Category Archives: Hotels

Limestone Lab, an experience-driven hospitality group, with a vision of launching new and innovative hospitality concepts to the social and dining scene, announces plans to develop six more unique concepts in the UAE with a new seed funding round. Limestone Lab, the tech-enabled experiential hospitality group, which creates, builds, and manages unique concepts, has presently raised an amount of $1 million through a pre-seed round of investment, following raising $6 million in their initial round, which was used to develop their pilot projects,Social Distrikt, and their latest concept launching in 2022, Peaches and Cream. The current funding was used towards the conceptualization of four concepts, including the company’s pilot project, Social Distrikt, the newly launched urban food & bar hall located at The Pointe at the Palm Jumeirah.This was achieved by owning stakes as retained capital as development fee by fully funding the initial two concepts. As part of the development fee, the hospitality group has thus far doubled the initial investment raised of the two concepts, making it an attractive opportunity for future investors. Continuing to leverage their success, the innovative hospitality group has announced its plans to launch its Seed round in February with the aim of raising $2 million, to which the company will develop a second team to establish 6 additional, unique concepts to the market, with a disruptive approach to the traditional brick-and-mortar models for the F&B sector. Commenting on this, CEO and Co-Founder, Hassan shares, “Since the launch of Limestone Lab, we have witnessed a growing appetite from investors who resonate with our passion and vision, and as a result we have had the ability to raise investment at an exponential rate on our …

When the world hit pause on travel, IHG Hotels & Resorts saw an opportunity to reconnect and learn from its guests and owners. The company made big, bold investments, transforming its portfolio with exciting brands and creating richer experiences – all under a fresh IHG Hotels & Resorts masterbrand. As guests embark on a new era of travel and the industry continues to recover, the company turns to its pioneering loyalty program and is making one of its most significant investments to date. Over the last few years, IHG Rewards has continued to evolve to meet the needs of current and future members. World-class partnerships, such as exclusive stays with Mr & Mrs Smith, a growing brand portfolio, and dynamic Reward Night pricing have given guests greater value and flexibility. Today, IHG Rewards, the industry’s first and one of world’s largest hotel loyalty programs, is sharing the first of many changes that will be introduced in the coming months. The new tier and bonus point earning structure – which will go live during March – is designed to help members earn more points faster and have more ways to use them than ever before. These changes, the first in a series of enhancements, include: Introducing a new Gold Elite tier starting at 20 nights, with an industry-leading 40% bonus point structure Renaming of the ‘Spire Elite’ tier to ‘Diamond Elite’ to simplify member recognition and understanding of our highest tier, which will retain our best-in-class 100% bonus point structure Improving bonus point earn levels across all other Elite tiers   Keith Barr, Chief Executive Officer, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “If there’s anything that has united the world in the …

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Council for Economic and Development Affairs, and Chairman of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), announced the launch of ‘Boutique Group’, a new hospitality brand that will manage and convert a collection of iconic historic and cultural palaces in Saudi Arabia into ultra-luxury boutique hotels. The company will revive the vibrant heritage and culture of Saudi Arabia to create a new and unique hospitality experience. The first phase of the project will focus on the development of three historic palaces in cooperation with the private sector, including Al Hamra Palace that will offer 77 keys including 33 luxury palace suites and 44 luxury villas in Jeddah. Tuwaiq Palace will provide 96 keys including 40 luxury palace suites and 56 luxury villas. Whereas Red Palace will offer 71 keys including 46 luxury suites, and 25 luxury guest rooms. Both Tuwaiq and Red palace are located in Riyadh. Boutique Group will blend the Kingdom’s culture and heritage with modern amenities to provide an exclusive hospitality experience and a unique service to its guests, growing the Saudi ultra-luxury hospitality sector and contributing to the development of the local economy. The company will also offer many high-end experiences from dining to wellness to exclusive services for each guest. H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of PIF, said, “His Royal Highness the Crown Prince’s launch of the Boutique Group underlines PIF’s mandate to unlock the capabilities of promising sectors in Saudi Arabia that can help drive the diversification of the economy and contribute to non-oil GDP growth. “The group will enhance the Kingdom’s already unique tourism offerings, strengthening Saudi …

