Category Archives: Hotels

SIHOT launched SIHOT.PAYENGINE, a payment aggregator, to simplify payment processing for hotels and hospitality companies. SIHOT.PAYENGINE can manage multiple Payment Services Providers (PSPs) offering accommodation providers choice rather than being restricted to a single provider. By offering hoteliers a centrally managed payment system seamlessly connected to all SIHOT products and Services through which all data runs, businesses can achieve greater operational efficiencies, cost savings and improved security for finance and account departments. With SIHOT.PAYENGINE, hotels can facilitate the omnichannel payment experience to their customers across physical terminals or through ecommerce and payment apps, with the option to choose from a wide range of PSPs that match their preferences and cater to guests needs. Said Carsten Wernet, Chief Executive, SIHOT: “We created SIHOT.PAYENGINE to enable hoteliers to choose which PSPs they want to work with for their business model. We are one of few PMS on the market to be agnostic to payment providers. By providing this level of connectivity, now PSPs are reaching out to integrate with our payment engine to provide our mutual customers with an elevated level of service and experience that improves business operations. There is an increasing need for hotels to work with a wide range of PSPs today, taking into account a multitude of digital payment channels and regional payment platforms. With our Cloud Native API, PSPs can quickly connect to our payment aggregator to integrate into our complete product suite.” For hotels, the integration of PSPs in the PMS in this way means they can facilitate quicker checkout and billing processes using digital invoices and receipts, and ensure that customer payment data remains secure. SIHOT.PAYENGINE uses tokenistation to disguise credit card details on file …

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the opening of Radisson Hotel & Residence Riyadh Olaya, the Group’s 28th hotel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its 9th in the vibrant city of Riyadh. This new opening marks a significant milestone as the Group continues its expansion in one of the most dynamic regions of the Middle East aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to enhance the country’s economic and tourism landscape. Riyadh, the Kingdom’s capital, is a city where history and modernity meet, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary development, with a multitude of attractions like the historic Diriyah, Riyadh Boulevard, and the King Abdullah Financial District. Nestled in the northern Al Yasmin suburb, Radisson Hotel & Residence Riyadh Olaya is a beacon of contemporary urban design, blending neutral colors with coastal accents to create a stylish and elegant atmosphere. With 201 guest rooms and a variety of amenities, the hotel is ideally suited for both business and leisure travelers seeking a sophisticated stay in one of Riyadh’s most prominent neighborhoods. The rooms and apartments showcase a contemporary design with an urban flair, featuring elegant finishes that resonate with the beauty of Riyadh. The hotel boasts a full-service restaurant, a cozy lobby lounge, expansive meeting and event facilities spanning 500 sq. meters, and separate indoor fitness centers for ladies and gentlemen. Additional leisure facilities include a fitness center, pool, spa, and kids club. Separate indoor fitness centers are available for ladies and gentlemen. At Radisson Hotel & Residence Riyadh Olaya, culinary delights await at every corner of the lively RBG Restaurant with its varied à la carte and buffet breakfast options. The restaurant offers an …

Kempinski Hotels announced the appointment of Barbara Muckermann as Chief Executive Officer. Muckermann previously was responsible for leading Silversea Cruises (part of Royal Caribbean Group), the world’s largest ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line. She joins the iconic global luxury hospitality brand with 82 hotels in 36 countries at an exciting time, as Kempinski prepares for impressive growth in new regions worldwide and more spectacular properties on the horizon. Kempinski is proud of its 127-year tradition and the associated high standard of quality which the group has introduced into new upwardly-mobile markets. The group intends to add another 34 hotels and residences to its portfolio in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa in the coming years and to further secure Kempinski’s legendary global position and standing. “I could not be more thrilled to be joining Kempinski Hotels as CEO during such a pivotal time for the brand”, says Muckermann on her appointment. “I am delighted to play an integral role in this incredibly iconic brand’s next chapter while honouring its rich history, and very much look forward to working in tandem with amazing colleagues globally to continue to make the Kempinski name synonymous with individual luxury.” “Barbara has always been at the forefront of luxury, and her proven ability to elevate the guest experience while simultaneously maximising profitability for leading travel brands made her the ideal choice to lead Kempinski Hotels,” said René Nijhof, Chairman of the Board of Directors Kempinski Hotels S.A. “Her dynamic, forward-thinking approach will be vital as we continue to usher in a new era of luxury for our brand. As Barbara takes the helm, she will be the first woman in the company’s 127 years …

