Category Archives: Hotels

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Rotana Hotel Management Corp have signed an agreement to collaborate on attracting greater numbers of tourists to the emirate this summer and enhancing the visitor experience, through exclusive promotions and benefits for attractions including Louvre Abu Dhabi, The National Aquarium and Qasr Al Watan. The agreement, which runs until September 2024, reflects DCT Abu Dhabi’s ongoing belief in the power of partnership and collaboration in reinforcing the emirate’s attractiveness as a year-round travel destination offering a wide range of experiences for all to enjoy. It also supports DCT Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, the ambitious blueprint that signals a new era of expansion and strategic development in the emirate’s travel and tourism sector. The strategy aims to expand hotel room availability from 34,000 in 2023 to 52,000 by 2030, increase visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030, and raise the tourism and travel sector’s GDP contribution from approximately AED 49 billion in 2023 to AED 90 billion annually by 2030. Abdulla Yousuf, International Operations Director for DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi is a uniquely diverse and family-friendly destination that provides international travellers with enticing experiences year-round. Our agreement with Rotana ensures that visitors will continue to experience the emirate as a welcoming, extraordinary travel destination, renowned for its safety, year-round sunny weather and diverse offering.” Philip Barnes, CEO of Rotana Hotel Management Corp, said: “We are thrilled to partner with DCT Abu Dhabi to support the promotion of Abu Dhabi as a premier destination. This collaboration underscores Rotana’s commitment to enhancing our guests’ travel experiences this summer. By working closely with …

Vida Hotels and Resorts announced the opening of Vida Marina Resort Marassi, the first-of-its-kind Vida Resort in Egypt. This upscale lifestyle hotspot blends chic coastal living with vibrant waterfront indulgence, set against the stunning Mediterranean Sea. Designed for the inspired, this resort promises an unforgettable stay. The resort features 103 deluxe rooms, twin rooms, and suites with stunning marina views. Located on the enchanting Marassi coast, Vida Marina Resort Marassi provides direct access to the Marassi Marina, one of the largest international marinas in the Middle East. The resort’s strategic location allows guests to explore the bustling marina, enjoy designer boutiques, gourmet cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. With proximity to historical cities like Alexandria and Cairo, travellers are perfectly positioned to explore Egypt’s rich culture and contemporary lifestyle. The interiors reflect a Mediterranean oasis with open, airy aesthetics, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Thoughtfully curated spaces inspire creativity, with bold textures and artistic details echoing the vibrant Mediterranean spirit. During the stay, guests can unwind by the infinity pool with breathtaking marina views or relax on the serene beach at the resort’s sister property, Address Beach Resort Marassi. The resort also offers a state-of-the-art fitness studio, The Spa by Vida, a kids’ pool, and a dedicated kids’ club. Mark Kirby, Head of Emaar Hospitality Group, expressed his excitement: “Vida Marina Resort Marassi is a true embodiment of the Vida brand, bringing our signature blend of stylish living and vibrant hospitality to the stunning Mediterranean coast of Egypt. This resort not only offers luxurious accommodations and exceptional amenities but also creates a unique space where guests can connect, rejuvenate, and find inspiration. We are excited to welcome travellers to this new coastal haven …

The new Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr has confirmed its grand opening on 1 October 2024. This glamorously restored “Palace by the Sea” features lush gardens framing a majestic 18th century royal residence, creating a true oceanfront oasis in the heart of Morocco’s “City of Lights.” “Rabat is a city whose moment has arrived,” says General Manager Gregory Viaud. “Four Seasons is unveiling a new era of luxury and glamour, building on our reputation for personalised service with genuine heart. Our team cannot wait to introduce the property to our guests, and welcome local residents to a familiar landmark that has been totally transformed.” The hotel’s oceanfront location is exceptionally convenient. Guests are just minutes from the historic Kasbah, the Medina and the city’s most important business addresses. For arrivals by air, Four Seasons is 30 minutes from Rabat-Salé Airport and 90 minutes from Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport. Morocco’s high-speed train network connects to Casablanca in just 45 minutes and Tangier in 1 hour 20 minutes. The launch of Four Seasons is the start of a new chapter for the historic Kasr Al Bahr – the “Palace by the Sea” – a magnificent complex of buildings on Rabat’s Atlantic coastline. Built in the 18th century as the summer palace of Morocco’s Sultan Moulay Slimane, the property was later turned into a military hospital. Now the landmark is evolving again as a Four Seasons hotel, thanks to the dedication of UAE-based owner partners, The five-hectare (twelve-acre) oceanfront site features eleven buildings in total – five brand new and six historical – balancing authentic historical detail with chic modern design. Families who are attached to this site and …

