Category Archives: Hotels

Taj Dubai walked away winning the title of ‘Best Luxury Hotel’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning the Best Luxury Hotel in Dubai at the Arabian Travel Awards is a prestigious recognition that highlights the hotel’s commitment to unmatched service, worldclass experiences, and excellence in one of the world’s most competitive luxury markets. This award not only strengthens its position as an industry leader but also enhances its reputation, guest trust, and market visibility while motivating the team to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality.”-Saurabh Tiwari, Area Director, Middle East & CIS, Taj Hotels.

Mövenpick Hotel Wa’ad Al Shamal has officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone as the first five-star hotel in Saudi Arabia’s Northern region. Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal features 245 rooms and suites, including two Presidential Suites that offer an exceptional blend of comfort and modern design. The hotel also offers 18 state-of-the-art meeting rooms and expansive banqueting facilities, creating the ideal destination for conferences, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. For relaxation and wellness, guests can enjoy dedicated male and female spa areas featuring indoor swimming pools, separate fitness centers, steam rooms, saunas, and rejuvenating massage services. Whether for business or leisure, Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal delivers a seamless experience, offering comfort, convenience, and authentic Saudi hospitality in one of the Kingdom’s most promising emerging destinations. The grand opening was inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Sultan Bin AbdulAziz, Governor of the Northern Borders Region, in the presence of His Excellency Minister of Industry and Minerals Bander Al Khorayef, and His Excellency Vice-Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs, Khaled Al Modaifir, alongside Moustafa Manoon, Vice President of Operations, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at Accor, and other distinguished guests. To mark the occasion, His Royal Highness, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony underscoring the hotel’s contribution to the region’s growing tourism sector and alignment with Vision 2030. Owners Abdullah Al Jaber and Abdulrahman Al Jaber presented a specially crafted key to Naseer Thodi, General Manager of Mövenpick Hotel Wa’ad Al Shamal, as a symbolic gift, celebrating the hotel’s debut. Guests were welcomed with a vibrant cultural experience, beginning with the traditional Arda dance, a symbol of Saudi heritage and unity. The celebrations continued into the evening …

HBX Group  and Minor Hotels have announced the global expansion of their preferred distribution partnership. The expanded partnership builds on the success of Minor Hotels and HBX Group’s existing collaboration in Europe and the Americas. Under the agreement, Minor Hotels will add 181 properties from Asia, Australasia, Africa and the Middle East to its distribution partnership. The group will also designate HBX Group as a preferred B2B distribution partner, enabling streamlined distribution, optimised operational costs, and greater control over rates and inventory. HBX Group’s global network, which connects 60,000 travel distributors across over 190 source markets, will now have access to over 560 Minor Hotels properties across 58 countries. These include renowned brands such as Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, Tivoli, NH, NH Collection, nhow and Oaks. Looking ahead, Minor Hotels announced its intent to add nearly 300 properties to its portfolio over the next three years, which will also join the preferred distribution partnership. Carlos Muñoz, Chief Commercial Officer at HBX Group, commented: “This global partnership represents a significant milestone in our collaboration with Minor Hotels. By consolidating distribution efforts and reducing operational complexity, we are enabling Minor to streamline its strategy and focus on reaching high-value markets where we can add real value. HBX Group becomes an extension of Minor’s commercial arm, bringing their brands to markets and customers that would otherwise be out of reach. Together, we are setting a new benchmark for what a true partnership between a hospitality group and a distribution tech platform should look like.” Ian Di Tullio, Chief Commercial Officer of Minor Hotels, added: “Our partnership with HBX Group has been instrumental in maintaining our agility and efficiency, allowing us to leverage best …

