Top 3 you need to know

BWH Hotels targets 70 Middle East properties by 2027

BWH Hotels announced major growth in the Middle East, with 18 hotels open and 20 more signed, aiming for 70 by 2027. Highlights included new signings in Batumi and Kutaisi, Georgia, featuring the WorldHotels Luxury property “Grand Life” and a Best Western Residence. BWH also spotlighted Media One Hotel, Dubai, a standout WorldHotels Crafted property, awarded for sustainability and performance. The group has also recently unveiled a strategic partnership with Saudi travel giant Almosafer, expanding global access across BWH’s 18 brands in over 100 countries.

Preferred Hotels adds 19 properties and honours regional winners at global awards

Preferred Hotels & Resorts has expanded its portfolio with 19 new member properties across 12 countries in Q1 2025, including standout additions such as Andronis Luxury Suites (Santorini), Boar’s Head Resort (Virginia), and the Opera Hotel Bosphorus (Turkey). The group now represents more than 600 properties globally.

The brand also announced the winners of the 2025 Preferred Awards of Excellence at the Global Conference in Singapore. Al Habtoor Palace Dubai was named Hotel of the Year – South Asia, Middle East and Africa, while Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO of The Leela Palaces, won Hotelier of the Year.

Saudi Arabia to add 180,000 hotel units ahead of FIFA World Cup 2034

Saudi Arabia will develop over 180,000 hotel rooms and serviced apartments by 2034 as part of a major infrastructure expansion for the FIFA World Cup. The plans, shared during the MEED Saudi Giga Projects Summit 2025, will prepare the region for multiple mega events, including the AFC Asian Cup 2027, Asian Winter Games 2029, and the Riyadh Expo 2030. Alongside rapid metro expansion and climate-adaptive stadium design, the Kingdom is also advancing in digital infrastructure, with Germany’s Nemetschek Group entering the market to support smart construction solutions.

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ICYMI …

1. Three Shurooq hospitality projects; The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah, Kingfisher Retreat, and the Al Badayer Retreat have been ranked in the top 10% of hotels globally for 2025, reflecting their excellence in sustainability, cultural authenticity, and guest experience.
2. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia with the upcoming Fairmont Rua Madinah, joining its existing properties like the Makkah Clock Royal Tower.
3. IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of the Middle East’s first EVEN Hotel in Saudi Arabia, introducing its wellness-focused brand to the region.
4. Hilton is set to reach a milestone of 100 hotels in Saudi Arabia this year, including the MENA debut of its premium economy brand, Spark by Hilton, in Makkah Aziziyah.
5. Shamal has introduced a second tower at the Baccarat Hotel and Residences in Dubai, adding 42 branded residences and enhancing the luxury living experience in Downtown Dubai.
6. Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina has been awarded first place in the Digital Reputation Award for the 5-star hotel category by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
7. Marriott International expects its hotel portfolio in Saudi Arabia to exceed 100 properties in 2025.
8. Address Jabal Omar Makkah has introduced a new walkway and golf cart route to the Masjid Al Haram, enhancing accessibility for guests to the Mosque and reducing the route to five minutes. 
9. Asfar and Minor Hotels are developing tourism destinations in Saudi Arabia that blend Thai hospitality with Saudi cultural elements.
10. Accor has launched its “Hotel Escape Sale” for stays in Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa from 31 May – September 30, 2025, offering up to 20% off for bookings made between 28 May and 31 July.