Top 3 Headlines
Ciel Dubai Marina officially opens as the world’s tallest hotel
Soaring 82 floors with 1,004 rooms and one of the highest infinity pools in the world, the new Dubai Marina landmark features eight dining concepts, including Mediterranean restaurant West 13, Asian buffet East 14, and the theatrical Tattu Dubai. A spa will follow in February 2026, alongside a state-of-the-art gym and dedicated spaces for families and business travellers. To celebrate the launch, the hotel is offering complimentary upgrades, breakfast, and dining discounts.
Marriott ramps up Morocco expansion with five new brands by 2027
Marriott International is accelerating its Morocco growth, announcing seven new properties across five brands; Four Points by Sheraton, Moxy, Residence Inn, Autograph Collection, and AC Hotels, set to open by 2027, adding over 800 rooms to its portfolio. Key upcoming openings include
- Villa Sahrai Casablanca (2025): 56 rooms, two signature restaurants, Cinq Mondes spa, and rooftop venues.
- Taghazout Bay Marriott Resort (2026): 250 rooms with direct beach access.
Other highlights include The Ritz-Carlton Rabat will launch The Retreat in 2026 with 24 villas and an 894sqm signature villa; Le Meridien N’Fis Marrakesh is undergoing a full renovation; and Fes Marriott Jnan Palace recently opened two new dining concepts: Pachamama and Croon Lounge.
AROYA Cruises president steps down
Dr. Jorg Rudolph has stepped down as president of AROYA Cruises, with CEO Lars Clasen assuming the role of interim president. Rudolph’s tenure oversaw key milestones, including the refit and relaunch of the line’s first ship, its Mediterranean debut in 2025, and expansion into the Arabian Gulf for the 2026 season. This transition marks the next step as AROYA focuses on accelerating growth and enhancing performance. Operations and itineraries remain unaffected as the company enters its next phase of expansion in the regional cruise market.
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Noteworthy
- Mandarin Oriental will debut a new hotel and branded residences in Jeddah Central by 2030. Designed by KPF, the waterfront development will feature 140 guestrooms, 115 apartments, and 187 residences overlooking the Red Sea alongside five dining venues, a spa, and event spaces.
- Valor Hospitality Partners has signed an agreement with King Khalid University to develop hospitality talent across Aseer. The partnership will offer training, internships, and employment pathways, empowering students with world-class skills and authentic Saudi hospitality values.
- Rixos Bab Al Bahr on Al Marjan Island has named hospitality veteran Ozgur Cireli as General Manager. With over 30 years of global experience, including with Hilton, Rotana, and Rixos, Cireli will lead the resort’s refurbishment and elevate its guest experience further.
- Jeddah Central Development Company has partnered with Midad Real Estate and Kerzner International to bring the iconic Atlantis and One&Only brands to Saudi Arabia for the first time. Valued at over SAR7 billion ($1.8bn), the luxury projects will include branded residences, a water park, and world-class beachfront experiences on the Red Sea.
- Bahrain’s Hawar Resort by Mantis has launched its first international photography competition, inviting visitors to capture the island’s natural beauty and wildlife. Open until December 2025, winners will receive luxury stay prizes, with entries shared under #HawarThroughTheLens on Instagram.
- Charthouse Bahrain, managed by Areen Hospitality, has won three categories at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, earning titles for Best Luxury Harbour Hotel in the Middle East, Best Luxury City Business Hotel, and Best Luxury Hotel in Bahrain.
- Shaza Hotels has signed MoUs for four new developments during TOURISE 2025, including; Shaza Riyadh Stables Resort, Mysk Residences Riyadh, and two Mysk Al Haramain Hotels in Makkah. This equates to a $950m pipeline.
- Mantis, part of Accor, has announced Basiqat by Mantis, an eco-luxury resort near Riyadh set to open in 2026. Developed with GIB Capital, Design & Build, and the Tourism Development Fund, the 218-key project will feature villas, suites, desert tents, a spa, souk, and wellness spaces.
