In line with new year goals around the region to attract more guests and longer overnights, hotels around the Middle East are revamping, upgrading, launching new offers and being creative with their strategies.
Growing demand for personalised, sustainable hospitality experiences
A Central Hotels & Resorts report highlights rising demand for personalised, eco-friendly stays in the UAE. AI-driven services like contactless check-ins enhance tailored guest experiences and operational efficiency. Sustainability efforts, including renewable energy, water conservation, and waste reduction, are prioritised. Advanced data analytics tools are being adopted to optimise guest insights and marketing. The company also emphasises employee engagement and inclusivity. These trends shape its strategy for exceptional service and environmental commitment.
Four seasons sleep survey reveals wellness insights across the GCC
Four Seasonsβ YouGov survey of 2,727 GCC residents highlights regional sleep habits and concerns, with 51% sleeping 6-8 hours per night but only 19% achieving the recommended eight or more. Factors affecting sleep include fatigue (58%), with Bahraini respondents reporting the longest sleep duration. Hotel guests prioritise high-quality mattresses (62%), soundproofing, and blackout curtains for optimal rest. The findings inform Four Seasonsβ bespoke offerings, such as sleep-enhancing spas, pillow menus, and relaxation therapies aimed at meeting diverse wellness needs.
Coldplay concerts drive hotel surge in uae as live music thrives
Expedia data reveals a 335% year-on-year rise in UAE hotel searches linked to Coldplay‘s four-night residency at Abu Dhabiβs Zayed Sports City Stadium. The UAE’s 2024 concert scene drew global audiences, with events like Yasalam After-Race Concerts boosting travel searches by 65%.
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Valor Hospitality targets regional growth
Valor Hospitality Partners Middle East is focusing on full-service hotel management to enhance quality standards and maximise value for property owners across the GCC region. The GCC hospitality sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with approximately 600,000 rooms under development. Dubai’s hospitality vision aligns with the Dubai 2040 strategy, aiming to position the city as the world’s most visited, integrating smart technology and sustainable practices.
Saudi Arabia is also a leader in hotel development, with more than $110 billion in active projects expected to deliver 310,000 hotel keys by 2030. Valor Hospitality has expanded its presence in the Kingdom, managing properties like the Hijla Hotel in Abha, and has partnered with Campbell Gray Hotels on projects in Diriyah Gate and other locations. The company aims to double its regional portfolio by Q2 2025.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island reveals upgraded villas at Al Yamm
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi Resorts has reintroduced its luxury property, Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort, featuring updated beachfront villas with direct views of the Arabian Gulf. The resort now offers 30 villas, each with a private pool, enhanced with new barasti fencing and extended outdoor decks. Sister property Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort is set to unveil refurbished safari-inspired villas in early 2025. Both resorts are located on Sir Bani Yas Island, the UAEβs largest natural island, known for its commitment to sustainability and conservation. These upgrades aim to provide guests with a blend of luxury and natural tranquillity, reflecting Emirati heritage and the island’s unique landscape.
MΓΆvenpick Ghala Muscat celebrates first anniversary
MΓΆvenpick Hotel & Apartments Ghala Muscat is celebrating its first anniversary, marking a year of excellence in Oman’s capital. Located in the Ghala district, the hotel has become a preferred destination for both business and leisure travellers, known for its Swiss-inspired service and Omani warmth. Over the past year, the hotel has hosted successful events, introduced unique culinary experiences, and received the prestigious Green Globe certification, becoming the first in Oman to achieve this milestone. To commemorate the anniversary, MΓΆvenpick is launching exclusive offers, including curated staycation packages, dining, and spa promotions.
Al Raha Beach Hotel rebrands as Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa
Al Raha Beach Hotel in Abu Dhabi has rebranded as Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa, as announcee by General Manager Kamal Zayati during a recent gala dinner. From February 2025, the resort will introduce expanded spa and wellness facilities managed by Wellbeings Holistic Healing Company. As part of its evolution, the resort is implementing a comprehensive Property Improvement Plan, focusing on upgrades across rooms, recreational spaces, children’s amenities, beaches, pools, and event venues. In alignment with the UAE’s Year of Sustainability 2024, the resort is also adopting eco-friendly practices, including advanced energy and water conservation technologies, replacing plastic amenities with sustainable alternatives, transitioning to paperless operations, installing electric vehicle charging stations, and modernising air conditioning systems for improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
