More global brands are looking to make their mark in the Middle East, while others are expanding their piece of the pie. Here’s what’s on the horizon for in the hotel sector this week.
Diriyah opens new 157-key Marriott luxury collection hotel
Diriyah Company has announced the opening of Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection hotel by Marriott International, located near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The hotel features 134 rooms and 23 suites, embodying Najdi architectural design, and is situated close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif and the premium dining destination Bujairi Terrace.
Bab Samhan offers guests authentic cultural experiences rooted in the rich heritage of Diriyah. Amenities include a luxury spa, indoor pool, fitness centre, a 250-capacity ballroom, and signature restaurants, including one by Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina. This opening marks the third major landmark asset in Diriyah, following At-Turaif and Bujairi Terrace, and is the first of over 40 planned hotels in the historic destination.
Sheraton reopens newly renovated hotel in Bahrain
Sheraton Bahrain Hotel has reopened following comprehensive renovations, unveiling 210 modern guest rooms and suites. The updated accommodations include 141 Signature Rooms, 41 Club Rooms with exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge, 25 Junior and Executive Suites, and three premium Diplomatic and Presidential Suites. The hotel’s design now features a contemporary aesthetic that emphasises natural elements and sustainability.
In addition to the refreshed rooms, the hotel offers 2,002 square meters of meeting space, including the Al Taj Grand Ballroomโone of the largest in the city at 1,067 square metersโwhich can be divided into three sections. This reopening aligns with Bahrain’s commitment to enhancing its tourism infrastructure and strengthening its position as a global tourism hub.
Mรถvenpick Resort Al Marjan Island anticipates an exciting 2025
Mรถvenpick Resort Al Marjan Island is celebrating a successful 2024, marked by numerous international awards including “Best Family-Friendly Resort in the Northern Emirates,” significant revenue growth, and record occupancy. New additions this year include a mini golf course, a beachfront corner suite, an expanded Wibit floating park (now the largest in Ras Al Khaimah), and a renovated NEO Sky Bar.
The resort also achieved Green Globe Re-Certification through sustainability initiatives such as a home garden, grey water reuse, sustainable food practices, and a glass bottling plant. With 25% female staff, the resort emphasises diversity and inclusion. Looking ahead to 2025, Mรถvenpick Resort Al Marjan Island aims to continue providing exceptional guest experiences and introducing new attractions.
Shaza Hotels partners with HalalBooking to enhance halal tourism
Shaza Hotels has entered into a global agreement with HalalBooking, aiming to provide unified pricing and distribution across all Shaza and Mysk properties. This collaboration seeks to better serve halal-conscious travellers by offering luxury accommodations that meet halal requirements.
The partnership was formalised during Shaza’s Annual Partner Meet at Shaza Riyadh, attended by industry stakeholders and potential investors. Shaza Hotels also announced expansion plans, including properties in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and beyond the GCC region, reinforcing its commitment to the halal tourism market.
Minor Hotels introduces luxury branded residences in the Middle East
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group operating over 560 properties in 57 countries, is enhancing its presence in the Middle East by introducing luxury branded residences. Key projects include Anantara Mina Al Arab Residences in Ras Al Khaimah, featuring 94 apartments and 20 overwater villas, and Anantara Sharjah Resort, set to open in 2027 with 100 fully furnished residences offering views of the Arabian Gulf. In Oman, Tivoli Muscat Hills will offer 100 exclusive residences overlooking an 18-hole golf course, blending traditional Omani architecture with modern design. Over in Bahrain, Tivoli and Avani Residences at Bilaj Al Jazayer are under construction, comprising 147 units featuring world-class facilities.
Al Habtoor Palace partners with IDeaS to implement AI-driven revenue management system
Al Habtoor Palace in Dubai has collaborated with IDeaS, a leading provider of hospitality revenue management software, to deploy the G3 Revenue Management System (RMS). This advanced system offers real-time demand forecasting at the room type and rate code level, enabling precise pricing and inventory control. The implementation aims to enhance the hotel’s revenue management practices, allowing for quick adaptation to market changes and optimisation of revenue per available room (RevPAR).
