Category Archives: Hotels

All-inclusive premium holiday resort leader, Club Med, announces its membership with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance). This move further cements Club Med’s commitment to industry-wide environmental sustainability, marking a significant stride toward Net Positive Hospitality. The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, a global consortium representing over 50,000 properties and 7 million rooms, is eager to leverage Club Med’s experience in sustainable development and innovation. This partnership is a testament to Club Med’s motto, “The Place to be happy is here; the moment to be happy is now. But it’s also tomorrow,” signifying its implication in creating harmonious and nature-immersed experiences for travellers. For over 60 years, Club Med has championed sustainable practice with 70% of new or majorly renovated resorts since 2018 being built to globally recognised BREEAM standards. Most of Club Med Resorts are “Green Globe” certified, guaranteeing sustainable best-practices. Club Med’s “Bye Bye Plastic” programme, aimed at eliminating single-use plastic from its resorts, further underscores its dedication to environmental stewardship. In 2023, Club Med was named the best hospitality tourism company to work for by French economic magazine Capital, highlighting its commitment to employee well-being and development. CEO of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, Glenn Mandziuk, welcomes Club Med, stating, “Club Med’s sustainable credentials are widely acknowledged in the industry, and their innovation and sustainable practices will undoubtedly contribute to our five-year strategy to realise Net Positive Hospitality.” Gregory Lanter, Chief Development, Construction & Property Officer, says, “as we embark on the acceleration of our CSR strategy, we are thrilled to join the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. We believe that Club Med, born of a shared utopia that fulfilled the dreams of many, helped shape tourism in the 20th century. Therefore, …

The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is slated to open by Q2 featuring 250 impeccably appointed guestrooms and suites, all with their own private balcony, walk-in wardrobes and expansive balconies. The resort’s curved superyacht-style architecture and interior design, helmed by London-based SRSS Interior Design Studio, will infuse the local landscape and heritage with the allure of the Oman Gulf to offer the epitome of modern waterfront living.  The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort will bring an unrivalled Riviera lifestyle to the city’s urban waterfront. Located at one of Oman’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, the coveted resort will offer luminaries a gateway to cultural moments and natural wonders, such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Al Hajar Mountains and Daymaniyat Islands.  A sophisticated colour palette of blues and off-whites will be paired with rich tan leather and local natural stone throughout the resort, while nods to Omani culture will be referenced through patterned screens and textured fabrics. Exceptional facilities are set to include a Guerlain Spa, complete with a Hammam and bespoke scent bar, a fully equipped fitness centre, swimming pools, padel court, secluded beach and entertaining kids’ zones. Nine compelling culinary destinations include international names such as Hakkasan, Em Sherif, Roberto’s, Coya and Novikov Café, paired with signature brand experiences including Karibu, a fusion of Zanzibari and Omani cuisine; Rumman, serving Greek specialties; The Stage at the St. Regis Bar, and The Lounge, which will serve as the setting for the Afternoon Tea Ritual. The resort will be a glamorous setting for cherished celebrations and meetings of all sizes, including a superb ballroom set over 1,350 square metres, hosting up to 940 guests.

Situated on the shores of Dubai Creek, the city’s old trading route and historical landmark, Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences with 180 fully serviced hotel & residence units officially opened its doors following the signing of an agreement between Hilton and West F5 Investments LLC, with Aleph Hospitality taking the helm as the hotel operator. Ushering a transformative addition to old Dubai’s ever-evolving locale, Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences is the first opening within the “Jewel of the Creek” development, a prominent project by Dubai Developments in the heart of Deira featuring an array of shops and restaurants, promising to redefine creekside living in the heart of the city. A newly built tower comprising 180 fully serviced hotel & residence units, Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences is located on the waterfront promenade of the Jewel of the Creek and features meticulously designed apartments and penthouses providing breathtaking views of the city skyline and a glimpse of the old and new Dubai. With a choice of studio hotel apartments, one and two-bedrooms and a three-bedroom duplex penthouse, the hotel & residences with floor to ceiling windows come with a fully equipped kitchen along with appliances and fixtures that offer a comfortable city living. Guests and residents have full access to the building’s fitness center, featuring an indoor gym, steam sauna, and indoor jacuzzi, while a sun-soaked spacious outdoor pool overlooking Dubai’s beautiful skyline, complete with a pool bar and a kid’s pool offers an ideal setting for sun lounging. In addition, Serein Restaurant & Lounge, Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences’ all-day dining venue offering international cuisine, is one not to miss. Featuring both an indoor and outdoor …

