Category Archives: Hotels

Marriott International has announced Courtyard by Marriott in Dubai’s prominent residential and business area of Al Barsha. Featuring flexible spaces to work, network and relax, Courtyard by Marriott Al Barsha provides the ideal destination for travellers looking to stay connected, productive and balanced while on the road. Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, said, “Courtyard by Marriott represents one of the fastest growing brands in the region under our portfolio and we are delighted to be opening our third Courtyard in the UAE.”  He further added, “The brand is a great fit for the Al Barsha area, which is a prominent business area in the city.” Courtyard by Marriott Al Barsha features 216 spacious and light-filled guest rooms with a modern design, plush bedding and flexible workspaces. The hotel’s state-of-the-art lobby provides an innovative space where guests can work or relax, along with easy access to the latest news, weather and airport conditions via its GoBoard technology. Food and beverage offerings at the hotel include flavours, an all-day dining outlet catering to all tastes and moods, and the Star Buzz Lounge for those looking for a comfortable setting to connect and collaborate. For guests looking to sit back and relax, the hotel’s Upyard Rooftop Bar offers the ideal venue to soak in the views of Dubai’s mesmerising skyline while the Oak Bar provides a contemporary setting with a variety of beverages and snacks. Additional features in the property include three flexible meeting rooms, a fully-equipped fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool.

Dubai International Hotel has been officially certified by Dubai’s Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) as a five-star hotel in accordance with the standards set by Dubai’s principal tourism authority. The 5-star rating is a reflection of the high standards of features, facilities and services offered at the 530-room hotel located with Dubai International Airport. Khalid Hussain Mohammad – Supervisor, Abdulla Abbas Saleh – Inspector, Abdul Rahman Khalifa Alsuwaidi – Head of Inspection Unit and Bader Abdulla Mohammad – Deputy Director of Dubai Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) presented the plaque to Ranjan Nadarajah Managing Director and Avinash Menon, General Manager, Dubai International Hotel. Dubai Tourism recognises Dubai as a leading tourism destination and a global commercial hub, and Dubai International Hotel continues to substantially contribute to this world-class standard. Part of Dubai Airport Authority, the multi-award winning luxury hotel caters to a myriad of international travellers each day, offering the finest hospitality standards and state-of-the-art facilities. The hotel features eight restaurants and bars, Ahlan Business Class and First Class Lounges, Timeless Spa treatment rooms and bespoke Ahlan Meet & Greet Services. Ranjan Nadarajah, Managing Director, commented at the ceremony, “We are honoured to receive this recognition. Being located within Dubai Airports, Terminal 1 and 3, we are the window to this multi-cultural city and a traveller’s first and often, only impression. For the past 18 years, we have worked in tandem with Dubai Tourism and Dubai Airports to keep Dubai relevant on the world map.”

Petra’s popular Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel has officially reopened, comprising 90 rooms decorated in natural tones and featuring modern showers and attractive tile flooring. As part of the renovation, a new Bedouin tent has been built where traditional Jordanian cuisine and Arabic coffee are served, while the revised layout at the Nadeem Bar & Terrace promises impressive views of Mount Aroun, the area’s highest peak. The property is located in the rolling hills of the Rift Valley, close to Jordan’s most visited attraction – the ancient city of Petra, also known as the ‘Red Rose City’.  The property has also introduced new tailor-made experiences such as mountain-view bonfires that really bring Jordan’s magic to life – perfect for special occasions or small family gatherings. Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel is located just 10 minutes from the entrance to Petra – a 2,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the ‘New 7 Wonders of the World’. Perched at an elevation of 1,400 metres and offering stunning vistas of the valley, it is an ideal – and inspirational – base for travellers discovering the ancient archaeological landscapes nearby.

