Category Archives: Hotels

Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour is slated to open by Q1 2024 with 96 suites and two penthouses. The highly anticipated opening is part of the Bahrain Financial Harbour, a commercial waterfront development located in Bahrain Bay. With 96 suites and two penthouses, the property will provide an exceptional location for hotel guests and residents to enjoy spectacular coastal views of the Arabian Gulf while being conveniently located in the heart of the capital city’s up-and-coming business and residential district.

Swissotel Al Murooj Dubai won ‘Best 5 Star Business Hotel’ at the sixth edition of the most coveted industry awards, the Arabian Travel Awards 2023. Amro Nagah – General Manager – Swissotel Al Murooj shared, “This award, gives me the confidence to go back to my team and celebrate with them and make sure that we provide a superior service to every individual, which again gives us self confidence with this prestigious award and we are really honoured to have won it.”

It was announced on the sidelines of COP 28 that WTTC and Sustainable Hospitality Alliance will launch ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’ which is a verification (or stamp) for hotels and lodging accommodation to meet 9 out of 12 criteria which includes water, energy and treatment of employees to name a few in order to obtain this certification. This is aimed mainly at small and medium hotels as the bigger names already have their own schemes. Julia Simpson, President and CEO WTTC shared, ‘ I’m proud to say that with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance we have launched ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics stamp’. It is a verification that a hotel or a lodging accommodation that is used by tourists has met a certain standard and the reason we’re doing that is some of the big companies like Hilton’s and Intercontinental, the Marriotts have their very sophisticated sustainability schemes that look at water as well as other energy uses, but 80% of our sector we think are small and medium hotels. They don’t necessarily have access to the know-how or the resources. Some are very advanced but not all of them do so, hence, we wanted to create something created by the industry, for the industry so we reached out to the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and created a stamp called the basics and part of that is a hotel will have to meet nine out of 12 criteria in different categories. One of them is water the other is energy use another is how they work with their suppliers and their communities and another really important part is how they treat their employees so it’s a really useful tool but it’s only a stepping stone …

After the record-breaking 2023 edition of the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia, which saw over 1,100 delegates from 35+ countries attend, the Kingdom’s most influential hospitality investment event returns to Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh from 29 April to 1 May 2024. Launched in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s G20 Secretariat in 2020, FHS Saudi Arabia brings together the hospitality investment community’s industry leaders and decision-makers to discuss development, investment, entrepreneurship, sustainability, innovation, and human capital with insights on the continued growth of the Kingdom’s hospitality and tourism sectors. With the support of host sponsors Al Faisaliah Hotel and Al Khozama Investment, this will be the seventh industry conference organised by The Bench for the Saudi market. “We are thrilled to welcome back Al Faisaliah Hotel and Al Khozama Investment as our host sponsors after the resounding success of this year’s event at the iconic Al Faisaliah Hotel,” said Jonathan Worsley, Chairman of The Bench. “The objectives of FHS Saudi Arabia are strategically aligned with Vision 2030, and our carefully curated programme will focus on the development and sustainable growth of the hospitality industry in Saudi Arabia, the adoption of tech, innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector, as well as investment and job creation opportunities.” FHS Saudi Arabia 2024 will address the Kingdom’s latest developments and the industry’s hottest topics under the theme “Invest in Tomorrow: Today, Together,” with conference tracks focused on hospitality investment, industry entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and human capital. “The FHS Saudi Arabia Advisory Board convened in Riyadh last month to discuss and shape the event programme and we look forward to developing their invaluable input on topics and speakers into a thought-provoking three-day agenda,” said Tanja …