EDITION Hotels premieres in Dubai’s iconic Downtown district, a stone’s throw from the city’s world-class retail flagships, commercial district and its flourishing art, design and culture hubs.  The Dubai EDITION is the brands latest addition in the Middle East following the success of its launch in Abu Dhabi. Welcoming guests since November 2021, The Dubai EDITION with its own unique and original identity, embodies its sense of place at the centre of a thriving international gateway city that is steered by pioneering spirit and innovation while anchored in its rich culture. It is no wonder that EDITION has debuted in one of the most exciting cities in the world.  The ban Designed in partnership with LW Design, The Dubai EDITION heralds a new generation of modern luxury and pays homage to Dubai’s passion to create something entirely new. The result is an elegant, vibrant, urban hub that undeniably encapsulates the essence of this inspired city and sets the bar for luxury of the future. The Dubai EDITION brings a new bespoke, boutique experience with the acute attention to detail and finesse that the EDITION brand is known for. From the outside, The Dubai EDITION stands tall within the Downtown district surrounded by world-famous attractions and landmarks. The green-filled entrance to the hotel is populated with bold terracotta pots transporting guests from the hustle and bustle to an oasis of calm. The clever landscaping continues throughout the hotel into the lobby, outdoor spaces and terraces, shaping intimate venues complete with lights beautifully woven through the gardens to create a playful dance at night. As with all EDITION hotels, the lobby is a dynamic, social space that subtly reveals a sense of …

Minor Hotels is pleased to announce the signing of an upcoming addition to its portfolio in Qatar. NH Collection Doha Oasis Hotel & Beach Club is slated to open in mid-2022 and will be the first NH Collection property globally with a beach club. The hotel is currently in the later stages of development and is located in the Ras Abu Abboud area along Doha’s eastern coast, midway between the city centre and Hamad International Airport. The previous Oasis Hotel, from where the new property takes its name, was in the same location and was Doha’s first ever hotel when it opened in the 1950’s. The hotel has a rich history and was a prominent destination for local Qataris, residents and state visitors, with many celebrations and official events having taken place there. The fully redeveloped hotel will have a total of 300 guest rooms, across a mix of Superior and Deluxe Rooms and over 50 suites, all with a design blending modern and classical elegance. The suites will include six 156 square metre Emiri Suites, a 193 square metre Presidential Suite and an impressive Royal Duplex Suite, offering 332 square metres of luxurious space. The F&B offering will be very strong, with six restaurants and bars, including two specialty restaurants and a rooftop bar. Additional facilities will include both male and female spas and gyms, a large ballroom totalling 1,200 square metres and divisible by two, and a mezzanine level with additional meeting rooms, a business centre and supporting conference space. The new hotel will also have a beach club with a swimming pool set amidst gardens and padel tennis courts, plus substantial parking. This will be the first …

Stella Stays, the rising star in the region’s deconstructed hotel industry, is looking at fast tracking its expansion plans in the nation’s capital. The homegrown company made the decision in line with the recent law changes in Abu Dhabi that introduced new regulations for the holiday home sector. Since last month it is mandatory for all holiday home operators in Abu Dhabi to register their units on the new online system to ensure sector regulations are maintained. The registration helps regulate and enhance the sector, by which alternatives to hotel and hotel apartments are offered to guests in the emirate. With a vison to redefine the hospitality industry, Stella Stays is well recognised for its innovative and guest-centric approach to hospitality. The brand started out with a single penthouse in 2019 and currently, its signed with more than 300 properties and is present in Dubai, Manama, and Montreal. With this new law established, Stella Stays plans to advance into the capital with its unrivalled, efficient technology and service, offering Abu Dhabi holidaymakers and businesspeople an impeccable stay experience. In addition to short term bookings, Stella Stays offers an unparalleled experience for guests looking for a long-term stay, such as new residents of the capital who are looking for a home with the flexibility to move in instantly without worrying about purchasing furniture, paying utilities or signing tedious amount of paperwork that is commonplace with yearly rentals. Additionally, these properties are ideal for corporate travellers, digital nomads,  groups of friends and families looking for a place to stay for a period of weeks or months, as they offer the luxury of spacious rooms that hotels can’t offer. Having had plans for …

Avani Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of Avani Muscat Hotel, its newest property in the Middle East and the upbeat, contemporary brand’s first property in the Sultanate of Oman. Located in Seeb, a prime residential area at the heart of Muscat’s westward growth, the new property benefits from superb airport and city access making it a convenient base for business travellers, digital nomads and leisure travellers alike. Blending heritage-inspired touches and sleek contemporary style, the property’s 161 guest rooms are a masterclass in subtle design. Soothing yet stimulating environments, empathetic to the needs of today’s hyper connected traveller, have been created with natural materials, bespoke décor and Omani tones. In response to global travellers’ evolving working behaviours, in-room workspaces feature flexible configuration options and easy access to the smart power panel outfitted with multiple plugs and USB ports. On the residential side, 45 studios and one, two- and three-bedroom serviced apartments bring Avani’s fresh, forward-looking aesthetic to one of Muscat’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. At 128-square metres, the three-bedroom apartments are the largest in the inventory and are perfectly suited for long-stay guests and families with children who can take full advantage of AvaniKids, the hotel’s kids’ club and pool. Flavourful dining options include Trisis, a nature-inspired all-day dining restaurant with indoor tree features and specialising in Omani, Arabic and international cuisines, and Avani’s easy gourmet grab-and-go concept Pantry, known for its honest, nutritious meals and specialty coffee. The alfresco Patio Bar offers refreshments and the perfect spot to kick back overlooking the turquoise swimming pool whilst taking in the heartbeat of the city. Dedicated exercise and health club amenities are available at AvaniFit providing space to get in …

