Category Archives: Hotels

Red Sea Global (RSG) announced that bookings are now open for its third self-operated property, Desert Rock. Nestled in the heart of an untouched desert landscape where the mountains meet the sands, Desert Rock offers a timeless luxury experience designed to immerse guests in the raw beauty of the natural world. “We are ready to welcome guests to Desert Rock, our third self-operated hotel in the Red Sea Global hospitality portfolio. This is more than just a hotel — it is a unique property, crafted into the rock face, offering a truly immersive experience where luxury and nature come together to create a truly unforgettable escape,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “Whether you are looking to explore the desert and mountains with our adventure team at Akun, unwind in total privacy, or indulge in world-class dining and wellness, Desert Rock offers something extraordinary for every guest.” Desert Rock spans 30,000 square meters of unspoiled land, where architectural mastery meets ancient rocky outcrops. The resort is located just 20 minutes from Red Sea International Airport, making it a convenient yet remote escape for those seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a blend of both. Designed with seamless integration into the rugged terrain, Desert Rock features a variety of accommodations, including pool villas, luxury suites, and private retreats, each offering a unique way to experience the splendor of the surrounding landscape. Villas and Suites Each villa and suite at Desert Rock have been thoughtfully crafted to embrace the natural surroundings, offering an atmosphere of serene luxury. Guests can choose from a range of options, including: Wadi Villas: Ideal for families, these spacious, desert-inspired one- and two-bedroom villas offer private pools and expansive …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) hosted the inaugural Retrofit Summit, bringing together key stakeholders from the hospitality industry, financial institutions and government agencies, alongside industry experts. The Summit addressed the need for retrofitting existing hotels and venues in the emirate to enhance their energy efficiency. The event also served as a platform for industry leaders to exchange best practices, explore innovative retrofitting technologies, and discuss the growing role of sustainability in hotel operations. HE Saleh Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The Retrofit Summit is an important milestone in supporting the emirate’s journey towards a more energy efficient future, in line with the ambitions of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy. As Abu Dhabi’s hospitality sector continues to evolve, this Summit accelerates the adoption of solutions that reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions. By fostering industry-wide collaboration and drawing from data-driven insights, we are paving the way for the transition to energy-efficient hotels and venues, while advancing our mission to protect and preserve Abu Dhabi for future generations.” The hosting of the Retrofit Summit stemmed from an extensive Energy Audit Assessment project launched by DCT Abu Dhabi last year, which assessed energy consumption across all hotels and five venues in the emirate, offering tailored recommendations for energy efficiency improvements. Each establishment received a detailed report outlining actionable steps to enhance their sustainability, underscoring DCT Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to support the green evolution of its hospitality sector. Representatives from over 20 organisations and six exhibitors participated in the event, sharing success stories from initiatives that have already delivered notable sustainability gains in Abu Dhabi. The Summit featured speeches …

RAK Properties Ras Al Khaimah announced that is has completed the design phase for its upcoming Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah, located in Hayat Island on Mina, the company’s premium waterfront lifestyle destination. The resort will feature 156 elegantly appointed rooms, junior and executive suites, and luxurious sky villas, each offering unparalleled views of the Arabian Gulf and Ras Al Khaimah’s majestic mountain range. The sky villas, with their expansive terraces and private plunge pools, will provide guests with an elevated experience of privacy and exclusivity, offering a 270-degree view of the surrounding bay and sea. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah marks a key milestone in RAK Properties’ ongoing mission to attract globally recognised luxury brands to the emirate. The collaboration with Nikki Beach, renowned for its signature blend of music, dining, entertainment, fashion, film and art, will bring the brand’s barefoot luxury experience to the heart of Mina, further positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a premier destination for both relaxation and recreation. The design, developed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed architecture and design firm Gensler, captures the essence of Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty while echoing the distinctive character of the Nikki Beach brand. Spanning 33,580 square meters, the resort’s architecture is characterised by organic forms and soft textures that reflect the fluidity of the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. Inspired by the emirate’s coastal and maritime heritage, the design blends natural materials like sand-hued walls with organic, earthy textures. Local cultural touches, including nautical elements, are thoughtfully woven in to create an authentic connection to Ras Al Khaimah’s rich traditions. Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties, …

Hilton is accelerating its plans to more than double its portfolio in Morocco with the signing of nine hotels across seven of its global brands, including the debut of its iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand in the capital city of Rabat, as well as the introduction of its luxury LXR Hotels & Resorts, lifestyle Curio Collection by Hilton, and value-driven Hampton by Hilton brands to the country. Carlos Khneisser, vice president, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said: “With 13.1 million tourists visiting Morocco in the first nine months of this year, an increase of around two million compared to the same period last year, the country is experiencing significant momentum as a sought-after tourist destination. These nine new signings will add more than 1,300 rooms and around 1,500 Team Members to Hilton’s growing portfolio in Morocco, where we plan to expand our footprint to over 20 hotels in the coming years. The introduction of new brands – and expansion of existing ones – demonstrates our commitment to catering to the different needs of guests visiting the country where we’ve enjoyed a strong legacy dating back almost six decades. We look forward to working closely with our valued owners to deliver Hilton’s globally recognised hospitality to guests at these outstanding hotels.”

