Category Archives: Hotels

Novotel Al Barsha walked away with the ‘Best City Hotel’ accolade at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. The spectacular Novotel Dubai Al Barsha towers over Sheikh Zayed Road, close to the city’s major business hubs and tourist attractions. Hotel that makes every moment matter. The Novotel Dubai Al Barsha is a 4-star hotel located in Dubai’s city centre with convenient access to the city’s major business hubs and leisure attractions. Their state-of-the-art meeting rooms are the perfect place for conferences, trainings and various types of meetings.

Rafal Real Estate Development Company and Rove Hotels announced a strategic partnership to develop multiple Rove Hotels properties in the Saudi capital. Rove Hotels is a dynamic, award-winning lifestyle brand that has rapidly emerged as one of the fastest-growing hospitality brands in the Middle East. Born in Dubai as a joint venture between Emaar Properties and Dubai Holding, Rove already boasts over 8,000 keys open or under development. The brand is defined by its smart, vibrant design, seamless and fuss-free service culture, and a robust commitment to sustainability, appealing to the modern traveller seeking both style and substance. The signing ceremony, which took place in Riyadh, officially marks the Rove brand’s expansion into the Saudi Arabian market, with plans for future cities to follow. Under the agreement, the partners will bring Rove’s well-loved lifestyle concept to key, high-growth locations across Riyadh, with the first opening location set to be on Olaya Street. Locations are thoughtfully positioned to serve both business and leisure travellers, catering to the city’s dynamic growth. “This expansion represents a significant milestone and an important step forward. We are proud to be part of Rove and Rafal in shaping a new chapter for lifestyle-driven hospitality in Saudi Arabia,” said Saad Hussain of Alaia Developments. “We are delighted to introduce one of the region’s smartest hotel concepts to Riyadh,” said Elias Abou Samra, CEO of Rafal Real Estate Development Company. “Our confidence stems from the depth and track record of Rove Hotels in tailoring hospitality for regional guests, and from the strong connectivity between Riyadh and Dubai that underpins sustained demand from both leisure and business travellers. This partnership is a cornerstone of our strategy to bring innovative …

Cheval Maison Expo City Dubai wins ‘Best debut Hotel Apartments Cheval Maison’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. The Arabian Travel Awards wrapped up with energy and pride as the region’s finest in travel, tourism and hospitality came together to celebrate a year of standout achievements. Often called the Oscars of the industry, the ceremony brought together leaders, innovators and changemakers for an evening that highlighted excellence and the region’s rapidly evolving tourism landscape.

Over 80% of travellers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia (KSA) intend to go on more or the same amount of holidays in 2026 compared to 2025 (84% in UAE and 83% in KSA). This includes 54% who plan to go on an increased number (56% in UAE and 52% in KSA), according to new industry research amongst 4,017 adults in UAE and KSA. Figures from Marriott Bonvoy’s 2026 Ticket to Travel Report suggest continued overall growth in the industry. In 2026, the average traveller is planning 3 domestic holidays within their own country, 2 short-haul breaks (four-hour flight or less) and 2 long-haul trips. The report also shows that on average people book their holiday 2.1 months in advance (2.5 in UAE and 1.6 in KSA). Visiting multiple countries (not just destinations) within one trip – will continue to be common for travellers in 2026. 75% say they ‘probably or definitely’ plan to do this next year. Popular international travel destinations for travellers in the UAE and KSA include Italy, Switzerland, France and Turkiye. Nearly three quarters of travellers (72%) say they have used AI to plan or research a holiday (77% in UAE and 68% in KSA). Over a fifth (23%) say they use it ‘all the time’ (24% in UAE and 22% in KSA). ChatGPT is the favoured AI platform for travel planning – used by three quarters (76%) of those who have previously used AI for this purpose (81% in UAE and 70% in KSA). It is followed by Gemini at 38% (41% in UAE and 35% in KSA) and Copilot at 21% (23% in UAE and 19% in KSA). Reinforcing the increased familiarity and trust travellers …

