Category Archives: Hotels

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has marked significant growth in its EMEA footprint, with more than 720 hotels now operating across the Middle East, Europe, Eurasia and Africa. In the first half of 2025 alone, the company added over 4700 rooms through more than 60 new hotel openings, driving year-over-year organic system growth of 5% in EMEA, alongside 27 new deal signings in the region, reinforcing its focus on high-growth markets and expanding access to quality, branded accommodations to travellers across the region. Standout additions include the Dolce by Wyndham Siracusa, Monasteri Golf and Spa in Sicily and the Signature Cave Cappadocia, Trademark Collection by Wyndham in Türkiye; offering distinctive stays in one the region’s most captivating destinations. Wyndham also opened new destinations across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with launches in Georgia, Romania, and Kazakhstan, and accelerated its momentum in Eurasia with 21 new openings in the first half of the year, expanding the regional portfolio to over 90 hotels – primarily located in India, one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing hospitality markets. Wyndham’s strategic development partnerships also played a key role in driving brand growth, bringing its globally recognized Super 8® by Wyndham brand to two high-demand markets: the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Iberia. “With more than 720 hotels now open across EMEA, we’re seeing incredible momentum. Travel is thriving and we’re meeting that demand with a growing portfolio that reflects the energy and diversity of this region. From stunning resorts in Sicily to one-of-a-kind cave stays in Cappadocia, we’re adding experiences that truly inspire. And with new signings in markets like Iberia and Saudi Arabia, we’re not just growing – we’re creating new opportunities for …

Emirates and IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore joint collaborations on programmes designed to meet the travel needs of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across global markets. The signing ceremony was attended by Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President for Passenger Sales and Country Management; Matthew Jones, VP-USA, Emirates; Ashraf Baytam, Senior Manager Global Business Travel, Emirates; and Ryan Plemmons, Vice President, Global Sales Strategy, IHG Hotels & Resorts. Together, Emirates and IHG will explore ways to reach and engage with SMEs through value-added benefits and exclusive rewards to facilitate business travel. The hotel group will provide enhanced travel incentives and seamless integration with its extensive portfolio of hotels and resorts around the globe. Present at the signing ceremony was Nabil Sultan, Executive Vice President for Passenger Sales and Country Management, who commented: “With the SME segment playing a crucial role in fostering economic growth and creating jobs, Emirates is committed to supporting them with solutions and value-added propositions to meet their travel needs. We are pleased to collaborate with the leading hotel group, IHG Hotels & Resorts, to explore programmes that will be mutually beneficial to our valued customers. Together we aim to extend valuable benefits to our customers in the SME sector, while expanding our customer base in this very important segment.” Mark Sergot, SVP, Global Sales, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Emirates to redefine business travel for Small and Medium Enterprises worldwide. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to delivering exceptional value, seamless experiences, and exclusive rewards tailored to the unique needs of SMEs. By combining IHG’s hospitality expertise with Emirate’s global connectivity, we …

Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Al Sahafa, further strengthening its presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Located in the lively Sahafa District, the new hotel blends modern luxury with Saudi hospitality and marks another step forward in the Group’s strategic expansion, with over 50 hotels now in operation and under development across the Kingdom. Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Al Sahafa is a striking architectural landmark, offering 171 stylishly appointed rooms and suites with extensive views of the King Abdullah Financial District and northern Riyadh skyline. Just 20 minutes from King Khalid International Airport, the hotel enjoys proximity to key leisure and business attractions, including Riyadh Boulevard, King Salman Social Center Park, and Vox Cinema Riyadh Park. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining experiences. Al Diwan Restaurant offers international cuisine and themed nights, while The Terrace Restaurant and Lounge, will feature Mediterranean flavors in a vibrant open-air setting. Al Multaqa Café welcomes guests to unwind with freshly brewed coffee and handmade pastries in a relaxed lobby atmosphere. Hazem Ibrahim, General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Al Sahafa, commented “We’re thrilled to welcome guests to a destination that truly captures the spirit of modern Riyadh. From our carefully designed rooms to our world-class culinary and meeting experiences, every detail has been created to exceed expectations. Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Al Sahafa blends the city’s vibrant energy with the comfort and excellence that define the Radisson Blu experience.” With a dedicated Kids’ Club catering to children aged 4 to 10, and a fully equipped fitness center, the hotel ensures a well-rounded stay for all guests. The Sidra Grand Ballroom spans 560 square meters for …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of a management agreement for voco Muscat Al Mouj, a 251-key beachfront hotel set to open in Q4 2025. Alongside Golden Group Holding, the deal marks the first signing of the voco brand in the Sultanate of Oman, further expanding IHG’s premium portfolio across the Middle East. Centrally located in the Omani capital’s Al Mouj Muscat neighbourhood, a vibrant waterfront development known for its luxury residences, yacht marina, championship golf course, and high-end retail offerings, the new hotel will cater to both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location offers easy access to Muscat International Airport and proximity to the city’s cultural landmarks, making it a strategic addition to Oman’s evolving hospitality landscape. Launched in 2018, voco is IHG’s fastest-growing premium brand, already making its mark with openings and signings across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Known for its bold identity and thoughtful touches, the brand blends the character of individual hotels with the benefits of a trusted global name, offering guests a reliably different experience. Upon opening, voco Muscat Al Mouj will join the brand’s growing portfolio of more than 100 open hotels globally and a robust pipeline of more than 95 properties. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East & Africa, said: “We are delighted to bring the voco brand to Oman in partnership with Golden Group Holding. Al Mouj Muscat is one of the region’s most exciting lifestyle destinations and we believe voco’s distinctive charm and premium hospitality offering makes it a perfect fit for the destination. This signing reflects our commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040, by contributing to the country’s tourism and economic …