Palladium Hotel Group is set to charter new territories following its agreement with Hard Rock International to operate hotels under Hard Rock Hotels and Reverb Hotels in Saudi Arabia. Palladium Hotel Group will be infusing the region’s hospitality market with over 50 years of expertise, following a record-breaking 2023 with an annual revenue of 1.069 billion euros. The group is actively seeking investors and real estate partners with properties that align with the Hard Rock International brand’s bold, lifestyle-focused appeal. Palladium Hotel Group’s impressive portfolio spans over 40 hotels and 13,000 rooms across seven countries, managed under ten distinctive brands, including TRS Hotels, Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels, and BLESS Collection Hotels. Renowned for delivering exceptional guest experiences and prioritising team wellbeing, the group consistently upholds the highest standards in every venture. This global expertise positions the group as a key player in introducing innovative hospitality solutions to Saudi Arabia’s evolving market. The collaboration builds on a decade-long relationship, with Palladium Hotel Group already managing three standout Hard Rock Hotels in Spain, – Ibiza, Tenerife, and Marbella. The expansion into Saudi Arabia aims to merge Hard Rock International’s signature world-class entertainment and cutting-edge designs with Palladium Hotel Group’s hospitality managing expertise. Together, they aspire to redefine travel experiences for modern guests seeking something fresh and exciting. Jesús Sobrino, CEO of Palladium Hotel Group said, “At Palladium Hotel Group, our vision revolves around creating exceptional guest experiences while fostering sustainable growth and meaningful local partnerships. Aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, we see great potential in bringing our expertise in hospitality management to this dynamic market, adding value through innovation and authenticity.” Carlos Ortega, Corporate Global Development Sr. Director of Palladium Hotel Group added, …

Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed an agreement with Al Ali Property Investments (API) to bring Moxy Hotel to Dubai’s Al Barsha neighbourhood. A conversion of an existing property, the hotel will undergo a brand positioning process and refurbishment before opening as Moxy Hotel in the summer of 2025. Moxy Al Barsha Dubai is anticipated to mark the debut of Moxy in the UAE and will feature the brand’s industrial design, buzzing social spaces and bold programming. “The Moxy Al Barsha Dubai will serve as a playful lifestyle hotel bringing a spirited experience to the Dubai’s vibrant hospitality landscape”, said Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development, Middle East, Marriott International. “Dubai remains an important growth market for the company and we continue to see a strong demand for hospitality experiences in the market that are as stylish as they are affordable. This milestone signing also highlights the increased opportunities for conversions across the region, and we are excited to strengthen our relationship with the API with this project.” Moxy Hotels has been boldly breaking the rules of a conventional hotel stay since its inception a decade ago. Today the brand has established itself as a leader in the upper midscale lifestyle segment across the globe with over 135 properties in operation across more than 25 countries. The Moxy Al Barsha Dubai is expected to offer stylish and smart guestrooms that have been designed for today’s young-at-heart travellers. The hotel is anticipated to feature buzzing public spaces, bold programming with local flavor, and communal tables offering plenty of opportunities to plug and play. “Moxy Hotels is an ideal fit for one of Dubai’s most dynamic areas with its energetic and …

The Chedi Hegra officially opens its doors at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra, inviting guests to experience an unparalleled fusion of history, luxury, and cultural immersion. The Chedi Hegra features 35 thoughtfully restored rooms, suites, and villas, offering stunning views of the surrounding desert including the necropolis and nature-carved rock formations. The limited number of rooms reflects the hotel’s commitment to preserving the original structures, with many rooms created from existing buildings on-site, incorporating original stone walls and historic architectural features. This approach maintains the integrity of the original structures, blending their timeless craftsmanship with modern luxury. Guests can enjoy private terraces, plunge pools, and interiors inspired by the rich heritage of the Nabataeans, seamlessly connecting with the surrounding natural landscape. Built out of the vestiges of the Hegra Train station and set amidst the ancient Nabataean city surrounded by several other ancient heritage sites, The Chedi Hegra promises an exceptional journey that connects travellers to the rich heritage and captivating beauty of AlUla. Hegra, located in Northwest Saudi Arabia, dates to the 1st century BCE and was once a major city along the historic Incense Road. The railway route, constructed in 1907 under the supervision of German engineer Heinrich Meissner, served as an important link from Medina to Damascus, facilitating the movement of pilgrims and goods. With 200,000 years of human history and its remarkable heritage, the AlUla region is a significant hub of cultural and historical discovery. The Chedi Hegra, preserves the original railway structures, seamlessly blending the past with a tranquil modern experience. The architecture and interiors of The Chedi Hegra, led by Milan based design and architecture studio, Gio Forma, harmonize historical elements with contemporary sophistication, …

