The top 3:
1. Sabre Hospitality to participate in five panel sessions at ATM 2025
At Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, Sabre Hospitality is taking a leading role in shaping the future of travel with a bold focus on AI, personalisation, and sustainability. Participating in five high-impact panel sessions, it will showcase innovations like SynXis Concierge.AI, a generative AI-powered guest support tool.
Key topics include transforming fragmented tech into seamless retailing, redefining hotel stays through personalised experiences, and driving environmental progress through smart sustainability practices. For hoteliers, the session βSelling More Than Just a Room: The Impact of Experience on Hoteliers in the Middle East.β on 28 April 13:15 – 14:00 will be particularly interesting.
2. FHS 2025 to attract investors in hotels and hospitality
The Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia 2025, taking place from 11-13 May in Riyadh, is set to be a major driver of investment in the Kingdomβs rapidly evolving tourism and hospitality sector. Building on the success of last year’s edition, which generated over $1.1 billion in business and secured 17 deals, the event will convene top investors, developers, and government stakeholders to explore opportunities.
Key industry leaders from companies like Taiba Investments, Al Khozama, Baraka, and AlNahla Group are expected to share their emerging trends such as integrated mixed-use developments, culturally rooted hospitality, and eco-tourism as key growth areas.
3. 2.5m sq ftΒ Ardee Al Marjan Island announcedΒ
Ardee Developments has launched its first and flagship project, Ardee Al Marjan Island, a transformative 2.5 million square foot coastal development in Ras Al Khaimah. Positioned as the largest project on Al Marjan Island, this multi billion-dirham destination blends luxury residences, a branded hotel, retail promenades, and entertainment zones into a fully integrated, walkable waterfront community. The project prioritises sustainability, innovation, and immersive experiences, offering beachfront villas, green spaces, wellness facilities, and smart infrastructure. Hotels in residential communities is an emerging trend offering the chance to live like a local.
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Noteworthy highlights:
1. Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah launches ‘Making Moments’
Guests at the Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah can now choose from elegant teas at SocialBee, vibrant beach parties at Zing, kids events at Mowsem, or stylish bachelorette nights at Barfly by Buddha Bar after launching their βMaking Momentsβ experiences. The aim is to create art out of celebrations for tourists and locals alike at the beachfront property.
2. Omanβs hotel revenues surge by 12.7% as international tourism grows
Omanβs 3- to 5-star hotels generated RO59 million (around $153 million) in revenue by February 2025, a 12.7% year-on-year increase, according to the National Centre for Statistics and Information. This growth reflects a 3.6% rise in guests, reaching 458,433, and improved occupancy rates at 67.9% (up from 60.8% in 2024). European tourists led the surge with 173,455 visitors (+8.7%), followed by strong growth from Asia (+8.1%), the Americas (+9.2%), Africa (+55%), and Oceania (+53.4%). GCC visitor numbers also rose 6.5%. Meanwhile, domestic stays by Omanis dipped 3.1% to 137,465.
3. Publiq bistro debuts at Four Points by Sheraton on Sheikh Zayed Road
Formerly a French cafΓ©, Publiq has opened at the Four Points by Sheraton on Sheikh Zayed Road offering a menu that includes beetroot-cured salmon, Chicken Γ la Broche, and house-made cheesecake. The interiors feature rich oak, terrazzo stone and marble-topped tables. Designed for everything from intimate meals to lively gatherings, Publiq is a celebration of slow dining and genuine connection in the heart of Dubai.
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Insider insights:
- Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown is hosting artistic showcases until 25 April.
- UAE-based Global Hotel Alliance is doubling its Green Collection properties in a long-term pledge for sustainable hotels.