Novotel unveils the latest addition to its portfolio in Saudi Arabia, Novotel Riyadh Sahafa. This marks the ninth Novotel property across the Kingdom and is being led by Accor’s first female hotel General Manager in Saudi Arabia, Hessa Al Mazroa. Strategically located in the vibrant Al Sahafa district, this contemporary property is the ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers seeking a blend of comfort, convenience and wellbeing. Novotel Riyadh Sahafa is set in close proximity to King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh Exhibition Center and Riyadh Boulevard, the city’s largest entertainment centre. The hotel is only 15 km away from King Khalid International Airport. The Novotel Riyadh Sahafa showcases a combination of modern design and traditional Saudi elements. The four-star property features 232 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, complete with stunning views of Olaya Street, one of Riyadh’s bustling arteries. The state-of-the-art facilities are designed to provide a tranquil retreat for business travellers seeking to rest after a busy day and families looking to spend quality time together. Spearheading the team at Novotel Riyadh Sahafa is the trailblazing Hessa Almazroa, the group’s first female hotel general manager in the country, who emphasized the importance of this launch. “This is a significant milestone for Novotel as we strengthen our presence in the dynamic and transforming Saudi market. We are dedicated to merging international hospitality standards with local culture to create uniquely enriching moments for our guests inspiring them to reconnect with their friends, family and colleagues.” Almazroa emphasised the rise of Saudi women and the positive impact of Saudization on the hospitality industry. “It is a great honour to lead a team of such talented and committed professionals. We are …

Marriott International, Inc. and King Abdullah Financial District Development & Management Company (KAFD DMC) announced the signing of an agreement to open a new property from W Hotels within KAFD – Riyadh’s premier business and lifestyle destination. Slated to open in 2025, W Riyadh will offer an urban escape within the capital and will bring the brand’s bold design, elevated service, innovative culinary experiences, and always-on programming to locals and international visitors alike, positioning the property to emerge as an icon of hospitality in Riyadh. W Riyadh is expected to feature 210 luxury guest rooms and suites, seven restaurants, retail space, and expansive event and meeting facilities. Design plans for the property also include signature brand spaces such as the Living Room, WET Deck®, AWAY® Spa, and FIT® fitness center, and the hotel will provide the brand’s iconic Whatever/Whenever service. “In line with the strategic framework of Vision 2030, Riyadh is fast becoming a key regional metropolis attracting global leisure and business travellers alike,” said Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development, Middle East, Marriott International. “This monumental signing underscores the increased demand for distinctive luxury brands in the capital and we look forward to working with KAFD DMC to bring the W Hotels vision for innovation, creativity, design, and exploration to the city.” The signing of W Riyadh is in alignment with KAFD’s strategic vision to broaden and enrich its dynamic lifestyle destinations, attracting both business and leisure travellers with elevated luxury and hospitality offerings. “The Kingdom has surpassed Vision 2030 tourism expectations seven years ahead of schedule which sets the stage for future growth. As a cornerstone initiative of the Kingdom’s Vision, and in keeping with the new …

Boutique Group  marks its first independent participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) highlighting its commitment to redefining the luxury hospitality experience by transforming some of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic former royal residences, among other cultural and historic landmarks, into ultra-luxury hotels. Boutique Group also announced details of a new Memorandum of Understanding signed with ALTANFEETHI luxury concierge service to cooperatively exchange knowledge and expertise to develop and enhance guest experience at airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Boutique Group’s portfolio includes the stunning Al Hamra Palace in Jeddah, known for hosting some of the world’s most prominent international public figures, the Red Palace in the heart of old Riyadh, which adorned the SAR 100 bank note and served as the home to the Council of Ministers for three decades, and the Aga Khan Award-winning Tuwaiq Palace, an architectural masterpiece inspired by Saudi Arabia’s iconic forts, tents and oasis landscape. Across its palaces, Boutique Group is dedicated to designing bespoke modern luxury offerings rooted in a strong sense of place, backed by strong partnerships and an authentic representation of Saudi’s vast heritage. “This year’s ATM theme explores gateways. This is particularly poignant for Boutique Group, because our properties are in essence a gateway to a new model of hospitality, and a more sustainable future. Inspired by Saudi Arabi’s rich heritage and powered by its talent, we are creating a gateway to a more resilient and diversified economy,” said Mark De Cocinis, Chief Executive Officer at Boutique Group. “We are also delighted to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with luxury concierge provider, ALTANFEETHI, and look forward to exploring more ways to collaborate on this remarkable new model of Saudi hospitality,” …

Lifestyle Developers signed an agreement with Marriott International to open the first Autograph Collection Hotel in Jeddah. The B Hotel, an Autograph Collection Hotel is anticipated to be situated within Jeddah’s emerging waterfront destination, South Ubhur. Sultan Sobhi Batterjeee, Founder and President of Lifestyle Developers said, “We are very excited to introduce the Autograph Collection brand to Jeddah’s hospitality scene. The inauguration of the B Hotel represents an idyllic fusion of sophistication and local charm, offering guests a truly immersive experience that celebrates the Kingdom’s rich heritage and authentic hospitality.” The B Hotel is anticipated to offer 100 guestrooms including more than 40 suites, that will reflect the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia combined with contemporary elegance and appeal. Plans for the property include multiple dining options, a fitness centre, swimming pool and kids club. The hotel is also expected to offer event spaces ideal for hosting meetings and memorable occasions. Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development, Middle East, Marriott International added, “Jeddah continues to grow as a business and leisure destination, and we look forward to strengthening our footprint in the market. Autograph Collection is the ideal fit for this project, and we look forward to working with Lifestyle Developers to introduce the brand’s distinct and unique hospitality experience in Jeddah.” The B Hotel will be strategically located in the upcoming area of South Ubhur with direct sea views of Ubhur Creek, and in close proximity to King Abdullah Sports City Stadium and King Abdul Aziz International Airport. The Ubhur is increasingly becoming a popular leisure and family destination. Autograph Collection’s portfolio currently features over 295 hotels globally. Each hotel is a product of passion and a personal …

