Tag Archives: luxury

As Europe enters the peak of its summer season, residents across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are already mapping out their holiday plans—many of which are centred around Eid Al Adha and the long school break. Recognising this annual surge in outbound travel, McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, Europe’s leading owner and operator of designer outlet destinations, continues to position its portfolio as an integrated part of the travel experience for Gulf visitors. For GCC holidaymakers looking for a destination that offers rich culture, seasonal climate, accessibility, and award-winning food, Europe continues to be a leading choice. McArthurGlen brings additional value by delivering exceptional price points on luxury brands up to 70% less, conveniently located in areas already planned as part of the traveller’s trip. GCC tourists drawn by heritage, leisure, or family fun options, McArthurGlen designer outlets are an easily accessible location that will flow naturally in the rhythm of their holiday. Every McArthurGlen Designer Outlet is designed to complement the city’s cultural landscape. This commitment to quality and local relevance has earned McArthurGlen Designer Outlets several spots in the Outlet Centre Performance Report Europe (OCPRE) – a respected consumer survey by Ecostra and French Magdus – with Designer Outlet Serravalle topping the list. Visiting Designer Outlet Salzburg, for example, fits neatly into a personalised itinerary if one is celebrating the 60th anniversary of The Sound of Music, or attending the Salzburg Festival. In Vienna, the museums and historical grandeur create a one-of-a-kind holiday experience, including a cruise on the Danube River. Conveniently located between cultural excursions to Bratislava and nearby wellness retreats, Designer Outlet Parndorf – in the top 10 best outlets in Europe – offers a seamless and …

As the new year begins, there’s no better time to prioritize wellness and rejuvenation, and Jamaica stands ready to welcome guests with its unparalleled blend of natural beauty, luxury, and holistic experiences. Known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Jamaica is more than a destination—it’s a sanctuary for the soul. For travelers seeking privacy, serenity, and world-class indulgence, Jamaica’s wellness offerings are unmatched. Its exclusive beachfront villas and boutique resorts offer tailored wellness experiences in intimate settings, combining luxury with a deep connection to nature. Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of ocean waves, starting your day with yoga on a sun-drenched beach, and indulging in spa treatments inspired by Jamaica’s rich traditions. From bespoke retreats to signature spa experiences, Jamaica offers privacy, tranquility, and the perfect escape from the demands of daily life. Luxurious spa retreats such as The Spa at Round Hill promise tailored treatments that harmonize mind, body, and spirit amidst stunning ocean views. Nestled in the hills of Montego Bay, this award-winning spa incorporates locally sourced botanicals and age-old Jamaican traditions to create a truly restorative experience. At The Caves in Negril, tranquility reaches new heights. Perched atop limestone cliffs, this intimate retreat offers guests a unique spa experience, blending holistic treatments with breathtaking surroundings, including private grottoes and sea-facing treatment rooms. Meanwhile, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall’s Zen Spa redefines luxury wellness. With an extensive menu of therapies inspired by global traditions and a focus on mindfulness, this beachfront haven is perfect for relaxation and renewal. Jamaica’s wellness journey extends beyond its exceptional spas. Sunrise yoga on a secluded beach, meditative forest walks in the Blue Mountains, and invigorating dips in mineral-rich waters …

PIF launched the Hotel Management Company (Adeera), a new hospitality management firm that will operate and manage hotels, combining the highest industry standards with timeless authentic Saudi hospitality. Adeera aims to build new world-class Saudi hotel brands and to enhance the capacity of the local sector by launching programs for training and skills development, in cooperation with international hospitality specialists. At a time when Saudi Arabia is cementing its place as a major tourism destination, the company seeks to introduce a portfolio of distinctive Saudi hotel brands, serving various segments from mid-range to ultra-luxury, for different categories of visitor. It will unlock new business opportunities, focusing on the Saudi hospitality experience, working with hotel developers to maximize the contribution from the local private sector. Khalid Johar, Co-head of Local Real Estate Portfolio at PIF, said: “The launch of Adeera comes at a pivotal time when Saudi Arabia is expanding its hospitality and tourism offerings. The company has the opportunity to grow the sector by introducing new hotel brands as the country is establishing itself as a major tourism destination. Adeera’s unique focus on Saudi culture and traditions will provide a distinctive edge.” The establishment of Adeera underlines PIF’s role as an industry enabler in developing Saudi Arabia’s strategic sectors, driving economic growth and diversification. It follows a series of significant investments by PIF in both the tourism and real estate sectors. This includes investments such as the hospitality company Boutique Group – which specializes in developing historic and cultural palaces into luxury boutique hotels – the agri-tourism company Dan and the tourism investment company Asfar. Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors and have tourism contribute 10% …