Noor Bank and Jumeirah Group have announced partnership to launch a suite of premium rewards available to Noor Bank customers. As part of the roll-out, select retail banking clients will receive complimentary Jumeirah Sirius memberships that allow them to enjoy a range of exclusive experiences and privileges across Jumeirah’s extensive portfolio of luxury hotels, residences, resorts and restaurants around the world. The collaboration reinforces the bank’s commitment to introducing unique and innovative propositions, and providing its customers access to a wealth of value-added lifestyle privileges with leading loyalty reward partners. John Iossifidis, Chief Executive Officer, Noor Bank, said, “In line with our efforts to implement value-added services to enhance customer experiences, we are delighted to partner with Jumeirah Group to present this offer to our customers. The collaboration brings tangible benefits to Noor Bank clients as well as Jumeirah outlets across the globe, and will go a long way in establishing Noor Bank as the bank of choice.” Jose Silva, Chief Operating Officer, Jumeirah Group, said, “Partnering with Noor Bank enables Jumeirah to reach a new audience, which is an important step in achieving our Jumeirah Sirius growth goals and is of strategic importance. It represents more than just driving guest behaviour through incentives. It is a way for Jumeirah to build relationships and connect more meaningfully with our loyal guests, and is an opportunity to thank Noor Bank customers for choosing Jumeirah.”

Majid Al Futtaim celebrated the opening of Aloft City Centre Deira, Dubai, at an event attended by VIPs, media and influencers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The opening of the event took place in the presence of Alain Bejjani, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim – Holding, and Arne Sorenson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Marriott International. Operated by Marriott International, Aloft City Centre Deira is the first hotel in the region to offer movie-themed suites, alongside a VOX Cinemas’ outdoor screen and the Aloft brand’s signature programming. The urban hotel is a lifestyle destination catering to both leisure and business travellers. Aloft City Centre Deira delivers a fresh approach from the traditional hotel landscape with its emphasis on a lively, in-hotel social scene, modern design, innovative music programming and thoughtful technology incorporated to enhance the guest experience. Jalil Mekouar, Chief Executive Officer – Hotels, Majid Al Futtaim – Properties, said, “I’m delighted to announce the official opening of Aloft City Centre Deira, our 13th hotel in the region, to the public. Majid Al Futtaim strives to create and deliver compelling experiences through our unique destinations, and together with Marriott International, we have launched a concept that is an integrated lifestyle development aimed at establishing a new benchmark for experiential travel in Dubai’s hospitality sector, offering more authentic and personalised experiences within one destination.”

Falconcity Hotels and Resorts has announced the signing of an agreement with Oakwood Worldwide to operate the hotel and serviced apartments in the SAM Polaris and SAM Vega Pyramids. The signing was announced at the Cityscape Global exhibition in Dubai. The project is Oakwood Worldwide’s first undertaking in the UAE, which reflects Falconcity of Wonders (FCW’s) potential to attract leading players in the global hospitality industry to the UAE. The transaction was advised by Moon Hotel Management and Beaufort Global. The pyramid SAM Vega and the pyramid SAM Polaris form two out of three pyramids in the Pyramids Park and a part of the iconic Wonders of the World project within the magnificent Falconcity of Wonders and feature 1,500 and 290 units respectively. Both pyramids will have branded and furnished hotel and serviced apartments with associated leisure, F&B and retails offerings. Height of SAM Polaris is 94 metres with a total of 1,527 parking slots, while the 57 metres tall SAM Vega offers 490 parking slots. HE Salem Almoosa, Chairman and General Manager, Falconcity of Wonders LLC, said, “Our latest cooperation with Oakwood Worldwide to operate the hotel and serviced apartments in the SAM Polaris and SAM Vega Pyramids forms part of our continuing efforts to sustain global interest in Dubai’s real estate landscape. It also reflects the confidence of international hospitality players in Falconcity of Wonders’ potential to become a major landmark in Dubai and the region as a whole, presenting an extraordinary investment opportunity for investors looking to own remarkable properties in one of the world’s most popular real estate destinations.”

Rixos Hotels is set to open the first all-inclusive, all-exclusive resort in Abu Dhabi on October 15. Situated on the white sands of Saadiyat Island, the 378-key resort comprises 366 rooms and suites, plus 12 three and four-bedroom villas, each boasting either shared or private pools, direct access to the beach and the dedicated services of a butler. Conveniently located less than 30 minutes away from all of Abu Dhabi’s most thrilling attractions, guests can indulge in the feeling of hiding away in an exclusive island enclave while having close proximity to city highlights, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi International Airport. Rixos Saadiyat Island has a total of ten restaurants and bars delivering flavours from across the globe, all of which are included as part of the all-inclusive, all-exclusive experience. Culinary offerings include authentic Turkish cuisine at Turquoise, the hotel’s signature all-day dining restaurant, haute seafood dining and exquisite coastal views at Mermaid and comforting Italian classics at L’Olivo. Guests can also head to the far east for Teppanyaki and sushi at Japanese restaurant Aja, step back in time to true Rixos heritage with the tastes of Oriental Turkish cuisine at Orient or eat-on-the-go from one of many food carts dotted around the resort. A series of beach bars, tea and shisha lounges and the club house – an exclusive restaurant reserved for villa guests – complete the offering.