In addition, the ‘What-if Analysis’ feature provides strategic insights by simulating various demand scenarios, assisting in informed decision-making. Stefan Radstrom, Complex General Manager at Al Habtoor City, stated that this investment is crucial for maximising revenue opportunities in a competitive luxury market. The partnership reflects IDeaS’ commitment to supporting the Middle East’s growing hospitality sector, where it currently services over 130,000 rooms.
Earlier this week …
PIF’s new brand to manage hotels
Saudi Arabiaโs Public Investment Fund (PIF) has launched Adeera, a new hotel management brand that will oversee the development of luxury properties and brands across the kingdom. Adeera will create new properties across a variety of segments, combine high industry standards with authentic Saudi hospitality and focus on training and skill development in collaboration with international experts. The aim is to grow Saudi Arabiaโs hospitality sector as well as support the Vision 2030 goals, driving tourism and contributing to the country’s overall economic diversification.
Hilton to add 25 more hotels in Egypt
Hilton is set to triple its portfolio in Egypt with the addition of 25 new hotels over the next several years. This expansion is part of Hiltonโs broader strategy to strengthen its presence across the Middle East and North Africa.
Alongside several hotel renovations, the new properties will range from luxury resorts to business-oriented hotels, catering to both domestic and international travellers and will include:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Alamein Marina Valley
- Hilton Marsa Alam Marina โ an All-Inclusive Resort
- Abu Dabbab Lodge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
- Curio Collection by Hilton in Marsa Alam
- Curio Collection by Hilton in Sharm El Sheikh
Hilton is also debuting Egypt-specific lifestyle brands, including the Curio Collection by Hilton, and the Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
Trump Towers proposal for Riyadh and Abu Dhabi
Incredibly proud to officially launch a project that has been underway for many months, Trump Tower – Jeddah! Thank you to our partners @dar_global – This will be our 5th project together and among the most luxurious buildings anywhere in the world! pic.twitter.com/uzlbrteZG4
— Eric Trump (@EricTrump) December 11, 2024
Trump Towers may soon make their mark in the capitals of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with plans for luxury high-rises in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. In partnership with Dar Global who have previously collaborated with Trump on a $4 billion development in Muscat, the project is due to launch and rival the $530 million Trump Tower in Jeddah and the $2.7 billion Oman Golf community. Itโs expected that the towers will attract high-net-worth individuals, executives, and luxury travellers seeking premium accommodations.
Mรถvenpick expands in Saudi Arabia
Mรถvenpick Hotels & Resorts has expanded its footprint in Saudi Arabia with the opening of a new property in one of the kingdom’s growing business hubs. Mรถvenpick Waโad Al Shamal has two presidential suites and 245 rooms alongside 18 meeting rooms and extensive banquet facilities catering to the MICE sector and business travellers.
Guests can enjoy five dining options, including Yasmeen and Zafaran Restaurants, along with the Oasis Pool Bar and Flora Lobby Lounge.
Amsa Hospitality Academy Partners with King Khalid University
Amsa Hospitality Academy has partnered with King Khalid University to launch a joint training programme to provide vocational training to university graduates at the Mercure Khamis Mushait hotel in Khamis Mushait. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, equipping graduates with essential skills for the hospitality industry. By summer 2025, Amsa Hospitality Academy aims to have trained more than 400 individuals in partnership with leading institutions.
Hilton signs partnership to launch Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay
Hilton has announced a partnership with Al Sorouh Hospitality Development Real Estate to launch its debut Waldorf Astoria property in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Located in the heart of Manama, the luxury hotel is set to open in 2028 and will feature 120 elegantly designed rooms and apartments. Guests can look forward to the brand’s signature service, including a Personal Concierge. The hotel will also boast a range of premium amenities, including a brasserie, rooftop bar, and spa. This latest development further solidifies Hilton’s partnership with Alshaya Group and its affiliates, building on their existing collaborations, which already include properties in Kuwait and Riyadh, featuring brands such as Waldorf Astoria and Canopy by Hilton.