AJi signed an agreement with Numu Company to collaborate on the Masar Branded Residences project – an exclusive, high-end residential development within the Masar Makkah Master Plan. Located approximately 3 km from Masjid al-Haram, the project will offer panoramic views of the Holy City and combine modern luxury with the spiritual and cultural essence of Makkah. The signing took place on the sidelines of Cityscape Global, which this year convenes global real estate and infrastructure leaders in Riyadh to explore opportunities shaping the future of urban living in Saudi Arabia and beyond. The event aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambition to position Saudi Arabia as a hub for world-class investment and sustainable development. The Masar Branded Residences will span approximately 3,800 square meters, featuring between 280 and 320 high-end apartments, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, as well as penthouses and duplexes. Around 70% of the ground-floor area will be dedicated to retail and commercial spaces, complemented by premium amenities designed to meet five-star branded residence standards, ensuring a refined, world-class living experience. AJi’s scope includes full design services. AJi will provode full design services for the project. Eng. Hamzeh Awwad, CEO of AJi, said: “Our partnership with Numu builds on our long-standing relationship and deep understanding of Masar’s architectural identity and design regulations. We are honored to contribute to a project that combines elegance, functionality, and spirituality – reflecting Makkah’s significance and the Kingdom’s vision for world-class urban development.” Mr. Fuad Al Amri, NUMU Company President, added: “Collaborating with AJi ensures that Masar Branded Residences will meet the highest standards of design and quality. Together, we aim to deliver a development that complements Makkah’s skyline and enriches its …

Rotana announced the upcoming launch of Rotana DISCOVERY on 1 December 2025, its new global loyalty programme developed under the framework of its membership in the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and integrated into the award-winning GHA DISCOVERY platform. The launch marks the transition of Rotana Rewards Select into Rotana DISCOVERY, connecting members to a world of benefits. Through this partnership, Rotana’s loyalty members gain access to 950 hotels across 100 countries and join a global community of over 32 million travellers. This milestone reinforces Rotana’s long-term commitment to delivering on its brand promise of Treasured Time while expanding its international recognition and loyalty reach. The introduction of Rotana DISCOVERY marks a key milestone in the company’s international growth ambitions. As Rotana continues to expand its presence across the MENAT region and beyond, the partnership with GHA strengthens its ability to deliver greater value to guests, partners, and owners. With more than 79 operating hotels and a robust development pipeline across multiple markets, Rotana remains focused on innovation and connectivity as central pillars of its hospitality strategy. Philip Barnes, Chief Executive Officer of Rotana, said: “Hospitality has always been about people, the connections we make, the moments we share, and the recognition that makes every guest feel valued with a real sense of belonging. With Rotana DISCOVERY, we are deepening those connections while expanding our reach on a global scale. This partnership with Global Hotel Alliance allows us to bring the essence of Rotana’s hospitality to new audiences around the world, reinforcing our brand’s position as a regional leader with an international footprint built on trust, consistency, and genuine care.” Chris Hartley, Chief Executive Officer of Global Hotel Alliance, said: “The …

At the eighth edition of the Arabian Travel Awards in Dubai, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island was recognised as the Best Family Friendly Resort in Northern Emirates. Arabian Travel Awards referred to as the Oscars of the industry honour the visionaries, innovators, and leaders who have significantly contributed to the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. It was a night which celebrated excellence, recognised achievements. The aim is to encourage them to continue promoting travel, tourism, and hospitality in the region. Fair and unbiased, the Arabian Travel Awards follow a systematic method of internet-based voting. These awards are supported by Tourismbreakingnews.ae, TravelTVmiddleeast.news, and TravTalk Middle East, premier media partners for the event’s coverage. The awards are divided into four categories: Personal Awards, Business Awards, Trending Awards, and Partner Awards. They include awards for Best Business Hotel, Best Family Friendly Hotel, Best City Hotel, Best Green Hotel, Best Leisure Hotel, Best Destination Management Company, Best Hotel Apartments, Best B2B Travel Portal, and Best Luxury Hotel to name a few.

