Category Archives: Hotels

The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced that the hospitality sector welcomed 820,365 guests across its hotel portfolio in 2024 — a 6% increase compared to the previous year. The portfolio achieved an average occupancy rate of 45%, marking a 2.6% increase year-on-year. A major milestone was achieved with the official opening of JW Marriott Muscat, further enriching the luxury hospitality landscape in the Sultanate of Oman. As part of its efforts to position Oman as a premier luxury tourism destination on the global map and to attract the world’s leading hospitality brands, OMRAN Group announced several strategic projects, most notably the Middle East’s first Club Med Resort that will be developed in Musandam, and the signing of a strategic partnership with Santani Wellness Resorts to introduce wellness tourism in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has announced strong financial and operational results, underscoring the Group’s sustained efforts and corporate excellence in advancing tourism development and supporting sustainable economic growth in the Sultanate of Oman, in close collaboration with key stakeholders. In 2024, the Group recorded a net profit of OMR 25.2 million and total revenues exceeding OMR 58.3 million, reflecting operational efficiency and the high standards of excellence embraced across its business operations. These achievements were presented during the Group’s recent Board of Directors meeting, where the Board reaffirmed its continued commitment to reinforcing the Group’s role in advancing economic diversification and amplifying its impact as a key catalyst for tourism development and investment in the Sultanate. Demonstrating its ability to attract high-quality investments, OMRAN Group secured over OMR 156 million in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) during 2024. This achievement aligns with Oman Vision …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Rotana unveiled the first phase of their joint initiative to boost summer tourism to the emirate. This partnership aims to address seasonal travel lulls and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s positioning as a dynamic, year-round destination. With Rotana’s strong regional appeal and global loyalty network, the collaboration is primed to drive bookings across Abu Dhabi’s diverse source markets, particularly the GCC. From June through August, guests staying at Rotana properties in Abu Dhabi can enjoy an exclusive ‘Stay 3, Pay 2’ summer offer. This campaign is a key activation of the DCT-Rotana partnership, designed to stimulate travel during the traditionally quiet summer months, reinforce Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a family-friendly destination, and encourage direct bookings through exclusive incentives. Eddy Tannous, COO, Rotana said: “As a homegrown brand deeply rooted in the region, we are proud to partner with DCT Abu Dhabi on a campaign that supports the broader vision of positioning Abu Dhabi as a year-round destination. Through this initiative, we are combining strengths to deliver both economic impact and exceptional guest value, reaffirming our commitment to driving tourism growth in the emirate.” As part of DCT Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, the partnership with Rotana underscores the emirate’s commitment to sustained, collaborative growth. It is one of several recent alliances formed to enhance Abu Dhabi’s global profile, increase visitor numbers, and deliver seamless, tailored experiences across key international and regional markets. For every three consecutive nights booked, the third night is free. For longer stays, the offer continues (e.g., stay 6, pay 4), creating greater value the longer guests stay. The summer promotion also includes: • Free stays …

Baheej has announced the fourth component of its transformative Yanbu Waterfront Project: a 34-room boutique Wellness resort that brings together ancestral wellness wisdom and contemporary design inspired by the region’s seafaring heritage. Set along the serene shores of Yanbu, the 34-room resort will offer guests an immersive retreat anchored in wellness, culture, and tranquillity. The resort will feature private sea-view cabanas, curated wellness programs, and a signature spa architecturally inspired by the pearl—a historic emblem of Yanbu’s maritime past and a symbol of renewal and calm. Norah Al Tamimi, CEO of Baheej, added: “This project is a reflection of Baheej’s vision to enrich Saudi destinations with meaning, not just infrastructure. Our wellness resort is more than a place to stay — it’s an experience crafted around the values of balance, beauty, and belonging. We believe it will become a new symbol of Yanbu’s evolving identity as a serene coastal escape.” Through this addition, Baheej continues to offer guests opportunities to reconnect with curated experiences that include meditation at sunrise, movement rituals inspired by coastal rhythms, and wellness treatments rooted in Arabic healing traditions and native ingredients. The wellness resort joins a growing collection of destination-defining assets developed by Baheej in Yanbu, including Cloud 7Lifestyle hotel by Kerten Hospitality, Kaynuna Beach Escape and the upcoming Jaba Tour Centre and Diving Club.

