It’s game-on for hotels in the region with a new tallest hotel tower set to open in Dubai, Hyatt entering NEOM, Waldorf Astoria opening in Dubai, expansion plans for Rotana and Rove, and a new Marriott addition.
IHG to open Dubai’s tallest hotel tower
IHG Hotels and Resorts has announced the signing of Ciel, Vignette Collection, set to become the world’s tallest all-hotel tower when it opens in Dubai in 2025. The 80-plus floor landmark under the ownership of The First Group and the management of The First Group Hospitality, will feature 1,000 rooms and suites, three restaurants, the city’s highest infinity pool, fitness center, spa, and observation bar & lounge with uninterrupted views of Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf. Ciel joins IHG’s Vignette Collection, a family of unique, exclusive hotels offering rich stay experiences. The property has already earned seven major awards, including Best International Hotel Architecture and Best High-Rise Architecture Arabia.
Hyatt enters NEOM with two luxury brands
Hyatt is set to introduce two luxury hotels, Park Hyatt and Andaz, in Jaumur, NEOM. Slated to open in 2027, Park Hyatt Jaumur and Andaz Jaumur Marina will offer 350 luxurious rooms and suites, combining entertainment, leisure, and cultural experiences. Jaumur is a premium development featuring a state-of-the-art marina, deep-sea diving research center, and luxury living options. The hotels will cater to different tastes, with Park Hyatt Jaumur offering relaxation and cultural experiences, and Andaz Jaumur Marina celebrating art and creativity.
Rotana’s EMEA expansion
At the recent Future Hospitality Summit World (FHS) in Dubai, Rotana unveiled the group’s ambitious plans to develop 43 new properties in 26 MENAT region cities by 2026, adding 9,049 rooms. The expansion focuses on key markets, including the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), where Rotana aims to triple its presence to 6,000 rooms within three years. Key openings include Bloom Arjaan by Rotana in Abu Dhabi and Yasmina Rayhaan by Rotana in Riyadh (2025), and debut properties in Islamabad, Pakistan, and Gonio. African expansions include Dakar, Senegal, and Oran, Algeria.
Waldorf Astoria to debut in Dubai
Hilton and Aldar have joined forces to bring the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand to Abu Dhabi. Featuring 167 guest rooms and suites, many with mangrove views, and personalised concierge service, guests will also enjoy multiple ining options including a brasserie, rooftop restaurant, pool lounge, and the celebrated Peacock Alley. The hotel will also offer three swimming pools, a fitness club, and spa. This addition bolsters Hilton’s UAE portfolio of 35+ hotels, including three Waldorf Astoria properties.
Rove expands into branded residences
Rove Hotels has partnered with IRTH Group to launch Rove Home Dubai Marina, a branded residential development located next to Dubai Marina Mall. This project marks a new chapter for the homegrown brand, offering a vibrant take on modern living with a focus on wellness and an active lifetyle. With plans to deliver 3,000 new residences over the next five years, Rove Home is expanding its branded residence concept across Dubai and beyond, building on the success of previous sold-out projects.
Gulf Hotels Bahrain teams up with Marriott
Gulf Hotels Group has partnered with Marriott International to integrate its iconic Gulf Hotel Bahrain into Marriott’s Autograph Collection Hotels. This strategic agreement enables Gulf Hotel Bahrain to leverage Marriott’s global systems and loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, while retaining its management and iconic name. The hotel will undergo a three-year renovation and rebranding process to deliver best-in-class comfort and standards. A key benefit from this collaboration is access to Marriott Bonvoy’s loyalty program.
Four Seasons Dubai celebrates a decade in bloom
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach will be celebrating its 10-year legacy with a spectacular floral installation by renowned artistic director, Jeff Leatham. The display will be on from 12 Oct – 8 Nov 2024, transforming the lobby into a breathtaking experience. Inspired by nature and Dubai’s culture, Leatham’s design evokes the resort’s tropical surroundings. His impressive portfolio includes clients like the Kardashians and Oprah. A grand ceremony on 12 October will unveil the installation. Guests can experience it by staying or dining at the resort.
Three Marriott hotels earn Green Globe Certification
Three Marriott Group hotels in Dubai have achieved Gold certification from Green Globe Certification (GGC) for their eco-friendly operational practices. The Delta Hotel by Marriott Jumeirah Beach and two Four Points by Sheraton properties (Bur Dubai and Sheikh Zayed Road) underwent rigorous audits by Farnek, a sustainability consultancy, and surpassed 380 sustainability indicators with ratings of 93% and above.
The hotels implemented various eco-friendly projects, including food recycling, waste management, automated air conditioning cleaning, and solar water heaters. The Delta Hotel also introduced innovative initiatives, including reusable laundry bags made from old guest linen and energy-efficient lighting. Cluster Property General Manager Karolina Paliszewska praised staff contributions, stating that the certification assures guests of the hotels’ commitment to responsible tourism. Farnek has certified over 100 hotels in the MENA region, resulting in significant energy and water savings.