The National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels (NCT&H)  announced the strategic expansion of its luxury hospitality portfolio through the addition of four world-class properties. The newly integrated properties include two of Abu Dhabi’s most distinguished luxury resorts—The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa—as well as two internationally renowned destinations: Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives and the newly opened Cheval Blanc Seychelles. These additions expand NCT&H’s portfolio, increasing its capacity to nearly 1,500 rooms and strengthening its presence in the ultra-luxury segment. This significant development strengthens NCT&H’s position as a leader in the domestic and international luxury hospitality sector and reaffirms its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to guests. H.E. Tareq Abdulraheem Al Hosani, Chairman of the Board – NCT&H, commented: “The integration of these prestigious assets marks a transformative chapter for NCT&H, positioning us as a key player in the global luxury hospitality market. Our expanded portfolio allows us to offer unparalleled guest experiences while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier destination for high-end tourism.” This transaction was made possible through a strategic partnership with Alpha Dhabi Holding, which acquired a controlling stake of 73.73% in NCT&H. This investment further strengthens NCT&H’s ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the luxury hospitality sector and reinforces Alpha Dhabi’s commitment to driving impactful growth in high-potential markets. With a legacy of excellence in hotel ownership, management, and operations, NCT&H continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Abu Dhabi’s tourism and hospitality industry. The newly acquired properties complement NCT&H’s existing luxury assets, which include InterContinental Abu Dhabi, InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi, Danat Al Ain Resort, Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, and Dhafra …

Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai bagged ‘Best 5 Star Business Hotel’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “We are humbled and grateful to be recognised for this award for the second year, and we will continue to strive for excellence in everything we do. Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way. Winning this award is a great honour as it celebrates dedication, and the exceptional service of our team. It is a significant recognition of the team effort, passion, and outstanding service. Our mission is to create memorable guest experiences and emphasises our dedication to excellence.”-Amro Nagah, General Manager, Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai.

Millennium Place Mirdif won the title of ‘Best 4 Star lifestyle hotel’ at the seventh Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning the Best 4-star Lifestyle Hotel award for Millennium Place Mirdif at the Arabian Travel Awards 2024 is a tremendous honour that validates our commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences and setting new standards in the hospitality industry.”- Shady Dawad, General Manager, Millennium Place Mirdif.

Al Nakhla Investment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed an agreement with Marriott International to open a Residence Inn by Marriott in Riyadh. This development marks a significant milestone in Al Nakhla Investment’s ongoing efforts to diversify and expand its regional hospitality portfolio. The new Residence Inn by Marriott Riyadh will be strategically located in one of the city’s most vibrant and rapidly developing areas, offering long-term travelers and business professionals an exceptional blend of comfort, convenience, and modern amenities. The property will feature a selection of spacious suites and units designed to cater to guests seeking short or long stays, with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, and state-of-the-art facilities. This agreement is part of a broader strategic collaboration between Al Nakhla Investment and Marriott International to bring world-class hospitality experiences to the Kingdom. The collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to boost tourism, attract international investment, and develop the Kingdom’s hospitality sector. Speaking on the occasion, Momen Dowji, Business Development Manager of Al Nakhla Investment, said, “We are thrilled to work with Marriott International to bring the Residence Inn by Marriott brand to Riyadh. This agreement aligns with our strategy to expand our footprint in the hospitality sector and contribute to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism and business travel markets. We believe that the Residence Inn will offer a unique value proposition to both business and leisure travelers seeking high-quality, longer-stay accommodation in the heart of Riyadh.” Introducing Residence Inn by Marriott in Riyadh will add to the city’s growing array of hospitality options, catering to a diverse range of travelers. With its focus on long-term stays, Residence …

