Category Archives: Hotels

IHG Hotels & Resorts debuts first urban luxury resort and spa in Riyadh

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the addition of InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh Resort & Spa to its portfolio of resorts in KSA, and debuting its first urban luxury resort and spa in Riyadh. After a 45 million SAR refurbishment, the stunning property is now the first InterContinental Resort in Riyadh, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle collection. Located at the northern gate of Riyadh, the resort resides on 154,000 sqm of a lush green oasis with a lagoon and exclusive cascades for guests to unwind and relax. The resort offers 162 extensive guestrooms, suites and stately private villas each with a private outdoor swimming pool, six dining outlets and exclusive Club InterContinental privileges and lounge access. “Durrat al Riyadh’s heritage as a place to escape to has been reimagined with an array of ways to unwind, celebrate and retreat. We look forward to welcome our guests from both near and far to experience the resort and our service,” says General Manager Marc Reissinger. “InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh Resort & Spa will set the tone for unbounded adventure in the area, marrying deep knowledge of the destination with an understanding of what luxury means to the discerning modern-day traveller.” Award-winning interior design studio Kristina Zanic Consultants was appointed for the refurbishment of the property, including all rooms, suites, villas, dining venues, and public areas. The new interior scheme creates a vibrant resort ambiance that reflects the oasis-like setting, while also referencing the property’s Arabian architecture and the local heritage in a contemporary way. The design adds layers of warm tones, natural materials, textured finishes, and organic patterns – creating an inviting desert retreat away from the urban bustle.

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Al Marjan Island to feature Marriott International’s second hospitality offering on its shores with W Hotel

Marjan in Ras Al Khaimah announced the launch of a W Hotel on Al Marjan Island on the back of a collaboration between Marriott International, Inc., and Dalands Holding. Slated for a grand opening early 2027, W Al Marjan Island is poised to achieve a dual distinction, not only as Marriott International’s second hospitality venture on the island, but also as W Hotel’s first property in Ras Al Khaimah, bringing the brand’s bold design, outstanding service and always-on programming to the northern emirate. Destined to be located on Marjan’s flagship archipelago island, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Arabian Peninsula, and enclosed by the Yanas and Jais Mountains, W Al Marjan Island will further elevate the appeal of this thriving leisure destination to globetrotters. Featuring an inventory of 300 hotel rooms and suites with sweeping sea views, this magnificent property is also anticipated to include signature spaces such as the Living Room, WET deck, W Lounge, AWAY Spa, and FIT fitness centre along with three restaurants and retail spaces. While Ras Al Khaimah is fast emerging as the tourism hub in the region, the forthcoming inauguration of the first W Hotel represents a remarkable stride towards cementing its stance as a global investment and hospitality destination of choice. This impending addition signifies more than just a new luxury establishment; it’s a testament to the northern emirate’s unwavering dedication to curating exceptional experiences for the tourist community. Abdulla Al Abdouli, Chief Executive Officer, Marjan, said: “As Ras Al Khaimah rightfully solidifies its position on the global tourism landscape, we take pride in our significant contribution to enhancing its credibility and attractiveness among international investors. This commitment has led to a …

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Hotel Revenues in Oman Grow 27.8pc to RO 122m in July 2023

According to Oman News Agency the revenues of 3-5-star hotels in Oman stood at RO 122,530,000 as at the end of July 2023, up by 27.8% over the corresponding period in 2022. Statistics issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) show that the total number of hotel guests grew by 25.8 percent to 1,098,157 by the end of July 2023, compared to 872,796 during the corresponding period in 2022. Hotel occupancy posted a growth of 10.3%. The number of Omani guests reached 411,551. Meanwhile, the number of guests form the GCC countries stood at 99,947, marking a rise of 19.1%. The number of the European guests also increased by 44.4% to stand at 259,649. The Americans were 33,420 were Americans (up by 3.3 percent), 6,365 were citizens from African countries (37 percent up), while the number of hotel guests from Asian countries stood at 163,779, marking an increase by 47.1 percent. The number of hotel guests from Oceania countries surged by 242.7 percent to 24,755.

