Key players in the Gulf region are expanding their reach, Saudi is feeling an influx of hospitality, and Bahrain’s hotel sector is expanding to drive global tourism appeal. Here’s the latest in accommodation news from the Middle East.

Dusit to enter Saudi

Saudi’s Tourism Development Fund (TDF) has partnered with Dusit International to develop luxury hospitality projects in the kingdom. The agreement was signed WTM2024 and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, with Dusit International Group CEO Suphajee Suthumpun saying the Kingdom is a key focus for the brand’s growth.

Movenpick wins at World Luxury Hotel Awards

Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island took home two awards at the recently held World Luxury Hotel Awards in the UK. Named Luxury Private Pool Villa Continent winner for the Middle East, and Luxury Family Beach Resort Country winner for the UAE, the resort’s GM, Fabien Chesnias, attributed the success to the hard work of the team and the support of their guests.

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort revamp

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort has revealed its refurbished look featuring modern and sophisticated rooms and suites, a redesigned lobby, and new dining outlets. Guests can also look forward to the resort’s revamped recreational facilities including a private beach, outdoor pool, children’s pool, spa, and fitness centre.

DCT Abu Dhabi and WebBeds reignite partnership

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has renewed its strategic partnership with WeBbeds to enhance the emirate’s tourism landscape. Aimed at expanding Abu Dhabi’s presence in 30 more global markets, the collaboration leverages Webbeds’ vast travel distribution network. By also refining digital marketing strategies and optimising market positioning, DCT Abu Dhabi hopes to attract diverse visitor demographics and grow by 25% in hotel guests for 2024 – 2025.

Saudi hospitality licenses surge by 99% in Q3 2024

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector saw a striking 99% rise in the issuance of hospitality licenses in Q3 2024, marking a significant stride in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 tourism goals. This jump underscores Saudi’s focus on expanding its tourism infrastructure and creating new opportunities in hospitality. The Ministry of Tourism’s proactive policies and incentives have made it easier for investors, resulting in a boom in new projects and facilities across the country. The number of rooms have also increased by 107% reaching 443,200 rooms in the third quarter of 2024. 

RSG unveils the new Shebara Resort

Red Sea Global (RSG) will be opening the doors to Shebara Resort from November. The fourth resort at RSG to open, it’s the first built to offer a luxury experience with eco-friendly initiatives, including sustainable building practices and minimal environmental impact. 73 villas comprising of overwater and beachfront options are available on the doorstep of a pristine marine environment. Guests can also enjoy a nature-inspired spa, world-class cuisine, luxury amenities, and state of the art fitness centre. 

Al Habtoor Dubai joins Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Dubai’s Al Habtoor Group has joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts, enhancing its presence in the luxury market. As a part of this prestigious network, Al Habtoor will gain access to a global audience and exclusive benefits for its guests. This move is expected to elevate the group’s global brand recognition, aligning with its goals to deliver world-class hospitality experiences. As the only property in Dubai to gain access to this group so far, the partnership reflects both Preferred’s market expansion and Al Habtoor’s exclusivity. 

Rotana shares expansion plans

At WTM2024 in London, Rotana announced its ambitious expansion plans to develop 43 new properties across 24 cities, adding 9,049 rooms to its inventory. The company will debut in Georgia with the luxurious Pontus Rotana Resort & Spa in Gonio in 2026, and enter Pakistan with Rotana Islamabad in 2027. Over in Africa, Rotana will be growing its presence with upcoming openings in Senegal in 2026 and Algeria. Within the Middle East, new properties guests can look forward to include Bloom Arjaan by Rotana in Abu Dhabi set to open next year, and Yasmina Rayhaan by Rotana in Riyadh, also opening in 2025. Rotana’s Edge by Rotana brand will also see six new properties pop up across the MENAT region.

Bahrain’s hotel scene expands with new openings

Bahrain is experiencing a hospitality boom with several new hotels set to open, elevating the island’s appeal as a destination for luxury and leisure travelers:

• Hawar Resort by Mantis – Due to open in December, the resort set on the picturesque Hawar Islands, aims to attract both regional and international tourists with high-end accommodations and serene island experiences. This includes five dining concepts, leisure facilities, natural history and over 102 of luxury villas. 
• GFH and Kempinski launch Harbour Heights – GFH and Infracorp have partnered with Kempinski to launch Harbour Heights, a luxurious mixed-use development in Bahrain’s exclusive Harbour. Featuring the first Kempinski-branded Sky Villas, the project offers 260 waterfront apartments and hotel rooms with panoramic views. Amenities include Bahrain’s highest swimming pool, rooftop gardens, sports facilities, fine dining, and exclusive access to Kempinski services due in 2025/2026. 
• Gulf Hotels to open Time Out Bahrain – Launching three new restaurant concepts at Time Out Market Bahrain, Gulf Hotels Group will feature feature Doña by Margarita Mexicana, offering authentic Mexican cuisine crafted by Chef Ruben Herrera Aguilera, Zen by China Garden, showcasing Cantonese, Sichuan, and Peking dishes, and Kāju, a sophisticated take on Indian cuisine blending tradition with innovation. 
• METT Hotel announced – Esterad Amwaj Company has partnered with Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) to introduce upscale properties, including METT Hotel & Residences, Raise Fitness, and Isola Beach on Bahrain’s Amwaj Islands. The project will feature 220 keys, branded villas, and residences, bringing a new level of luxury and wellness to the Amwaj Beachfront.
• Tivoli and Avani Hotels coming soon- Bahrain will soon welcome the Tivoli and Avani hotels, with Minor Hotels at the helm, offering a blend of luxury and four-star accommodations that cater to both upscale and mid-range travellers. Due to complete in Q2 2026, the development will have more than 200 hotel rooms and 150 serviced residences along with a unique surf park and dining options.