Category Archives: Hotels

Dubai’s independent hotel management company, Aleph Hospitality, has signed a management agreement to operate Accor’s luxury five-star MGallery hotel, as well as all facilities at the new Century Park Hotel and Residences development in Rwanda’s capital Kigali. A signing ceremony took place in Kigali recently between Aleph Hospitality respectively, the international hospitality group Accor, and Century Park Hotel and Residences Ltd, the developers of the project. Located in the pristine and calm hills of Nyarutarama, Kigali’s most esteemed neighbourhood, Century Park Hotel and Residences is an all-in-one mixed-use residential and leisure park. The unique lifestyle destination offers luxury villas, two- and three-bedroom apartments, four- and five-bedroom duplexes and penthouses as well as three restaurants and bars. In addition, the development features the luxurious MGallery Hotel, the first for the brand in Rwanda, featuring beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, leisure facilities including an outdoor pool as well as conferences and meeting rooms. Century Park Hotel and Residences is ideally situated just 5 minutes from Kigali Convention Centre, 15 minutes from Kigali International Airport and 20 minutes from the capital’s central business district. Billy Cheung, Chairman of Century Park Hotel and Residences Ltd said: “ We are delighted to formally launch our hotel and residences with agreements with two leading international organizations – Aleph Hospitality and Accor.” Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality said: “We are very excited to be part of this incredible new mixed-use development in Kigali, which marks our first entry into Rwanda. We are delighted to be entrusted with the operations of the first MGallery hotel in Rwanda, our first Accor branded property, alongside the management of the facilities and restaurants at Century Park …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of InterContinental® Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, the first property for the luxury brand in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Located on the sparkling shoreline of Hayat Island, just a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, the five-star haven brings the InterContinental life to the Arabian Peninsula, combining idyllic island style living with the warm hospitality of authentic Arabia. His Excellency Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Zaabi, Chairman of RAK Properties, said: “We are pleased with this qualitative addition to our company, which owns great assets in the world of real estate and luxury. The InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa from IHG, added a new value for lovers of nature, beauty and contemporary authenticity. He added: “We are always keen to improve our business and projects and achieve the highest levels of luxury and distinguished services, and it is no secret to everyone the position that the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has reached in the world of tourism in general, and hotels and resorts in particular”. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director India, Middle East and Africa said: “InterContinental Hotels & Resorts have been pioneering luxury travel in new destinations for over 75 years and the undiscovered destination of Ras Al Khaimah couldn’t be more perfect for a new, best-in-class InterContinental resort. Ras Al Khaimah’s reputation has grown internationally and has put the Emirate on the world travel map. Its focus on heritage, cultural and adventure activities has a strong appeal to domestic and also international visitors. We look forward to welcoming guests to this exquisite property and offer a level of bespoke hospitality that is befitting of …

Marriott International signed an agreement with Venue International to debut Moxy Hotels in Turkey. Slated to open in 2024, the 168-room Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu will be located in the heart of the city within walking distance from Taksim Square – one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the area. “We are excited to work with Venue International to debut the Moxy brand in Turkey,” said Begüm Kaya Şanver, Director Development, Turkey, Marriott International. “Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu will serve as a playful lifestyle hotel bringing a bold, spirited experience to the vibrant area of Beyoglu.” Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu is expected to offer 168 stylish and cozy, yet smart bedrooms that have been designed to maximize every inch for today’s young-at-heart travellers. The hotel is set to feature playful Moxy spaces from the energetic lobby where guests are met by the welcoming crew, to its lively Living Room space ideal for day to night gatherings. In addition to its buzzing public spaces aimed to be the center of activity, Design plans for Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu include an industrial chic look, a fun grab-and-go concept, bold programming with local flavor, and communal tables offering plenty of opportunities to plug and play. Kaan Namlıcı, Chairman of the Board, Venue International said, “We are excited to work with Marriott International to bring the first Moxy Hotel to Turkey. We have always believed in the potential of Moxy Hotels in this market but were keen to wait to introduce it in the right location. Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu will infuse an energetic urban vibe to the bohemian and dynamic character of the Beyoğlu area. The hotel will feature a unique blend of Afrikahan’s historic relevance and …