Hilton announced the signing of an agreement with Al-Gharaa International for Real Estate Development to open three hotels in the Islamic World District of Knowledge Economic City (KEC) in Madinah. The agreement marks the debut of Hilton’s extended stay brand, Home2 Suites by Hilton, in the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and reaffirms the global hospitality company’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio to meet the increasing demand for hospitality offerings across the Kingdom. Amin Shaker, Chairman of KEC, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “Under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, we are committed to delivering developments that embody the spirit of Madinah as a global destination. Collaborating with Hilton allows us to partner with globally recognised brands that cater to the needs of our residents and visitors, reinforcing our commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and positioning Madinah as a hub for religious tourism.”The agreement was signed in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, representatives from Knowledge Economic City and Hilton. The properties will add 1,415 keys to Hilton’s growing portfolio in Saudi Arabia, offering guests access to short- and long-term accommodation and a wide range of value-added amenities and services, in line with the Kingdom’s vision of elevating the hospitality landscape in the Holy City as the country continues its plans of attracting 150 million visitors annually by 2030. Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, MEA, Hilton, said, “Saudi Arabia is our fastest-growing market in the region with more than 70 hotels in the pipeline. We are fully committed to meeting the growing demand for world-class hospitality across all price points …

Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed an agreement with Knowledge Economic City (KEC) to open three hotels within the Holy City of Madinah in Saudi Arabia. The anticipated openings will be part of the KEC master-development and feature over 1,200 rooms across three of the company’s brands – Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton and Residence Inn by Marriott. “Under the leadership and guidance of His Highness Prince Salman bin Sultan, we remain committed to advancing the hospitality sector in Madinah by bringing the highest standards of accommodation, innovation and guest experiences to the Holy City,” said Amin Shaker, Chairman of KEC. “We are delighted to collaborate with Marriott International to set new hospitality benchmarks in Madinah and support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 framework.” Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International commented, “We continue to see growth opportunities across the Holy Cities where there remains a strong demand for high-quality hotel accommodation. Knowledge Economic City is a pivotal project that will further help diversify Madinah’s economy and create a destination that provides a variety of experiences for travellers and celebrates the cultural and religious identity of the Holy City. We look forward to working with KEC to enhance the hospitality landscape in Madinah and support the ongoing transformation of the country’s tourism sector.” The planned properties include Courtyard by Marriott Knowledge Economic City, which is expected to comprise 456 thoughtfully designed guestrooms, two dining outlets, multiple meeting facilities, a fitness centre and public spaces for guests to connect and relax. Four Points by Sheraton Knowledge Economic City is anticipated to feature genuine service in a casual environment along with 558 modern guestrooms, multiple dining …

Hilton London Metropole is gearing up for winter in the capital of the UK and along with a wide variety of in-hotel celebrations along with competitive room rates and excellent connectivity for GCC travellers. For the festive period, the centrally located hotel will display 18 beautiful Christmas Trees decorated from a renowned high-street retailer and both Bow Bar and Tyburn Market will see their ceilings adorned with a collection of glistening baubles. Younger guests will be delighted to see that the property’s official mascot; Hugo the Hedgehog has created a special cozy house in the lobby to welcome his friends and guests, the pop-up photo opportunity will have a comfy armchair, souvenirs from his London jaunts and fireplace; creating the perfect setting for festive family snap. Whilst Hugo is out experiencing some of the capital’s traditional festive activities such as Winter Wonderland and the various Christmas pop-up markets, he’ll also be raising awareness about the decline of hedgehogs in the UK and their hibernation challenges as their habitat isn’t protected. Book a winter escape to enjoy London across the festive period as it’s under 30 minutes from Heathrow Airport on the Heathrow Express train into Paddington which is adjacent to the hotel. Located on Edgware Road in the heart of the English capital, Hilton London Metropole is within easy reach of many well-known attractions, including the Tower of London, Kensington Palace, Madame Tussauds, Marble Arch, Hyde Park and a wealth of luxury retail stores and restaurants. Hilton London Metropole blends all the elements of a boutique set up with the benefits of a large-scale property including 24/7 room service and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Located in central London, the property has three …