Radisson Hotel Group announces the opening of Radisson Blu Hotel, Amman Galleria Mall, a new contemporary hotel located in the bustling heart of Jordan’s capital city with 178 modern rooms and suites. This new addition promises to offer an unmatched experience for business and leisure travelers in Amman. Located inside the Galleria Mall, one of the most prestigious shopping centers in Amman, the hotel boasts 178 modern rooms and suites. The hotel’s design seamlessly blends contemporary aesthetics in neutral tones with authentic Jordan-inspired accents, creating a unique and stylish ambiance. The hotel’s prime location not only provides easy access to top dining destinations such as Swefieh Village and Wakalat Street but also serves as a gateway to explore Jordan’s vibrant culture and heritage, as well as historical treasures, such as the Amman Citadel and the Jordan Museum. Positioned approximately 30 kilometers from Queen Alia International Airport, the hotel is also perfect as a business base due to its proximity to King Hussein Business Park. Marwan Shennara, General Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel, Amman Galleria Mall, said “We are excited to welcome guests to our modern hotel in the heart of Amman. Our hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and elegance, tailored to provide an unforgettable experience for both leisure and business travelers.” The hotel offers a wide range of culinary experiences. Guests can begin their day with a sumptuous breakfast, including a variety of healthy options as well as classic favorites. L’Olivier, the hotel’s all day dining restaurant, features an extensive menu of dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. These dishes can be savored both indoors and on the outdoor terrace, providing a versatile dining experience. For a …

Hilton revealed that Embassy Suites by Hilton Dubai Business Bay will be the first for the brand in the UAE and is set to open in the bustling area of Business Bay, near Downtown Dubai. The 104-key property will offer both leisure and business travellers an approachable, upscale experience with world-class customer service. The hotel will feature one-bedroom suites and studios with picturesque views of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline, as well as a fully equipped fitness centre with an outdoor workout space, a swimming pool, a large ballroom, and flexible event spaces. Apart from enjoying complimentary made-to-order breakfast each morning, guests can experience the signature Embassy Suites by Hilton ‘Evening Reception’ offering for the first time in the UAE, giving guests an opportunity to unwind over complimentary snacks and beverages.

RAK Properties announced its strategic relationship with IHG Hotels & Resorts with the introduction of ‘Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab’ on Hayat Island. The 156-key Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab will offer studio, one and two-bedroom apartments blending contemporary design with spacious layouts. The 14-storey tower will feature a fully equipped fitness centre, breakfast and restaurant areas, combining idyllic island style living with the warm and authentic Arabic hospitality. Guests will also have direct beach access as well as benefit from the luxurious offering of the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa, located within walking distance. IHG has had a successful partnership with RAK Properties since the signing and opening of InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah in 2022. A testament to their collaborative excellence, the hotel is renowned for its luxurious accommodation, world-class dining options and exceptional spa experiences, making it an all-encompassing destination for travellers. Sameh Muhtadi, CEO, RAK Properties, commented: “We are delighted to partner with one of the world’s leading hotel companies, IHG Hotels & Resorts, to open our first Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab in Ras Al Khaimah. We’re witnessing a trend of blended stay, where guests arrive for business but then stay longer for personal travel, and we are plugging the gap for long serviced stay in the emirate. This concept will help us diversify and enhance our hospitality portfolio on Hayat Island, as well as contribute to our food & beverage offering as we look to add considerable additional appeal to our overall hospitality offering on Mina Al Arab.” According to a report by global network InterNations, Ras Al Khaimah has been ranked world’s fourth best city for expatriates to live and work, based …

