Category Archives: Hotels

IHG® Hotels & Resorts and Sharjah Asset Management announced the signing of a management agreement to bring a voco hotel to Sharjah, UAE. The new hotel is poised to contribute to the growth and advancement of Sharjah’s tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world. As the first IHG hotel in the Emirate, the voco hotel aims to open in 2027. It will comprise 191 rooms, helping boost Sharjah’s offering as one of the top destinations in the region. The hotel will be located in a prime position near the Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club on the Al Dhaid-Masafi Road, and will offer convenient access to Sharjah International Airport. As part of a masterplan encompassing retail spaces, offices, and SAM’s headquarters, the vibrant mixed-use environment is expected to attract tourists, business, and corporate guests.

Fairmont Ramla serviced residences Riyadh, Fairmont’s first serviced residences in KSA, is now open to the public. With 249 exquisite residences, Fairmont Ramla seamlessly blends authentic Saudi heritage with modern luxury apartments, which range in size from spacious one-bedroom suites to four-bedroom penthouses. More than just a place to stay, Fairmont Ramla promises an unforgettable journey immersed in rich cultural details. Standing tall with its magnificent 35 floors, the property graces Riyadh’s skyline as a symbol of opulent living, offering an unparalleled experience and lifestyle. Jointly unveiled by Fairmont Hotels and Resorts in partnership with Naif AL Rajhi Investment, this architectural masterpiece proudly resides in the vibrant heart of Riyadh, poised to become the epitome of sophistication and comfort for discerning travelers and families seeking a sense of home during extended stays. The hotel’s leisure facilities embody uncompromising luxury. Two stunning rooftop infinity pools reflect the azure skies, while two state-of-the-art gyms provide a haven for wellness for men and women. Atop these lavish amenities, guests are greeted with breathtaking vistas of Riyadh’s cityscape. Fairmont Ramla also caters to families, weaving a captivating tale of leisure. At the heart of this narrative lies the Falcon Kids Club, a sanctuary for our young guests aged 4-12. Within this enchanting world, children can enjoy educational and sporting adventures, allowing parents to steal away moments of relaxation.

Hilton has announced plans to open over 50 new hotels across 10 of its brands, making the country the company’s largest pipeline market in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Commenting on Hilton’s growth in Saudi Arabia, Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa, said: “Saudi Arabia’s rapid evolution continues to provide exciting growth opportunities for Hilton, and we’re working closely with our owners to introduce more award-winning hospitality brands in existing and new locations throughout the country. These latest signings are strong examples of our diversified growth in up-and-coming, large-scale developments such as Laysen Valley in Riyadh and our commitment to unlock tourism potential in the secondary cities.” Hilton has accelerated its growth strategy in Saudi Arabia in recent years, announcing multiple signings as the company works towards its plans to increase its portfolio to more than 75 trading properties across the country. The latest of these signings include Conrad Hotels & Resorts entry into the heart of the Saudi capital with Conrad Riyadh Laysen Valley, which is set to open in 2025. Hilton’s growth continues in secondary cities, with the recent signings in Abha, Hilton The Point Residences and Canopy by Hilton The Point, both due to open in 2026. With plans to more than quadruple its presence in Saudi Arabia over the next few years, Hilton is working closely with leading owners and developers to enhance business and leisure travel destinations throughout the country.

Radisson Hotel Group is expanding its presence in Morocco with the opening of Radisson Blu Residences, Saidia, its eighth hotel in the country. The hotel comprises 13 contemporary units made up of suites, studios, and apartments with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the region’s renowned landscapes. Fully equipped with modern appliances and amenities, expansive living areas and kitchens, the residences provide unparalleled comfort whether traveling alone or with a family. Guests can enjoy the two large pools to cool off from the sun, take a stroll along the pristine beach known as the “Blue Pearl” for its crystal blue waters, or explore the beautiful Mediterranean flora. For the ultimate relaxation, guests have access to the spa and traditional Moroccan hammam at the adjacent Radisson Blu Resort, Saidia Beach for an authentic Moroccan experience.