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RAK National Hotels increases portfolio with acquisition of Marjan Island Resort & Spa

RAK National Hotels LLC  has added to its portfolio of hospitality and leisure assets the 300 key Marjan Island Resort & Spa from Manazil Group. The acquisition adds further scale to RAKNH’s portfolio and underlines its investment on Al Marjan Island, especially following RAKHH’s announcement of the group’s joint venture stake in the highly anticipated Wynn Al Marjan Island.  The property is currently operated by Accor Group and will be rebranded as a Pullman, the company’s premium hotel brand. Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism sector has been experiencing a major period of growth, with a multitude of new hotels, attractions and upgraded historical sites cementing the Emirate’s place as the go-to destination for adventure, relaxation and culture. Alison Grinnell, CEO of RAK Hospitality Holding commented: “The acquisition of Marjan Island Resort & Spa underscores our continued investment in Ras Al Khaimah and recognizes the huge opportunities in the Emirate as it positions itself as an international leisure destination. The property is ideally located to capitalise on these opportunities, and working with our partner Accor, we believe we can transform the property into a unique destination for tourists.” Abdul Mohsen Al Hammadi, Chairman and CEO of Manazil Group said: “After being one of the first properties to open on Al Marjan Island back in 2014, Marjan Island Resort & Spa became a stepping stone for our Group to enter into the hotel business and open four more hotels managed by Accor within the UAE, namely Movenpick, Novotel and Adagio in Jumeriah Village Triangle, and Pullman Sharjah.” Paul Stevens, COO Premium, Midscale & Economy Division for Middle East & Africa at Accor said: “We are very pleased to continue our strategic partnership with …

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Canal Central Hotel Business Bay posts significant progress towards net-zero carbon emissions during H1 2023

Canal Central Hotel Business Bay announces its outstanding achievements in reducing carbon emissions during the first half of the year. Using Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism Carbon Calculator to measure and guide its efforts in achieving environmentally responsible operations during this period, Canal Central Hotel Business Bay has achieved substantial reductions in carbon emissions across various key performance indicators (KPIs), marking a significant step toward its sustainability goals. The results are as follows: Electricity: The hotel achieved an impressive 1.07% decrease in electricity consumption which is attributed to a series of energy saving initiatives implemented by the property including the installation of sensor-based lights in guests’ corridors, the implementation of a guest room power-saving mode via a Room Management System, the transition from conventional CFL lights to energy-efficient LED lights throughout the property, and the introduction of an auto shut-off mechanism for operational equipment. Water: Canal Central Hotel Business Bay proudly reports a reduction of 1.16% in water consumption. The hotel’s commitment to responsible water management is evident in its adoption of best practices, including the utilization of aerators in washroom faucets to regulate water flow and mitigate wastage. District Cooling: An impressive 0.67% reduction in carbon emissions related to district cooling has been accomplished by utilizing a central air conditioning system that efficiently cools the entire building. This technology allows the property to maintain comfortable temperatures while minimizing energy consumption. Liquefied Petroleum Gas: The hotel has effectively managed LPG consumption by optimizing food service operations. Buffet offerings are meticulously planned based on the in-house nationality mix and expected guest numbers, reducing excess food production. Additionally, the hotel has replaced buffets with set menu options during periods of decreased …

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My Second Home launches luxury resort dedicated to small dogs as part of US$10 million expansion

My Second Home, the world’s largest indoor dog park and Dubai’s first and largest luxury pet resort, is gearing up to launch a new daycare and boarding facility exclusively for small dogs as part of its US$10 million expansion plan. Schedule to open in time for the festive season, the 46,000 sq ft pet destination will be the third resort-style venue for My Second Home, which launched its first luxury home-from-home dog care brand in Dubai Investments Park in 2015, followed by a sister venue in Al Quoz in 2021. Located at DIP 2, the new facility will feature indoor pools , relaxation areas and extensive play space. Its launch comes in response to customer demand for a dedicated venue for small dogs – such as toy breeds and small spaniels – after extensive research and input from hundreds of My Second Home’s 4,000 members.  As with My Second Home’s existing destinations, pet pick and up and drop off services will also be available. Sean Parker, General Manager at My Second Home, said: “All of our dogs are allocated a daycare group to suit their size and temperament, but the reality is that our first two facilities were originally built on the premise that one size would fit all. In our new, small dog venue, every feature – from the pool depth to the low-rise chill-out ledges – will be designed with the smaller breeds in mind. “The upsurge in pet ownership during the pandemic – particularly of smaller dog breeds and cats – has created huge demand – which we met by building more boarding suites. Across the DIP and Al Quoz facilities, boarding capacity has now reached 250 …

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JA Hatta Fort Hotel announces reopening of Terra Cabins for new season