At a special press briefing by Sandeep Walia – COO Middle East of Marriott International shared the latest research on the two big markets UAE and Saudi Arabia with their latest focus on the key trends for the region. According to the research, 50% of the participants shared that they have used AI in one form or the other over their vacation. 70% said they will use it going forward. Walia reiterated, “AI will be a key focus for us too going forward.. 83% of UAE said they are ready to pay more to go to a hotel or destination that is sustainable. 78% of Saudi said the same. Sustainability is engraved today in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.” In terms of the market, Walia shared that “the Middle East, Egypt and Turkey we have 233 hotels open and about 130 projects in different phases that’s 50% plus growth. Exciting times in terms of growth in the region. Reflecting on the past year he shared, “2023 has been a great year of openings and signings for us – so we had 10 openings – they were very key strategic openings for us. One I want to certainly  call out is Saudi, so we have been announcing a lot of hotels over the last few years but last year was the turning point where all these openings we announced the projects getting into reality and opening. The first was St.Regis in Riyadh, which was the first one to enter the market. We opened the Aloft in Muscat which was the first to get into Oman. We opened the Marriott Executive Apartments in Kuwait and the list continues, so we had 10 …

Located in Jabal Omar and a short walk from the Great Mosque of Makkah, the hotel offers world-class, luxurious amenities, including 1,121 keys of spacious and elegantly designed rooms, suites, and residences that provide a comfortable and peaceful sanctuary for guests. Jumeirah Group continues its regional and international expansion with the opening of its first hotel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Jumeirah Jabal Omar Makkah. The hotel has commenced operations as part of the second phase of the city’s flagship Jabal Omar project, designed by Fosters + Partners architects. Jumeirah Jabal Omar Makkah is designed to reinforce a sense of serenity through thoughtful service that allows guests to reconnect and reflect as they experience a deeply significant life event visiting the holy city of Makkah. Eight dining destinations, including Mediterranean restaurant Patras, and a lobby lounge serving specialty teas and baked goods, are currently open at the property. Soon, guests will have access to six more unique dining options at the East and West towers, featuring a signature regional Arabesque restaurant alongside Persian, Middle Eastern, South-east Asian, and Indo-Pakistani restaurants, and a café offering the finest teas and French baked goods. The property will also host three meeting rooms and event spaces accommodating between 10-70 people. Katerina Giannouka, Chief Executive Officer of Jumeirah Group, said: “We are proud to have opened the first Jumeirah hotel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in such a significant location, in partnership with Jabal Omar Development Company. Jumeirah Jabal Omar Makkah will deliver the exceptional service that Jumeirah is known for, enabling an enhanced experience for all who are visiting Makkah.” Bringing its signature hospitality and service to the Kingdom, Jumeirah aims to …

Pullman unveiled its latest venture in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), with the rebranding of Marjan Island Resort & Spa to the premium Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island. This milestone occasion signifies the debut of the first Pullman Resort in the United Arab Emirates and marks a strategic partnership that further reinforces Accor’s commitment to the growth and development of RAK tourism and its hospitality sector. Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island opened its doors on 5th February, after a thoughtful refurbishment of its 300 rooms and suites that further aligns the guest experience with the Pullman brand. Additional upgrades are expected to continue throughout the year, with refreshed dining concepts set to launch in Q4 and a room renovation programme to follow in early 2025. Currently, the family-friendly resort houses five dining outlets offering a variety of cuisines, including traditional Arabic, flavorful Asian, authentic Lebanese, and Italian, among others. Upholding Pullman’s legacy as a modern brand for the new generation, the resort will emerge as a beacon of hospitality excellence in Ras Al Khaimah. With captivating, licensed Food & Beverage concepts that promise to revolutionise the dining scene, alongside state-of-the-art swimming pool and wellness amenities, and a variety of retail outlets, the property is set to establish itself as a stand-out stay option where style meets success. With seamless experiences that guests appreciate, as well as the flexible and professional service the brand is renowned for, the resort will cater to the cosmopolitan tastes of globetrotters, inviting weekenders, expatriates, and families from around the world. Commenting on the strategic venture, Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer for the Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Middle East, Africa & Türkiye at …

Rotana announced the appointment of Philip Barnes as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 March 2024. Commenting on the announcement, Selim El Zyr, Vice-Chairman of Rotana, said: “We are proud to welcome Philip Barnes as the new CEO of Rotana. With a rich history of leadership and a deep understanding of the global hospitality landscape, Barnes is poised to elevate our brand delivery and levels of excellence. We eagerly anticipate his innovative direction and vision that will shape Rotana’s next chapter and build on our growing pipeline across key markets.” Completing almost 25 years as part of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Barnes held several senior leadership positions worldwide, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Most recently, he held the role of Regional Vice President of Southern California (2020 – 2022). Previously, he also worked with leading hospitality brands such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and Shangri La Hotels & Resorts among others. In the Middle East, Barnes was Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ Regional Vice President of the United Arab Emirates (2009 – 2011). In this role, he oversaw the operations for Fairmont Palm Dubai, Fairmont Bab al Bar Abu Dhabi, Fairmont Ajman, Fairmont Fujairah, and pre-opening Fairmont Abu Dhabi. Prior to this, he also held the position of Vice President of the Middle East (2007 – 2009) for the group, overseeing the developments and planned openings in South Africa, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. “I am privileged to join Rotana – a homegrown brand synonymous with providing guests with the highest service levels across the region. I look forward to working closely with the wider team …