Kempinski Hotels is returning to the Kingdom of Bahrain with a landmark hotel and residences in a new development in Bahrain Harbour, signing a deal with Infracorp, which currently has more than US $3 billion in assets under management. Kempinski Bahrain Harbour and The Residences at Kempinski Bahrain Harbour, will occupy one of three signature towers that are part of the mixed-use Bahrain Harbour development. The property will boast 74 guestrooms situated on the upper floors and an additional 186 Kempinski branded residences spread across the rest of the building, which is expected to open its doors by the end of 2025. “This landmark development re-establishes our foothold in Bahrain and our long-standing commitment to the Middle East,” says Bernold Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer Kempinski Group and Chairman of the Management Board of Kempinski AG. “At Kempinski Bahrain Harbour, guests will discover a warm European welcome in a setting that reflects the riches of the Arabian Gulf; a modern and sophisticated environment set around a wonderful marina at the heart of Bahrain’s financial district. We are thrilled to be partnering with Infracorp on this prestigious project.” Elegant and luxuriously appointed rooms and suites at Kempinski Bahrain Harbour and The Residences at Kempinski Bahrain Harbour, will be one of the highest towers in the Kingdom, offering elevated views across the marina and Manama skyline from floor-to- ceiling windows and private balconies. The guestrooms and branded residences will feature contemporary style interiors with soft colours, marble features and wooden textures, with accented feature walls and brass fixtures. Guests will also have access to a stunning rooftop swimming pool offering remarkable views, spa and wellness facilities, a fully equipped panoramic gym, tennis courts, …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche in Saudi Arabia, with 148 contemporary rooms and suites spanning six floors. The hotel is a vibrant & modern property launching on the picturesque coastal waterfront bordering the Red Sea. Part of IHG Hotels & Resorts ‘Essentials Collection’, Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche will blend the warmth and modernity of the Holiday Inn brand as it welcomes business and leisure travellers, as well as residents, to its brand-new property on Jeddah’s beachfront. The hotel will house 148 contemporary rooms and suites spanning six floors, complete with spacious bathrooms, high-speed internet, and satellite television for increased comfort. Room categories comprise of 102 King Leisure Rooms, 35 Queen Rooms, 11 Twin Rooms, and 10 sea-facing Suites with the inclusion of two dedicated differently abled mobility rooms, ensuring that there is an extensive selection of stay options to anticipate diverse guest needs and preferences. Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche will feature three unique dining destinations: Roshan, a cosy, all-day dining restaurant with a wide array of fresh dishes; Moood Café, a charming coffee and sweet treat bar in the lobby that also includes Starbucks Coffee; and the trendy Ya Mal Café, which serves a selection of light snacks and freshly squeezed juice mocktails by the pool, with sweeping views of the nearby Red Sea. The hotel will also operate 24/7 Room Service, ideal for guests who prefer to enjoy their meals in the comfort and privacy of their lodgings. Catering to its corporate visitors, the hotel has an open lobby business area with two high-tech, sunlit meeting rooms, able to hold up to 65 delegates in total, as well as a sizable Al …

STR data year-on-year up to September 2023 shows that average hotel occupancy in Manama is up by 5.9% compared to the same period in 2022, with RevPARs also up 4.9% YoY. This is despite average daily rates (ADRs) falling slightly at 1.0%. In July, it was announced that Edamah broke ground on two boutique hotels at Bilaj Al Jazayer – the four-star Avani and five-star Tivoli, both scheduled to open in 2025. Upon completion, the Bilaj Al Jazayer mixed-use 1.3 million square metre development master plan will also comprise residential villas and apartments, retail and F&B, entertainment and offices along the 3km beachfront. Fraser Suites is expanding its offering in Bahrain, signing with Seef Properties to operate in Al Liwan in Hamala. The new offering will provide 63 serviced apartment units, with a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, over three floors. The serviced apartment component is expected to open in Q4 2023. Heather Longden, Director – Advisory & Transactions, at CBRE in Bahrain comments: “We’ve seen slight uplifts in Bahrain’s hospitality and residential sectors in Q3 2023. In the residential market, although performance was mixed and quoted apartment sales rates dropped marginally year-on-on year, average quoted residential rents increased along with villa sales rates across the geographies. In the hospitality sector, occupancy rates increased by 5.9% compared to the same period in 2022 and RevPARs also grew by 4.9% in Manama. Other aspects of the market remained stable, as the commercial office and retail sectors continue to witness development with prominent projects due to complete soon, which will add to existing stock.”