Radisson Hotel Group enters Lebanon with Radisson Mountain Resort Faqra; Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai unveils renovation, boosts rating to 9.1; Kempinski opens luxurious Red Sea resort in Yanbu; Al Jaddaf Rotana earns autism-friendly certification; and NH Collection to launch on RAK’s Al Marjan Island in 2028.
XU San Stefano opens in Alexandria
Egypt’s hotel scene has just welcomed the launch of XU San Stefano, a luxury beachfront hotel in Alexandria’s San Stefano district. The hotel’s first phase features 40 suites, premium amenities, and a private Mediterranean coastline. Plans are underway to increase the hotel’s capacity by 50% within six months, reinforcing Alexandria’s position as a prime Mediterranean destination and contributing to Egypt’s tourism development.
Corinthia Hotels unveils landmark Dubai development
Corinthia Hotels has partnered with Dubai General Properties to launch a flagship hotel and residential development in Dubai, boasting refined design, opulent interiors, and exceptional amenities. The two-tower structure, exceeding 500m will be one of the world’s tallest buildings and feature a distinctive contemporary architectural style. The development, situated on Sheikh Zayed Road, will feature Corinthia’s Mediterranean-inspired hospitality.
NCT&H expands luxury hospitality portfolio
The National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels (NCT&H) has announced the strategic expansion of its luxury hospitality portfolio with the addition of four world-class properties. The expanded portfolio features four exceptional properties, comprising two of Abu Dhabi’s finest luxury resorts – The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa – alongside two world-class destinations: Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives and the newly launched Cheval Blanc Seychelles.
Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia announces speakers
The 2025 Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia, taking place from 11-13 May at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah in Riyadh has confirmed its first speakers. The event, organised by The Bench, brings together hospitality leaders to discuss hotel performance, investment, and market trends. Confirmed speakers include HH Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid Al Saud, Sultan Bader Al-Otaibi, Waleed AlRashed AlHumaid, and Omar Romero, among others. The summit’s agenda will cover topics such as sustainable hospitality, investment, tourism, and wellness, with a focus on shaping the future of the industry in Saudi Arabia.
UAE tourism sees steady growth
The UAE’s tourism sector continues to thrive, with hotel establishments generating AED37.1 billion ($10 billion) in revenue from January to October 2024, a 4% increase from the previous year. The hotel occupancy rate also saw significant growth, reaching 78%, up 2.7% from the same period last year. These figures support the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to boost the tourism sector’s GDP contribution to AED450 billion by 2031. The UAE Tourism Council has highlighted innovative projects and initiatives as key drivers of sector growth, including the successful ‘World’s Coolest Winter’ campaign, which has strengthened the UAE’s position as a leading global tourism destination.
Earlier this week…
Radisson Hotel Group expands into Lebanon
Radisson Hotel Group has signed a deal to open its first Radisson-branded property in Lebanon, the Radisson Mountain Resort Faqra. Located near the Roman ruins of Faqra and the Mzaar/Faraya ski resort, the resort will offer over 60 rooms and serviced apartments, along with amenities such as a gym, salon, and all-day dining restaurant. The resort is situated in a scenic area with historic landmarks, dining options, and skiing and summer activities.
Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai revamp
The Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai has undergone a significant renovation, resulting in a notable boost to its rating from 7.9 to 9.1 on Booking.com. The hotel’s revamp aimed to elevate its hospitality by offering affordable luxury, modernising accommodations, and refining dining and leisure experiences. The renovation blended contemporary luxury with warm hospitality, featuring redesigned rooms, upgraded wellness facilities, and a reinvigorated dining experience.
Kempinski Hotel & Resort Sariya Yanbu Red Sea opens
Kempinski Hotel & Resort Sariya Yanbu Red Sea has officially opened its doors, offering luxurious accommodations, comfort, and personalised service on the Red Sea coastline. The resort, Kempinski’s second property in Saudi Arabia, features 118 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, two dining venues, a spa, infinity pool, and fitness centre. Located on Al Mahar Island in Yanbu, the resort provides exclusive access to pristine beaches and panoramic Red Sea views, showcasing the city’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
NH Collection to debut on RAK’s Al Marjan Island in 2028
Minor Hotels is set to launch the 156-key NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments in early 2028. Located on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, the property will feature 120 beach-facing guest rooms, 36 serviced apartments, and various amenities. The development marks Minor Hotels’ continued growth in the region and its commitment to mixed-use properties with a residential component. The hotel is owned by RRS International Development FZ-LLC and is expected to elevate hospitality standards on Al Marjan Island.
Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel earns Certified Autism Center Designation
Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel has been awarded the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification recognises the hotel’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals. The hotel’s team has undergone training to better support autistic guests and their families, and the hotel has implemented sensory guides and recommendations to ensure a comfortable stay. This achievement aligns with Dubai’s initiative to become a Certified Autism Destination.