West F5 Investments LLC has signed a franchise agreement with Marriott International to open the Marriott Marquis Dubai within the Jewel of the Creek complex in Dubai. Scheduled to open in March 2024, the premium hotel and serviced apartments are part of the first phase of the new iconic destination developed by Dubai Developments. The property, leased by West F5 Investments LLC, will be operated by Dubai-based independent hospitality management company, Aleph Hospitality. The signing ceremony held at Jewel of the Creek was graced by the attendance of His Highness Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashed Al Maktoum and attended by HE Eng Essa Al Maidoor, Director General of Dubai Developments; Khaled Shaker, Director of Investments and Strategic Projects of Dubai Developments; Naresh Kumar Bhawani, Chairman of West F5 Investments LLC; Prem Gopalani, Managing Director of West F5 Investments LLC; Sandeep Walia, Chief Operations Officer – Middle East at Marriott International; Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality, and Neil George, Partner and Executive Director of Aleph Hospitality. Scheduled to open in March 2024, the new-build Marriott Marquis Dubai will comprise 590 keys consisting of 434 well-furnished hotel guest rooms and suites plus 156 serviced apartments featuring limitless views of Dubai Creek and the city skyline. The property is anticipated to feature extensive business and leisure facilities including six food and beverage outlets, conference and meeting facilities, a business centre, gym, spa facilities as well as swimming pools in each tower. In addition, the development will include a large retail area with a promenade on the Dubai Creek and a Marina with 85 berths. “We are delighted to open Marriott Marquis Dubai in collaboration with Marriott International and …

Dorchester Collection opens The Lana, Dubai, the first hotel in the Middle East. Offering 225 rooms and suites with eight dining concepts, The Lana is the tenth Dorchester Collection hotel and represents the next chapter in the brand’s unparalleled, global sensibility of service and quality. The first new opening for the group in more than a decade, the property sets a new benchmark for design and timeless care and enchantment in the city of Dubai. The Lana will also be home to the first Dior Spa in the UAE, set to open in April 2024. An architectural statement designed by Foster + Partners, the hotel represents the ultimate expression of trusted hospitality and elevated living, offering 225 rooms and suites and eight new dining concepts; including four that have been created with three of the world’s most celebrated chefs. The hotel’s sophisticated interiors have been designed and executed by the famed Parisian duo, Gilles & Boissier and incorporate a carefully curated section of more than 50 art pieces, commissioned by local and global artists. Commenting on the opening, Christopher Cowdray, president of Dorchester Collection, said, “As Dorchester Collection welcomes its first guests in the Middle East, we are entering a new era in our company history. The Lana is one of the year’s most anticipated hotel openings, and we are certain it will be celebrated for its remarkable design, superb location in one of the world’s most vibrant cities and a dining scene that will undoubtedly attract much local and international attention.” Conceptualised and managed on behalf of Dubai-based developers: OMNIYAT, The Lana is the first step in curating a new phase for the Downtown Dubai neighbourhood. Speaking about his …

Minor Hotels announced the continued expansion of its luxury Anantara brand in Oman with the upcoming development of a new resort in Bandar Al Khairan, Muscat. Located on the rugged Omani coast just 45 minutes from the capital, the new-build 121-key property is slated to launch in 2026. The resort in Bandar Al Khairan, to be operated by Anantara, will feature 51 guest rooms, 46 chalets, and 24 villas nestled along the mountain shoreline overlooking the crystal-clear water of the Gulf of Oman. Designed to offer contemporary luxury and set within a dramatic natural landscape, each generously sized guest room will be a stylish haven in the heart of the resort, while one and two-bedroom villas will be set separately among lush gardens for enhanced privacy. A selection of units will include private pools for exclusive relaxation and additional comfort throughout Oman’s hot summers. A dedication to gourmet dining will be found across five restaurants and bars including all-day international dining, a speciality restaurant, a beach restaurant, a delicatessen café, and a rooftop bar with spectacular sea views. The property will be owned by Musstir, the real estate acquisition and development arm of the MB Holding Company which also owns Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara on Oman’s south coast. This exciting new connection between Musstir and Minor Hotels to develop a second Anantara in partnership, marks a strengthened bond for two dynamic and forward-thinking groups and the next step in the continued evolution of Minor Hotels as a leading operator in this rapidly developing country. Further premium facilities at the new Anantara resort in Bandar Al Khairan will include an impressive infinity swimming pool and kids’ splash pool, a …