Top 3

Dubai World Islands’ Buddha-Bar Hotel to attract GCC staycationers

Dubai’s Heart of Europe development is set to welcome a Dh3 billion luxury destination with the launch of the region’s first Buddha-Bar Hotel, Floating Villas, and a dedicated Honeymoon Island by 2027. Developed in collaboration with George V Eatertainment and Buddha-Bar International, the 162-key overwater hotel and surrounding offerings aim to attract European luxury travellers and UAE/GCC staycationers. As part of the $14 billion World Islands project, the Heart of Europe will feature 4,000+ keys across 20 themed hotels. With 52% of construction complete, the project targets completion by late 2027.

Accor’s Mercure debuts in Khamis Mushait 

Mercure, part of Accor’s globally recognised hotel portfolio, has opened its first internationally branded hotel in Khamis Mushait, Saudi Arabia, under the management of Amsa Hospitality. Just 15km from Abha International Airport, the 93-room Mercure Khamis Mushait features all-day dining, a coffee shop, gym, pool, and meeting facilities. This is the first hotel opening under Accor’s master development agreement with Amsa Hospitality, with more hotels planned in cities like Ha’il, Jubail, and AlUla. Opening offers include 20% off stays and boosted loyalty points for all members until 31 August, 2025.

Sohba Hospitality Management launches with plans to drive Egypt’s tourism growth

Sohba Hospitality Management officially launched at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, unveiling its vision to offer tailored hotel management solutions across Egypt and the GCC. Headquartered in Egypt, Sohba is specialising in white-label operations under franchise agreements and will be providing flexible, bespoke management for both new and existing hotels, combining local authenticity with international standards. With expansion plans targeting Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, Sohba aims to deliver long-term value through personalised, performance-driven service.

Noteworthy 

• The Saudi Tourism Authority and Radisson Hotel Group have signed an MoU to enhance Saudi Arabia’s global tourism profile and amplify the ‘Visit Saudi’ brand across Radisson’s marketing platforms. 
• MGM Resorts is set to open a luxury resort in Dubai by the third quarter of 2027, aiming to attract high-end travellers with a new hospitality experience.
• Louvre Hotels Group has announced new projects in Muscat and Salalah, including the launch of Tulip Residences at The Village Muscat, and The Royal Tulip Taqah Beach Resort. As well as a major expansion in the MENA region, including the introduction of the Kyriad brand in Saudi Arabia and new hotel openings in Algeria, and Iraq. 
• The Chedi Al Bait in Sharjah has appointed Marilu Olvera, a hospitality executive with over 20 years of global experience, as its new General Manager.
• Club Mahindra has expanded its global footprint by adding new resorts in Andhra Pradesh, Abu Dhabi, and Vietnam.
• Ras Al Khaimah’s residential inventory is expected to double by 2030, driven by strong demand from tourism and luxury developments like the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort.
• AlUla has strengthened its global reach by signing five new partnerships with DMCs including CTTC, Talia Tourism, Athaar Arabia, and AlFares International. 
• Ishraq Hospitality will open two new hotels in Egypt’s New Capital, including a Holiday Inn Express and a serviced apartment property.