Category Archives: Hotels

IDeaS announced it has expanded its relationship with the Cheval Collection to a total of ten properties. Building on a strong, established relationship from successful implementations of G3 RMS at its Edinburgh properties, IDeaS’ capabilities helped clear the way for wider adoption within the Cheval portfolio. As Cheval expanded its portfolio, the management team was keen on maximizing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of its revenue strategies. Implementing G3 RMS helps eliminate manual processes and focus their efforts on addressing impactful outlier scenarios. When they needed an RMS that could optimize revenue for guests with varied lengths of stay and help evaluate the impact of potential group business, a small but growing part of their business mix, they turned to their RMS partner, IDeaS. • Trust built on a foundation of automated, effective RMS—Cheval appreciates G3 RMS’ core functionality at its existing properties. With implementation, it was able to deploy automated revenue management strategies efficiently and effectively and improve revenue performance. • Revenue optimization for varied length of stay offerings – Cheval Collection’s luxury serviced apartments have the flexibility to operate on a hybrid model, where units can be booked for varying lengths of stay—from standard overnights to week- or months-long bookings. G3 RMS’ ability to take a holistic view of demand for all product types and automatically drive revenue maximization decisions was a key factor as it helps to simplify complex revenue management decisions. • Streamlined group business evaluation – Group business represents a small but significant and growing portion of Cheval Collection’s business. Cheval valued G3 RMS’ Group Pricing Evaluation feature as it provides an easy-to-use displacement analysis that helps their commercial teams understand the potential revenue impact …

Al Mal Real Estate Developments announced the launch of a new hospitality project Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences on Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island managed by Palladium Hotels Group. The luxury hotel and residential development features more than 422 hotel rooms and fully equipped residential units with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Hotel and residential facilities include a distinctive beach club, bars, fine dining, as well as skyline pools near Wynn Resort. Al Mal Real Estate Development has appointed Palladium Hotels Group to manage its new project on Al Marjan Island, which consists of two divisions, The Inn Exposed Al Marjan Island and The In Experienced Al Murjan Residences, within the portfolio of the renowned Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences. The well-known Spanish hotel operator has over 50 years of experience in the hospitality industry, managing more than 40 hotels in seven countries under the name of 9 different brands. Founded in 2011 on the island of Ibiza, Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences is distinguished by its luxury entrepreneurial projects, providing guests with unparalleled exclusive experiences and services, including the unique harmony of music and entertainment. Comprising two hotels and the world-famous Ibiza Club, the project in Ibiza is set to join the brand’s portfolio as part of the project at the end of the 2024 season, and the new luxury hotel features exquisite garden design, state-of-the-art technology, VIP services, diverse culinary experiences, as well as world-class musical entertainment experiences. Al Mal Developments will bring the iconic Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences brand concept to Al Marjan Island with its recently launched collection, The In Experienced Hotels & Residences, to enhance the region’s hospitality …

UAE-headquartered Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) started its 20th anniversary year on a high note, reporting robust Q1 results across all key performance indicators. Exceeding expectations, total hotel revenues for Q1 2024 jumped to US$649 million, up 17% compared to Q1 2023, while total room nights picked up 20% and the Average Daily Rate (ADR) across its portfolio of 800 hotels nudged up 2%. The GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme continued to grow in popularity, with new enrolments increasing 28% in the first three months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. At the same time, redemptions of the programme’s rewards currency, DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), rocketed 109% year-on-year, led by members based in Spain, Singapore and China respectively. Further underlining the success, the total cross-brand revenue, driven by members staying in a different brand to where they enrolled, increased 32% to $86.2 million in Q1, with hotel brands benefiting the most including Anantara, Kempinski, Pan Pacific and PARKROYAL. Since launching just over two years ago, D$206 million have been issued to GHA DISCOVERY members, and with D$1 equal to US$1, which has created a stimulus for travel within the alliance, and has helped drive more direct bookings for hotels, which are up 40% on GHA channels over 2023. Nearly two-thirds of those direct bookings are now made on the GHA DISCOVERY app. Q1 2024 also demonstrated some key market and member trends: International stays made by the 26 million GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme members dominate: 68% of hotel room revenues were generated by international stays, led by properties in the Maldives (99% of revenue from international stays), Thailand (94%) and Hong Kong (86%). US and UK members highly influential: 72% …