Majid Al Futtaim announced a new strategic partnership with Ennismore to launch Egypt’s first 25hours Hotel at Junction, Majid Al Futtaim’s upcoming business and lifestyle destination in West Cairo. The new addition marks the debut of the 25hours brand in the Egyptian market, reinforcing Junction’s position as a dynamic hub for hospitality, business, and culture. Bringing a playful, design-led approach to hospitality, 25hours will inject fresh creative energy into West Cairo. Known for its eclectic interiors, strong sense of place, and immersive storytelling, the brand’s arrival signals a bold reimagining of how hotels contribute to urban culture. Gaurav Bhushan, Chief Executive Officer for Ennismore, said, “Ennismore is honoured to be partnering with Majid Al Futtaim to bring 25hours to Egypt for the first time, especially within a lifestyle destination like Junction. Each 25hours Hotel is inspired by the rich culture and history of its location, and we look forward to creating a strong sense of storytelling through design and community spaces through our restaurants and bars for our guests.” “At Majid Al Futtaim, we believe in creating destinations that truly reflect the needs and aspirations of today’s customers. The arrival of 25hours at Junction marks an exciting moment in our refounding journey and continues our longstanding legacy of introducing bold, innovative concepts to the communities we serve.” said Ahmed El Shamy, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Properties. “This partnership also marks a significant step in our vision to create destinations that are both commercially vibrant and culturally meaningful, while further reinforcing our long-term commitment to building integrated, future-ready environments that drive economic growth and foster innovation.” Situated in the heart of Junction, the hotel will feature approximately 250 keys, …

Emirates Skywards has enhanced its partnership with Marriott Bonvoy to offer members the opportunity to convert Miles to Points, and Points to Miles. The strategic partnership will unlock even more rewards for 35 million members worldwide, who can now enjoy seamless conversions. The new benefit further enhances the already strong collaboration between both loyalty programmes, which currently offers Members the chance to earn twice the rewards on both flights and hotel stays. Members can earn Skywards Miles in addition to Marriott Bonvoy points for stays at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, and Marriott Bonvoy points in addition to Skywards Miles when flying with Emirates. Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, said: “Marriott Bonvoy offers one of the most fantastic hotel portfolios in the industry, and as one of the most valued and recognised loyalty programmes in the world – we’re thrilled to take our partnership to the next level. Our 35 million members have benefitted from this strategic partnership for more than 10 years – earning twice the rewards on flights and hotel stays. And we’ve now opened a world of new rewards with the option to convert Miles to Points. This means members can redeem Points towards stays at more than 30 hotel brands and over 10,000 destinations across 144 countries and territories. At the same time, Marriott Bonvoy members can still enjoy converting Points to Miles to ‘fly better’ with Emirates to more than 140 destinations across the airline’s extensive network. We’re proud of our long-standing partnership and as two global brand leaders – we look forward to delivering more benefits, value, and the very best travel experiences for our members worldwide.” Philip Andreopoulos, Chief Commercial …

Almosafer entered into a partnership with Hotel Management Company “Adeera” to promote world-class Saudi Arabian hospitality to domestic and inbound tourists. The MoU aims to enhance the Kingdom’s thriving hospitality and tourism sector in line with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030. As part of the newly signed partnership, Almosafer, as the first global travel agency, will integrate Adeera’s hospitality brands across its portfolio of B2B and B2C travel & tourism businesses to offer domestic and international travellers seamless access to top-of-the-range Saudi Arabian hospitality. The significant collaboration between the PIF entity and the national champion of Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism sector marks a milestone for the Kingdom’s luxury hospitality sector. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer, said, “As a homegrown company catering to the growing needs of domestic and international travellers, we are proud to connect the world to the unique culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia. Our expansive digital reach and integrated platforms make us the perfect partner to showcase PIF company Adeera’s authentic Saudi hospitality brand and services to the world, and we look forward to enabling a seamless booking experience for more people to enjoy Saudi Arabian hospitality at its best.” Stefan Leser, CEO, Adeera: “Saudi Arabia’s unique hospitality culture is an essential part of its identity and integral to the Kingdom’s ambitious tourism goals. At Adeera, we are committed to bringing this same spirit of warmth and luxury and further elevating it through our carefully curated selection of homegrown hospitality brands in our role as the national champion of the Saudi hospitality sector. Through our partnership with a leading brand like Almosafer and its immense digital reach, we hope to connect tourists further to authentic …

Seven Tides has signed a strategic hotel management agreement with Minor Hotels as the new operator of its five-star DUKES The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, which is located on the west trunk of Palm Jumeirah, effective from 1st August 2025. “This is a strategic appointment as Minor Hotels already successfully manages our existing asset, the neighbouring NH Collection Dubai The Palm, and the agreement will provide enhanced synergy between the hotels,” said Abdulla Bin Sulayem, CEO, Seven Tides. “Furthermore, the proven track record of Minor Hotels in delivering elevated guest experiences, combined with their operational expertise makes them the ideal partner to manage this property. We look forward to a successful collaboration that heightens the appeal of Palm West Beach as one of Dubai’s premier hospitality destinations. “The Barcelo Hotel Group has been managing DUKES for the past six years and has fulfilled all of its contractual obligations to a very high standard. We wish to thank Barcelo Hotel Group for their contribution and wish them success in their future endeavors,” added Bin Sulayem. Delivering an upscale blend of cosmopolitan luxury twinned with tradition, DUKES offers 273 hotel rooms and suite options and 287 serviced apartments with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Guests can enjoy six distinctive dining venues, from a specialty restaurant and pool bar to a beachside lounge and bar, along with a stunning private beach, indoor pool, outdoor infinity pool, lazy river, fully equipped gym and extensive wellness and family-friendly facilities. Located on the vibrant Palm West Beach, one of Dubai’s most desirable lifestyle destinations, DUKES’ prime location also places guests within easy reach of major attractions such as Nakheel Mall, Aquaventure Waterpark, and Ain Dubai, …

