Category Archives: Hotels

Radisson Hotel Group announced the signing of Radisson Hotel Djibouti. The hotel marks the Group’s entry into the country and brings its East African portfolio to 18 hotels and over 2700 rooms in operation and under development, strengthening its strategic position in the region. This new signing further underscores the Group’ presence as the hotel company active in the most countries on the African continent with close to 100 hotels in operation and under development. This new-build 144-room hotel, scheduled to open in 2024, will comprise not only of modern standard rooms and suites, but will also have accessible rooms, designed for wheelchair access. Dining options will include light snacks at the lobby café, international and local cuisine at the all-day-dining restaurant, and refreshing drinks at the poolside juice bar. Boasting an expansive meetings and events area, the hotel will offer a variety of versatile venues, including a ballroom, five meeting rooms, a pre-function area, as well as break out areas. The leisure facilities will include a spa, gym, and an outdoor swimming pool. Just 15 minutes away from Djibouti International Airport, Radisson Hotel Djibouti will be located in the heart of the city, surrounded by key infrastructures such as the Djibouti Port, Djibouti Free Zone, international headquarters, shopping malls and the seaside, providing the ideal base for business and leisure. Erwan Garnier, Senior Director, Development, Africa, Radisson Hotel Group said: “We are delighted to mark our entry into Djibouti with Radisson, currently our fastest growing upscale brand in Africa. With its existing limited branded hotel supply, we are confident that Radisson Hotel Djibouti will be the country’s leading internationally branded hotel. Along with our partners, Salaam Properties, we are …

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Alila Hinu Bay in Oman which joins Alila Jabal Akhdar as the brand’s second hotel in Oman along with 15 other Alila properties worldwide. Distinguished a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, the award-winning brand features luxury hotels and resorts in some of the most spectacular natural locations. The 112-key hotel is nestled on a secluded beachfront in Oman’s southwest region of Dhofar. The untouched area is best known for its lush landscapes, cool summers, and it is within easy driving distance from Salalah International Airport. Between Samhan mountain and the blue waters of the Arabian Sea, Alila Hinu Bay caters to well-traveled guests seeking reflection and impactful connections. Along with the breath-taking scenery, the area is known for its rich traditions and the renowned warmth of Omani hospitality. Combined with a personalized experience that is crafted for each guest, travelers can expect to be immersed in authentic yet bespoke journeys tailored to their preferences and interests. “We are very excited to add Alila Hinu Bay to the Hyatt portfolio and welcome guests to this region of Oman, a true nature lover’s paradise full of stunning landscapes, waterfalls and greenery,” said Martin Persson, general manager, Alila Hinu Bay. “Dedicated to being responsible and sustainable, guests can enjoy exquisite culinary experiences evoking local and international flavours at one of our dining options or treat themselves to a customized spa experience that uses natural products.”

Accor has signed a brand-new Fairmont property in Saudi Arabia on the Ajdan Waterfront development, the most high-profile mixed-use development in Al Khobar and the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. With an opening date expected for 2023, the hotel will feature 160 rooms and serviced apartments, four dining outlets, and meeting rooms to accommodate large social and corporate events. The group is partnering with Ajdan Real Estate Development Company, the lifestyle focus, internationally award-winning developer. “Our values rest on promoting social transformation, helping to enrich lives, and driving forward the Saudi 2030 vision. We couldn’t think of a better partner than Accor to join our vision and develop the Fairmont hotel on Ajdan. This prestigious destination is known to be one of the most desirable leisure attractions for visitors and residences of the Eastern Province in Saudi Arabia,” said Abdullah AlFozan, Chairman of Ajdan Real Estate Development Company. “By signing this development, we complete the final piece of Ajdan waterfront components,” said Mohammed Al Otaibi; CEO of Ajdan Real Estate Development Company. “We are proud to be the first private developer that joins its footprint with Accor, achieving this major transformation in lifestyle and tourism industry in the eastern province.” “We believe the new Fairmont Ajdan Al Khobar will become the ultimate premier urban waterfront development in the Eastern Province, and maybe even the whole of Saudi Arabia, adding to the strong momentum the Fairmont brand is seeing in the Kingdom after the successful opening of Fairmont Riyadh,” said Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey. “Overall, with the powerful Fairmont brand features, through to the unique architecture and expressive décor added to its prime location, …

