Sofitel announces the opening of Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre, marking the brand’s debut in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s capital. Strategically located in the prestigious Ar Rahmaniyyah neighbourhood, the hotel reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, contributing to the Kingdom’s transformation through world-class hospitality, international connectivity and the development of large-scale business and cultural events. The property features the largest luxury hotel convention centre in Riyadh, offering nearly 8,500 square metres of flexible event space, alongside 388 sophisticated rooms and suites. The opening represents a significant milestone for Sofitel as it brings its signature blend of French elegance and local cultural inspiration to one of the Middle East’s most dynamic destinations. Only 35 minutes from King Khalid International Airport, with private transfers available, the property is also near iconic landmarks, including Kingdom Centre Tower, Kingdom Centre Mall, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Diriyah. Designed as a destination in its own right, Sofitel Riyadh offers an immersive luxury experience where French zest meets the heritage, creativity, and forward-looking spirit of Saudi Arabia. The launch comes at a time when Riyadh continues to expand its global presence, welcoming business leaders, international travellers, and cultural explorers alike. The building’s architecture draws inspiration from the desert dunes and from the first Arabic letter of King Abdullah’s name, symbolizing continuity with the Kingdom’s heritage. With 388 sophisticated rooms and suites, the 5-star hotel provides the perfect combination of luxury and convenience. Adding to the hotel’s sense of ritual and refinement is the Sofitel Candle Ritual, an evocative brand tradition inspired by the Parisian streets once illuminated daily by candlelight in the era of Louis XIV. Together with considered design details, …
Read More »Radisson Hotel Group and BNW Developments announce the signing of Radisson Blu Hotel and Radisson Blu Residences at RAK Central, Ras Al Khaimah
Radisson Hotel Group, in partnership with BNW Developments, has announced the signing of Radisson Blu Hotel, RAK Central and Radisson Blu Residences, RAK Central, a landmark mixed-use hospitality project in Ras Al Khaimah set to open in 2029. The signing introduces a new Radisson Blu address to a fast-evolving part of the UAE, expanding the Group’s footprint in Ras Al Khaimah. Set within RAK Central, a large-scale mixed-use destination planned as a future financial hub for the emirate, the project will sit at the heart of a 3.1 million sq. ft. master development integrating commercial, financial, residential, and recreational spaces. The site is strategically located close to Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village, with direct connectivity to the E11 highway, the UAE’s longest road linking Ras Al Khaimah to the other emirates, and convenient access to the emirate’s key resorts and visitor attractions. “Our first RAK Central project announcement in collaboration with Radisson Hotel Group is a strategic milestone for BNW Developments. RAK Central is set to become the heartbeat of Ras Al Khaimah, and we are proud to be part of its transformation with a project of this scale,” said Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman and Founder of BNW Developments. “By integrating high-end residences with a flagship hotel, we are offering investors and residents an asset class that is commercially resilient and internationally coveted. We are focused on delivering a development that sets a new benchmark for branded living in the UAE.” Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi, Managing Director and Co-Founder of BNW Developments, added: “At BNW Developments, we do not merely build structures; we curate lifestyles that shatter the boundaries of the ordinary and redefine the very essence of the …
Read More »dnata and Visa unveil exclusive benefits for GCC’s wealthy travellers
dnata Representation Services (dRS) has announced an exclusive collaboration with Visa to promote curated resort and hotel offers to a highly targeted group of high-net-worth (HNW) travellers across the Gulf. Partner establishments will be integrated into Visa’s concierge and benefits platforms, which serve as sophisticated and personalized travel and lifestyle channels for this customer segment. The collaboration is timed with the launch of the Visa Private card, a new offering designed for individuals with at least $1 million in investable assets or monthly salary of AED 100,000 or more. Eligible cardholders will have exclusive access to value-adds such as upgrades, preferred rates, and bespoke experiences offered by select, premium hotel partners. Some of the participating properties include Club Med’s extensive network of all-inclusive resorts, Villa Le Corail in Nha Trang, Vietnam, City of Dreams in Limassol, Cyprus, Seehof Davos in Switzerland, and 369 Degrees Hotels & Maisons across France, among others. The move reflects a growing shift in how luxury travel is discovered and booked by the region’s wealthiest travellers. Instead of relying on traditional digital channels and travel agents, HNW clients are increasingly turning to concierge services embedded within their financial institutions – platforms that prioritise privacy, curation, and trust. “This collaboration is about meaningful access, not just visibility,” said Rakhi Purohit, head of dnata Representation Services. “Our hotel partners are connecting with a highly selective customer base through a trusted and exclusive environment. These travellers don’t browse – they expect seamless, premium service delivered where they already are.” “With dnata Representation Services, Visa Private is giving high net worth cardholders access to exceptional destinations with the privacy and personalization they value,” said Yuri Topunov, VP & Head of …
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