Hilton’s Signia brand makes its African debut in Egypt, while Banyan Tree AlUla offers a luxurious Eid Al-Fitr getaway and Rotana earns top honors for workplace excellence in the hospitality industry.
International hotel brands comprise 60% of Qatar’s hotel rooms in 2024
As of the end of 2024, Qatar’s total supply of quality hotel rooms reached approximately 40,755 keys, with internationally branded properties accounting for 60% of this inventory. This growing presence of global hospitality brands highlights Qatar’s increasing appeal as a prominent destination in the Middle East tourism market. The total number of visitors to Qatar reached 5.08 million during 2024, reflecting a 25% annual increase, bolstered by the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup. In December alone, 594,079 visitors were recorded, marking a 14.6% year-on-year rise. Hotel performance indicators improved steadily in 2024, with average daily rates increasing by 7.9% to QR441, occupancy levels rising by 19.1% to 68.8%, and revenue per available room growing by 28.5% to QR304. The retail sector also experienced shifts, with luxury and experience-driven retail maintaining high occupancy levels, while secondary malls faced challenges due to competition from newer lifestyle destinations like Lusail Boulevard and The Pearl.
Rotana joins Global Hotel Alliance to expand global reach and enhance loyalty offering
Rotana has joined the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, expanding its global visibility and loyalty reach. Operating 36 hotels in the UAE, Rotana’s inclusion in GHA will provide GHA DISCOVERY members access to 80 properties across the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey. Integration of Rotana’s properties into the GHA DISCOVERY programme is underway, with full inclusion expected by early 2026. The partnership will transition Rotana Rewards into Rotana DISCOVERY, offering enhanced loyalty benefits such as DISCOVERY Dollars, VIP perks, and exclusive member offers. GHA DISCOVERY generated $2.7 billion in revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024, with cross-brand activity contributing $370 million. Both companies emphasised the alignment of their guest-centric values and the strategic opportunity to boost regional and global loyalty engagement.
Earlier this week …
Hilton introduces Signia brand to Egypt with Cairo Skywalk developments
Hilton has announced the signing of Signia by Hilton Cairo Skywalk and Signia by Hilton Residences Cairo Skywalk in partnership with Skywalk Developments, marking the brand’s debut in Egypt and Africa. Located in West Cairo’s newest destination, the properties will be surrounded by a business and entertainment park, as well as commercial and retail outlets, offering easy access to landmarks such as the Grand Egyptian Museum and the Pyramids. Signia by Hilton Cairo Skywalk will feature 200 guest rooms and suites, multiple dining venues, a fitness centre, spa, and outdoor pool. The hotel will also provide nearly 5,000sqm of meeting space, including a state-of-the-art ballroom and outdoor event lawn. Signia by Hilton Residences Cairo Skywalk will offer 200 modern units, including one and two-bedroom apartments, with access to hotel amenities and additional residential services. This development is part of Hilton’s plan to expand its presence in Egypt to over 40 properties in the coming years.
Banyan Tree AlUla offers luxurious Eid Al-Fitr retreat
Banyan Tree AlUla, situated in Saudi Arabia’s Ashar Valley, invites guests to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr with exclusive offerings. The resort presents a “Stay More, Pay Less” promotion, providing up to 20% off a minimum three-night stay, inclusive of daily breakfast. Festivities commence on April 1, 2025, with an Eid Brunch at Harrat, featuring international and Middle Eastern cuisine, live grill stations, and a live Oud performance. Culinary experiences include dining at Saffron, the award-winning Thai restaurant, and relaxing at the Rock Pool. The Banyan Tree Spa offers treatments inspired by Eastern and Western healing traditions, such as the Royal Banyan treatment. Guests can explore local attractions like Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy stargazing experiences guided by expert astronomers.
DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island (RAK) reopens enhanced private beach
DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island has reopened its private beach, offering guests an expanded seaside experience with upgraded amenities and stunning Arabian Gulf views. The resort has reinstated the Tarzan boat, water sports, and all beach activities, while enhancing sand quality and expanding lounging areas. Guests can enjoy seven pools, 13 dining venues, paddle courts, and a spa. Families have access to the Chuckles Kids Club and the Pirate Boat Aqua Zone. Accommodation includes rooms and suites with sea or garden views.
Rotana recognised in top 5% for workplace excellence in hospitality
Rotana has been ranked among the top 5% of companies in the Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure sector in the latest Workday Peakon Employee Voice survey, involving over 433,000 employees. More than 97% of employees in Rotana Hotels, global sales offices, and their Abu Dhabi head office participated in the survey, placing the company above 95% of those utilising the Workday Peakon engagement tool. CEO Philip Barnes highlighted that this achievement reflects the passion and commitment of their teams to create the best working environment. Rotana conducts the annual ‘Engaged to LIFE’ survey with Workday Peakon, allowing employees to share feedback that shapes the company’s workplace culture. Currently, Rotana operates 79 hotels across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Türkiye, welcoming more than six million guests annually.