Hotelbeds is pleased to announce that it is one of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ preferred partners for distribution of wholesale rates from IHG hotels in Europe and Greater China. As a result, travel buyers working with Hotelbeds will continue to enjoy access to wholesale rates from IHG hotels. Hotelbeds’ network reaches thousands of B2B travel buyers, such as offline tour operators, retail travel agents, airlines and company employee loyalty programs, across more than 140 source markets worldwide. Hotelbeds’ portfolio of B2B travel buyers offers IHG’s hotels incremental, high-value bookings from both domestic and international travelers. Carlos Muñoz, Chief Commercial Officer at Hotelbeds, commented: “This partnership demonstrates our shared confidence in the future growth of the B2B industry.  Thanks to this collaboration, our client partners worldwide will have access to a leading product portfolio which is fantastic news coming off the back of some very challenging years.” George Turner, Chief Commercial & Technology Officer at IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “Partnering with Hotelbeds in Europe and Greater China will enable us to more seamlessly manage our wholesale distribution.” IHG Hotels & Resorts has 17 brands including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and Holiday Inn Express and last year joined Hotelbeds’ Green Hotel Programme to further strengthen its commitment to sustainable tourism. The Green Hotels Programme is a turn-key solution to bring Hotelbeds and its partners into the green economy and accelerate the transition of the travel industry towards sustainability – a topic whose importance has increased dramatically in light of the COVID pandemic.

It was announced recently that the much awaited Ritz Carlton in Amman Jordan is slated to open by Q2. Two stunning towers unveil a refined, modern luxury experience the heart of Jordan’s buzzing capital city, Amman. The Ritz-Carlton, Amman will offer 228 guestrooms including 34 lavish suites, perfectly complemented by the brand’s legendary service. Guests can relax in the elegant Cigar Lounge or indulge in distinguished cuisine at the hotel’s Mediterranean restaurant. For a dinner with a view, the rooftop restaurant and bar offer dazzling views across the skyline. The enchanting towers offer both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre and spa, along with a 1,000 square metre ballroom.

Akhom Consulting and METT Hotels & Resorts, a 5-star lifestyle collection of Hotels & Resorts, announce their partnership starting from March 2022. Akhom Consulting will lead the Sales representation of METT Brand in the Middle East luxury hospitality market. With a particular focus on the GCC region, Akhom Consulting will expand METT’s brand presence in the luxury hospitality market. METT Hotels & Resorts is a luxury brand by Sunset Hospitality Group. METT lives up to its Bohemian-chic, minimalist style in unique locations. The concept of METT Social Living takes its routes from the way people live in the Mediterranean, with a focus on driving incredible dining experiences. The brand offers an enriching escape to all guests looking for easy living in a mesmerising setting. Since May 2021, METT Hotels & Resorts have welcomed guests in Bodrum, Turkey, by the turquoise Aegean Sea. With a strong pipeline including Dubai, Spain, Greece, and Italy, METT is getting ready to set the new hospitality norms for the elite travellers in multiple destinations. The next resort opening is scheduled for summer 2022 in Marbella. Mouhamed Abdulkhalek, Managing Director of Akhom Consulting said: We are delighted to partner with METT Hotels & Resorts and represent this top-notch luxury brand in the Middle East market. We believe that METT Hotels & Resorts will bring a different perspective in hospitality. METT’s Bohemian-chic Social Living concept will help the brand be the leading name this season. Our triumphant work will allow METT to access the Middle East market, one of the most efficient tourist-generating regions, and to ensure a strong market presence and the desired revenue for the brand.

According to new research commissioned by Arabian Travel Market and conducted at the end of 2021 by hotel market intelligence and global benchmarking company STR, Makkah and Doha are both expanding their hotel room inventory by 76%, followed by Riyadh, Medina and Muscat with 66%, 60% and 59% growth respectively. In Dubai, rooms growth stands at 26%, which is still extraordinary, considering its existing base and following years of continuous hotel development – it is still more than double the global average. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME – Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre on 9-12 May 2022 said, “With the global average sitting at 12% we are witnessing multiple GCC destinations growing at six times those rates.” “These figures coupled with the ongoing relaxation in travel restrictions, will undoubtedly encourage travel professionals throughout the Middle East and further afield. As such we are expecting a substantial increase in the number of participants at our live event this year, especially Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and the UAE,” she added. According to the report, there are almost 2.5 million hotel rooms currently under contract around the world, 3.2% or 80,000 rooms of that supply is taking place in Saudi Arabia alone. Furthermore, although Expo 2020 in Dubai, is now drawing to a close (31 March 2022), the mega event has been the catalyst for accelerated hotel room growth in the UAE with almost 50,000 rooms still due to open across the Emirates. Following closely behind is Doha with final preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 now being put in place. Doha is on track to deliver 23,000 hotel rooms pre- and post-World Cup …