Sabre Hospitality announced the renewal of its long-term agreement with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchisor with more hotels than any other company in the world. Under this renewed agreement, Wyndham will continue to utilize Sabre’s cloud-based SynXis Central Reservation System (CRS) to manage its operations, reaffirming Sabre Hospitality as their exclusive global central reservation system provider for nearly two decades. SynXis CRS is the leading global hospitality commerce and distribution platform, enabling hoteliers to achieve their strategic goals with streamlined distribution, centralized control, and greater flexibility. With this renewal, Wyndham will continue to benefit from efficient pricing and inventory management, extensive global distribution connectivity, robust bulk upload tools, and a fully integrated guest profile linked to its Wyndham Rewards® program. The platform will also help Wyndham to maintain its competitive advantage while continuing to deliver memorable experiences to guests. “We are thrilled to continue our long-standing relationship with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts,” said Gene Guhne, senior vice president, global managing director, enterprise sales for Sabre Hospitality. “This agreement is a testament to the strength and reliability of the SynXis platform. We are dedicated to supporting Wyndham’s strategy by delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of their global portfolio.” Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, renowned for its extensive global footprint, operates 25 brands comprising over 9,100 hotels across 95 countries. With nearly 70 million transactions annually, Wyndham remains committed to providing industry-leading technology to its global portfolio of franchisees and hotel operators. This extended partnership underscores the enduring power of the SynXis platform, known for its stability, security, and scalability. “Our collaboration with Sabre Hospitality has been instrumental in our ability to offer superior technology solutions …

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) announced the signing of a luxury hotel and boutique resort in the Kingdom of Bahrain, both under its iconic Taj brand. These greenfield projects mark a significant milestone as IHCL becomes the first Indian hospitality company to establish a presence in the Kingdom of Bahrain, further cementing its footprint in the Middle East. Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, stated, “We are pleased to announce two hotels in the island nation of Bahrain in line with our strategy of growing Taj’s presence in key gateway cities of the world. With a portfolio of seven hotels including four under development in the Middle East, these hotels will extend our presence in the MENA region.” He added, “We are delighted to partner with Kingdom Projects to introduce the iconic Taj with its world – class hospitality, elevating Bahrain’s tourism landscape.” Nestled amid picturesque surroundings, the Taj resort in Hamala will feature 251 luxurious rooms, each thoughtfully designed to reflect the laid-back serenity of the island. The resort will offer luxury offerings, including an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty restaurants, alongside a swimming pool and exclusive beach club. Curated to create an atmosphere of relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort will additionally encompass wellness areas such as a state-of-the-art gym and tranquil spa. The resort’s 1,200 sq.mt banquet facilities will cater to grand events and celebrations, making it a key player in Bahrain’s emerging leisure sector. The 200 room Taj hotel in Downtown Seef, Manama, strategically located in the heart of Bahrain’s bustling capital, is set to cater to the needs of business travelers and tourists alike. Coupled with world-class wellness facilities including a …

Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel & Convention Centre Dubai issues a scam alert to everyone concerned due to the recent activities which were showcased. The Management in a statement shared, “We wish to clarify that Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel & Convention Centre Dubai is not associated with any scams, and we do not support any such activities. If you encounter any scams, we kindly request that you contact the Dubai Police directly to address your concerns and the restaurants involved. Please be aware that some restaurants within hotels may be leased independently. As such, the hotel itself does not have the authority to question or control their operations. We urge all our guests and patrons to take necessary precautions, remain vigilant, and be observant to ensure their safety and well-being. Your understanding and cooperation in this matter are greatly appreciated.” The management further reiterated that they are working together with the relevant government authorities to provide a safe environment for all hotel guests and visitor’s alike.

Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok announced it has been awarded the exclusive and prestigious title of Best Culinary Experience in Thailand at the 2024 Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards.This recognition, reserved for the finest in the industry, celebrates the hotel’s exceptional dedication to providing guests with an unforgettable dining experience. The Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards, known for their stringent evaluation process, recognize the finest establishments within the hospitality industry. They focus on establishments that excel in guest service, high standards, and creating unparalleled experiences. Winners are chosen based on rigorous evaluations and firsthand guest experiences. “The hotels, spas, and restaurants revealed in 2024 truly represent the best in the industry,” said Marinique de Wet, President & Founder of Haute Grandeur Global Awards. “Their outstanding commitment to excellence sets them apart, making them the ultimate choice for travellers seeking quality experiences.” Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, a luxurious oasis, boasts various award-winning restaurants, each helmed by talented chefs who create innovative and delectable dishes. Embark on a journey through the vibrant flavours of Thailand and the Eastern Mediterranean at Flourish, savour the freshest seafood at Bistrot De La Mer, or unwind with delectable bites and Japanese-inspired small plates at Ki Izakaya. For those seeking a taste of Europe, Berthold Delikatessen offers a delightful selection of gourmet European fare and pastries. No night is complete without a visit to the intimate setting of Firefly Bar, where expert bartenders craft exceptional cocktails using only the finest selections of spirits. “We are incredibly delighted to receive this award from Haute Grandeur,” said Christian Ruge, General Manager, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, …