Following a period of extensive enhancements, Al Bustan Palace has reopened in Muscat. The Ritz-Carlton property includes redesigned rooms and suites, refreshed Ritz Kids experiences and new culinary options. A symbol of Omani culture and hospitality, the palace hotel offers new and inspiring experiences that bridge heritage with state-of-the-art technology and modern design. Commenting on the reopening of the hotel, HE Maitha bint Saif Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary, Ministry of Tourism, Sultanate of Oman, said, “Oman continues to welcome record number of international visitors, thanks to our commitment to offering world-class experiences for the modern global traveller that honour and celebrate our beautiful natural surroundings, rich culture and history. The renovation of Al Bustan Palace supports this vision and we are confident that the hotel will continue to contribute to the Sultanate’s thriving tourism industry.” Royal Estates’ Royal Court Affairs in Oman carried out the design of most of the refurbishment works, while renowned luxury integrated design firm WATG and affiliated design studio Wimberly Interiors provided the other architecture and interior renovation under the supervision of the Royal Estates.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and in partnership with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH), Louvre Abu Dhabi hosts ‘Roads of Arabia: Archaeological Treasures of Saudi Arabia’, the second international exhibition in the museum’s new cultural season. The exhibition will explore the rich history of the Arabian Peninsula through archaeological and cultural artefacts, including a selection of rare pieces from the United Arab Emirates. It is one of the most renowned Saudi exhibitions on a global scale, introducing Arabia’s cultural and historical heritage to over five million visitors worldwide. The exhibition has presented 14 acclaimed editions throughout Europe, the USA and Asia, sharing the story of this unique region with audiences around the world. “The United Arab Emirates and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have always been connected by a common heritage and history,” says H E Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, Department of Culture and Tourism–Abu Dhabi. “This year’s edition of the exhibition will be a reflection of the rich, shared cultural heritage and deep-rooted history between the two nations,” he said. ‘Roads of Arabia: Archaeological Treasures of Saudi Arabia’ explores five chapters in the history of the Arabian Peninsula, spanning early prehistoric settlements; maritime exploration; caravan trading routes that linked the region with Asia, Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean; routes of holy pilgrimage emerging in the 7th century CE; and the social and economic developments between the 14th and 16th centuries that set the stage for the modern day region.

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) has added three new indoor experiential venues to its rich variety of offerings. TEPfactor Dubai, 3D Blacklight Minigolf and Countdown Challenge–each providing a uniquely themed experience–have opened their doors at the JBR Bahar plaza level. TEPfactor Dubai is a brand-new adventure experience housing 21 challenges that test the players’ diverse skills. Racing against the clock, the contenders tackle mind-bending puzzles, balancing acts and team challenges to complete each of the four categories. Teams of two to six participants work together, utilising one another’s strengths to take on the arena across three degrees of difficulty – bronze, silver and gold, with the goal of reaching the final chest. Set in the nooks and crannies of a hidden cave, the adrenaline-packed adventure offers the ultimate bonding experience for families, friends and corporate teams. 3D Blacklight Minigolf, the world’s biggest 3D black light panorama, features a brightly coloured glow-in-the-dark 18-hole course. Hand-painted by some of the world’s best 3D artists, the themed venue transports players of all ages to three different worlds. The innovative indoor location is the perfect spot for adults, families and sports fans. Puzzle lovers and escape room enthusiasts will love the Countdown Challenge that offers a variety of escape gaming experiences for teams of two to 10 people with a time limit of one hour. Each escape room presents its own intriguing storyline, challenging the players’ intelligence, wit, creativity and, at times, patience.