Midscale and economy: the new kids on the block
Firmly established as a hospitality investment hotspot, the GCC is now witnessing new industry trends, including growth beyond the luxury segment. These efforts to boost visitor numbers by broadening the tourism offering are already paying dividends in key regional destinations, as Kostas Nikolaidis, Middle East and Africa executive for STR, explains.
Six Senses AlUla KSA set to open in 2027
Six Senses signed a hotel management agreement with AUla Development Company to open Six Senses AlUla in KSA in 2027.
UHM launches with renowned hotels and resorts across the Middle East
Backed by United Investments Portugal (UIP), the newly founded global hospitality management company United Hospitality Management (UHM) aims to redefine luxury hospitality.
Holiday Inn & Suites Taif and Staybridge Suites Taif set to open in Q4 2025
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed Holiday Inn & Suites Taif and Staybridge Suites Taif in partnership with Al Jumaiah Group. Both properties are set to open in Q4 2025 in the Al Shafa, Taif. The destination is located 2,500 meters above sea level and is known for its historical sites, and panoramic scenic views. The new resorts will play a vital role in supporting Taif’s growing hospitality scene, further cementing IHG’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Trends: religious tourism in KSA with Majed Bukhari, general manager of IHG voco Makkah
voco Makkah’s GM, Majed Bukhari, discusses Makkah’s significance for religious travelers and how the hotel caters to their distinctive needs.
Unlocking Abu Dhabi’s hospitality future with Eleni Tsolakou, GM of Park Rotana & Park Arjaan by Rotana
Eleni Tsolakou, GM of Park Rotana & Park Arjaan by Rotana, discusses the key to success and sheds light on Abu Dhabi’s vibrant hospitality scene.
In-depth look at the regional hospitality market with Nils-Arne Schroeder, Fairmont’s SVP operations
With over three decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Nils-Arne Schroeder is a visionary and inspirational hotelier. Here, he provides insights into the regional hospitality market and discusses his demanding role as senior vice president of operations for Asia Pacific and the Middle East at Fairmont.
Leyja by NEOM: three boutique hotels to open by 2028
Sustainable hospitality brand Our Habitas has announced the addition of three properties to its experiences-led portfolio.
Vignette Collection set to open at The Heart Of Europe Project, Dubai, in January 2026
IHG has signed a franchise agreement for its second Vignette Collection hotel in Dubai in partnership with The Heart of Europe, a self-sustaining holiday destination across six islands with opulent properties and top-tier amenities. This constitutes a flagship project by the Kleindienst Group.
Hotel renovation trends for 2024
With its iconic hotels, the Middle East has long been a hub of luxury and opulence. In recent years, however, the region has witnessed a significant shift in hotel renovation trends. Gihan Hafez, Interior Designer at LW Design, stresses the importance of keeping up to date with evolving demands in design.