Category Archives: Hotels

Set to open in Riyadh by June 2027, IntercityHotel Riyadh Al Rayaan is developed in partnership with Wahat Sudair Hotels Company Limited, and will feature 216 modern guestrooms, designed to blend comfort and functionality, ideal for discerning travellers. Guests will enjoy a range of dining options, including a sumptuous all-day dining restaurant and its signature café – The Breakery, where lively urban energy meets the IntercityHotel brand’s German roots. The hotel will also feature a dynamic range of amenities, including an expansive ballroom, eight versatile meeting rooms, fully equipped gym, and swimming pool.  Siegfried Nierhaus, Vice President and Head of Development, Middle East, India & Africa H World International, stated: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been a driving force in our expansion strategy and an important source market with significant growth potential. We are committed to addressing the evolving needs of our discerning guests, and the launch of IntercityHotel Riyadh Al Rayaan, our second IntercityHotel in Riyadh, underscores the confidence and trust placed in our brands in the region. As our seventh IntercityHotel in the Middle East, the new hotel will showcase both the strength of our partnerships and our commitment to delivering a harmonious fusion of young and fresh aesthetics, coupled with unparalleled functionality and long-term commitment to shaping Riyadh’s hospitality landscape.” The signing of IntercityHotel Riyadh Al Rayaan aligns with H World International’s ambitious expansion plans, which focus on diversifying its presence through new signings across the region. This reflects the rising demand from both leisure and business travellers, particularly from key source markets such as Germany and China. Addressing this demand, H World International has already welcomed guests to the IntercityHotel brand in the region including IntercityHotel …

Oman is set to open 9,600 new hotel rooms between now and 2030, with 2,600 scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, says leading real estate advisory group and property consultant, Cavendish Maxwell. The upcoming keys will boost Oman’s existing inventory of 36,000 rooms by more than 25%, the company said. Cavendish Maxwell’s latest Oman Hospitality Market Performance insight and analysis reveals that 3-5 star hotel revenues rose to OMR141.2 million (US$367 million) in the first half of 2025, an increase of 18.2% on H1 last year. Room revenues contributed OMR83.7 million (US$217.5 million) – up nearly 22%. The strong hotel performance has led to 4.8% growth in hospitality sector employment in the country, with 10,800 people now working in the industry. 3-5 star hotels welcomed 1.1 million guests between January and June, up 9.2% from 2024. Khalil Al Zadjali, Head of Oman at Cavendish Maxwell, said: “Oman’s hospitality sector is entering a new era, driven by population growth, evolving travel patterns and strategic Government investment. H1 2025 recorded impressive increases in visitors, hotel bookings, revenues, room rates and employment, and we expect this trend to continue in the second half of the year, and beyond. “Oman’s population grew by 4.5% last year and 5% in 2023, with similar increases predicted through the decade. Domestic travel has risen in line with population growth, with Omanis taking longer trips and spending more per visit. While Gulf visitors still account for more than 25% of arrivals into the country, the number of visitors from further afield, including Europe, India and China, is increasing. With tourism expected to contribute 5% to GDP by 2030 – and 10% by 2040 – the sector is set to …

Minor Hotels signed an agreement with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises to form a new joint venture company. A highlight of the pipeline will be the introduction of Minor Hotels’ flagship luxury brand, Anantara Hotels & Resorts in locations across the country. The joint venture sets an ambitious target of opening and managing up to 50 hotels over the next decade. Development will span both key urban centres and leisure destinations, including West Cairo, Azha Ras El Hekma on the North Coast and Azha Ain Al Sokhna. As part of the agreement, Minor Hotels will commence management of seven projects, covering operational hotels, brownfield conversions and greenfield developments. The partnership will also extend Minor Hotels’ hospitality expertise to Nile cruise operations across Aswan and Luxor, building on the success of Minor Hotels’ portfolio of Asia based river cruises including Mekong Kingdom and Loy Pela, reinforcing Egypt’s appeal as one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations. William E. Heinecke, Chairman & Founder of Minor International parent company of Minor Hotels commented, “Signing this joint venture with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises is an important milestone as we bring Minor Hotels’ brands and hospitality expertise to Egypt, one of the world’s most storied and inspiring destinations. Together, we are charting a long-term vision that combines SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises’ deep local knowledge with our global reach to deliver exceptional luxury and lifestyle experiences across Egypt’s leading destinations.” Mr. Hossam El Shaer, Chairman of SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises and Madaar Developments, noted “Egypt’s tourism sector is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by increased investment and growing global interest. We are proud to be part of a collaboration that reflects our shared vision to elevate the …