Rua Al Madinah Holding, a PIF company, and Adeera signed a partnership agreement to operate and manage two buildings comprising 250 hotel rooms and 120 luxury residential units under its brand Alia, within Rua Al Madinah Project, which is being developed near the Prophet’s Mosque. The signing comes as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the hospitality sector and empower national brands within its large-scale development projects. Naif bin Saleh Al Hamdan, Chairman of Rua Al Madinah Holding, stated: “This partnership with Adeera reflects our commitment to empowering national capabilities in the hospitality sector and strengthening their presence within our major development projects. Rua Al Madinah Project represents a continuation of our efforts to realize the objectives of the Public Investment Fund and Saudi Vision 2030, advancing sustainable development that reinforces Madinah’s position as a leading cultural and urban destination.” For his part, Eng. Ahmed Al Juhani, CEO of Rua Al Madinah Holding, emphasized that the collaboration with Adeera marks a promising new beginning for local companies in hotel management within Rua Al Madinah Project, which brings together leading global hospitality brands. He added that this agreement is the first of its kind and expressed his optimism that Adeera will play a key role in enhancing hospitality services, reflecting authentic Saudi identity while maintaining the highest international standards. Stefan Leser, CEO of Adeera Hospitality, stated that “Rua Al Madinah Project represents a distinctive addition to the Kingdom that will serve millions of visitors.” He expressed his delight in partnering with Rua Al Madinah Holding on this ambitious project and affirmed Adeera’s commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s efforts in serving the Guests of the Two Holy Mosques. Leser added …

A landmark transformation unfolds in Dubai Production City as Vintage Grand Hotel joins the prestigious Marriott portfolio, becoming the area’s only five-star hotel and the first Marriott-branded hotel and executive apartments in the community. This milestone marks a bold new chapter in UAE hospitality, blending international standards of opulence, design innovation, and connectivity in one exceptional destination. From 18 November 2025, guests can enjoy all the privileges of Marriott Bonvoy® – Marriott’s award-winning global travel and loyalty program, including exclusive rewards, points, and benefits across more than 8,000 hotels worldwide, as well as recognition and privileges in Dubai Production City. The property’s full transformation will come into fruition in Q1 2026 with the debut of the Marriott Hotel and the UAE’s largest Marriott Executive Apartments – a dual-branded destination redefining short and long stays with exceptional space, service, and sophistication. The reimagined property, comprising two distinctive towers, has been thoughtfully designed to cater to both transient and long-stay guests. The hotel tower will embody the refined comfort and timeless sophistication of Marriott Hotels, while the serviced apartment tower will transition into Marriott Executive Apartments, ideal for long-stay residents and relocation clients seeking a seamless balance of magnificence and convenience. As the only five-star property in Dubai Production City, it also offers the largest room and apartment inventory in the area, complemented by a diverse range of room categories to suit business travelers, families, and long-term guests alike. Drawing inspiration from Marriott’s global design ethos, the transformed spaces feature modern interiors, elegant furnishings, and cutting-edge in-room technology, creating a sense of warmth and sophistication throughout. The hotel’s enhanced F&B portfolio introduces multiple new dining venues and bars, each blending stylish design with …

Naeem Darkazally is a hospitality leader with commercial and asset management experience. His career path is filled with rich experience. He has worked in senior management positions with leading international hotel chains, such as Marriott, IHG, Le Meridien, and Millennium & Copthorne, as well as major grassroots operators like Rotana, where he was a key player in successfully opening 12 Rotana hotels in various destinations. Owning the Abjar Group, he managed to restructure a multi-branded franchised hotel’s all commercial disciplines. In April 2021, Darkazally moved to Tourism Authorities — firstly in Ajman, UAE and thereafter at Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism — as a hospitality advisor on strategies and developments.