Top 3 Headlines
Sunset Hospitality Group launches Cicchetti in Rabat
Expanding into Morocco with the opening of Cicchetti at The View Hotel in Rabat, marks SHG’s first venue in the capital. The launch, in partnership with Experienciah and San Carlo Group, adds Rabat to Cicchetti’s international footprint, which includes London, Dubai and Riyadh.
Inspired by Venice’s traditional bacari, the concept offers a modern take on shared Italian dining. Led by Executive Chef Alessandro Lanza, the menu features dishes such as truffle ravioli, porcini risotto and Sicilian arancini, using premium imported ingredients.
Kempinski debuts branded residences in Makkah’s Masar development
Kempinski Group has announced its first branded residences project in Saudi Arabia with the launch of Kempinski Residences at Masar in Makkah. Developed in partnership with Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction, the project will feature 302 serviced units with flexible ownership options, alongside a Kempinski hotel and retail options within the wider Masar masterplan near the Grand Mosque.
Amenities will include executive lounges, wellness facilities, signature dining, and concierge services. The project marks Kempinski’s entry into the Kingdom’s branded residences market.
AI-powered network to elevate Red Sea Global’s luxury resorts
HPE is supporting Red Sea Global’s ambitious hospitality expansion with a self-driving, AI-native network designed to enhance connectivity, sustainability, and guest experience across its destinations.
Built on HPE Aruba Networking, the infrastructure includes around 17,000 access points and 10,000 devices, enabling seamless, high-performance Wi-Fi for up to 20,000 users at the same time. The system supports smart destination management, real-time monitoring, and personalised digital services.
Noteworthy
- Bvlgari Resort Dubai has unveiled the Serpenti Beach Club on Jumeirah Bay, introducing a fashion-inspired beachfront concept. The venue integrates Bvlgari’s iconic Serpenti motif across its design, adding to Dubai’s rapidly expanding premium beach club scene.
- Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has taken over management of the historic Old Cataract Hotel, with a phased renovation planned ahead of its relaunch as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan in 2027. The move aims to preserve the hotel’s heritage while elevating its luxury offering.
- A long-standing hotel in Dubai Media City has ceased operations after nearly two decades, marking the end of a key hub for media and business travellers. The property is expected to exit Radisson Hotel Group’s portfolio by 2027, and signs on the doors say something else should be coming soon.
- IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed agreements to launch two Holiday Inn properties in Aswan, marking the brand’s debut in the historic destination. The developments, Holiday Inn Aswan and Holiday Inn Resort New Aswan, will add 400 keys to IHG’s Egypt portfolio, with openings planned for 2029 and 2030.
Jabal Omar Development Company has secured a licence from the Saudi Ministry of Tourism to operate the third and final tower of the Rotana Hotel within the Jabal Omar project in Makkah. The Rotana Jabal Omar Hotel spans three towers with a total of 655 rooms and suites, with the newly licensed tower contributing 205 keys. Facilities include multiple dining outlets, meeting rooms, and a health club, catering to both pilgrims and visitors.
