Category Archives: Hotels

With admissions open for the September 2022 intake at Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), students seeking to pursue higher education are encouraged to explore vocational opportunities and hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom in order to develop successful careers within the tourism and hospitality industry. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, global travel and tourism employment is expected to grow in 2022 by 3.5%, comprising 9.1% of the total global job market, a figure which is set to increase further in 2023 and beyond.  As the tourism industry rebounds, now marks a crucial time for high school students who are carefully considering their prospects and planning a roadmap for a successful career. DCT runs the first-of-its-kind multi-disciplinary educational platform in the region with an aim to create a dynamic and forward thinking workforce of exceptional talent who will be at the forefront of the future tourism workforce in the UAE and the wider MENA region. Providing students with vocational training in tourism, retail business, culinary arts, hospitality, and events, DCT helps to foster the talent pool within the emirate and encourage young Emiratis and expatriates to take up suitable careers within the tourism industry.   In order to leverage opportunities within the growing tourism and hospitality sector, DCT is urging young people at this significant point in their lives to explore vocational education and training to be able to successfully position themselves for gainful employment in the tourism ecosystem. Essa bin Hadher, General Manager of DCT, commented: “In a few months’ time, high school leavers across Dubai will be focused on taking the next steps towards their future careers …

Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai announced the completion of the hotel’s rebranding as Residence Inn by Marriott following its renovation.  Enjoying a prime location on Sheikh Zayed Road near the city’s key business and leisure attraction such as the Dubai International Financial Centre, Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Emirates Towers, and World Trade Centre, it is the world’s largest and tallest hotel to join the Residence Inn by Marriott brand. With a global presence of over 870 hotels in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Central America, Residence Inn is the world leader of the longer stay lodging segment. The Residence Inn experience is designed for guests to travel the way they love to live by blending comfort with style in flexible and intuitive spaces. “I am proud to welcome guests to experience the world’s largest and tallest Residence Inn by Marriott and enjoy exceptional comfort and freedom that the brand is renowned for around the world,” said Khaled Saab, General Manager for Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road. “Conveniently located merely 11 kilometres away from the Dubai International Airport, the Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road offers guests more possibilities to live their way or wind down with redesigned spaces. In addition, being part of the Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program unlocks for our guests a world of exclusive member benefits and extraordinary experiences including complimentary Wi-Fi, member-only rates, and points that take you places.” Featuring 430 modern residential rooms and suites, many of which boast impressive views of the Sheikh Zayed Road and Jumeirah coastline, Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road offers travellers a ‘home-away-from-home’ experience with …

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts unveiled Sheraton Jeddah Hotel. The newly renovated hotel exemplifies the brand’s worldwide elevation of the guest experience, showcasing signature key elements from the new concept that create an environment where guests are truly at ease, whether working, meeting, or relaxing. Drawing on its roots as a community hub for locals and guests at flagship locations, the new approach for Sheraton creates an intuitive and holistic experience with places to connect and be productive. “We are delighted to introduce Sheraton’s new design vision in Saudi Arabia and look forward to welcoming guests to discover the modernised look,” said Ahmed Hozaien, Area Vice President – Saudi Arabia, Bahrain & Egypt, Marriott International. “Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has a long-standing history in this market, and we are proud to build on this legacy showcasing the brand’s contemporary updates as part of its global transformation. The reimagining of Sheraton Jeddah Hotel reinforces our commitment to offering premium accommodation for leisure and business travellers who are seeking an elevated experience, while enjoying all the familiar comforts of the Sheraton brand.” Following extensive renovations, Sheraton Jeddah Hotel offers 172 redesigned guestrooms and suites. Guests are welcomed into a natural light-filled space with warm, residential appeal, along with new tools for productivity including a height-adjustable worktable with integrated power and charging stations, while still retaining some of the classic Sheraton signature amenities such as the iconic Sheraton Sleep Experience bed. Enhanced technology in the guestrooms include upgraded internet connectivity and 55-inch TVs with built-in Chromecast and live streaming. Flooded with natural light and featuring soft finishes and light wood tones, the guestrooms offer expansive views of the Red Sea. The new lobby serves …