Ishraq Hospitality announced a new strategic partnership with Samco Holding, one of Egypt’s leading investment and development companies. The signing ceremony marks a significant milestone as both organisations embark on the development of two landmark hospitality projects in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital. The first of the two properties will be Holiday Inn Express Cairo New Capital, set within the heart of the city’s premier business and residential district. Featuring 125 smartly designed rooms, the hotel will cater to the needs of modern travellers seeking comfort, simplicity, and efficiency. With its flexible workspaces, contemporary interiors, and energising public areas, the hotel will provide a seamless stay for both business and leisure guests in one of Egypt’s most dynamic new destinations. In parallel, The Five Hotel Apartments will offer 100 stylish serviced apartments designed for long-term stays and extended business visits. The property will combine the comfort of residential living with the convenience of hotel services, featuring wellness facilities, co-working zones, and social lounges. Positioned within “The Five,” a mixed-use development envisioned by Samco Holding, the hotel apartments will benefit from proximity to commercial centres, government offices, and lifestyle amenities, making it an ideal choice for professionals, families, and relocating executives. Sherif Beshara, Group CEO of Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group, commented: “We are pleased to join hands with Samco Holding, a company known for its pioneering role in Egypt’s urban transformation. The New Administrative Capital is a visionary project, and our collaboration reflects Ishraq Hospitality’s ambition to deliver world-class hospitality experiences in emerging destinations. We are confident that these properties will contribute meaningfully to the region’s development and become benchmarks of quality service in the market.” Hisham Taha, Chief Commercial Officer …

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers announced that it has joined Viya, the UAE’s leading lifestyle and rewards app. Through this partnership, guests and visitors can now enjoy exclusive offers and privileges at the hotel’s award-winning Conrad Spa, while earning rewards with every visit. Viya members will be able to access Conrad Spa’s bespoke treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and tranquil surroundings, all while earning up to 10% back in rewards points on every transaction. Points can be redeemed on a variety of luxury experiences, including the spa’s signature treatments, dining venues, and other facilities at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Viya is a free-to-download app that connects members with more than 400 premium leisure, wellness, dining, and lifestyle destinations across the UAE. With Viya Access, the app’s luxury leisure pass, members also benefit from unlimited entry to selected fitness, entertainment, and wellness destinations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is proud to be part of this exclusive membership network, offering Viya members a seamless way to enjoy some of the capital’s most exceptional hospitality and wellness experiences.

Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Hotel Suites and Apartments has enhanced its sustainable credentials by achieving platinum certification from the internationally renowned Green Globe Certification (GGC). The hotel is now one of only three hotels throughout the UAE that has achieved platinum certification and is in the top 5% globally, within the Green Globe programme, which is specifically designed for the travel and tourism industry. During an independent audit and assessment carried out by Green Globe’s preferred partner in the Middle East, Dubai-headquartered sustainability consultancy Farnek, the property had complied with or exceeded more than 380 rigorous sustainability indicators. Farnek’s dedicated team also supported hotel management with its Hotel Optimizer, a comprehensive and data-driven energy performance monitoring software tool. Through efficient measuring, tracking, monitoring, and benchmarking of energy and water consumption, as well as waste management, the hotel was able to calculate its carbon footprint during 2024 and then make an accurate comparison with its 2014 performance. • Total Energy Consumption reduced by 18.02% • Water Consumption trimmed by 4.1% • Total Utility Costs cut by 12.61% • CO2 emissions from utilities lowered by 6.53 % • CO2 emissions per guest reduced by 30.46% • Total waste generation slashed by 72.48% • Waste rebates increased by 48.08% • Waste diversion rate improved by 178.2% To achieve this outstanding performance, the hotel carried out multiple retrofits, such as chiller optimisation, frequency controls for fresh air handling units, and LED light installation. The hotel also managed to reduce water consumption by fitting 300 tap aerators and diverting its waste from landfills through innovative reduction and recycling initiatives. The hotel also offset 100% of the carbon emissions generated from business travel made by its management team. …

