Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah is best known for its glitz, glam, and mega-resorts, but tucked between the big names is a boutique gem that’s doing things a tad differently. Enter Tumbi Hotel Dubai The Palm, part of Hilton’s character-rich Tapestry Collection, and the first in what’s set to be a growing wellness-focused brand across the Middle East.
Their aim is to offer a cosy, stylish, and refreshingly personal stay, akin to staying with a friend who just happens to have really great taste.
Recently, we caught up with Babar Khanyari, the hotel’s General Manager, to learn about the story behind the Tumbi brand, what makes the hotel a standout on The Palm, and how they are balancing technology with the human touch to create a stay that feels anything but cookie-cutter.
Tell us the story behind the Tumbi brand and being part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection.
The Tumbi brand is based on the hotel owner’s name. The brand stands for a heartfelt, homely and genuine hospitality experience with a focus on health and wellness. This property is the first in the collection, with at least two more in planning stages, with locations potentially in RAK, Saudi and possibly Indonesia. The hotel offers 171 keys, nine suites, spa & sauna, plus an infinity pool with one of the best spots to enjoy sunset.
The Tapestry Collection, by Hilton brand offers something different from the typical Hilton stay. Tapestries traditionally are unique in character, inspired by local touch. This international collection of independent, boutique hotels offer vibrant designs and unique one of a kind experiences.
What sets Tumbi Hotel Dubai The Palm apart from other hotels?
Two things differentiate the hotel from others on the palm. For starters, its location. Nestled between some of the larger properties on the west side of the trunk of The Palm, the property is a welcome break from the intense bustle that can sometimes overwhelm visitors. However the hotel is located only a few minutes walk from some of the best beach clubs and restaurants along the Palm West Beach boardwalk, including Koko Bay and February 30 Dubai.
Secondly, the hotel really focuses on ensuring it’s culinary offering suits its guests. The hotel’s main restaurant, dEATox, centers on guests looking to maintain healthy eating patterns whilst traveling for work of pleasure. The menu is designed to offer healthier options and offers dietary information that enables guests to easily count macros and track calories.
How is the hotel harnessing new technology to improve the guest experience?
One of the primary benefits of being part of the larger Hilton Group is the access to the suite of world leading technology offerings, including the Hitlion App, Hilton Honors program and OPERA PMS (property management software). These platforms support with sales distribution, customer retention and stay management.
Tumbi is also committed to improving the personalisation of each guest’s experience by paying close attention to guest profiles and tweaking the offering to suit where possible. However, while technology is seen as an enabler, it’s no replacement for the lasting impression of the human touch.
Social media is also being embraced by the property to aid guest research, and convey the property’s sense of fun and youthful personality.
We always like to ask those in the industry about their favourite recommendations when visiting their city. Any tips for first time visitors to Dubai?
Absolutely, the Souq in Old Dubai is a must-visit to get a sense of the history and charm of the city’s heritage. It’s also a marvel to see how the city has evolved so quickly into a metropolis.
Also read: Dubai: Local culture & heritage
