Category Archives: Hotels

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of Kimpton Al Rowda Doha, marking the debut of its luxury lifestyle brand Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in Qatar. The 283-key property, set to open mid-2026 in central Doha, will introduce the brand’s design-led, experience-driven hospitality to the market. The hotel will feature rooms, suites and apartments, alongside five dining venues, including a rooftop bar, positioning it as a social hub for business and leisure travellers.

HMH continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable growth by embedding environmental responsibility, people-first values, and collaborative partnerships at the core of its operations. HMH’s approach to sustainability is neither symbolic nor episodic. It is a rigorously structured commitment that spans corporate governance, operational execution, and long-term strategic planning. Central to this framework is the group’s adherence to internationally recognized standards, including ISO 14001 for environmental management, ISO 9001 for quality management, and ISO 22000 for food safety management systems. Collectively, these certifications underscore HMH’s commitment to environmental stewardship, excellence in service delivery, robust food safety practices, and continuous operational improvement across all HMH-managed properties, ensuring consistent standards and enhanced guest confidence throughout the portfolio. Importantly, HMH extends this responsibility beyond its own footprint. The same environmental management framework is used to assess, engage, and collaborate with suppliers and partners across its value chain. By aligning procurement and operational partnerships with environmental sustainability objectives, HMH reinforces a shared accountability model—recognizing that meaningful impact is achieved through collective action, not isolated efforts. One of the most visible demonstrations of this commitment is HMH’s group-wide target for all managed hotels to become 100% single-use plastic free. This ambitious initiative directly addresses one of the hospitality sector’s most pressing environmental challenges: plastic waste and pollution. Through policy changes, supplier engagement, and operational innovation, HMH systematically eliminating unnecessary plastics from guest experiences and back-of-house operations alike. Leading by example is Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel, which has pioneered several innovative sustainability solutions under the HMH portfolio. Among these is the introduction of the Air-O-Water system, a technology that generates clean drinking water directly from atmospheric humidity. By significantly reducing reliance on bottled water, the system …

Following its strategic collaboration agreement with Marriott International, ATARA Development has officially launched The Residences at Sheraton Al Marjan Island Resort. The development represents the GCC’s first Sheraton-branded residences, featuring 159 branded apartments scheduled for completion in Q3 2028. Located on Al Marjan Island, the project blends a refined island lifestyle with exclusive hotel privileges. Positioned near the UAE’s first integrated resort, it places residents at the center of a premier entertainment hub. With sales now officially open, prices for these exclusive waterfront residences start from AED 2.4 Million. Arch. Abdullah Al Abdouli, Group CEO of Marjan, said, “The launch of The Residences at Sheraton Al Marjan Island Resort represents another significant milestone for Al Marjan Island’s evolution as a premier coastal destination. Developments of this calibre reinforce Ras Al Khaimah’s growing global appeal and demonstrate how branded residential concepts are shaping the future of waterfront living. By bringing together ATARA’s development expertise and Sheraton’s hospitality legacy, this project offers a compelling proposition for residents. The Residences introduce an elevated waterfront lifestyle, thoughtfully designed to combine resort-style leisure, holistic wellness, and curated social experiences in a vibrant community. Residents enjoy direct access to a private beach and a variety of pools, including a signature rooftop infinity pool, alongside a wellness hub featuring a 9,000 sq. ft. gym, yoga studios, and a spa. Social experiences are centered around a sky kitchen, rooftop lounge, and a 7,000 sq. ft. nightclub, providing vibrant entertainment while preserving residential tranquility. Family-friendly amenities, including indoor and outdoor kids’ play areas, a gaming zone, and an outdoor cinema, complete the offering, supporting modern multi-generational living while reflecting Sheraton’s commitment to comfort, hospitality, and welcoming spaces for all. …

Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel won ‘Best Lifestyle Luxury Hotel’ at the inaugural Arabian Travel Awards Saudi Arabia 2025. “It’s always a great recognition for the team, our owners, and the architecture of our beautiful Mansard Hotel for winning an award. I think the team is always putting so much effort into creating memorable experiences and really exceeding guest expectations, and to be recognised for that through an award is always nice to come home with.”- Hans Konings, General Manager, Mansard Riyadh.

