Winning awards, being cost efficient and launches are keeping the Middle Eastern hospitality industry busy this week. Let’s see who’s doing what and where and who needs congratulating.

Dubai’s booming hospitality industry – a lucrative investment opportunity

It come as no surprise, but Dubai is currently leading the Middle East in hotel projects, with a whopping 19,200 rooms in the pipeline across 67 projects. According to a recent report by Les Roches Global Hospitality Education – ‘A Clear Roadmap for a Hotel Business Investment in Dubai’, occupancy levels are expected to continue its upward trend, with the city enjoying a record 90.8% occupancy rate earlier in February this year. The report highlights healthy demand in the market, with average daily rates and revenue per available room increasing by almost 10% and 13% respectively. Over the next seven years 46% of the developments fall in the luxe category, while 25% is in upmarket, and 4% in three-star properties.

Successful investments indlucing the likes of Atlantis The Royal and Jumeirah Hotels no doubt continue to demonstrate profitability potential in both the luxury and mid-range segments. According to industry experts, strategic growth, sustainability, and efficient management are key factors for success. The report also provides a comprehensive guide for investors, outlining key trends, strategies, and potential for growth. The ultimate tips from the experts for investors working in a competitive hotel market is ensuring passion is combined with research, understanding the market trends, and connecting with local experts to ensure long-term success and value creation.

AI-driven CAFM solutions can cut UAE hospitality maintenance costs by up to 20%

Smart FM solutions provider, HITEK Services, has reported a significant shift towards AI-driven computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) among hospitality professionals. CAFM solutions like CAFMTEK optimise operational efficiency, staff welfare, and sustainability by integrating with existing building management systems. These solutions provide real-time dashboards, 24/7 monitoring, and control over assets, locations, and resources. According to the HITEK, by streamlining energy, water, and maintenance management, hotels can reduce costs by up to 20% and improve space utilisation by 15%. HITEK’s Managing Director, Javeria Aijaz, notes that CAFMTEK supports the UAE’s net-zero pledge by 2050 and enhances the guest experience while reducing operational costs. Predictive maintenance, asset failure identification, and repair tracking are also key benefits of implementing CAFMTEK.

Dubai hotels win at World Luxury Awards 2024

FORM Hotel, a Design Hotels member and part of Marriott Bonvoy, has won two titles at the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2024: Luxury Boutique Hotel (UAE) and Luxury Urban Hotel (Middle East). This marks the hotel’s third consecutive year of recognition. General Manager Houssam Mansour attributed the success to his team’s dedication and passion for delivering exceptional experiences through personalized service, sophisticated design, and attention to detail. The awards add to FORM Hotel’s impressive collection, including Best Luxury Boutique Hotel and TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award.

Meanwhile, Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Hotel Suites & Apartments has won two prestigious titles at the World Luxury Awards 2024. The hotel was named Luxury Business Hotel – United Arab Emirates for its exceptional service to corporate travellers, while its Day & Night Restaurant won All-Day Buffet Dining – Middle East for its culinary excellence. General Manager Levent Tasbas expressed pride and gratitude, stating that the awards reflect the hotel’s unwavering commitment to excellence and reinforce its position as a leader in Dubai’s luxury hospitality sector.

Hyatt Centric Cairo West opens

Hyatt Centric Cairo West, Egypt’s first art-centered lifestyle hotel, has officially opened its doors. Located in the heart of Cairo, the hotel offers 301 stylishly curated rooms, a spacious pool, aqua gym, and fun features including an interactive art installation, podcast and guitar studio, and built-in billiard table. The hotel’s design embodies Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant art scene, with collaborations from 11 local artists transforming each space into a contemporary art gallery. The hotel marks the entry of the Hyatt Centric brand in Africa and the second Hyatt-branded hotel in Cairo.

Shurooq-Lux Collective resorts to complete in Q4 2025

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and The Lux Collective have announced significant progress in the construction of the two luxury eco-resorts in Sharjah: Lux Al Jabal Resort in Khorfakkan and Lux Al Bridi Resort in Al Dhaid. With a total investment of AED320 million ($87 million), the resorts are expected to be completed by Q4 2025.

Lux Al Jabal Resort is a luxurious retreat located along the Gulf of Oman, between Khorfakkan and Luluyah. Offering 45 upscale accommodations ranging from one to two bedrooms and featuring innovative architecture blending local heritage with natural elements, the poperty spans 260,000 sqm and offers a wide range of facilities, guest services, and activities.

Lux Al Bridi Resort in Al Dhaid, located beside Sharjah Safari, will offer a luxurious eco-tourism experience amidst African and indigenous wildlife. The resort will feature 35 elegantly designed tented retreats, ranging from one to three bedrooms, surrounded by the expansive 784-hectare Al Bridi Nature Reserve. Guests can look forward to immersing themselves in both luxury and wilderness, while enjoying outdoor activities, desert adventures, and the region’s natural beauty.

Jumeirah Muscat Bay to host Oman’s first open-water swimming competition

Jumeirah Muscat Bay is hosting Oman’s inaugural open-water swimming competition, Omswim 3.2, from 10 – 11 January 2025. Organised in partnership with Middle East Global Events, the event will feature the Olympic 10km marathon and shorter distances (1.5km, 2.5km, 5km) in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Oman, set against the Al Hajar Mountain Range. The event aims to attract 200 participants and 1,000 spectators, with Jumeirah Muscat Bay providing comprehensive infrastructure and exclusive accommodation and dining packages. Omswim 3.2 is poised to become an annual tradition, showcasing Oman’s natural beauty, hospitality, and community spirit.

Hilton Riyadh Olaya opens luxurious spa & health club

Hilton Riyadh Olaya has launched its eforea Spa & Health Club, a wellness centre inspired by renowned global spa cultures. Offering a transformative journey through traditional and innovative treatments, including facials, massages, body scrubs, and wraps, guests can choose from two journey paths: the ‘Essentials Journey’ and the ‘Escape Journey’, each tailored to meet individual wellness needs, with optional bespoke enhancements. The spa features luxurious amenities such as an infinity pool and experience shower, and guests can choose from a variety of treatments from facials, massages, hammam experiences and more.