Sofitel announces the opening of Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre, marking the brand’s debut in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s capital. Strategically located in the prestigious Ar Rahmaniyyah neighbourhood, the hotel reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, contributing to the Kingdom’s transformation through world-class hospitality, international connectivity and the development of large-scale business and cultural events. The property features the largest luxury hotel convention centre in Riyadh, offering nearly 8,500 square metres of flexible event space, alongside 388 sophisticated rooms and suites. The opening represents a significant milestone for Sofitel as it brings its signature blend of French elegance and local cultural inspiration to one of the Middle East’s most dynamic destinations. Only 35 minutes from King Khalid International Airport, with private transfers available, the property is also near iconic landmarks, including Kingdom Centre Tower, Kingdom Centre Mall, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Diriyah. Designed as a destination in its own right, Sofitel Riyadh offers an immersive luxury experience where French zest meets the heritage, creativity, and forward-looking spirit of Saudi Arabia. The launch comes at a time when Riyadh continues to expand its global presence, welcoming business leaders, international travellers, and cultural explorers alike. The building’s architecture draws inspiration from the desert dunes and from the first Arabic letter of King Abdullah’s name, symbolizing continuity with the Kingdom’s heritage. With 388 sophisticated rooms and suites, the 5-star hotel provides the perfect combination of luxury and convenience. Adding to the hotel’s sense of ritual and refinement is the Sofitel Candle Ritual, an evocative brand tradition inspired by the Parisian streets once illuminated daily by candlelight in the era of Louis XIV. Together with considered design details, …

Rotana announced the signing of Centro Hail, a next-generation lifestyle hotel to be developed in collaboration with Alkhorayef Investment and Development Co. and the Tourism Development Fund (TDF). With 175 contemporary rooms, Centro Hail will introduce a dynamic hospitality concept tailored to the modern traveller. Representing the next generation of Rotana’s lifestyle-focused Centro brand, the hotel will blend smart design, functionality, and social energy to create a contemporary environment that caters to both business and leisure guests. The new signing represents a key milestone in Rotana’s ongoing expansion across Saudi Arabia and reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s tourism and economic diversification objectives under Vision 2030. Located strategically as the gateway to the north of Saudi Arabia, Hail represents a promising new destination within Rotana’s expansion roadmap, offering both cultural richness and rising tourism potential. Philip Barnes, Chief Executive Officer of Rotana, said: “We’re excited to introduce our next-generation Centro concept to Hail, a destination that represents the diversity and growth potential of Saudi Arabia’s tourism landscape. Our continued expansion across the Kingdom is about more than numbers; it’s about creating meaningful experiences, nurturing local talent, and supporting the national vision to build a sustainable, world-class hospitality sector.” As the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, Centro Hail will feature innovative interiors, open social spaces, and flexible co-working areas, complemented by Rotana’s signature service and attention to detail. The property will bring a new level of vibrancy to Hail’s hospitality landscape, positioning the city as a rising destination for tourism and commerce. Hesham Al Khorayef, Chairman and CEO of Hesham Mohammed Abdulaziz Alkhorayef for Investment and Development Co., added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Rotana and the …

FITUR 2026 has opened on a record-breaking note, with the Middle East emerging as one of the strongest and most visible regions at the global travel trade show. In a special interview with TravTalkME, José Sánchez Rodríguez, International Manager at FITUR for Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, confirmed that the 2026 edition has exceeded expectations, recording 10 per cent growth compared to last year. “This year has been really great, especially with the growth of FITUR. FITUR 2026 has hit records,” Rodríguez said, highlighting the event’s expanding global footprint. A major milestone for this edition is the first-time participation of Abu Dhabi, a development Rodríguez described as highly significant for FITUR’s future. He also noted the strategic importance of the newly appointed UN Secretary-General, who is based in Madrid and hails from Abu Dhabi, calling it the start of a promising long-term partnership. “The UN Secretary-General made her first public appearance in her new role here at FITUR during last week’s press conference,” he added. Middle East participation has seen a strong resurgence, with Dubai returning to FITUR after the COVID period, alongside the comeback of Algeria. The regional presence also includes Iraq, Iran, Jordan and Egypt, with Egypt drawing attention through a large-scale stand featuring replicas from the upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum. Morocco showcased one of the show’s largest booths, spanning nearly 1,000 square metres, underlining its aggressive tourism promotion strategy. FITUR officially opened its doors yesterday with a powerful Middle East turnout. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman led the regional participation, supported by Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Syria, all presenting sizeable delegations and destination-focused showcases. Their collective presence reinforced the Middle East’s growing influence in global tourism, reflecting …

Korea Tourism Organization wins ‘Most Loved Travel Destination by Millennials & Gen Z’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. The Korea Tourism Middle East Office is driving a new phase of inbound growth through the convergence of K-culture and strategic market engagement. By expanding roadshows, strengthening targeted marketing, and positioning the region as a global hub, Korea aims to attract 30 million international visitors by 2027. Collaborative ecosystems spanning e-sports, medical, wellness, and consultative partnerships will ensure sustainable growth and long-term market impact.