Diriyah Company announced the awarding of a $2.13 billion (SAR 8 billion) joint venture construction contract to build four luxury hotels and the Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club as part of the Wadi Safar masterplan being developed by Diriyah Company. The joint venture contractors are Urbacon Saudi Co. and Al Bawani Co. Ltd with construction work set to commence shortly on what will be another major development milestone for Diriyah Company. Contracts were officially signed today at a ceremony held in Diriyah between Ramez Al Khayyat, President of Urbacon Saudi Co., Fakher Al-Shawaf, CEO of Al Bawani Co. Ltd and Group CEO of Diriyah Company, Jerry Inzerillo. The contract is the biggest single contract awarded to date by the Diriyah Company and follows the announcement of a more than $2.07 billion (SAR 7.8 billion) contract to build the Northern District earlier in July. Diriyah Company Group CEO, Jerry Inzerillo said: “This contract marks another major step in accelerating our exciting development plans for the Wadi Safar masterplan and includes four world-class hotels – Aman, Six Senses, The Chedi, and Faena – and our prestigious Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club. As a developer we are extremely proud of the momentum across all aspects of our project and are delighted to have two of Saudi Arabia’s leading construction firms on board to deliver this major part of the Wadi Safar masterplan.” “The hotels are among the 40 plus across our two masterplans, Diriyah and Wadi Safar as we gear up to deliver world-class luxury experiences to visitors from across the Kingdom, the region and the world. The Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club will create a true center of regional …

The share of hotels sold via the direct channel in Spain increased by an average of 18% during the summer of 2024 over other channels thanks to the determination of the hoteliers to improve the profitability of the hotels again, according to data from Mirai. Although during the initial weeks of the UEFA Euro Cup 2024 sales growth slowed down, probably also due to the bad weather in Spain, in the last few days the company has observed that growth is picking up again. This rebound suggests a potentially very positive last-minute booking trend in most tourist destinations. At a global level Mirai – which provides hotels with technology and operations support to sell in the direct channel – has experienced an 11% increase of direct hotel roomnights sales worldwide, with Spain surpassing this figure with a 12% rise and ADR increasing by around 7%. Spain’s primary inbound source markets, excluding the domestic market, have shown remarkable growth in nights booked compared to 2023. Specifically, the United Kingdom source market has seen a 12% increase, with source markets such as the United States at 18% and Germany at 14%. “2024 is proving to be a landmark year for Spain’s tourism sector, especially for hotels’ direct bookings and the increase in direct hotel sales share this summer” said Javier Delgado Muerza, CEO EMEA at Mirai. “This remarkable growth in direct hotel bookings is thanks to the hard work of hoteliers and our team’s commitment to boosting their profitability”. “To continue this positive trend, we advise hoteliers to focus on a few key areas. First, maintain a clean and organised distribution strategy to ensure seamless booking experiences for guests by offering the …

As part of its robust international expansion strategy, Barceló Hotel Group has opened the doors of Barceló Cappadocia, its fourth hotel in Turkey. This new addition complements the three existing properties, which include two in the city of Istanbul –Occidental Taksim and Barceló Istanbul– and one in the capital, Occidental Ankara. The 5-star Barceló Cappadocia stands out for its privileged location in the picturesque town of Ortahisar, an exceptional base from which to explore all the charms of the Turkish region. This small town, situated in the deepest part of Cappadocia, is considered one of the most beautiful on Earth thanks to its characteristic excavated architecture and its rocky landscape formed by lava and volcanic sand. With an elegant design that harmonises with Cappadocia’s unique texture, the new hotel offers guests the experience of staying in an unforgettable setting amidst rich history and natural beauty. Its architecture responds to Cappadocian culture and tradition, where noble materials, colours characteristic of this region of Asia Minor, and carved stone details stand out. Its 170 rooms promise to captivate guests with the delicate beauty and tranquillity of the hotel’s surroundings. In a tribute to the region’s excavated architecture, Barceló Cappadocia offers 19 exclusive luxury stays in cave rooms carved into ancient rocks. The interior design of each suite highlights the region’s rich and historic architectural and cultural heritage through the stonework reflected in the walls, headboards, canopies, Turkish baths and private pools. The richness of the elements and materials can also be observed in the common areas, among which its impressive Wellness Centre with Spa stands out. The imposing relaxation setting offers an evocative design with a heated water area guarded by a stained-glass …