Top 3 Headlines
Rosewood Doha debuts Doha’s first outdoor ice rink
Doha’s first outdoor ice rink is coming to Rosewood Doha this festive season, offering a magical winter experience from December 10 to January 12. The Rosewood Ice Rink will be set against the stunning backdrop of Lusail’s skyline, with seasonal treats and a unique atmosphere. The hotel’s dining venues will also present special festive menus and events, including a refined Festive Afternoon Tea at The Butterfly Room, limited-edition hampers at Butterfly Patisserie, and Mediterranean-inspired celebrations at Mila. Guests can also enjoy Cantonese-inspired festive menus at Koo Madame, a special Sushi and Oysters platter at Stoke & Stoker, and mindful dining experiences at Asaya Kitchen.
Saudi Arabia opens bookings for luxury ‘Dream of the Desert’ train
Saudi Arabia has begun taking reservations for Dream of the Desert, a luxury rail service set to launch in 2026. Designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman, the train features 14 carriages, 33 suites and space for 66 passengers. Guests will have dedicated butlers, 24-hour service and onboard live entertainment. The train will operate five itineraries with tailored experiences curated in partnership with local tourism authorities. Routes from Riyadh with range from short overnight journeys to multi-day routes. Highlights include visits to Diriyah, Al Jouf, Jubbah’s ancient rock art sites. Seasonal routes for Ramadan and summer travel are also available. Cabins start at SAR 30,000 (about USD 8,000) per night, with a refundable pre-reservation deposit of SAR 2,500 (USD 666) to secure a booking.
BWA Yachting launches UAE operations as Dubai’s marine tourism surges
BWA Yachting has expanded its Middle East network with a new Dubai base, following its recent launch in Saudi Arabia. The move gives superyacht operators a single regional contact point linking key Gulf ports with Indian Ocean and Mediterranean routes. Dubai recorded a 149% rise in foreign yacht arrivals in the first half of 2025, with 97 international vessels docking in the emirate. From its Dubai office, BWA will coordinate services across major marinas and ports including Dubai Harbour, Mina Rashid, Palm Jumeirah, Yas Marina and Emirates Palace, alongside facilities in the Northern Emirates.
Noteworthy
- Aleph Hospitality has secured the Tapestry Collection by Hilton brand for an 84-key hotel in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, marking its third property under management with Hilton and expanding its presence in the Kingdom.
- Accor is accelerating global growth with 350 new openings slated for 2026, spanning luxury, lifestyle, premium, midscale, and economy brands. Highlights include the debut of the Orient Express Corinthian sailing yacht, and major luxury expansions in Saudi Arabia and Europe.
- Accor celebrates the opening of Mövenpick Hotel Al Zaytoon Baghdad, marking the brand’s debut in Iraq and a milestone as the first international hotel operator in over four decades, reflecting progress, stability, and a commitment to exceptional service.
- The First Group Hospitality has rebranded Hotel Avalon as Holiday Inn Dubai Village Circle, expanding its partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts. The hotel, located in Jumeirah Village Circle, offers 349 modern rooms, diverse dining options, and amenities like an outdoor pool and fitness centre, catering to both business and leisure travellers in a convenient location.
- Jumeirah has expanded its ultra-luxury Prive collection with the addition of the legendary Maltese Falcon superyacht. This follows a full refit of the 88m vessel which features refined interiors, an outdoor cinema, and space for 12 guests.
- The Ritz-Carlton DIFC has promoted Andrea Torres to Director of Sales – Corporate, recognising her strong track record in luxury hospitality across Hilton, IHG, and the Dubai market. Her expertise will further strengthen the hotel’s corporate partnerships and reinforce its position as a leading choice for business travel in DIFC.
- Vatel Bahrain has signed an MoU with The Diplomat Radisson Blu to offer students hands-on training in one of Bahrain’s leading luxury hotels. The partnership provides real-world experience in international-standard operations, helping prepare the next generation of Bahraini hospitality professionals for successful careers locally and globally.
- Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island has promoted Manas Lal to Hotel Manager following his success in elevating operations and guest satisfaction as Director of Operations. Lal will oversee the resort’s strategic direction, especially after its recent renovation, focusing on service excellence and strengthening its appeal to leisure and business travellers in Ras Al Khaimah.