Emaar Hospitality Group announces the opening of Vida Dubai Mall located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, this 195-key property, inclusive of 620 residence units, is poised to be the ultimate destination for urban explorers, leisure seekers, and business travelers. With direct access to Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest retail and entertainment hubs, and breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa, this property represents a new chapter for the Vida brand in Dubai’s most iconic destination. Situated in the bustling heart of Downtown Dubai, Vida Dubai Mall offers unparalleled convenience and connectivity. The hotel is a stone’s throw away from Dubai’s top attractions, including the world-renowned Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, and several cultural hotspots. With seamless direct access to Dubai Mall and a direct link to Chinatown in Dubai Mall, guests are just steps away from a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences, all within the largest mall in the world. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Vida Dubai Mall offers easy access to key business districts and top attractions, positioning guests at the center of everything this vibrant city has to offer. Towering above the Dubai skyline, Vida Dubai Mall blends modern architecture with rich cultural influences, ensuring that every stay is a memorable experience. The hotel’s sleek, stylish interiors provide a perfect balance between comfort and elegance, offering rooms with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. Each room is meticulously designed, showcasing Vida’s signature style with soothing color palettes, trendy furnishings, and thoughtfully curated details. The rooms deliver an immersive environment that seamlessly combines functionality with aesthetic pleasure. Vida Dubai Mall is more than just a hotel—it’s a lifestyle destination. …

Minor Hotels announces it is bringing its NH Collection brand to Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. Slated to launch in early 2028, the announcement about the 156-key NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments was made during a ceremony at THINC Middle East. The new hotel will be located on Al Marjan Island in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, one of the premier and rapidly growing travel destinations in the UAE. Just one hour from Dubai International Airport and a 30-minute drive from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, the property will feature 120 beach-facing guest rooms and suites, in addition to 36 branded serviced apartments. Facilities will include four restaurants and bars, a gym and an outdoor swimming pool, a kids club and games room, a retail shop and a co-working space. The property is owned by RRS International Development FZ-LLC, a premier real estate developer with over two decades of experience in the UAE’s high-end real estate market. RRS has a dedicated focus on Ras Al Khaimah’s fast-growing real estate sector and with Minor Hotels plans to develop this new NH Collection property on Al Marjan Island, one of the hottest destinations in the region, with major upcoming developments including the UAE’s first integrated resort. As one of the pioneering forces behind the branded residences concept, this latest announcement by Minor Hotels demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to growing through mixed use properties with a residential component. It also showcases Minor Hotels continued commitment to growth in the region, including in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, where it already operates the Anantara in Mina Al Arab and the upcoming Anantara Residences. …

The Legian Seminyak and The Club by The Legian Seminyak, two of Bali’s most coveted luxury boutique hotels, are proudly managed by LHM (Legian Hotels Management). Both properties epitomize refined elegance, offering guests an unparalleled experience that blends the island’s rich cultural heritage with a contemporary twist. The Legian Seminyak, Bali, a distinguished icon of luxury hospitality in Indonesia, is proud to announce its expansion into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region by appointing Gulf Reps as its sales and marketing representatives. This strategic partnership underscores the resort’s commitment to delivering its exceptional experiences to discerning GCC travellers. Situated on one of Bali’s most pristine beaches, The Legian Seminyak, Bali has been a hallmark of luxury since its opening in 1996. Designed by the legendary Indonesian designer Jaya Ibrahim, whose accolades include the design of the prestigious Aman Summer Palace in Beijing – The Legian Seminyak, Bali stand as true icons of luxury and architectural beauty. Jaya Ibrahim’s vision for both hotels incorporates Bali’s distinct sense of place, masterfully combining traditional Balinese aesthetics with modern design elements, creating an inviting sanctuary in the heart of vibrant Seminyak. the property seamlessly blends timeless Indonesian aesthetics with contemporary elegance. With 66 sea-facing suites and the exclusive three-bedroom Beach House—the only private villa with direct beach access in Seminyak—the resort offers an unmatched sanctuary for travellers seeking tranquility and sophistication. A Tailored Experience for GCC Travellers Recognizing the unique preferences of its GCC clientele, The Legian Seminyak, Bali offers an array of amenities and services designed to cater to their needs: • Strategic Location: A mere 35–45 minutes from Bali’s international airport, the resort is nestled in the vibrant heart of Seminyak, renowned …