Wyndham Residences The Palm as one of Dubai’s few premium properties to fully embrace pet-friendly stays, the beachfront residence invites guests to enjoy a relaxed, stylish getaway without leaving their furry companions behind. Set along the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Wyndham Residences, The Palm offers spacious, apartment-style living with private terraces, serene sea views, and direct beach access — the perfect combination for travelers seeking comfort, flexibility, and a home-away-from-home vibe. With its calm surroundings and easy proximity to pet-friendly cafés and outdoor spaces, the property sets the scene for a laid-back escape for both guests and their pets. Blending casual luxury with everyday convenience, the residence has quickly become a sought-after spot for staycations, extended stays, and lifestyle-led travel. Its welcoming approach to pets reflects a growing demand for more inclusive hospitality experiences, where families — pets included — can unwind together in a setting that feels both elevated and easygoing. Wyndham Residences, The Palm is redefining what a Dubai staycation can look like, with stylish living, thoughtful service, and plenty of room for everyone — paws and all. Don’t miss out on their limited-time summer offers – with attractive packages available for both short and long stays, including exclusive discounts and irresistible food offers. It’s the perfect time to plan your next escape, furry friend included.

Hyatt announced that affiliates of Hyatt and ADD Properties (a member of Sami Saad Holding Hospitality and formerly known as ALDAU Development) have officially launched Hyatt Centric Cairo West continuing to strengthen their collaboration, with plans to further enhance Egypt’s hospitality sector by adding new branded residences to the groups’ development pipeline. Following the successful and strong reintroduction of the Hyatt brand to Egypt in 2021, with the opening of Hyatt Regency Cairo West, ADD Properties and Hyatt have now launched Egypt’s first art-inspired hotel, Hyatt Centric Cairo West. Designed to deliver an immersive guest experience tailored to modern travellers seeking authenticity, creativity, and meaningful connection, the property, showcases contemporary Egyptian art and culture, curated by ADD Art (a subsidiary of ADD Properties) in collaboration with 11 local artists. The hotel is located in the upcoming area known as Cairo West – a visionary mixed-use destination on the Giza Plateau, strategically located near the Giza Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Designed to become the touristic capital of Egypt, Cairo West will seamlessly integrate hospitality, lifestyle, and culture within one of the country’s most iconic and historically significant locations. During the grand opening event of Hyatt Centric Cairo West, ADD Properties and affiliates of Hyatt announced that they have entered into a license agreement to bring the first Hyatt Centric branded residences in the Middle East and Africa region. Located within the dynamic Cairo West destination, this new residential offering is set to include approximately 322 residences designed for those seeking an immersive, experience-driven lifestyle. True to the spirit of the Hyatt Centric brand, the residences are expected to blend modern design with vibrant community energy, giving residents access to …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain, a 383-key hotel in partnership with Arbah Tayba Real Estate Company. Slated to open in 2026, the hotel will be managed by IHG and will further strengthen the company’s premium portfolio in one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant religious and cultural destinations. Located opposite the new Haramain high-speed railway station in Madinah, the hotel will offer direct access to the station via an underground tunnel, providing guests with effortless connectivity to major cities including Jeddah and Makkah. Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain is part of a larger mixed-use development and in proximity to other upcoming key projects such as Knowledge Economic City and Rua Al Madinah, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking convenience, comfort, and modern amenities just outside the bustling city centre. Upon completion, the hotel will feature 383 well-appointed rooms and suites, along with two signature food and beverage outlets. Its design and services will reflect Crowne Plaza’s premium identity, prioritising seamless integration between work and leisure for today’s modern traveller. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East and Africa, commented: “As the Kingdom continues to enhance its tourism and hospitality offering in line with Vision 2030, we remain committed to bringing world-class experiences and trusted brands to Saudi guests and global travellers. This partnership with Arbah Tayba Real Estate Company to introduce Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain is the latest milestone in our growing Saudi portfolio and further underlines our commitment to the Kingdom.” He added: “Our Crowne Plaza brand crafts experiences that suit every journey, inspiring connection, collaboration, and well-being of our guests. It perfectly suits the broad …