Global augmented hospitality group, Accor, through its loyalty program ALL-Accor Live Limitless, is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), to announce the launch of the ALL-ADCB Infinite and Signature Credit Cards for consumers in the UAE. The official signing of the partnership took place today at the ADCB Head Office in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of Mr. Ala’a Eraiqat, the ADCB Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mehdi Hemici, Chief Loyalty & Partnership Officer at Accor, and Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Visa Group Country Manager, and Senior Vice President in GCC, in additions to senior management members from all parties to mark the significant milestone. This formidable agreement brings together ALL – Accor Live Limitless, Accor’s lifestyle loyalty programme, and ADCB to create a co-branded Visa credit card that rewards cardholders with elevated experiences to enjoy in the UAE and globally. Drawing on the rich experience and comparative advantages of three leaders in hospitality, banking and payments, the ALL-ADCB Infinite and Signature Credit Cards will provide holders with a gateway to endless privileges and benefits. With an unrivalled portfolio of 28 Accor properties, guests can enjoy a wide range of service options that complement their lifestyle in the UAE. In 2020, Accor announced its global partnership with Visa, to bring new payment experiences to loyalty members of ALL – Accor Live Limitless, through the ALL Visa credit card. The introduction of the ALL Visa card enables the Accor Group to engage customers beyond their stay, via an industry leading loyalty program, offering ALL members the ability to earn points, enjoy new experiences and even more hotel nights. The success of Accor’s global partnership with Visa …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Crowne Plaza West Cairo- Arkan – its first hotel in Egypt. Located in the west of the Egyptian capital, Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan is the first premium hotel in the heart of Sheikh Zayed and is in a prime position for locals and those travelling to Cairo for business, leisure or a combination of the two. Designed to meet the needs of the modern business traveller, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts deeply understands work/life blend and this is brought to life at the brand’s hotels worldwide through a modern, distinct and purposeful design featuring multi-functional zones, great food and drinks, and a warm and engaging approach to guest service. Engineer Amr Badreldine Chairman of El Badr Commercial Developments, commented: “Arkan Plaza is pleased to welcome its newest addition an IHG hotel, the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Egypt, one of the fastest growing hotel brands globally. Perfectly located within Arkan, Crowne Plaza – West Cairo will provide an exemplary experience. Arkan’s strategic location and wide range of facility services & offerings will meet every guest’s needs creating an exceptional experience at Crowne Plaza – West Cairo Arkan.” Haitham Mattar, Managing Director IMEA at IHG Hotels & Resorts said: “We are excited to open our first Crowne Plaza hotel – Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan, in Egypt, and expand our brand portfolio to offer world-class hospitality options to travellers with diverse needs. Crowne Plaza is known to be an international premium hotel brand which is loved by business travellers across the globe. We are confident that this new addition to our portfolio in the region will be a popular choice with both domestic and …

C Central Resort the Palm will continue to attract families, groups of friends, couples, and honeymooners in the year 2022. The 5-star property recorded a peak in the number of leisure and group segments, with guests from the UK, France, Germany, and CIS countries topping the list, comprising 70% of its total guests since opening in September 2019. Guests reportedly booked an average of four nights stay and are particularly interested in the various beach and water activities, the magnificent surroundings, multiple dining options, excellent facilities, friendly and warm service, and the stunning location. “We look forward to an amazing start to the year. We have seen an increase in the number of guests from our key target markets, and we hope this trend will continue until the first half of the year. The coming months will be hectic for the property as we have planned some exciting promotions for Mother’s Day, Ramadan, Eid, and leading up to summer. It will be an exciting season as Dubai strengthens its position as the destination of choice for international travelers,” Hussein Gamaleldin, Group Director of Sales and Marketing. The 203-key beachfront hotel and resort feature rooms and suites that command breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and The Palm. The Premium Rooms, the Skyline Suites, and Palm Suites have private balconies where guests can watch the city’s spectacular sunset and the glittering Dubai skyline in the evening. The guest rooms feature contemporary and modern decor, dramatic wall art, and in-room amenities for complete comfort and relaxation. With several dining venues to choose from and plenty of money-saving promotions, C Central Hotel The Palm is the ideal dining destination. Whether staying at the …