Top 3 Headlines

Cruise Saudi’s Saba Beach Island nears key development milestone

Cruise Saudi’s private Red Sea retreat, Saba Beach, is progressing rapidly through its phased development, with phase one set to conclude by October. Located 220 nautical miles from Jeddah, the 5km-long island can host up to 3,000 cruise passengers and blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, including nods to historic coral-built fishing homes.

Current amenities include 2,000 sunbeds, 25 cabanas, beachside dining, and watersports. Future expansions will add VIP villas, retail spaces, kids’ areas, and a cruise pier, enhancing access and guest experience as the island positions itself as a standout Saudi cruise destination.

Jumeirah CEO confirms global portfolio doubling by 2030

Jumeirah Group is on track to double its brand portfolio by 2030, according to CEO Thomas B. Meier, with a focus on growth in Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. The Dubai-based hospitality brand currently operates 31 properties across 13 countries, including recent launches in Tanzania, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia.

Expansion plans include three new Dubai properties and a renovated hotel in Geneva. Meier highlighted a rising demand for culturally connected, wellness-oriented luxury experiences, with staycations and tourism both driving strong performance across the group.

Bahrain’s Sama Bay speeds ahead with 90% of phase two complete

Sama Bay, the Galali waterfront development, is nearing full completion as Phase Two hits 90%. Spearheaded by Millet Engineering Bureau, the project has already delivered public beaches, 14 retail units, and a food truck zone. Phase two ramps will see 12 new restaurant venues across six buildings, open-air gyms, padel courts, and relaxation zones. With events like Bahrain Sports Day under its belt, Sama Bay is cementing its status as a coastal hotspot aligned with Bahrain’s tourism strategies. 

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Noteworthy:

1. The Global Visitors Summit (GVS) is coming to Dubai. Taking place from 25-26 August at the SO/ Uptown Hotel Dubai, the event will bring together 80 top-tier travel buyers from key markets to connect with the UAE’s travel and hospitality industry.
2. Ascott is targeting rapid growth of its Crest Collection, adding over 1,200 units across East Asia and the Middle East, including its debut in Saudi Arabia, with properties like Al Mahra Resort in Ras Al Khaimah set to open in early 2027 and another in Riyadh by 2028.
3. DMCC and Signature Developers broke ground on the 38-storey W Residences Dubai – Jumeirah Lakes Towers aiming to deliver 38 stories and nearly 185 branded apartments and penthouses with panoramic views, developed in partnership with Marriott International.
4. Wyndham has launched a “Great Escapes” summer sale offering up to 15% off stays and double Rewards points for bookings made at participating hotels in Oman, Qatar, Turkey, the UAE, and Morocco by 20 June for travel through until 29 August 2025.
5. In Oman, Barceló Mussanah Resort has enhanced sustainability efforts by implementing an Ecobia Bio-Digester to convert food waste into fertiliser for its gardens, reduce disposal costs, and improve hygiene. 
6. The ATM Travel Trends Report 2025 highlights a luxury hotel boom with over 170 luxury properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and projects Middle East tourism spending will nearly reach US$350 billion by 2030. 
7. Bringing experience from IHG’s Abu Dhabi and Yas Island properties, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa has appointed Fady Atwan as Area Commercial Director to lead its commercial strategy and revenue growth efforts. 
8. Deepika Padukone stars in Hilton‘s new campaign, “It Matters Where You Stay,” which highlights the small moments and thoughtful touches that make a hotel stay memorable.
9. Jumeirah celebrates Global Wellness Day on June 14th with a program of wellness experiences at its hotels. In the UAE, activities include sunrise yoga and turtle rehabilitation tours at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, somatic yoga and breathwork at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, and morning yoga, cold plunges, and wellbeing booths at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, among others.
10. Al Habtoor, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, celebrated its valued partners with a luxurious event featuring fine dining, live entertainment, and networking opportunities, honouring their contributions to the group’s success.