Farnek has opened a new state-of-the-art hospitality training centre at Farnek Village in Jebel Ali, Dubai. Farnek’s new ‘Hospitality Academy’ sets a new benchmark for hospitality-focused service training across the region, with the added benefit of technology integration, by bringing together hospitality operations, AI-driven performance assessment, robotics and sustainable technologies. Hotel partners will now be able to experience, at first hand, how Farnek prepares, upskills and certifies its hospitality workforce at scale. Julian Khalil, Managing Director of Farnek, said: “The Farnek Hospitality Academy, represents the future of hospitality workforce training — immersive, digital, intelligent, and built around real hotel environments. Our partners can now see in one facility how our teams are trained, monitored and certified to deliver consistent five-star standards at scale.” The academy encompasses dedicated zones, which replicate real hotel operations, allowing trainees to work in specific hotel environments identical to the properties that they will serve in. Primary facilities include a full hotel suite with bathroom, which has over 100 AI-verified checkpoints, aligned with international standards. Housekeepers practice cleaning, bed-making, turn-down, linen-handling, amenities, detailing and guest experience preparation, such as room layouts and to build high volume training capacity, the academy has four additional specialised rooms with extra beds of different sizes. “With over ten beds, a full suite, and AI performance scoring, we can train large numbers of attendants quickly and accurately, while ensuring every room standard is met,” added Salomé Joubert, Head of Soft Services, at Farnek. The academy introduces a market-first, AI-powered hospitality training and assessment programme. Using AI-assisted smart glasses, trainees are assessed live while cleaning a full guest room, with pre-defined checkpoints automatically verifying every task, cleaning standard, and workflow in real time. Beyond …

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, has expanded its presence in the United Arab Emirates with the opening of Mövenpick Dubai Creek, following the rebranding of the former Golden Sands Hotel Creek. Rooted in Mövenpick’s Swiss heritage and culinary origins, the conversion introduces a place of joyful reconnection to one of Dubai’s most historic waterfront districts, where generous care, inviting spaces and convivial food moments bring people together. The opening further strengthens Accor’s premium footprint in the city. Located along the banks of Dubai Creek and just a 10-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, Mövenpick Dubai Creek offers convenient access to the city’s cultural and commercial landmarks. From Deira’s iconic spice and gold souks to traditional Abra crossings and heritage neighbourhoods, the hotel places guests at the crossroads of Dubai’s past and present. Its proximity to established business districts also makes the hotel a compelling choice for both business and leisure travellers seeking authenticity alongside convenience. The hotel features 150 rooms and suites, combining contemporary comfort with functional elegance. Many rooms offer views across Dubai Creek and the city skyline, while generous layouts create space to gather, unwind or extend stays with ease. Facilities include two versatile meeting rooms for corporate gatherings and private events, wellness amenities, outdoor terraces, and curated leisure spaces designed to support reconnection. Culinary experiences sit at the heart of the Mövenpick Dubai Creek experience, continuing the brand’s belief that memorable moments are often shared around the table. Mornings begin the Mövenpick way, with a breakfast experience rooted in wellbeing and generosity. From healthy shots and fresh juices to locally inspired dishes, each offering surprising delights thoughtfully crafted to energise guests for the day ahead. As the day …

ATS Travel was recognised as the ‘Best Travel Management Company in the UAE’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. “Winning the Best Travel Management Company in the UAE award is not just a recognition — it is a reminder of the responsibility we carry to shape the future of travel. At ATS Travel, we envision a world where intelligent technology, human expertise, and sustainability converge to redefine corporate mobility.” Saleem Sharif, Dy. Managing Director ATS Travel