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has collaborated with acclaimed British artist Claire Luxton to unveil a series of fully immersive experiences at InterContinental London Park Lane, InterContinental New York Barclay and InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Bookable now through to mid-July, the experiences celebrate the joy of worldliness and the beauty of global travel as told through a Claire Luxton lens. The Claire Luxton Experience at InterContinental Dubai Festival City heroes a limited-edition suite which have been designed and curated by the artist and depict her interpretation of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. Taking cues from her personal travels and inspirations, Luxton brings the brand to life through the natural flora and fauna signature to her artwork in combination with an array of sensory experiences, including a drawn bath and soundscape. Every detail and room accent across the suite has been transformed to reflect the artist’s style with features including bespoke artwork, lighting and soft furnishings, that represent InterContinental hotels in Japan and Southeast Asia, respectively. A drawn bath experience with a curated soundscape, aromas and florals enhances the stay for guests. Additional discoveries in the suite include a special playlist and coffee table books reflecting Luxton’s travels. Guests booking the suite at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City will also be offered a massage for two in the hotel’s luxury spa. Claire Luxton said: “I’m thrilled to partner with InterContinental Hotels & Resorts again, interpreting the brand’s story of worldliness. Global travel inspires my work, and I hope it shines through in every detail of the collaboration, from the foyer florals and the hotel team’s custom scarves to the drawn bath experience and the artworks themselves. Each flower and animal within my work …

Accor signed Mövenpick Living Çamlıvadi and Mövenpick Living Saklıvadi in partnership with Artaş Group and the developer of Vadistanbul in Turkey. The announcement of the two new projects was made at a signing ceremony which took place at the Mövenpick Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel, between Mark Willis, CEO India Middle East, Africa & Turkey for Accor; Yiğit Sezgin, Chief Commercial Officer India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey for Accor; and Süleyman Çetinsaya, Chairman, Artaş Group. The Mövenpick Living Çamlıvadi is set to open by October 2022 while the Mövenpick Living Saklıvadi in November 2023. “As the world’s leading augmented hospitality group with more than 5,300 properties in over 110 countries, we are excited to announce the involvement of premium brand Mövenpick with the Çamlıvadi and Saklıvadi projects under an agreement with Artaş Group, Turkey’s real estate and construction leader. We are confident that both projects will add great value to the tourism industry in such a popular location of Istanbul,” said Yiğit Sezgin, Chief Commercial Operator India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey for Accor. Residences with hotel grade comfort There are 164 residences in Mövenpick Living Saklıvadi, and 65 residences in Mövenpick Living Çamlıvadi. All one bedroom, two bedroom and penthouse apartments are elegantly decorated with meticulously designed details. Each apartment enjoys complimentary internet connection, same-day laundry service, a restaurant with buffet service for breakfast, and a winter garden. Guests will not have to skip their fitness routine as they can take advantage of a full-fledged gym equipped with exercise gear, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and resting room. Moreover, an exclusive indoor and outdoor manège are offered to the service of the hotel guests who are interested in horse riding. …

Deutsche Hospitality announced the successful signing of the Management Agreement for the Steigenberger Residences Doha, Qatar. Complementing the recently opened flagship Steigenberger Hotel Doha, the Residences will include 278 uniquely furnished apartments offering the warm comforts of a home and a space that allows guests to revel and relax in. The Steigenberger Residences Doha is planned to open in Q3 2022 – just in time for the World Cup 2022 in Qatar, starting November 21st, 2022. “The Steigenberger Residences are the perfect supplement to our existing luxury Steigenberger Hotel Doha,” comments Siegfried Nierhaus, Vice President Middle East, “Both products will offer tourists and business travellers the highest quality comfort and service of the Steigenberger brand to perfectly suit the different travel occasion to guests from all over the world. The Residences will attract long staying guests and families alike.” Sheikh Abdellah Sheikh Abdulla bin Abdulrahman bin Seoud Althani, the owner of the Steigenberger Hotel and Residences Doha, Qatar: “Following the successful opening of the iconic Steigenberger Hotel Doha. The premium guest experience will extend further with the launch of Steigenberger Residences Doha. The unique German hospitality, Steigenberger Hotel and Steigenberger Residences will compete with the world-class luxury hotels across the globe. Doha will soon welcome guests for the major football sports event, I am proud that we will be supporting the nation and providing the best service and experience Doha has to offer.” Ranging from one, two, and three bedroom units, the Residences feature modern design elements and aesthetic touches such as gleaming marble floors that create an opulent contemporary atmosphere. Guest facilities include a rooftop swimming pool, gym, yoga room, the GOCO Spa and the culinary offer of five …

dnata has signed a partnership agreement with Deutsche Hospitality to serve as its exclusive representation partner across the GCC countries. The announcement comes as the German hotel group expands its GCC footprint with its recent opening of the Steigenberger Hotel Doha in Qatar, the opening of the IntercityHotel Dubai Jaddaf Waterfront and the takeover of the management of the Al Hamra Residences and Al Hamra Village Hotel in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The pipeline includes a further IntercityHotel in Muscat and a Jaz in the City Hotel in Dubai. Through extensive regional sales and marketing support dnata Representation Services will strengthen Deutsche Hospitality’s brand presence in the GCC market and drive business to its growing number of hotels. The hotel group currently runs more than 160 hotels in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe, with more than 40 in the planning and construction phases in locations of importance for business and leisure travel from the region. John Bevan, Divisional Senior Vice President at dnata Travel Group commented: “We look forward to bringing in dnata Representation Services’ regional expertise to support in Deutsche Hospitality’s expansion. A hotel group synonymous with high standards, Deutsche Hospitality is set to cater for the growing need for a range of hotel options across the region from economy to midscale to luxury. We are delighted to become an integral part of its journey.” Johanna Lamke, Vice President Sales at Deutsche Hospitality commented: “The Gulf region is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing markets for us. With dnata, one of the leading suppliers in the region represents us. We look forward to working together to expand the brand presence and commercial activities.” …