JA Hatta Fort Hotel has announced the reopening of Terra Cabins, which is set to reopen on September 1. Guests can now book their stays at the hotel’s latest addition, which offer a unique experience of reconnecting with nature and exploring Hatta’s inherent beauty. Set among the rugged mountains of eastern United Arab Emirates. Following the success of Terra Cabins’ debut season, the hotel’s latest addition saw favourable occupancy rates and a strong demand from residents of the country. Amongst the charm of the outdoors and the captivating scenery surrounding the cabins, the upcoming relaunch will see additional advantages, allowing guests to indulge in conveniences like in-room dining with a newly launched menu. With striking exteriors and cosy interiors, Terra Cabins have been uniquely built to provide a hotel-like experience in a low-impact, environmentally friendly fashion. While Terra Cabins deliver on the environmental front, they also offer plenty with regards to guest pleasure and comfort. The airy cabins welcome natural daylight, with windows that give way to stunning alpine views. Additional cabin amenities include a mini-bar, walk-in rain shower, an on-demand multimedia projector, wardrobe, and alcove seating area. Visitors can choose between the regular Terra Cabins, which accommodate up to four guests and include a bunk bed and double bed, and the Deluxe Terra Cabins, which accommodate up to five guests and include two bunk beds, a double pull-out bed, and dedicated patio area. While guests staying at Terra Cabins enjoy seclusion and privacy, they can access all facilities at JA Hatta Fort Hotel, including 24-hour in-room dining services, specialty restaurants, and all leisure and recreational activities available at the resort.  

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Waldorf Astoria to debut in Egypt

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts announced its expansion into Egypt with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis. A blend of modern elegance and local authenticity, the hotel features 252 luxurious and contemporary deluxe rooms and suites. Four exquisite restaurants and bars invite guests on a journey of discovery, whilst best-in-class facilities include a Waldorf Astoria Spa and stunning event spaces. The elegant hotel brings a welcoming atmosphere, unforgettable experiences, and seamless, personalised service to the Egyptian capital, providing a tranquil oasis, complete with beautiful botanical gardens, for guests to unwind away from the bustling streets of the city. Perfectly located in the ancient city of Heliopolis, Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis is close to Egypt’s main presidential palace, with must-see spots like Downtown Cairo, Khan El Khalili Bazaar and the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum all easily accessible from the hotel. The up-and-coming New Administrative Capital, a new urban community home to government, residential, business and cultural districts, is also within convenient reach from the hotel. Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said: “Egypt welcomed 11.7 million tourists in 2022, up 46% on the previous year, and with Cairo often being the starting point for travellers’ journey to discover Egypt, we are delighted to bring the world-renowned luxury of Waldorf Astoria to this sought-after destination. Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis will appeal to discerning guests seeking world-class luxury, offering enriching experiences and unparalleled service within easy reach of Cairo’s vibrant cultural and heritage sites.”

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Gates Hospitality announces its strategic partnership with frntlne, revolutionizing the UAE hospitality market & enhancing customer experience

Gates Hospitality announced its partnership with frntlne to reshape the landscape of the hospitality and customer service industries in the UAE. frntlne’s innovative platform, is shaped by its proprietary methodology, The ‘frntlne Interactive Knowledge Methodology’. It is designed to empower frontline staff by providing engaging and memorable content. Founded in 2021 by serial entrepreneur Mark John, frntlne’s methodology offers short, TikTok style videos and interactive content that enhances information retention and make the upskilling process enjoyable. “We are excited to be the first client in the Middle East for frntlne,” said Naim Maadad, Chief Executive and Founder of Gates Hospitality. “At Gates, we are always on the lookout for initiatives to empower, train, and educate our employees, and frntlne’s innovative platform aligns perfectly with our vision of advancing the skills and expertise of our workforce through various training programs.” frntlne’s success is evident through its high-profile partnerships with multinational retail and consumer brands, including L’Oreal, P&G, Swisse, Mumm Champagne, and Bondi Sands to name a few. “What we’re doing at frntlne is building a new way to engage frontline team members and influence buying decisions.” Said Mark John, CEO and Founder of frntlne.  “We are committed to up-skilling workforces across industry, driving profitability, which is ever so important in the current economic climate.”

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Address Beach Resort Marassi opens in Egypt’s north coast

The latest property to be added on to the Address Hotels and Resorts is the opening of Address Beach Resort in Egypt. The stylish destination in the northern coast of Egypt boasts of 118 hotel keys, 169 serviced apartments, 48 private cabanas, and 21 day-use cabanas. With its own private beach and white sandy shore, the resort takes influence from its coastal location, destination, navigators from the past, and the beautiful crystal waters. A few steps away from all that Marassi has to offer, guests at Address Beach Resort Marassi will have everything their hearts desire in one place. Enjoy taking strolls along the resort’s private beach, swim in one of the three pools, or take refuge in the Spa while the kids are entertained at Qix Club, as no matter what you choose, the team at Address are there to ensure a memorable stay.

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