Zircon Medical Equipment LLC has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Dentium, the South Korean global leader in dental implants and digital medical devices, marking a significant step in strengthening the UAE’s position as a regional hub for advanced dental care and medical innovation. The agreement was formalised at a ceremony during AEEDC Dubai 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, a leading platform for dental and healthcare advancement in the region. Karim Braka, General Manager of Skylight Group, signed the agreement on behalf of Zircon Medical Equipment, while Dr Sung Min Chung, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Dentium, signed on behalf of Dentium. The ceremony was attended by Mr Mubarak Bin Falah, Chief Executive Officer of CMC Holding, Hae Won, General Manager of Dentium Dubai; Rami Alhasan, Managing Director of Zircon Medical Equipment; and other senior healthcare leaders and industry stakeholders. By combining Dentium’s global expertise in implantology and digital dentistry with Zircon’s strong regional presence and distribution, the partnership will expand access to advanced dental implant systems and digitally integrated technologies for clinicians across the UAE, supporting higher standards of care, innovation, and clinical efficiency. The partnership reflects the strength of economic cooperation between the UAE and the Republic of Korea, with bilateral non-oil trade reaching approximately USD 6.6 billion in 2024 and nearly 1,300 Korean companies operating in the UAE, according to official trade data. The agreement comes amid strong growth in Dubai’s medical tourism sector. The UAE dental services market is projected to grow from approximately USD 195 million in 2024 to nearly USD 291 million by 2030, driven by increasing demand for precision-led, digitally enabled dental care. According to the Dubai Health Authority, dentistry ranks …

Hilton announced the signing of Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Olaya and Hampton by Hilton Riyadh Olaya in partnership with Saleh Abdulaziz Al Rajhi & Partners Co. Ltd. The two focused-service hotels will cater to the increasing demand for high-quality, value-driven accommodation in the Saudi capital among both business and leisure travellers. Strategically located along Olaya Street, one of Riyadh’s most prominent commercial districts, the properties will offer convenient access to key corporate, retail and entertainment destinations. Carlos Khneisser, Chief Development Officer, Middle East and Africa, Hilton said, “Saudi Arabia continues to present tremendous opportunities for growth, driven by a clear and bold vision. We are delighted to partner with Saleh Abdulaziz Al Rajhi & Partners Co. Ltd. to strengthen Hilton’s midscale offerings in the Kingdom as we continue expanding our portfolio beyond 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline, and deliver reliable and friendly stays that meet the evolving needs of today’s travellers.” Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Olaya will feature 115 contemporary guest rooms and suites, designed with comfort in mind. Guests can enjoy an all-day dining restaurant serving freshly prepared meals, a stylish rooftop venue, and The Shop, a 24-hour retail space for snacks and essentials. The hotel will also offer flexible meeting rooms, a fitness centre, and an outdoor pool. Located near Tahlia Street, the property’s modern architecture and inviting interiors will create a bright, welcoming atmosphere, perfectly suited for corporate and leisure travellers seeking convenience and quality in the heart of Riyadh. Hampton by Hilton Riyadh Olaya will offer 77 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, delivering the brand’s signature reliable essentials and friendly service. A complimentary hot breakfast, a vibrant social lobby, and access to a well-equipped fitness …

World Trade Center Cairo Company, together with Ennismore announced the signing of Rixos and Rixos Living World Trade Center Cairo, reinforcing World Trade Center Cairo’s position as one of the most iconic and strategic mixed-use developments in Egypt. Scheduled to open in phases from 2027, the project will transform the iconic World Trade Centre Cairo into a dynamic, lifestyle-led urban destination, including the World Trade Center Mall. The development will introduce a city-focused Rixos experience, combining a contemporary hotel with serviced residences, marking the global debut of the Rixos Living brand. The project marks a significant milestone in Ennismore’s continued expansion of its Rixos portfolio, with 60 properties across the open and pipeline network. In the presence of Dr Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt, a signing ceremony was attended by Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, and Eng. Hassan El-Khatib, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade; Hon. Nasser Abdel Latif, Chairman of Latif Group; Gaurav Bhushan, Co-CEO of Ennismore; and Erkan Yildirim, Managing Director of Rixos Hospitality, along with a number of distinguished guests. The agreement was signed by Eng. Ramadan, El-Wasaty Al-Arnaouty, Managing Director of World Trade Center Cairo Company, and François Bauduin, Chairman of Rixos Hospitality Egypt for Hotel and Resort Management. Located in the heart of Cairo and commanding spectacular views of the Nile, Rixos and Rixos Living World Trade Center Cairo occupies a strategic city-centre position along the historic Nile Corniche. The property is close to some of Egypt’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks, including the Grand Egyptian Museum and the Giza Necropolis, and offers strong connectivity to Cairo International Airport and direct access to the city’s Central Business District. The exciting new property will be …