Category Archives: Hotels

Knight Frank Middle East announced a collaboration with Pan Kingdom Holding Saudi Arabia to focus on Asset Management Project for a newly constructed 2,000 room hotel in Makkah. Turab Saleem, Partner & Head of Hospitality at Knight Frank MENA, expressed excitement for the collaboration, stating that with 20 years of Asset Management experience in the region, Knight Frank Middle East is eager to contribute to the success of the project. The collaboration will see Knight Frank not only overseeing the hotel project but also providing expertise in brand development and business planning for Pan Kingdom’s growing hospitality portfolio. The partnership aims to cultivate new hotel assets in the Kingdom in alignment with the 2030 vision.

Red Sea Global (RSG) has become the first Saudi hospitality entity to achieve the prestigious Green Key certification for its Turtle Bay Hotel at The Red Sea. Turtle Bay Hotel is a self-operated property with 90 employees – 50 percent of whom are Saudi nationals from the local community, and 30 percent are Saudi females. The hotel was officially opened in September 2021 and is an advocate for training young Saudi talent entering the hospitality sector. “As we shape the blueprints for regenerative, responsible tourism, we continue to root our efforts in transparency and accountability. The Green Key certification demonstrates we are being true to our word and living up to the expectations we set ourselves for sustainable growth. Such critical evaluations are key to holding us to account, while galvanizing the sector towards a collective journey into a new era of regeneration,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG. The world’s leading independent certification for excellence in sustainable tourism was awarded to the hotel in recognition of exceptional efforts towards environmental protection, conservation, and regeneration, as driven by RSG’s pioneering approach to responsible development. The hotel was independently assessed by the Green Key Global, a leading international environmental certification body, which conducted a rigorous audit that tracked against 77 criteria across 13 applicable categories. The hotel is powered by RSG’s wider vision to run all operations via 100 percent renewable energy and deliver a 30 percent net conservation benefit by 2040 through the protection and enhancement of key habitats crucial to biodiversity. Turtle Bay Hotel makes optimal use of all natural resources. For instance, strategies are in place to ensure zero waste in sent to landfill and we eliminated …

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, set to open in Q4 2023, will lead a new generation of Jumeirah Group’s ultra-luxury portfolio. The new resort will feature 303 rooms, 84 suites, as well as 82 one-, two- and three-bedroom glamorous serviced residences set amid private landscaped gardens. As light and uplifting as a softly salted sea-breeze, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arabs’ accommodation is styled to transform the nautical glamour of a bygone era into a haven of modern living.  It encompasses specially-integrated wellness and leisure destinations and an impressive line-up of signature restaurants, including a new concept comprising four restaurants in one. With all rooms offering a panoramic vista over the Arabian Sea, this statement property will mark a new epoch for Jumeirah Group – all of which will result in one-of-a-kind experiences and life-changing discoveries.

Kinan International and Elaf Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a management agreement in addition to supervising the preparation of designs for the construction of the hotel within the Aliat Mall project in Medina for 15 years. The mall also includes an area of modern retail stores, restaurants and a cinema, in addition to the hotel. The key goals of the MoU between Elaf Group and Kinan International Real Estate Development Company includes overseeing the implementation of 230 rooms and suites in line with the highest standards set out by the Ministry of Tourism, as well as demands of the visitors of Medina, with an investment of more than 220 million Saudi Riyals. The project is estimated to be completed in the first quarter of 2025. Eng. Jamjoom, said: “We are delighted to partner with Elaf Group, a prominent company in the hospitality and tourism sector of Saudi Arabia. We anticipate the MoU with Elaf Group to significantly contribute to the national strategies of enhancing the standards of living by boosting the quality of hospitality services offered to pilgrims and Umrah performers, which will further give them the opportunity to enjoy the one-of-its-kind Saudi Arabian hospitality. The new project will feature unique and remarkable architecture in Medina. It is expected to be a vital addition to the tourism and hospitality sector of the Kingdom, as it expects to witness massive growth. Our MoU with Elaf Group will contribute to this growth, by providing exceptional services to pilgrims and visitors through this new hotel.” Dr. Ezzat, said: “We are happy to sign this MoU with Kinan International Real Estate Development Company. In line with the MoU, we seek to …

Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai supported the Earth Hour initiative last 25th March 2023 by switching off the lights from 8:30PM to 9:30PM. The hotel went dark by turning off non-essential lights for one hour emphasizing on its commitment to addressing environmental issues and to raise awareness on the impact of energy savings. Several activities have implemented such as turned down the lights in the lobby, restaurants and other public areas and only used candle lights, encouraged guests to participate by placing letters in the guest rooms as a reminder to do the same lights off moments and the Human Resources team has prepared few activities at the colleague’s accommodation such as cake cutting, games, awarding for minimal consumption of water and electricity. Commenting on the initiatives, Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai said, ” “It’s an honor for us to support Earth Hour movement because it echoes our Green Key strategy and ambition to be the driving force of a more sustainable hospitality industry. Earth Hour reflects our goal to practice and maintain sustainability & energy conservation every year.” Since beginnings in 2007, Earth Hour has been known from around the globe by switching off the lights for an hour to show symbolic support for the planet. But it is so much more than that. It is a symbol of unity. It is a symbol of hope. It is a demonstration of the power of collective action for our future and the planets. This year under the slogan of “The Greatest Hour for Earth”- give an Hour for Earth by spending 60 minutes doing something – anything – positive for our planet.

The Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai recently hosted a free medical checkup for its hotel colleagues led by the hotel’s Human Resources team and in support and collaboration with First Response Healthcare. The medical examination includes a check-up for blood pressure, sugar, BMI, optical and dental consultation. A free medical checkup has been carried out to help employees monitor themselves and remind them how vital the health in daily lives. Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, ““In order for us to take care our guests and achieve our goal of providing a good working and healthy environment, we always put our colleague’s health and safety as our priority as they play a significant role in the company success. We would like them to stay healthy, feel secure, and comfortable so our colleagues can productively fulfill their tasks.” The medical camp was held last 13th March 2023 at the hotel’s training room from 10am till 4pm. More than 100 hotel colleagues were checked and received health advice on how to maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle.  

Continent Worldwide Hotels announced the signing of a management agreement between Continent Worldwide Hotels and Bin Daajam Hotel Company to operate existing Al Ertiqaa Hotel Jeddah. The hotel will be upgraded and renamed as the Continent Al Ertiqaa Hotel, Jeddah, and will be a full-service hotel.  “This is the second agreement signed with Bin Daajam Hotel Company, as the Riyadh property is already being operated as the Continent Al Waha Hotel since December 2022” said Shady Boueiry, Managing Director MENA & Principal of Continent Arabia C/O S.H.S LTD, Lebanon, who holds the Exclusive Master Franchise rights of the Continent Hotels & Resorts brand in the region, said, “It is the proof of trust in our brands and services provided to our stakeholders in the region” The new Continent Al Ertiqaa Hotel Jeddah is located in the Hera Street district, just a 13-minute drive from King Abdulaziz airport. Guests can access Al Tayebat International City within 6 km from the hotel, while Mandarin Avenue is around 15 minutes’ walk away. The hotel is also 4.3 km from Billy beez and other main attractions of Jeddah. The hotel has 80 rooms with a mini-kitchen and a dressing room. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels and wireless Internet along with a mini bar fridge and coffee/tea makers are provided. Self-catering facilities include a microwave oven and kitchenware. Offering comforts like hair dryers and shower caps, the bathrooms also feature a bidet, a roll-in shower and a sink. The hotel will have various dining options such as Continent’s trademark fine dining restaurant “People” and at the “Aromas Coffee Shop” including Turkish and Western Cuisine, open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner both buffet and a …

