Top 3 Headlines
Jumeirah puts Burj Al Arab into phased restoration mode
Jumeirah has confirmed that the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab will undergo a carefully phased restoration programme aimed at preserving the icon’s legacy while enhancing its interiors with conservation-led detailing. The move matters because it signals continued capex into one of Dubai’s most recognised luxury assets rather than a light-touch refresh, with likely implications for inventory management, guest messaging and premium market positioning.
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai launches 2026 enhancement programme
The 1,608-room JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai says it has started a large enhancement project starting April 2026 covering all guestrooms and suites, both executive lounges, and several signature dining venues including Prime68, Vault and Kitchen6. The scale of the project makes it one of the more commercially relevant UAE hotel updates this week, particularly for corporate travel buyers and competitors tracking product repositioning in the upper-upscale and luxury segments.
Accor expands Egypt portfolio with Pullman New Capital project
Accor has signed a deal with Contact Developments to launch the Pullman New Capital Hotel & Residences in Egypt, marking the brand’s debut in Cairo and expanding its presence in a key growth market. Located on Mohammed Bin Zayed Road in the New Administrative Capital, the development will include a 150-room five-star hotel and 100 branded residences. The project will feature dining outlets, event spaces, a spa, fitness centre and pool, targeting business and leisure travellers.
Noteworthy
- Chedi Hospitality has partnered with Rawasi Development to explore a new mountain destination in Jabal Bausher, Oman, featuring a hotel, residences and lifestyle components integrated into the natural landscape.
- Hilton has appointed a new Cluster General Manager, Michael Schmitt, across Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, and DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences.
- The Public Investment Fund has announced plans to support over 100,000 hotel rooms, 70 tourism experiences and major infrastructure projects by 2030.
- Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry is planning a domestic tourism campaign with the Hotels Sector Business Group to boost occupancy and local travel demand. The initiative will focus on bundled offers linking hospitality, retail and entertainment to strengthen Sharjah’s tourism economy.
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWCT) Hospitality has shared its record-breaking year serving 1.28 million guests across 2,578 events in 2025, marking a 37% increase year-on-year. The growth highlights Dubai’s rising status as a global hub for exhibitions, conferences and large-scale events.
- Rotana has launched a 30-night “Monthcation” package across its global portfolio, offering fixed monthly rates and long-stay benefits including breakfast, laundry and loyalty rewards.
- The UAE has recorded strong hospitality performance in early 2026, with hotel occupancy reaching around 85% and revenues exceeding AED 9.8 billion, up 17% year-on-year.