Hong Kong welcomed 19,273 visitors from the GCC region, between January to August 2024 a remarkable 124% increase from the previous year. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) successfully concluded its first GCC 2024 Travel Mission to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), engaging the travel partners from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This year’s mission showcased Hong Kong’s growing appeal among travellers from the GCC, with the city welcoming 19,273 visitors between January and August 2024 – a remarkable 124% increase compared to the previous year. The visitor numbers for the first half of 2024 alone nearly matched the total number of arrivals from the GCC in 2023, reflecting Hong Kong’s growing reputation as a premier destination for luxury travellers. Key highlights of HKTB’s Travel Mission – The roadshow featured a distinguished delegation of 30 key Hong Kong trade partners, including representatives from iconic attractions, luxury hotels and destination management companies (DMCs). The event attracted over 200 travel agents from across the GCC, providing them with an in-depth understanding of Hong Kong’s premium offerings tailored for affluent travellers. Exclusive Experiences for GCC Luxury Travellers – The HKTB’s brand-new initiative “Travel in Luxe” especially curated for GCC market captivated attendees with an array of luxury experiences, including helicopter tours over Hong Kong’s skyline, VIP access to Hong Kong Disneyland’s “Momentous Nighttime Spectacular,” private shopping concierge services, and exclusive dining experiences. Attendees were also introduced to bespoke cultural activities like private Cantonese opera at the Xiqu Centre and horse-racing events hosted by the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Puneet Kumar, Director of South Asia & Middle East at HKTB, said, “We are pleased with the strong recovery …

Qatar Airways will unveil its latest business class offering, the ‘Qsuite Next Gen’, at the upcoming Farnborough International Air show 2024 (FIA) from 22-26 July 2024. The reveal will be held at the Qatar Airways Discover Lounge for visitors to experience the future of business travel with the World’s Best Airline and World’s Best Business Class. The Qsuite Next Gen will form the centrepiece of the airline’s presence at the prestigious international air show, which gathers aviation leaders from across the globe to showcase innovations and foster industry collaboration. Those seeking to experience the Qsuite Next Gen can expect: Further advancements in comfort, collaborative and social design elements and passenger dining experiences. Qatar Airways’ Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: “We are highly anticipating this year’s Farnborough International Airshow and as the Best Airline in the World we are confident that the reveal of our latest business class offering will be a huge draw for the global aviation community. We also look forward to welcoming visitors to our installations and onboard our aircraft which will be on display, to experience what we offer.” Visitors are also welcome to explore the airline’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and discover Qatar Airways’ world-class product and service, as well as experience ultimate luxury and aircraft performance with Qatar Executive’s Gulfstream G700, of which Qatar Executive is the first commercial carrier in the world to operate this aircraft. Visitors to the Farnborough International Airshow can find Qatar Airways at Chalet C114-115 and at the Qatar Airways Discover Lounge, Hall 1 Entrance, from 22-26 July 2024.

Marriott International Inc. and Eagle Hills announced the signing of an agreement to open the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ramhan Island, Abu Dhabi. It is an exclusive waterfront destination in Abu Dhabi, the property will offer a secluded escape complete with expansive views across the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Slated to open in 2029, the Reserve will be situated on a secluded island within the Ramhan Island master development and will feature 50 private one-to-four-bedroom luxury villas including the region’s first anticipated floating villas with unobstructed waterfront views. Plans also include a range of lavish leisure amenities and multiple culinary venues. Ramhan Island is being developed to become the next must-visit destination for travellers seeking unparalleled luxury and natural beauty in the UAE. Covering over 4mn square metres of development area, the ultra-luxury destination features a natural island connected through a network of waterways. The fully integrated waterfront community will be home to charming residential villas, marina residences and luxury hotels, offering state-of-art amenities for residents and tourists alike. “This collaboration with Marriott International on Ramhan Island marks a milestone in our commitment to shaping extraordinary experiences and redefining luxury hospitality. As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the UAE, it will set new standards of excellence in the world of luxury experiences.” says Chairman of Eagle Hills, Mohammad Alabbar. “Together with Eagle Hills, we look forward to bringing Ritz-Carlton Reserve to the UAE and offering intimate and transformative experiences in an ultra-luxury setting,” added Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International. “This monumental signing marks an important addition to our portfolio in the country where we continue to see a strong demand for luxury experiences.” Ritz-Carlton Reserve …

Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Radisson Hotel Muscat Panorama with 165 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, offering an elevated experience for business and leisure travelers. Muscat, the capital of Oman, is known for its dazzling mix of old and new, blending its ancient cultural heritage with modern architecture. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Al Hajar mountains and the Arabian Sea, Muscat is a gateway to Oman’s rich history and a vibrant destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of culture and contemporary comforts. The city offers travelers numerous sights to explore, from Old Muscat, home to the blue-and-gold Al Alam Palace (Sultan’s Palace) to Oman’s largest mosque, the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to historic forts, bustling souks, and beautiful beaches. Nestled in the city center, Radisson Hotel Muscat Panorama is the essence of style and comfort, providing easy access to Muscat’s must-see attractions and many shopping destinations. The hotel boasts an array of amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, a tranquil spa, and an inviting indoor pool, perfect for relaxation after a busy day. The hotel is conveniently located just 18km from the international airport, allowing guests to arrive at the hotel in roughly 15 minutes by car or taxi. The hotel offers several dining options, including Al Muzen which features international cuisine in a family-friendly setting and Friends Café in the lobby, ideal for quick bites. For those seeking a sophisticated atmosphere, Casa Di Bacco presents an exclusive selection of spirits and cigars. The stylish pool bar offers breath taking panoramic city views, exquisite cocktails, and delectable snacks. With separate spa facilities for men and women, guests can indulge in luxurious massages and treatments, complemented …

Red Sea Global (RSG) announced it is preparing to welcome its first international flight to Red Sea International Airport (RSI). Operated by flydubai, the flight will arrive from Dubai International (DXB) on Thursday, 18 April, marking the start of a new twice-weekly route to The Red Sea destination. A regular schedule of domestic flights operated by Saudia have been servicing RSI since September 2023. With the launch of flydubai, there will now be eight flights per week to RSI. “Situated within three hours flying time of 250 million people, RSI will serve one million guests a year at full capacity. Our inaugural flight just six months ago was the start of our journey towards reaching that goal, and this first international flight is a further step in making Saudi Arabia one of the top tourism destinations globally. We are looking forward to truly opening up to the world and welcoming visitors from the UAE, wider Middle East region and beyond,” said John Pagano, Group CEO at Red Sea Global. “RSI is also essential for providing connectivity for our employees, partners, and the wider local community,” added Pagano. RSI was built to provide an easy route for guests travelling to The Red Sea. Today, two luxury resorts are open at the destination: Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, and St. Regis Red Sea Resort, which recently welcomed legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and his family. Three more resorts are on track to open this year, including Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – one of only seven worldwide – in the coming weeks. This will be followed by Shebara, featuring a remarkable array of overwater, stainless steel villas, and Desert Rock, a spectacular resort …

Ministry of Heritage and Tourism Oman hosted the third edition of the “Global Travel Week – Middle East” with 94 tourism specialists from various countries and 31 Omani tourism establishments in addition to hotels. This B2B event is aimed at promoting luxury tourism in Oman. Haitham bin Muhammad al Ghassan, Director General of Tourism Promotion at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said: “This event is a valuable addition to the list of luxury tourism companies and has proven through its previous editions that it adds high value to businesses and companies.” The Director General of Tourism Promotion at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism added that the hosting of this event will strengthen international cooperation in the field of luxury tourism, exchanging experiences and knowledge, and strengthening the position of the Sultanate of Oman as a luxury tourist destination on the global stage. This event enjoys wide participation from experts and specialists in the field of luxury tourism from various countries of the world. (Oman News Agency)

Zardun in NEOM will comprise three distinct and luxurious boutique hotels, offering in total 100 rooms and suites, all of which are informed by a vision of a more sustainable future within this newly restored environment. Each hotel will have a different theme so that guests can enjoy an array of experiences that take in amazing views down a stunning valley and out over the sea. Zardun will offer trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing and a variety of other sports and leisure pursuits, including stargazing, meditation and yoga. In addition, guests will be invited to join in educational and field programs on nature protection, conservation and re-wilding. Luxury ecotourism in Saudi Arabia has taken a major step forward with the announcement of Zardun, an exclusive sanctuary resort developed by NEOM, the sustainable region taking shape in the northwest of the Kingdom. Announced by the NEOM Board of Directors, Zardun has been designed to seamlessly blend contemporary luxury with nature. The unique destination is the latest in a series of coastal assets that form part of the ongoing development taking place across the NEOM region. Overlooking the crystalline waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, Zardun is a nature-based resort that will host four ultra-luxury signature buildings, all of which will merge harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Intended to redefine luxury within an environmental context, Zardun aims to offer the ultimate premium ecotourism experience for discerning guests. Covering an impressive four square kilometers, Zardun will be a carefully restored haven filled with native plants and animals. Stretching down from the mountains to the seashore, its breathtaking beauty will be experienced on arrival by visitors at its state-of-the-art experience center, which includes a …