SLS The Red Sea is set to make its spectacular debut in Saudi Arabia with 150 rooms, suites, and villas, including 15 signature pool villas in November, bringing its unmistakable blend of theatrical flair, lavish style, and unapologetic spirit to Shura Island, the heart of The Red Sea destination. Just 20 minutes from Red Sea International Airport by boat or seaplane and 25 minutes by car, SLS The Red Sea places guests at the centre of it all. The resort is a five-minute journey from Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, steps away from Shura Island’s yacht marina and high-end shopping and directly connected to The Red Sea’s coral reefs and marine reserves. With its bold spirit, world-class dining, and unapologetically playful energy, SLS is set to become Shura Island’s most exhilarating stage; not just a place to stay, but the place to be seen. SLS will shine as Shura’s vibrant epicentre where bold design, world-class dining, and electric energy collide to create the ultimate VIP experience. With The Red Sea’s outstanding natural beauty as its backdrop, the resort becomes a stage for the glamorous and the daring, and all those who crave the extraordinary. November marks the premiere of SLS The Red Sea, inviting guests to be the very first to experience its striking design, culinary artistry, and enviable style while more is being revealed scene by scene. Intimate and elevated, the opening act will set the tone for the showstopping grand reveal of the spectacular resort, which offers 150 rooms, suites, and villas, including 15 signature pool villas crafted for ultimate privacy and indulgence. Guests can indulge in five dynamic restaurants and bars, a see-and-be-seen pool …

IHG Hotels & Resorts signed a management agreement with Jadeer Group for a new Hotel Indigo property in New Cairo. The signing strengthens IHG’s growing luxury & lifestyle portfolio in Northern Africa and adds another distinctive hotel to the Group’s presence in Egypt. The 120-room Hotel Indigo New Cairo is set to open in 2031 as part of Red (G), a mixed-use development featuring residences, retail, and hospitality offerings. Located on North 90 Street, one of New Cairo’s most prominent neighbourhoods, the hotel will be situated close to the New Administrative Capital and the American University in Cairo, as well as emerging business and leisure destinations. As one of IHG’s lifestyle brands, Hotel Indigo properties offer a gateway to some of the world’s most inspiring locations. Just as no two neighbourhoods are alike, no two Hotel Indigo properties are the same, taking inspiration from the area around each hotel to inform all aspects of the guest experience, from the hotel’s boutique design approach to locally inspired restaurants. True to the brand’s ethos, Hotel Indigo New Cairo will reflect the uniqueness of its neighbourhood, weaving the city’s rich heritage and contemporary spirit into every guest experience. Located in one of the capital’s most dynamic districts, the hotel’s design will celebrate its surroundings and embody Hotel Indigo’s promise of making travel inspiring through authentic, culturally rich experiences. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “Egypt is a priority market for IHG, and we are excited to partner with Jadeer Group for a new Hotel Indigo in New Cairo. The area is rapidly emerging as a hub for business, education, and lifestyle, making it an ideal …

Accor signed a master development agreement with BinDawood Investment, through its dedicated hospitality arm Al Qimmah, to develop and manage a portfolio of over 3,000 keys across Saudi Arabia, including landmark projects in the Holy Cities. The first phase will feature four flagship projects, including a new-build 288-key Swissôtel in Jeddah, which will be strategically located near King Abdulaziz International Airport and is set to open in 2029. Simultaneously, Madinah will welcome a new-build 1,015-key Mövenpick property in the northwest of the city, offering excellent connectivity via the Abu Bakr Al Siddiq road and convenient access to the Holy Mosque, also opening in 2029.The agreement solidifies BinDawood Investment role as a leading investor in the Kingdom’s hospitality transformation, confirming its alignment with the nation’s tourism plans for the decades ahead. As part of the agreement, Accor will introduce its premium, midscale, and economy brands across a diverse range of developments, spanning city hotels, serviced apartments, resorts and properties designed to serve religious tourism. Further bolstering Accor’s presence in the Holy Cities, Makkah will see the transformation of two existing properties. The ibis Styles Makkah Mesfalah, an 801-key economy hotel less than 2 km south of the Holy Mosque, will undergo a full renovation to provide enhanced accessibility for pilgrims, with reopening scheduled for 2027. Similarly, the Mercure Makkah Shesha, a 1,078-key midscale hotel conveniently located near the Mina pilgrimage site, will also undergo a complete renovation, welcoming guests in 2027. Following the announcement of the agreement, Dr. Abdulrazzaq Bindawood, Chairman said: “Through BinDawood Investment and its subsidiaries, we are proud to be shaping a new chapter in the Kingdom’s hospitality journey. Our partnership with Accor underscores our commitment to becoming …

