Nimish Goel of Dhruva on how the UAE’s fiscal framework impacts hospitality
In this article, Nimish Goel, partner and head of Middle East at Dhruva, examines what the UAE’s maturing fiscal framework means for the hospitality sector.
How virtual reality is transforming pre-visit marketing
Beyond showcasing aesthetics, VR is increasingly enabling potential guests to experience spaces rather than simply interpret them. Monica E. Chikhani, founder and managing director of MEC Workshop, explores how this strategic tool instills confidence and reduces uncertainty, helping to convert interest into bookings.
Why creative concepts deserve fresh thinking
In a world of changing market dynamics and business models, perhaps the time has come to look differently at traditional franchisor–franchisee roles. Daniel G. During, principal and managing director at Thomas Klein International, asks whether teamwork and togetherness, rather than a transactional approach, could provide a winning formula for emerging ventures.
To franchise or build your own brand?
The Middle East has transformed into a franchising powerhouse, offering major opportunities for international businesses keen to expand. However, choosing the right model can be key to future success. Roy Hintze, partner at PwC Middle East, weighs the options and factors to consider, from concept type to growth plans and market dynamics.
4 steps to building a resilient franchise
As global markets become more complex and competitive, resilience has become the defining factor that sets robust franchise systems apart. Anthony Aucar, head of projects at Glee Hospitality Solutions, shares four core principles for businesses looking to implement a sustainable, scalable franchise model.
Immersive and interactive: 5 ways tech is shaking up hospitality
From gamified loyalty programs to VR previews and AI personalization, digital innovation is transforming traditional guest stays into engaging, personalized experiences. Dr. Jassim Haji is president of the International Group of Artificial Intelligence and executive advisor for AI and Data Science at H.H. Sheikh Nasser AI Research and Development Centre. Here, he spotlights the technologies powering winning strategies across hospitality.
Building hotel brands with purpose
Creating a new hospitality concept should never be just another marketing exercise or portfolio expansion. Antony Doucet, chief experience officer at Kerten Hospitality, shares his dos, don’ts and lessons learned when introducing new names into the market.
3 management models steering hospitality’s future with Bastien Blanc
As traditional hotel operations come under mounting pressure to modernize, owners face critical decisions about which operational model best serves their assets. Bastien Blanc, co-founder and board member at TroKadero Hospitality Global, unpacks the three distinct approaches redefining how hotels are managed today.
6 Saudi restaurants well placed for global growth
As Saudi Arabia’s restaurant market matures, a new generation of homegrown concepts is coming into its own. Shaped by competition from international brands, several are now ready to build on domestic success and scale internationally. Jörg Zipprick, author and co-founder of La Liste, unpacks the kingdom’s evolving dining scene and highlights six names to watch.
Social commerce revolution drives direct bookings from Instagram and TikTok
Riky Bains, social media strategist, believes social platforms are no longer just inspiration channels. Rather, they are becoming fully integrated booking environments reshaping the hospitality journey. We explore this shift further.