A region ripe for industry investment: experts share their insights
The Middle East’s vibrant hospitality landscape and its opportunities for both investors and project developers will undoubtedly be high on the agenda at Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World, a key, three-day industry event for the region which opens in Dubai on September 30, 2024. Jonathan Worsley, chairman of The Bench, FHS World’s organizers, caught up with three industry leaders ahead of the summit to get their take on the openings for investors, the challenges and everything in between.
Growth trends in GCC hospitality according to Deloitte and STR
Recent findings from global research firms highlight promising trends shaping the GCC hospitality sector. Deloitte and STR emphasize sustained growth, reflecting governmental priorities in fostering tourism development across the region.
Oman’s tourism industry: a new era of growth and diversification
In the Middle East’s dynamic tourism landscape, the Sultanate of Oman is carving out a unique niche. With strategic initiatives aimed at modernizing and diversifying attractions, it is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for global travelers, as Robert Kuijper, associate manager for hospitality and tourism at Colliers MENA, points out.
All eyes on the final of the Elle & Vire Professionnel Cream Cheese Competition in the GCC
On January 26, 2024, Elle & Vire’s Professionnel Cream Cheese Competition final in the GCC took place in partnership with the award-winning ICCA, Dubai. Renowned Ambassadors, chefs Karim Bourgi, Francois Daubinet and Sergio Freitas of ICCA judged the finalists in the competition.
Bright outlook for GCC hotel industry
Having cemented its status as a global tourist destination, the region is well placed to attract new investment for the industry, following a swift post-pandemic rebound marked by impressive visitor numbers, huge project pipelines and the introduction of business-friendly initiatives, as Kostas Nikolaidis, Middle East and Africa executive for STR, explains.
Oman: a unique gem in the GCC
Justin Kenny, consultant at Colliers for the Hotels MENA Region, explains how the sultanate is carving its own identity as an attractive destination with a diverse offering, despite tough competition from its neighbors.
Inside SISBAN with Tariq Saleh Altwuajiry
Tariq Saleh Altwuajiry, the GCC managing director of SISBAN, is a successful business leader in Saudi Arabia. With almost 25 years of practical experience in investments and the private sector, Altwuajiry gives us the lowdown on SISBAN.
Morocco: more than meets the eye
With its unique culture, landscapes and culinary riches, Morocco is among the world’s most enchanting countries. Hala Matar Choufany, president for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia at HVS, describes the hospitality scene in the North African jewel and what makes it such an intriguing tourism destination.
Homegrown Akiba Dori expands beyond the GCC
Dubai homegrown Japanese concept Akiba Dori has kicked off its fifth anniversary with a franchise development agreement for 30 locations in India. Following the restaurant’s successful expansion streak, with five branches launched in the GCC within the last five years, Akiba Dori’s modern Japanese street food and Tokyo-style pizza have been enjoyed over the last five years in the UAE and, most recently, Saudi Arabia.
The future of hospitality in the GCC
Rabih Fakhreddine, the founder and CEO of 7 Management, explores the rapid growth in hospitality in the Gulf.