flavours into the tourism experience, we can create an immersive experience for visitors. Through this unique collaboration with prestigious hotel establishments and the expertise of our Emirati chefs, we are not only promoting Emirati culinary traditions, but also positioning Ajman as a culinary destination in its own right.” Ms. Sarah Al Suwaidi, Head of Strategic Partner Relations, added: “This initiative is in line with the overall mission of Ajman Tourism Development not only to attract tourists to Ajman but also to provide them with unique and immersive experiences. Combining cultural richness with culinary excellence, Ajman …

Minor Hotels announced the continued expansion of its luxury Anantara brand in Oman with the upcoming development of a new resort in Bandar Al Khairan, Muscat. Located on the rugged Omani coast just 45 minutes from the capital, the new-build 121-key property is slated to launch in 2026. The resort in Bandar Al Khairan, to be operated by Anantara, will feature 51 guest rooms, 46 chalets, and 24 villas nestled along the mountain shoreline overlooking the crystal-clear water of the Gulf of Oman. Designed to offer contemporary luxury and set within a dramatic natural landscape, each generously sized guest room will be a stylish haven in the heart of the resort, while one and two-bedroom villas will be set separately among lush gardens for enhanced privacy. A selection of units will include private pools for exclusive relaxation and additional comfort throughout Oman’s hot summers. A dedication to gourmet dining will be found across five restaurants and bars including all-day international dining, a speciality restaurant, a beach restaurant, a delicatessen café, and a rooftop bar with spectacular sea views. The property will be owned by Musstir, the real estate acquisition and development arm of the MB Holding Company which also owns Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara on Oman’s south coast. This exciting new connection between Musstir and Minor Hotels to develop a second Anantara in partnership, marks a strengthened bond for two dynamic and forward-thinking groups and the next step in the continued evolution of Minor Hotels as a leading operator in this rapidly developing country. Further premium facilities at the new Anantara resort in Bandar Al Khairan will include an impressive infinity swimming pool and kids’ splash pool, a …

Kerten Hospitality and Hwadi, has announced a pioneering new venture: the Cloud 7 Hotel Al Ahsa, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As part of Kerten Hospitality’s ambitious expansion in Saudi Arabia, the Cloud 7 Hotel Al Ahsa project is a key highlight under ‘The Collective by Kerten Hospitality’ initiative. This initiative represents a visionary approach to integrating over 20 lifestyle and mixed-use projects across the Kingdom, with a strategic allocation of SAR 1.5 billion already achieved in 2023. This new venture is poised to seamlessly integrate with Al Ahsa’s vibrant landscape, positioning itself as a central hub for events and a focal point for community engagement. The project will have the capacity to host significant-scale events, supported by the addition of lifestyle-oriented rooms. The inclusion of local and GCC-based retail and dining concepts aims to create a diverse environment that transforms the hotel into a communal space where the local community can come together, enjoy the facilities, and connect at the event space—all in one convenient destination. Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, said, “The Cloud 7 Hotel Al Ahsa is an embodiment of Kerten Hospitality’s core values – innovation, community engagement, and a forward-thinking approach to hospitality. The project’s scope extends beyond traditional hotel services, focusing on enriching the Al Ahsa community through a socially resonant offering and experience that transcends the conventional hotel room.” Hwadi: A Symbol of Creativity and Excellence Hwadi’s collaboration in this venture is pivotal, bringing their extensive experience and a track record of over 200 successful projects. Their expertise in creative design, construction, and efficient project execution aligns perfectly with the ambitious scope of the Cloud 7 Hotel Al Ahsa project. Saif Albluwi, Hwadi …

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), announced today the launch of “Alat”: a PIF company, to create a national champion that will contribute to the aim of making Saudi Arabia a global hub for sustainable technology manufacturing that focuses on advanced technologies and electronics. Alat will focus on manufacturing products that serve local and international markets within seven key strategic business units: advanced industries and semiconductors, as well as smart appliances, smart health, smart devices and smart buildings, in addition to next generation infrastructure. The company, chaired by HRH Crown Prince, aims to enhance the capabilities of the Saudi technology sector, increase its contribution to local content – benefiting from the rapid development of this sector – increasing the nation’s attractiveness and its ability to create investment opportunities. Alat will also enable the private sector through its strategic partnerships with leading international players in manufacturing and technology, which will enhance the economic ecosystem locally and regionally. The company will build partnerships to enable the transformation of the industrial sector globally, by providing sustainable industrial solutions based on clean energy sources. These partnerships will help meet commercial demand, keep pace with the needs of the next generation of manufacturing, enhance the strength of local supply chains and contribute to making Saudi Arabia a global center for advanced technological manufacturing. Alat will manufacture more than 30 product categories that will serve vital sectors. These include robotic systems, communication systems, advanced computers and digital entertainment products, as well as advanced heavy machinery used in construction, building and mining. The company aims …

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel proudly joins Dubai’s accessibility movement, achieving the notable milestone of becoming the first Jumeirah property to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) status, which awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This achievement underscores the hotel’s unwavering commitment to providing an accessible and inclusive experience for all guests, as the CAC designation is reserved for organizations committed to delivering an elevated guest experience and fostering a welcoming environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and their families. Andy Cuthbert, general manager of Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, said, “The autism certification holds immense importance for Jumeirah Creekside Hotel. It signifies our continuous effort to create an environment where empathy, understanding, and inclusivity are paramount. It’s about fostering an atmosphere where every guest, including those on the autism spectrum, feels supported and valued throughout their experience.” Jumeirah Creekside Hotel’s milestone represents a significant achievement in Dubai’s city-wide initiative, led by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), to establish the city as the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. This designation, granted by IBCCES, is reserved for communities offering an array of autism-certified accommodations, leisure, and entertainment options to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for autistic guests, individuals with sensory sensitivities, and their families. As part of the certification process, hotel staff undergo training on autism and sensory awareness, equipping them with the knowledge to welcome autistic guests to the facility. Additionally, an on-site assessment was conducted to develop sensory guides — a tool designed to enhance the guest experience by providing essential information about specific facilities and locations in the hotel. These guides include details regarding lighting, noise, and other …