Choice Hotels EMEA announced the launch of its global agreement with Miles&Smiles, the frequent flyer program of Turkish Airlines, unlocking an array of new rewards for over 63 million Choice Privileges members worldwide. This initiative empowers Choice Privileges members to seamlessly convert their earned points into Miles&Smiles Miles, in 1,000 points increments starting at 5,000 points, at a ratio of 5 points to 1 Mile. Frequent flyers can redeem their Miles for award tickets from Turkish Airlines and its partner carriers, as well as for cabin upgrades and extra baggage allowances. In addition, members shopping via Turkish Airlines’ online shopping platform shopandmiles.com can use their Miles to purchase products and services from the airline’s wide array of program partners. Commenting on the new partnership, Nick Bosworth – Director of Marketing, Brand and Loyalty at Choice Hotels EMEA – said: “Our Choice Privileges program has long been celebrated for providing members with a quick and easy path to earning and utilising points for rewards they truly care about. Today, we are excited to enhance our reward options by introducing Miles&Smiles, offering our members an opportunity to turn their points into unforgettable travel experiences with Turkish Airlines.” Choice Privileges members can earn points for their point-eligible stays at over 7,000 hotels worldwide. These include participating Cambria®, Clarion®, Clarion Pointe®, Comfort®, Econo Lodge®, Everhome®, MainStay Suites®, Quality®, Rodeway Inn®, Sleep Inn®, Suburban Studios®, and Ascend Hotel Collection® properties in Europe, the Middle East, North and South America, the Caribbean, and Asia. In the Americas, members can also accumulate points at Radisson Individuals®, Radisson Collection®, Radisson Blu®, Radisson, Radisson RED®, Park Plaza®, Park Inn by Radisson®, and Country Inn & Suites® by Radisson properties.*  

The Royal Mansour Casablanca marks the rebirth of a legendary palace from the 1950s, a meeting place for all the world’s celebrities, the powerful and the talented. 149 rooms, suites, and private apartments, 3 restaurants including one on the 23rd floor with a 360° view over the city and the ocean, fitness and spa areas on two floors, a conference centre and a ballroom. “This new hotel in Casablanca has its own personality, consistent with the identity of the city. As in Marrakech, the Royal Mansour signature is here: you will find the excellence of service, discretion and confidentiality so dear to our guests. And all in an exceptional setting firmly rooted in its destination.” – says Jean-Claude Messant, General Manager of the Royal Mansour Collection. …A new story begins, the legend continues. In Marrakesh, the Royal Mansour has become the signature of an exceptional art of living. Unique. Unsurpassed and unrivalled. This unique vision of hotel excellence is now expressed in a second address, in the heart of Morocco’s most vibrant city, Casablanca. With utmost respect for the memory of a thousand-year-old city, preservation of a priceless architectural heritage…Above all, the Royal Mansour Casablanca is part of the continuity of a rich history, breathing new life into a special place in the city and in the hearts of the people of Casablanca. 70 years after the inauguration of Casablanca’s first 5-star hotel, the Royal Mansour has faithfully resumed all the codes of the modernist architecture of the 1950s, the volumes of the original patio, overflowing with greener, refined furniture and the majestic staircase have been reinterpreted. While the traditions are kept alive, all the most rigorous construction standards are respected, …

Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel & Convention Centre Dubai, a cherished establishment in Garhoud since its inception in 1997, has stood witness to numerous historical events and joyous celebrations throughout the years. Conveniently located near the Dubai International Airport, this five-star property offers 279 luxurious rooms and suites, providing guests with a comfortable and indulgent experience. From its pristine pool to its rejuvenating spa facilities, Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel offers a range of amenities designed to cater to the needs of its guests. The hotel also prides itself on its exceptional dining options, including Makan All Day Dining Restaurant, Roda Grill & Bar, Bambooda Thai Restaurant, Hibachi Sushi & Teppanyaki, Taky Pool Lounge, and Gazebo Lounge. With 13 elegant venues for meetings and events, including the grand Rashidiya Grand Ballroom, the hotel is well-equipped to host weddings, conventions, and conferences. Under the leadership of Christopher Kramer, Hotel Manager, Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan embarked on a significant renovation journey in 2023. Divided into three phases, the renovation project aimed to enhance the hotel’s offerings while maintaining a minimalistic yet beautiful aesthetic. Phase 1 of the renovation, which commenced in August 2023 and concluded in November of the same year, marked the beginning of a transformative process. Despite the challenges posed by the redesigning process, relocation, and meeting architectural requirements, the hotel successfully completed Phase 1, making a significant impact on the market. As Phase 2 of the renovation nears completion, and with Phase 3 set to commence in July, Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel remains committed to its vision of uplifting and enhancing the guest experience. Plans are underway to further enhance the lobby and all restaurants by next year, …

Global Hotel Alliance (GHA)  to include luxury serviced apartments in London, Edinburgh and Dubai with Cheval Collection. Once integrated later this year, Cheval Collection will offer the 26 million members of GHA DISCOVERY benefits such as member rates and room upgrades along with the ability to earn and spend DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) – a transparent rewards currency that is spent like cash. Each Cheval Collection residence brings a unique personality, offering apartments for any length of stay, from brief business trips to extended holidays. Cheval Collection opened its first property in 1981, in Knightsbridge, London and currently owns and operates a portfolio of more than 800 apartments across nine locations in central London, three in Edinburgh and one in Dubai, all of which are well appointed within key neighbourhoods. With an ambitious pipeline for future growth, Cheval Collection remains dedicated to providing its guests with superior service at all its destinations worldwide. “We are thrilled to announce the addition of Cheval Collection to our alliance, marking our first venture into serviced apartments. Travellers are seeking larger accommodation options and now they can enjoy recognition and rewards across a greater selection of properties and destinations, including Edinburgh which we are excited to add”, said Chris Hartley, CEO of GHA. Mohammed Alawadhi, Managing Director of Cheval Collection adds “Guests increasingly expect a loyalty programme as part of their stay and, as we expand around the world, Global Hotel Alliance offers the potential to raise our profile, while also gaining valued guest feedback. GHA DISCOVERY is the only loyalty scheme run by hotels, for hotels, encouraging direct bookings as well as providing additional marketing support and access to new markets. Our goal is to …