La Quinta by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Al Wahda is expected to open this month in Abu Dhabi, with 107 thoughtfully designed modern comforts, colourful interiors and prime location in the heart of the city. Nestled adjacent to Al Wahda shopping center, this landmark hotel marks Wyndham’s first La Quinta by Wyndham and sixth hotel in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. La Quinta by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Al Wahda boasts 107 thoughtfully designed rooms, ranging from stylish standard twins to spacious executive suites, suiting the needs of an array of travellers, whether business or leisure. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at the lobby café and the expansive all-day dining area, offering an open buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner alongside an international style a-la-carte menu. The hotel’s unique entertainment spaces include the Mirchi Club Restaurant and Colosseum Restaurant, providing diverse and vibrant nightlife experiences for both patrons and visitors alike. La Quinta by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Al Wahda also offers an indoor pool, gym, and spa on the 15th floor, providing a sanctuary for relaxation. With room service available 24/7 and free indoor parking for guests, the hotel seamlessly combines quality with convenience. Situated in the United Arab Emirates capital city, Al Wahda is a popular residential and commercial area best known for Al Wahda Sports Club and Al Wahda Mall. Guests can explore the bustling shops, cafes and restaurants of downtown Abu Dhabi or visit notable landmarks including the presidential palace, Qaṣr Al-Waṭan, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the country’s largest mosque. “We’re thrilled to open the La Quinta by Wyndham Al Wahda which will offer a comfortable, central base for guests to explore Abu Dhabi. …

Cheval Collection’s new, luxury serviced apartments in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will break ground this year, with construction due for completion in 2027. CHEVAL LADUN LIVING – a partnership with KSA-based Ladun Investment Company – is Cheval Collection’s first property in KSA and the third in the Middle East. The UK-based, award-winning hospitality brand currently operates Cheval Maison – The Palm Dubai and will open Cheval Maison – Dubai Expo City in 2025. Speaking at Arabian Travel Market, Cheval Collection’s Chief Operating Officer John Philipson, said: “Saudi Arabia is key to Cheval Collection’s continued expansion in the Middle East, and we are proud to add CHEVAL LADUN LIVING to our international property portfolio – and to KSA’s ever-growing hospitality offering. We look forward to breaking ground this year, and opening for business in 2027.” Located on King Fahd Road, close to Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial Centre, CHEVAL LADUN LIVING will contain 130 one to three bedroom luxury apartments. The property will also feature a range of fitness and leisure amenities, including a gym, swimming pool and sauna. Construction of the tower will cost up to US$80 million. Cheval Collection’s first Middle East property – Cheval Maison – The Palm– celebrated its first successful year of operation last month. Meanwhile, the company’s 150 luxury apartment complex at Dubai’s Expo City, a repurpose of the prestigious Leadership Pavilion at EXPO 2020, is undergoing refurbishment ahead of its opening next year. Cheval Collection currently operates 800 luxury apartments across 13 properties in London, Edinburgh and Dubai.

Amsa Hospitality and Radisson Hotel Group announced the signing of Radisson Hotel Madinah, marking Amsa Hospitality’s and Radisson Hotel Group’s first property in the Holy City of Madinah. Set to be operational by the end of 2024, this newly built hotel demonstrates both companies’ commitment to growing their presence in key Saudi cities. Radisson Hotel Madinah will offer 165 keys, including 53 business suites, tailored to meet the needs of travelers seeking both comfort and style. Guests can look forward to a variety of dining options, such as a contemporary lobby café, a restaurant, and a poolside juice bar. Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian-inspired hospitality and is part of the Radisson family of brands portfolio. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, the Radisson brand inspires the art of being in the moment. Radisson Hotel Group’s current portfolio in Saudi Arabia consists of 44 hotels in operation and under development, including Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel, and the soon-to-open Radisson Hotel & Residence Riyadh Olaya. The Group aims to reach 100 hotels in operation and under development by 2030. Amsa Hospitality is a pioneering Saudi hospitality startup committed to the success of Saudi Vision 2030 and the mission to smoothly integrate the rich, ancestral Arabian traditions of generosity and welcoming into the contemporary world. Strategically positioned outside the Haram area, Radisson Hotel Madinah will enjoy close proximity to significant landmarks, being just 3 km away from the Prophet’s Mosque and 750 m from the Quba Mosque, the oldest mosque in Islamic history. Moreover, it will be conveniently located 16 km away from Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport and 10 km from Madinah train station, which …