The Singapore-based boutique hotel portfolio marks its first in the Middle East region with the acquisition of a 237-key hotel, now open in Barsha Heights, Dubai. Renowned for its bold spaces and unscripted service, Naumi Hotels brings its signature hospitality experience to Dubai. The new property was recently acquired by Naumi Group and advised by SunStar Capital, the family-owned wealth management and asset company founded by Executive Chairman Surya Jhunjhnuwala. Operated by Naumi Hotels, led by Group CEO Gaurang Jhunjhnuwala, the Naumi Hotel Dubai joins a growing global collection of design-led boutique stays. Gaurang Jhunjhnuwala, Group CEO of Naumi Group, shared ‘Following Naumi Hotels’ success in the Asia-Pacific region, extending the experience to the Middle East felt like a natural next step. For us, Dubai represents the epicentre of the region’s thriving hospitality market and a symbol of innovation, where the world’s leading brands and most discerning travellers come together. We are excited to make our mark on the region and on a city that so closely mirrors our ambition, creative energy, and ever-evolving vision for hospitality.’ Established in Singapore in 2007, Naumi Hotels has built a dynamic portfolio, with eight properties spanning key cities in Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, and now the UAE. Each unique destination is brought to life by cutting-edge design principles, creating hotels with a distinctive personality. At the group’s core is a philosophy of bespoke, heartfelt hospitality, redefining stays for the modern traveller into something extraordinary. Guided by the belief that great design should shape a better tomorrow, Naumi Hotels champions sustainability and social impact as core pillars of its brand. The group has introduced thoughtful practices that go beyond the finer details, repurposing existing buildings, …

IHG Hotels & Resorts has officially opened the Crowne Plaza Alexandria Mirage Hotel, bringing modern comfort and world-class service to the heart of Alexandria. Located in the prestigious Smouha district, the hotel is perfectly placed for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel features 96 stylish rooms and suites, each with calming interiors, private balconies, and comfortable workspaces. Guests can enjoy top wellness facilities, including an outdoor pool, fitness studio, sauna, steam rooms, and massage treatments, perfect for relaxation or recharging after a busy day. Dining is a key part of the experience. The Curve, open 24/7, offers a range of international and local dishes. The Harp Bar and Lounge serves cocktails, light bites, and live piano music. The hotel also offers modern meeting spaces, including a grand ballroom and high-tech meeting rooms ideal for events, weddings, and conferences. Gehad Tantawy, CEO, said: “This hotel was designed for today’s traveller, someone who values comfort, connection, and great experiences.” Close to major attractions like the Citadel of Qaitbay and Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Crowne Plaza Alexandria Mirage is set to become a key destination in the city.

Jamaica is planning to build 11,500 new hotel rooms by 2030 as it looks to grow its tourism sector and welcome more visitors from the Middle East, says Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB). “We want to attract more travellers from the GCC, so we’re building high-quality hotels with brands they already know and trust,” White said. He explained that many visitors from the Middle East prefer luxury international hotel brands, and Jamaica is working to bring those brands into the country. Jamaica has also been building strong connections with the region through events like the Arabian Travel Market and is exploring new flight options to improve access. To support this growth, the government is upgrading airports, improving road networks, and planning a third international airport, making it easier and faster for tourists to travel across the island.

Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, the design-led boutique property on the prime shores of Palm Jumeirah, unveils a new identity this season as Dubai’s first and only luxury lifestyle boutique resort. Inspired by art, fashion, and music, the resort has evolved from a stylish beachfront escape into a destination where contemporary luxury is lived through bold design, personalized service, and thoughtfully curated experiences. The name, Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, carries a significance beyond a numeral. The number eight symbolizes infinity, a seamless loop representing infinite experiences curated for the guests. At Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, this philosophy ensures every stay is not just memorable, but singular, guiding every detail from design and dining to elevated but highly personalized services. At the heart of the resort’s reimagined vision is the Infinity Floor — ten exclusive infinity suites with private access to the Infinity Rooftop and personal butler service. Seven of these suites feature modern, minimalist luxury with uninterrupted Arabian Gulf views. Three themed suites offer immersive experiences designed for distinctive lifestyles: ● The Pulse Suite – a private boutique fitness retreat with state-of-the-art equipment and wellbeing-focused design, ideal for guests seeking energy and movement. ● The Creator Suite – a space tailored for inspiration, creativity, and photography, providing the perfect backdrop for artistic pursuits. ● The Gaming Suite – a playground for digital entertainment, E-gaming, while combining comfort and technology for endless hours of elevated play. Together, these infinity suites embody Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort’s philosophy of luxury as an experience, not just a stay. Already a hub for lifestyle and culinary experiences, the resort is home to ENVY, its vibrant all-day dining venue, Sparkles by Envy, an …