StayWell Holdings announced the launch of a new hotel brand, Park Proxi, a unique hotel offering that has flexibility and hoteliers at its core. Park Proxi will allow hotel owners to co-create and customise the hotel they desire, by deliberately minimising the brand mandatories that usually accompany a hotel design. This approach creates space for true collaboration, and from room styling to flexible zones to the hotel logo, to a choice of 7 signature colours, Park Proxi offers owners the opportunity to develop a hotel that suits not just their personal tastes, but also cultural preferences. Designed to create a truly local hotel experience, the Park Proxi model welcomes collaboration with hoteliers to take advantage of the best that each location has to offer. Based on the understanding that no-one knows an area quite like a local, the Park Proxi hotel brand aims to partner with local businesses to create a true neighbourhood network that becomes available to guests through partnerships and recommendations. Integrating into its neighbourhood will be a core value of the brand, as will amplifying the businesses around each hotel. The first country in the world to sign a Park Proxi hotel is Egypt, with the Park Proxi EL Hayat Sharm hotel officially signed on the 10th June 2022. The 194-room resort style hotel located within Nabq Bay will boast a spa, multiple F&B outlets, nightclub, 3 swimming pools, and an amphitheatre. Known for its sheltered beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs, the Sharm EL Sheikh location includes rooms that overlook the Red Sea. Simon Wan, President of StayWell Holdings is excited to see the new brand come to life around the country and the world. “Our …

With Eid Al Adha around the corner, it is time to gear up for the holy festivity. A time of joy and peace, this occasion is best celebrated with family and friends, in a spirit brimming with the love of sharing. This Eid, between July 8th and 14th, Taj Hotels in the Maldives are all set to welcome you and your loved ones to live an exclusive experience and make timeless memories in the mesmerizing Indian Ocean. From family-friendly journeys to refined feasts bursting with succulent flavours, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa and Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa promise an unrivalled Eid vacation in a private haven of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle. Benefit from thrilling stay packages and Eid activities suitable for families and groups of friends, to enjoy quality time, indulge in luxury and wellness and entice your taste buds with gourmet halal meals. Spread across the Emboodhu Finolhu Island, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa offers you mind-blowing packages to match your vacation needs. You can choose “Suite Saver” to avail exclusive benefits, such as 25% off the best available rate, daily breakfast at 24 Degrees restaurant, personalized butler service, complimentary snorkeling equipment, a 45-minute spa treatment for two once during your stay, in addition to many other exciting inclusions. You can also opt for “Experience More” to avail 10% off the best available rate and benefit from a free daily breakfast and dinner at 24 Degrees restaurant, a free return combined speedboat transfer, among other fabulous benefits. For Eid Al Adha, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa  launched an extensive array of Eid activities and promotions, such as Shisha Promotion at Equator Bar. Satiate your …

Hotelbeds has recently announced strong demand for Türkiye. In the last 4 weeks, the volume of bookings has doubled compared to the same period in 2019, bringing more than one million international visitors to the country in 2022. To celebrate this success and to reinforce the company’s commitment to Türkiye, Hotelbeds CEO Nicolas Huss – accompanied by CCO Carlos Muñoz, Commercial Director Jorge Cortés and Regional Sourcing Director Jaime Amengual – visited the country at the beginning of June. During their stay, they were able to organise key strategic meetings with the Turkish Minister of Tourism and Culture and the leaders of the TGA (Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency), as well as with the Hotel Association of Türkiye (TÜROB) and several hotel partners. Hotelbeds CEO Nicolas Huss said: “It was a great honor to be received by the Minister of Tourism and Culture, Mr. Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and the TGA. We are very grateful for the opportunity to speak about our full commitment to the development of the destination and our plans for growth in the coming years. It was great to discuss the future of sustainability in travel as we explored different ways of collaboration. “We are also really pleased with the meeting we had with Ms. Müberra Eresin, President of TÜROB, and her team, where we were able to talk about Hotelbeds’ plans in Türkiye as we continue to grow together. At another meeting with AKTOB President Erkan Yağcı and his team, we were able to exchange valuable information about Antalya’s trends in tourism.” Nicolas accepted the invitation of AKTOB President Erkan Yağcı to be the keynote speaker at the 12th Resort Tourism Congress in Antalya in …