Atlantis Dubai announced the promotion of Kym Barter to Managing Director, across both award-winning properties, Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal. In this expanded leadership role, Barter will drive the continued success and strategic direction of Atlantis Dubai’s integrated portfolio, including both iconic hotels and Aquaventure World. Since joining Atlantis Dubai in May 2021, Barter has played a pivotal role in shaping the resort’s evolution and performance trajectory. He initially led the extensive food and beverage operation, overseeing concept development, product strategy and execution across one of the region’s most diverse and award-winning culinary portfolios.  In July 2023, he was promoted to General Manager and Senior Vice President of Atlantis, The Palm, where he assumed responsibility for the operational and strategic performance of the iconic resort, driving guest satisfaction, colleague engagement and financial excellence across all areas of the business. Under his leadership, the resort has achieved its highest performance to date, earning global recognition and prestigious industry accolades, including distinctions from Forbes Travel Guide and multiple Michelin Guide stars across its restaurant portfolio. With more than three decades of international luxury hospitality experience across North America, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, Barter’s career is defined by operational excellence, culinary innovation and a deep commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Barter’s appointment marks a significant milestone in Atlantis Dubai’s ongoing growth, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence, innovation and delivering unforgettable experiences at every touchpoint. It also underscores Atlantis’ dedication to nurturing and developing its people. As the Atlantis brand expands and evolves, so do the opportunities for its teams – empowering talent, strengthening leadership, and fostering long-term career growth across the organisation.

Grand Millennium Tabuk was honoured with the title of ‘Best Luxury & Mice Hotel’ at the inaugural Arabian Travel Awards Saudi Arabia 2025. “We are extremely proud of this achievement. First and foremost, this recognition is a true appreciation of the dedication and hard work of our teams in the hotel. This success would not have been possible without their relentless efforts, as well as the continued support of our owners, the Higher Education Fund of Saudi Arabia, who consistently stand behind us to ensure we deliver exceptional and memorable experiences to our guests at all times.” Jalal Nasser, Area General Manager Millennium Hotels & Resorts KSA

Six Senses has opened reservations for Six Senses The Palm, Dubai. Stays are available to book from 1 September 2026, ahead of the brand’s arrival in the United Arab Emirates. Located on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the all-suite beachfront resort brings together 61 suites and 172 privately-owned branded residences in a setting designed to promote harmony and connection. With space to breathe by the sea yet closely connected to the vibrant city, the resort looks out across the Arabian Gulf, The Palm, and Dubai’s skyline. Architecture and interiors by Cape Town–based firm SAOTA take cues from regional building traditions, interpreted through a contemporary and sustainable lens. Inside the suites, natural materials such as stone and timber are paired with sand-toned finishes and subtle local details. Floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces, some with pools, allow light and fresh air to flow easily through the space, adapting naturally to the rhythms of the day. Across the resort, pathways wind through planted courtyards and shaded gardens, gently leading guests towards the private beach. Water features and open circulation areas create a sense of flow, offering space to move, pause, or simply sit and take in the surroundings. Well-being sits at the heart of the experience. The 60,000-square-foot spa and wellness facilities bring together traditional therapies and longevity science, supported by diagnostics and personalized programs. Facilities include a Longevity Clinic, hydrotherapy areas, biohacking experiences, an Alchemy Bar, and indoor and outdoor spaces for yoga and meditation, with care guided by in-house experts and Visiting Practitioners. Cuisine reflects the Eat with Six Senses philosophy, which shapes how food is sourced, prepared, and enjoyed. Menus are built around seasonal produce and ingredients sourced as …