JW Marriott  announced the opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, marking the company’s highly anticipated debut in the luxury safari segment. Sitting within the Masai Mara National Reserve in Southwestern Kenya, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife and wilderness conservation regions, the lodge is a sophisticated and thoughtful sanctuary from which to discover nature and breathtaking vistas in harmony. Exhilarating guided game drives offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to, including lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve is host to the annual great wildebeest migration, which sees more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania. “Fostering meaningful connections and nourishing the soul is at the heart of the JW Marriott brand, so entering the luxury safari segment is a natural next step,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Offering our guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a deep connection to place, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge balances the thrill of a game drive with thoughtful opportunities to switch off and take it all in. We are excited to welcome travellers to a transformative and wellness-forward stay delivered with JW Marriott’s legacy of extraordinary hospitality.” The lodge’s elegant interiors, designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, seamlessly blend the savannah inwards, drawing inspiration from the elements with soft, warm tones, natural materials and textures, and native colours thread through its design. Each of the lodge’s 20 private tents provide a peaceful sanctuary to recharge and reset, and feature terraces overlooking the River Talek, a water source and habitat for many wildlife. The tented honeymoon suite offers a private plunge …

With its prime position on the pristine northern Mediterranean coast, Rixos Alamein is pleased to announce its reopening this summer season 2023, and welcome guests with modernity and elegance while still associating the rich culture and heritage of El Alamein. This opulent resort provides guests with breathtaking panoramic views with a vibrant splash of colors of the desert with glittering blue sea and pristine white sands, perfected with lush gardens and green palm trees.  Apart from the relaxing scenery, Rixos Alamein offers an exquisite line-up of activities and leisure to bask in, sophisticated rooms and suites to loosen up, private cabanas, and commendable restaurants with top-class chefs creating flavors to take you on a spectacular gastronomic journey. Youngsters can have a blast too! As the Rixy Kids Club offers them a haven where they can create the best memories, make friendships, and wallow in endless hours of activities under the watchful eye of the specialist staff. Mr. Erkan Yildirim, Managing Director of Rixos Hotels Egypt, said, “We are thrilled to announce that one of our luxurious properties, Rixos Alamein is ready and looking forward to welcoming its guest once again with more state-of-the-art facilities and well-curated entertainment and activities awaiting ahead. And we always aim to serve our guests with world-class hospitality service and to be a curator of memorable experiences.”

Aloft Hotels announces plans to open Aloft Muscat in Spring 2023. The highly anticipated opening is expected to mark the brand’s debut in the Sultanate of Oman. Designed for the next generation of traveler the hotel will be a new vibrant destination and will feature eclectic spaces, distinctive design, live music programming, and 199 modern loft-style guestrooms complete with the brand’s signature amenities. The hotel is expected to feature three dining outlets, places for guests to come together, including a Californian style eatery, an international restaurant with a Mediterranean twist, and the brand’s signature bar W XYZ®.  Other facilities will include a rooftop pool and gym. Danny Al Chayeb will take the helm of the new hotel as General Manager. With more than two decades in hospitality across the MENA region, Al Chayeb brings a wealth of experience to Aloft Muscat, including a proven track record of creating new food and beverage concepts and providing the highest guest service standards. A hands-on GM, he aims to turn moments into memorable stays for guests, with a desire to lead by example while driving business. “We are thrilled to debut Aloft Hotels in Oman. A brand known for its design-driven and tech-savvy ethos, Aloft Muscat will bring a modern, friendly, and comfortable option for global travelers and a new hotspot for residents in the Sultanate,” said Danny Al Chayeb, General Manager. Aloft Muscat is located 10 minutes from Muscat International Airport and is nearby to the city’s attractions including The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House Muscat, Mall of Oman, Oman Avenues Mall, Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, Oman Convention and Exhibition Center, and three major golf courses.