Mandarin Oriental, Doha is delighted to welcome GCC guests to the magnificent hotel in the heart of Doha, where traditional Middle Eastern charm meets Mandarin Oriental’s legendary hospitality. Located in trendy Msheireb Downtown Doha and at the heart of Barahat Msheireb, Mandarin Oriental, Doha is situated in the city’s newest and most exciting neighbourhood. The area is home to innovative dining experiences and eclectic cafés, pedestrian friendly streets, and a convenient internal tram network, all within walking distance to top landmarks such as Souq Waqif, Museum of Islamic Art, the hotel is also just a short distance to the dynamic business area of West Bay and other attractions. From its extensive list of top-class dining destinations to its unrivalled leisure and recreation facilities, the luxurious urban retreat is ready and waiting since Qatar has relaxed regulations for vaccinated travellers in the GCC who can visit quarantine free. Where Middle East tradition meets seamlessly with the unique Mandarin Oriental hospitality and style, guests can expect the inviting ambiance, exquisite décor, and bespoke service of the Mandarin Oriental reputation worldwide. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, the hotel has a plentiful array of tempting things to do. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha occupies 3,030 square metres and features six private treatment rooms, a couple’s suite, two VIP suites and extensive heat and water experiences which includes two indoor pools. And while indulging in cuisines from around the world at Mosaic, including Mediterranean flavours at IZU, and the flavours of China at Liang, guests can complement their culinary adventures with the hotel’s Fitness & Wellness Centre, kitted out in state-of-the-art technology and three dedicated exercise studios. Two temperature-controlled rooftop pools offer views …

Hyde Hotels, Resorts & Residences announced the first Hyde hotel outside of the United States, Hyde Dubai Business Bay, in close proximity to the iconic Burj Khalifa directly fronting the Business Bay canal and promenade. The project is being developed in collaboration with owner, Emerald Palace Group, who have been successfully developing and constructing residential projects in Ukraine, UAE and Russia since 1996, including the newly announced Raffles the Palm Dubai. This news comes on the heels of Accor’s latest phase of expansion and its planned joint venture with Ennismore, which will see the creation of one of the world’s largest and fastest growing lifestyle operators, set to include Hyde Hotels, Resorts & Residences. This will be the fifth opening under the Hyde brand. Chadi Farhat, Chief Operating Officer of sbe said, “We couldn’t be happier to be working with Emerald Palace Group on bringing the Hyde brand to Dubai Business Bay and we want to thank Dr. Nver Mkhitaryan for the support in developing the property. This opening is a testament of our continued international growth, and in particular, after the incredible success of SLS Dubai, Hyde Dubai Business Bay will continue to bring additional lifestyle experiences to one of the most vibrant destinations in the world. We will be bringing some of our most well-known concepts to the property with Katsuya, Cleo, and Hudson Tavern.” “We are delighted to partner with Accor to establish the first Hyde hotel in the U.A.E.,” said Dr. Mkhitaryan, Owner of EPG Group. “No expense is being spared in the construction and décor, and we are confident that our guests will appreciate the attention that’s been paid to every last detail. This is …

Address Hotels + Resorts are set to redefine the perfect getaway with the much-anticipated opening of the new Address Beach Resort Fujairah later this year. Adding a second beachfront property in the UAE to their portfolio, Address Hotels + Resorts bring a fresh perspective to the global hospitality service sector focusing on creating an ultimate experience through exceptional hospitality service. Creating landmarks ‘Where Life Happens’, the brand offers world class designing, creating and curating memories for guests at every touchpoint and moment of their journey at any property. Designed with an ingenious sense of style and developed by Eagle Hills, Address Beach Resort Fujairah is set to become the brand’s ultimate beach getaway that offers both coastal coolness and the outdoor adventures that Fujairah is so well known for. “Address Beach Resort Fujairah will be the first hotel – as a part of the expansion plan of our luxury brand – into the beautiful East Coast of the United Arab Emirates. The beach-front property is located on the well-known coastline of Al Aqah in Fujairah and set to be the perfect city escape nestled between the sea and the mountains,” says Mark Kirby, Head of Hospitality, Emaar Hospitality Group. “We like to believe that 2021 is our year as we look forward to stepping outside our home, Dubai, to newer locations such as Fujairah. This property follows a very successful launch of the first-ever beachfront property, Address Beach Resort in Dubai. We see the Fujairah property becoming a much-loved weekend retreat.” Spread over 578,000 sq feet, the resort will feature 196 guest rooms and suites,  10 privately owned villas including exclusive four-bedroom Beach and Garden Villa as well as 4 residential …