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, the first Marriott Hotels resort in the UAE, has unveiled its spectacular collection of premium Suites and Penthouses. Each a secluded haven with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline.  In the Presidential Suite, a newly imagined experience awaits guests as they elevate beyond the everyday. Accommodating up to six guests, the 400-sq-m sanctuary features a private bar and entertaining area, spacious living and dining areas and dynamic bathroom experiences with sauna. Furthermore, guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen and panoramic views over Dubai Marina and Ain Dubai. Offering elevated amenities, the Royal Penthouse boasts sweeping city and sea views and an expansive private outdoor terrace with a private jacuzzi. Sleeping up to six, this lavishly appointed penthouse offers distinguished amenities complete with thoughtful design elements to ensure guest enjoyment is a priority. In-suite comforts include a fully equipped bar and entertainment area, kitchen with Lavazza coffee machine and a spacious master suite with a separate lounge. The enhanced bathroom experience with walk-in showers and large baths complemented with Maison D’asa amenities and a private sauna, is not to be missed! Meanwhile, the allure of the Palm Penthouse lies in its expansive terrace offering the ideal entertaining area with outdoor bar, sun deck, premium cabanas, jacuzzi and alfresco dining spaces. Sleeping up to six guests, in-suite comforts include Maison D’asa amenities, walk-in showers and large baths. A fully equipped bar and entertainment area adorns the living room along with a kitchen with Lavazza coffee machine and a stunning master suite with a separate lounge. Other Suites unveiled at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai include the Palm Suite, Executive Suite and Palm Family …

IHG Hotels and Resorts announced the signing of franchise agreements with subsidiaries of Aqarat, Kuwait’s real estate company in relation to two new Vignette Collection hotels which will launch IHG’s new collection brand to the Middle East later this summer. The hotels will be managed by United Hospitality Management. The Palm Dubai Beach Resort, Vignette Collection in UAE (162 rooms), and Vignette Collection in Kuwait City (194 rooms) join Vignette Collection’s family of distinctive, elegant, and intriguing luxury and lifestyle hotels. Each Vignette Collection property is unique yet connected by a shared vision to make positive change for people, place and planet. Created for the next generation of luxury & lifestyle traveler, each property is distinguished in its character and design, always with the discerning eye of the thoughtful venturer in mind. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are thrilled to announce the signing of two remarkable Vignette Collection hotels in Dubai and Kuwait as we continue to expand our luxury and lifestyle portfolio in the region. The partnership with Aqarat and the opening of these hotels marks an important milestone for IHG Hotels & Resorts, as we cater to the growing number of guests who seek luxury experiences that differ from conventional hotel and resort offerings.” Vignette Collection is IHG Hotels & Resorts first collection brand and the latest addition to its fast-growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio which is now one of the world’s largest with more than 450 open hotels and over 100,000 rooms. It joins IHG’s exceptional portfolio of luxury and lifestyle brands including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, …

Since opening its doors one year ago, The Ritz-Carlton, Amman has become one of the premier hospitality and leisure destinations in Jordan’s bustling capital city, providing impeccable service to guests from around the world and garnering a wealth of international attention and acclaim. Now celebrating its one-year anniversary—on the sidelines of Jordan’s 77th Independence Day and the highly anticipated wedding of HRH Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II—The Ritz-Carlton, Amman is eagerly setting its sights on its many years of exceptional hospitality to come. The Ritz-Carlton, Amman commenced its operations with an opening ceremony inaugurated by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein, demonstrating the significance of the property as a new national landmark. Marking the official arrival of the globally renowned Ritz-Carlton brand to the Kingdom, the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Amman quickly attracted the attention of Ladies and Gentlemen the world over and was even featured as one of the ‘Most Anticipated Hotel Openings of 2022’  by Forbes Travel Guide. Commenting on its achievements, Tareq Derbas, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Amman, said, “The Ritz-Carlton has achieved incredible success in the hospitality industry through its dedication to service excellence and unparalleled guest experiences. We are proud of the accomplishments that have been made so far and are committed to continue raising the bar for our guests and the luxury hospitality scene here in Jordan.” Situated in the heart of Jordan’s vibrant capital, The Ritz-Carlton, Amman has proven to be a stunning addition to the city skyline, soaring 20 stories high and evoking a style that is at once timelessly elegant and effortlessly modern. Hosting 194 exquisite guest rooms and 34 suites—all of which provide guests with a …

