More big name luxury hotels are expanding in the Middle East and here’s what travellers can look forward to in Oman, Saudi and Bahrain:

Mercure debuts in Oman

Mercure has made its debut in Oman with the soft opening of Mercure Muscat, marking the brand’s first hotel in the capital. Strategically located near Muscat International Airport, the hotel offers 186 rooms and suites, combining simplicity with panoramic views of the city, mountains, and sea. The property showcases Omani artistic traditions through calligraphy and urban art, and the property’s facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, health club, spa, as well as meeting and event spaces. The property also offers an authentic culinary experience through its ‘Discover Local’ programme that heroes regional specialties and international favorites made with locally sourced ingredients.

Valor opens in Saudi

Valor Hospitality Partners has entered Saudi with the signing of Hijla Hotel, a lifestyle 4-star property in Abha, in the Asir region. Owned by Mohammed Manaa Almounis, Samir Muhammad Al Qahtani, and Kayan Almusanada company, in collaboration with Tourism Development Fund (TDF), the hotel will open in the second term of 2025. Featuring 151 rooms and suites, two dining venues, meeting rooms, a convention center, swimming pool, fitness center, and private parking, the hotel’s opening marks a significant milestone in Valor’s Middle East expansion, with plans to further develop authentic properties that hero local cultures while meeting international standards.

Marriott launches new St. Regis property in Muscat

The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort has officially opened its doors in Oman’s capital, Muscat. The luxurious resort, inspired by yacht-like architecture and oceanic waves, features 250 rooms and suites, including multiple room duplexes with sweeping views of the ocean, golf course, or city skyline. Facilities include The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort offers world-class amenities, including award-winning restaurants like Hakkasan and Em Sherif, the first Guerlain Spa in Oman, and two ballrooms accommodating up to 1,000 guests. The resort also features the first St. Regis branded residences, offering one-to-four-bedroom apartments and townhouses blending Omani tradition with modern elegance.

Gulf Hotel Bahrain wins catering contract for Bahrain International Circuit

Gulf Hotel Bahrain has secured a three-year agreement with Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) to provide catering and hospitality services. Offer a wide range of cuisine from its restaurants, the partnership will cover BIC’s extensive events calendar, including international races, corporate events, as well as daily staff catering. BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa praised the hotel’s expertise in luxury catering, while Gulf Hotels Group CEO Ahmed Janahi emphasised the hotel’s leadership in the hospitality industry.