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, unveils an expanded portfolio of water-based experiences designed to highlight the natural beauty and vibrant marine life of its surrounding atolls. Thoughtfully curated to combine energy, exploration and moments of calm, the new offerings invite guests to experience the Maldives from a fresh perspective. Building on its popular Jet Car, SeaBob and windsurfing activities, the resort now enhances its watersports programme with private speedboat journeys and bespoke marine excursions, each tailored for small groups seeking meaningful ocean encounters. Available daily from the Watersports Centre, the new private speedboat experiences provide an intimate way to discover the hidden gems of Dhaalu Atoll. Designed for one to four guests, each excursion ensures flexibility, personalised attention and access to some of the region’s most captivating marine locations. Guests may choose from four hour, five hour or full day itineraries, all complemented by a freshly prepared BBQ lunch. From colourful coral gardens to untouched sandbanks, each journey reveals the Maldives in its most authentic and captivating form. At the heart of the programme is the Full Day Adventure Trip, an immersive exploration of Vaavu Atoll’s most iconic marine sites. Highlights include: • The Coral Garden, known for its rich biodiversity and striking reef formations • The Turtle Point, where sea turtles glide through crystal clear waters • The Nurse Shark Point, offering a rare opportunity to observe these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat The experience concludes with a relaxed beachside lunch on a secluded sandbank, surrounded by uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. For guests seeking both exhilaration and restoration, the Waves of Adventure and Calmness programme pairs a private two hour snorkelling …

Aleph Hospitality has secured the Four Points by Sheraton brand for the Diyar Al Khalidiya hotel in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The franchise agreement between Diyar Al Khalidiyah Hotel Services Company and Marriott International, coupled with the third-party management agreement with Aleph Hospitality, represents a strategic milestone for the hotel as they prepare to welcome growing numbers of religious visitors. Four Points by Sheraton Makkah Ibrahim Al Khalil is strategically located on Ibrahim Khalil Street, near the Great Mosque of Makkah and the iconic Abraj Al-Bait Towers. Makkah continues to experience an unprecedented surge in both Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages, driven by Saudi Arabia’s national Vision 2030 strategy, which targets 30 million annual visitors by 2030. This growth is supported by major infrastructure developments, digital services like the Nusuk pilgrimage platform, and hospitality expansion to accommodate increasing global demand. According to official projections, total Hajj and Umrah visitors are expected to grow from approximately 31.8 million in 2024 to 42.8 million by 2030. Aleph Hospitality assumed management of the 338-key hotel in August 2025, further strengthening its collaboration with Marriott International and expanding its footprint in Saudi Arabia’s thriving hospitality market. Four Points by Sheraton Makkah Ibrahim Al Khalil marks Aleph Hospitality’s third Marriott-branded hotel under management in the Kingdom, and the sixth Marriott-branded hotel in the company’s wider portfolio in the Middle East and Africa. Tariq Dowidar, Vice President Saudi Arabia, Aleph Hospitality, said: “We enjoy a longstanding and trusted relationship with Marriott International, underpinned by a shared focus on excellence and continuous improvement. Our collective ambition is to elevate the guest journey while delivering strong operational performance and value for our owners.”

Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok has appointed Thaddaeus Weiss as General Manager, overseeing both the hotel and The Residences at Sindhorn Kempinski. A familiar and respected figure within the property, Thaddaeus previously served as Hotel Manager at Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok from 2021 to 2024. Having joined the pre-opening team in February 2020, he played an integral role in shaping the hotel’s early success. During his tenure, he guided the team through the critical pre- and post-opening phases, driving strong STR performance and leading guest satisfaction rankings. His return marks a natural leadership progression and a continuation of the vision that shaped the hotel from its earliest days. A German national, Thaddaeus brings more than 17 years of experience with Kempinski Hotels, having joined the group in 2008. His international career spans Europe, Africa, China, and Southeast Asia, reflecting broad cultural insight and operational expertise across diverse markets. With a professional foundation in Food & Beverage and Sales, he has developed a leadership approach grounded in operational precision, commercial acumen, and deep brand understanding. Earlier in his career, he was appointed Senior Regional Operations Manager for Kempinski and NUO Hotels Asia, where he upheld brand standards, supported regional operational excellence, and contributed to key pre-opening and technical service projects across the region. Most recently, he served as Hotel Manager at The Apurva Kempinski Bali, a role he assumed in April 2024. There, he oversaw multiple divisions and delivered measurable improvements in service quality, revenue performance, and engineering operations, further reinforcing the brand’s commitment to excellence. Reflecting on his appointment, Thaddaeus commented, “Returning to Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is both a privilege and a meaningful continuation of a journey I began with …