Rotana announced the soft opening of Dar Rayhaan by Rotana, Al Khobar, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The opening is in line with Rotana’s ambitious goal of launching eight properties in the Kingdom over the next four years, bringing the total key count to 4,400 across 16 properties. The new property also increases Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts’ key count to 2,080 keys currently in operation across six hotels – a significant milestone for Rotana’s modern-design hospitality brand. Commenting on the announcement, Philip Barnes, Rotana CEO, said: “The Kingdom’s emphasis on diversifying its economy and welcoming tourism has generated extensive opportunities for growth and development. The inauguration of Dar Rayhaan by Rotana in Al Khobar marks a significant milestone and holds a crucial role in supporting the Kingdom’s growth strategy. The four-star property caters to the evolving travel preferences of our guests within this important market segment, reinforcing our dedication to delivering ‘Treasured Time’ for all. As we continue with our expansion strategy, we are thrilled about the prospect of enhancing our array of offerings in the Kingdom and contributing to the development of this dynamic market.” Located only 30 minutes from King Fahd International Airport, Dar Rayhaan by Rotana offers 133 keys, including 113 rooms and 20 suites, each meticulously crafted for the utmost convenience. Equipped with modern fittings and furnishings, each room affords guests beautiful views of the city. The property offers a range of versatile recreational amenities, including a refreshing outdoor swimming pool, complimentary private parking, and a 24-hour gymnasium. The hotel also boasts three well-appointed meeting rooms, each equipped with cutting-edge audio-visual technology. Catering to business travellers, one meeting room also has a spacious pre-function area …

Pulse Hotels & Resorts recently hosted an exhilarating late night Suhoor football tournament for its esteemed GCC travel trade partners. This unique event, held at the Al Rowad playground in Riyadh, sponsored by The Nautilus Maldives, Nova Maldives, Kandima Maldives and Manta Air – the domestic airline of Maldives, served as a platform for fostering camaraderie and strengthening relationships within the travel industry during the holy month of Ramadan. The matches, held amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Riyadh, showcased the spirit of sportsmanship and unity as participants from various GCC travel agencies competed in an action-packed tournament. Divided into two groups of four teams each, the tournament kicked off earlier this week with qualifiers, leading up to the semi-finals and finals. The event provided an opportunity for networking, friendly competition, and sharing moments of goodwill, reflecting the ethos of the 3 resorts under the Pulse Hotels & Resorts umbrella in creating memorable experiences for its partners and guests. The Nautilus Team 2 which included members from Al Sarh Travel and Tourism, Booking Express, TBO.com, Almatar, RezLive.com, Golden Vacation, Wosol Concierge and Lamar Travel emerged as winners and were awarded with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the game-changing active lifestyle resort, Kandima Maldives, known for its genuine hospitality with a human touch and innovative solutions that make use of the latest technology. Sharing his thoughts on organising the event, Mr Althaf Mohamed Ali, COO, Pulse Hotels & Resorts, said,” We are thrilled to have organised this special Suhoor football tournament for our esteemed GCC Travel Trade Partners. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each partner for their participation and offer heartfelt congratulations to The Nautilus Team 2 for clinching …

Atlantis Dubai announces that Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal have earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification marks the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to achieve this status. It reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests with diverse needs and ensuring an inclusive environment. IBCCES awards the CAC™ designation to organisations that complete a training and review process to understand better and assist autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and other persons of determination. This designation ensures that at least 80% (an IBCCES minimum requirement) of colleagues are trained in autism and sensory awareness and are fully equipped to provide service to people on the autism spectrum. In collaboration with IBCCES, Atlantis Dubai staff underwent extensive training to understand the range of potential guest needs. More than 90% of guest-facing colleagues across both resorts took training in Autism & Sensory Awareness (ASA). In addition, the Learning & Development team developed a Weekly Briefing Topic on Autism and Sensory Awareness, which an additional 1,500 colleagues completed across Atlantis Dubai. In addition to training, further achievements include: ● The Atlantis Dubai website hosts an accessibility tab that provides guests with downloadable sensory guides. Outlined for rooms and restaurants at Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, as well as experiences across Atlantis Aquaventure, these guides provide a sensory rating, allowing people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to pre-plan their visit to the destination. ● Allocated quiet zones are available across both resorts in case people need a moment of respite from sensory stimulation. Locations include the concierge lounge, outdoor cabanas, Imperial Club lounge, and the Explorers Club …