Located in the Al Jaddaf Waterfront community and overlooking the serene Dubai Creek, INK Hotel is the latest 4-star boutique hotel in the area. The 5-storey hotel is a fun, trendy and offbeat property with a distinctive vibe focusing on sustainability and a commitment to honing hospitality excellence in the region. INK Hotel boasts a sleek and contemporary design that complements its intimate scale and varied amenities. With 63 rooms, the boutique hotel features classy interiors and splashes of vibrant colours to create a comfortable ambience where guests can be at liberty to be themselves. The hotel houses two main room types: 23 square metre rooms (that can be interconnected) and 30 square metre rooms, equipped with large floor-to-ceiling windows, free WIFI, and other favourable facilities. Featuring a rooftop swimming pool with stunning views across Dubai Creek, a pop-up gym and designated areas for pets, INK Hotel poses an ideal getaway for the young at heart. With sustainability playing an essential role in its operations, INK Hotel has taken several steps to ensure an eco-friendly environment without sacrificing any aspect of its style, high-quality service and welcoming atmosphere. In addition to solar panels installed on the roof and staff uniforms made from recycled plastic, the entire hotel is laden with L’Occitane amenities featuring top-range organic soaps and bottles made of recycled plastic. The all-day dining restaurant Bistro by INK stocks the world-renowned selection of climate-conscious, ethical, organic Teabags from Pukka while providing exquisite indoor and alfresco dining spaces. It has even collaborated with the local cafe roastery – Grandmother – to provide speciality coffee along with other delectable treats. INK Hotel is also home to the leading Swiss Hospitality school …

After a successful run in the production of Paramount Hotel Dubai and its continuous growth, DAMAC Group is thrilled to announce the expansion of the hotel chain with the opening of Paramount Hotel Midtown. Paramount Hotel Midtown is set to razzle and dazzle Dubai from the first quarter of 2022. Set in the heart of Business Bay Dubai, it’s on the doorstep of Sheikh Zayed Road, Burj Khalifa and the Dubai International Financial Centre and has been curated for the young-at-heart who love to be at the centre of it all. Developed using the same bold imagination, inspiring talent and creative process that has been perfected over Paramount Pictures’ 105-year history, Paramount Hotel Midtown is synonymous with entertainment and, above all, creativity. Offering timeless Hollywood elegance and a cinematic guest experience, the hotel brings to life the contemporary Californian magic with its sophisticated design, upscale dining experiences and celebrity spa and fitness centre. Commenting on the second hotel launch, Jean Faivre, Senior Vice President Hospitality DAMAC Hotels & Resorts, said: “The Paramount proposition is special, with a rich history to live up to. We’ve been immensely successful with our first property and we are now looking forward to our second opening, which will, without a doubt, be a unique addition to Dubai’s vibrant hospitality scene.” With feel-good vibes, mid-century styling, awe-inspiring views and fresh culinary concepts, Paramount Hotel Midtown is where the Hollywood-chic go to ‘see and be seen’. 281 contemporary rooms and suites include Scene Rooms, A-List Suites and a Paramount Suite. Designed for high-life lovers emulating the lifestyle of the rich and famous, elegantly decorated rooms are further enhanced by balconies overlooking the Dubai coastline or Burj Khalifa. …

Radisson Hotel Group is pleased to announce the re-opening of Radisson Hotel & Apartments Dammam Industrial City following a rebranding and extensive refurbishment of the existing Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Apartments Dammam Industrial, the only international 4-star hotel in Dammam Second Industrial City.  Located in the heart of the buzzing business district near Half Moon Bay Beach, famous for its sandy beaches, Radisson Hotel & Apartments Dammam Industrial City is just 35 minutes’ drive from King Khalid International Airport, with access to numerous nearby businesses and offices. The hotel is close to the popular Dhahran Mall and Modon Lake, the Kingdom’s largest artificial lake with a 4-kilometer footpath surrounded by greenery. The hotel’s 201 spacious rooms, 104 apartments, and common areas have been redesigned to feature a fresh, modern, and stylish atmosphere. Guests can enjoy access to the fitness center, pool, and spa, for a simple delightful stay. The hotel also offers two restaurants and a lobby lounge. RBG restaurant offers a casual dining experience where guests can savor grilled international dishes for lunch or dinner, as well as the famous Super Breakfast buffet to start the day. For a taste of Italy, guests can enjoy lunch and dinner in the soon to open Bocca Buona, where chefs will serve pizza to pasta straight from the open show kitchen. Guests looking for a tasty snack and a hot drink, can visit Modon Café in the lobby lounge which will also showcase live sports. Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President, Middle East, and Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, says, “We are delighted to rebrand the hotel to our fast-growing upscale brand, Radisson, which has been well-received across the Middle …