Sand Sherpa has launched a new summer adventure. Starting from June 18, the homegrown company will offer self-drive sunrise and sunset safaris in the 225-square-kilometre protected area. Presenting a new and unique way to explore the desert in the summer months – when humidity levels among the dunes are lower than that of the city – the experience allows participants to enter the private reserve in their own vehicles with the Sand Sherpa team. Aimed at those looking to connect with nature and explore Dubai’s natural wilderness, the experience begins with a briefing on reserve driving etiquette. Sand Sherpa’s expert guides will then instruct drivers over hand-held radios and enable them to safely manoeuvre their own 4X4 vehicles through the dunes, all with minimal impact on the natural environment. During the 75-minute wildlife drive, adults and children alike will learn about the desert, its history and inhabitants, while enjoying close encounters with indigenous flora and fauna. The lush vegetation in the reserve attracts birds and various desert animals, including gazelles, foxes, monitor lizards and the once-endangered Arabian oryx. Following the scenic drive, participants are ushered to the campsite, where they will be able to enjoy a birds of prey interaction. Every participant will have a turn walking with and flying a trained indigenous owl, hawk, eagle and falcon before departing from the reserve after sunset. This summer self-drive safari is offered for the first time in the region and available for general bookings on weekends. Bespoke bookings are also available for private groups during the week. Bookings are limited to up to two adults and three children per vehicle. The experience is ideal for families with children looking to explore …

IHG Hotels & Resorts is bringing the world’s first globally branded boutique hotel brand to the Kingdom with the signing of  Hotel indigo Riyadh King Abdallah Road. This development also marks the first hotel to be signed under the Master Development Agreement (MDA) between IHG and RIVA Development Company via its wholly owned subsidiary RIVA Hospitality for Hotel Services Company. No two Hotel Indigo properties are the same, and this stunning addition to the brand portfolio will have Riyadh’s cultural influences embedded in its DNA through a visionary design which captures the historical charm of local heritage as well as influences of nearby modern architecture. A new built property, Hotel indigo Riyadh King Abdallah Road will feature 228 design-led rooms and will open its doors to guests in March 2025. Offering authentic local experiences combined with a modern design, the hotel will also feature two dining options, a pool and a fitness center. Additionally, the hotel will offer 353 sqm of meeting and events space to cater to the demands of business travelers visiting Saudi Arabia’s capital city. Speaking on the announcement, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “We are pleased to announce the signing of a new Hotel Indigo in Saudi Arabia in partnership with RIVA Development Company, aligned to our robust expansion plans in the Kingdom over the coming years. Hotel Indigo is a unique brand that allows every individual property to draw inspiration from the local surroundings and offer an immersive and authentic experience to guests. As a result of the Saudi Tourism Development Strategy, there will be a rising wave of travelers coming to Saudi Arabia and seeking differentiated travel and …

TIME Hotels held the soft opening of its much-anticipated TIME Asma Hotel in Dubai’s Al Barsha ‘shopping’ district yesterday, Tuesday 15 June. The new four-star property has a remarkable feature – its management team consists entirely of women, including the hotel manager Alexandra Kelner and 80% of the hotel’s employees. Commenting, TIME Hotels’ CEO Mohamed Awadalla, said: “It has always been integral to our corporate strategy to diversify our workforce and offer equal opportunities to all members of staff. “Under the leadership of Alexandra, all areas of the hotel operation will be managed by women, from HR to sales, F&B, finance, front office and housekeeping – even our executive chef is a woman. “I am sure that this talented all-female management team will provide inspiration to all women who want to carve out a successful career in hospitality,” added Awadalla. “Once regional and international travel restrictions are relaxed, more women will be travelling on business than ever before. Many women may well be travelling alone and I believe it will be comforting for them to have the option of staying in a hotel where 80% of the staff are women, with dedicated floors and in-room amenities,” said Alexandra Kelner, Hotel Manager, TIME Asma Hotel. “With the summer heat approaching, TIME Asma is ideally located for a weekend of retail therapy,” said Kelner.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Qurtuba, is the newest addition within the Radisson Hotel Group’s portfolio. The hotel boasts a mix of suites and private villas as well as various dining options and flexible meeting room space, which covers over 600 square meters.  The opening of Radisson BluHotel, Riyadh Qurtuba brings the group’s portfolio to over 45 hotels, resorts and serviced apartments in operation and under development in Saudi Arabia, accelerating Radisson Hotel Group’s leading expansion across the Kingdom. “We are delighted to expand our Radisson Blu brand in the city of Riyadh, especially during these times.  In line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, we are excited to further grow our presence across the Kingdom, and work together to make Saudi Arabia a must-visit destination. Despite the challenges, due to the current circumstances, Radisson Hotel Group has started moving towards normality with a host of expansion and opening announcements over the past months. The Kingdom remains a key development area and our ambitions across the region have remained the same,” says Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President, Middle East and Africa, at Radisson Hotel Group. Fabrizio Bigi, General Manager Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Qurtuba, commented, “No matter if for business or leisure, with our dedicated team and modern facilities, we aim to create more meaningful and memorable experiences for our guests. With a mix of rooms, suites and villas we offer something for everyone. Our three bedroom villas are the ideal way for families to explore the city while remaining in their own comfort and privacy.”