Central Hotels & Resorts announced the launch of its latest sustainable tourism campaign that represents a significant step in enhancing the brand’s visual identity and reflects its unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable practices within the hotel industry. By taking proactive measures to reduce its environmental impact, Central Hotels & Resorts aims to raise awareness among its guests and fellow hospitality chains, inspiring them to follow suit in the journey towards a greener and more sustainable future. Scheduled for implementation in the fourth quarter of this year, Central Hotels & Resorts is eager to lead by example and drive positive change within the UAE’s hospitality landscape. As part of its dedication to sustainability, the brand will be introducing several impactful measures across all its hotels: Wooden Key Cards: In a bold move to minimize plastic waste, Central Hotels & Resorts will be replacing traditional plastic key cards with eco-friendly wooden alternatives. This shift not only demonstrates the brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility but also encourages guests to adopt more sustainable habits during their stay. Environmentally Friendly F&B Practices: Understanding the significance of sustainable dining experiences, Central Hotels & Resorts will be transitioning to use of environmentally friendly / biodegradable materials and practices in all its restaurants and dining areas. By making this change, the brand aims to reduce the consumption of single-use plastic and contribute to the overall reduction of plastic waste in the UAE. Water Bottle Implementation: Demonstrating its dedication to combatting plastic pollution, Central Hotels & Resorts will be taking the crucial step of eliminating plastic water bottles from its properties. Instead, the brand will introduce reusable water bottles for guests, providing them with a convenient and eco-conscious alternative …

Kerten Hospitality will enter its House Residence brand in Oxagon, home to advanced and clean industries in NEOM. This move will further Kerten Hospitality’s ambitious expansion across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The upscale 200-unit serviced apartments, at the heart of Oxagon’s first residential community, is set to open its doors in 2025. Reimagining the traditional industrial city, Oxagon is creating a new paradigm for urban living. Offices, world-class recreational and sports facilities, next-generation mobility solutions, and unique hospitality and retail concepts are all seamlessly integrated within communities, in harmony with nature. Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, said, “We are envisioning a transformation in the concept of living. The House Residence in NEOM’s Oxagon is more than just a project – it’s a statement of intent to catalyze the evolution of our habitats, foster thriving communities, and redefine the human experience. Our alliance with NEOM at Oxagon marks a crucial step as we contribute to the extraordinary transformation of Saudi Arabia. As the nation unfolds its tourism potential, we stand on the brink of a new era of global exposure. NEOM is set to be the beacon guiding this transformative tide, and our aim is to anchor the vibrant communities being built in Oxagon.” Vishal Wanchoo, CEO of Oxagon added, “One of the many reasons we’re excited about working with Kerten Hospitality is the way they interact and work with local talent and entrepreneurs to curate experiences and innovations tailored to our future residents. We feel that The House Residence concept embodies the neighbourhood atmosphere and lifestyle from the integration of F&B to advanced technologies, that’s core to the mixed-use residential communities we’re building here at Oxagon.” Chris Newman, …

Wego inked a global partnership with IHG Hotel & Resorts to provide its users with a wider array of hotel offerings across the globe. Through this collaboration, Wego users will be able to search and book 15 of IHG’s 18 brands – worldwide – Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, avid hotels, Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites. Travellers will get access to over 4,000 open hotels across global destinations and ultimately find the perfect hotel stay that matches their requirements anywhere in the world. IHG’s latest offering will be promoted across all Wego’s channels, providing travellers with information on the latest properties and trendy destinations. Commenting on this strategic partnership, Craig Hewett, Chief Hotels Officer and Co-Founder, Wego, said: “Partnering with one of the world’s leading hotel companies, IHG Hotels & Resorts, reflects our commitment to provide our users with global hotel offerings and deals. Through this partnership, we will promote IHG Hotels & Resorts to our large user base in the MENA region and aim to convert more bookings to IHG’s global network of hotels.” James Britchford, Vice President Commercial, India, Middle East and Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to partner with Wego, the number one travel app in MENA for flight search and booking. Through this partnership, travellers will enjoy more convenience and access to 15 of our brands across our luxury & lifestyle, premium, essentials and suites portfolio in global destinations when booking their trip on Wego.” Wego compares …