Minor Hotels signed a strategic hotel management agreement for a prominent beachfront property on Dubai’s iconic Palm West Beach in collaboration with valued partners, Seven Tides. Effective by 1st August 2025, the addition of this new resort and serviced residences—currently operating as Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel—to Minor Hotels’ managed portfolio further strengthens the group’s growing footprint in the United Arab Emirates and establishes it as the largest operator on the Trunk of the Palm. The resort, which includes 273 hotel keys and 287 serviced apartments, boasts a premier beachfront location adjacent to NH Collection Dubai The Palm, which launched in February 2023. This agreement will see Minor Hotels’ total key count on Palm Jumeirah increase to 1,524 keys across three properties including Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort and NH Collection Dubai The Palm under three distinctive brands, reinforcing the group’s long-term commitment to the region. Located on the vibrant Palm West Beach, one of Dubai’s most desirable lifestyle destinations, the property offers direct access to a lively beachfront promenade featuring upscale restaurants, beach clubs, and entertainment venues. Its prime location also places guests within easy reach of major and is a convenient 30-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travellers. The property comprises a range of room and suite options, and the 287 serviced apartments include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Guests can enjoy six dining venues, from a specialty restaurant and pool bar, along with a private beach, infinity pool, lazy river, and extensive wellness and family-friendly facilities. Minor Hotels will also implement a soft refurbishment of the guest rooms and public spaces prior to a rebranding of …

Barceló Hotel Group announces the expansion of its presence in the Middle East with the opening of Barceló Hotel & Residences, Bahrain, adding 195 keys to its robust portfolio. This marks the group’s debut property in Bahrain, with the contemporary hotel located in the bustling heart of the capital, the historical district of Seef. This new addition is ideally suited for both business and leisure travellers seeking a sophisticated stay in one of Manama’s most prominent neighbourhoods. The new Barceló Hotel & Residences, Bahrain rises in a 20-story building topped by a rooftop with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and an exciting culinary offering. The property boasts 195 spacious and modern designed rooms equipped to guarantee maximum comfort. The hotel also features interconnected rooms, ideal for families and groups travelling together. Each accommodation offers amazing views of the city centre and is meticulously furnished, making it an ideal destination for an urban getaway with family, or a vacation with friends. At Barceló Hotel & Residences, Bahrain, guests can unwind at the hotel’s state-of-the-art spa, take a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool, or maintain their fitness routine at the fully equipped gym. The wellness area offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, while the kids club provides a fun environment where parents can drop their children to enjoy engaging activities. In addition, the club lounge offers a private space for relaxation and refreshments for guests throughout the day. The hotel also features two extensive meeting and business centres, making it an ideal choice for business conferences and social gatherings. Moreover, the property features four exceptional dining venues that blend traditional Middle Eastern flavours with modern international cuisine. The A la Carte …

According to Cavendish Maxwell report, Oman is currently home to around 270 hotels and resorts, with 24,000 rooms between them,more than half are in the Upscale, Upper-Upscale and Luxury segments. Another 5,800 rooms across 35 hotels and resorts are set to come online by 2030, with 54% in the Upper Upscale and Luxury segments, suggesting a shift towards high-value tourism. Tourism is on the increase in Oman, reflecting growing demand and confidence from international visitors and domestic travellers. Oman’s four airports handled 14.5 million passengers in 2024 – a year-on-year increase of 2.5%. Muscat and Salalah handled 12.9 million and 1.5 million passengers respectively, highlighting Muscat’s role as the country’s primary air travel hub, and Salalah’s strength as a seasonal destination. Hotel guests and revenue surpassed pre-pandemic levels in 2024, with 2.15 million guests staying at Oman’s 3-5 star hotels in 2024 – a 3.6% jump on 2023. Hotel revenue rose 6.1% to 243 OMR. With guest numbers continuing to rise, Cavendish Maxwell predicts a positive but stable outlook for the country’s tourism sector. Hotel occupancy rose by an average 2.4% in 2024, with the Upper Midscale and Midscale segments seeing the biggest jumps: 11.1% and 8.9% respectively. Average Daily Rates – ADRs – reached 53.4 OMR, with the Upper Midscale and Midscale sectors recording increases of 3.8% and 5.7% respectively.