TOURIST BOOM PROPELS MIDDLE EAST ABOVE EUROPE IN TERMS OF PLANNED HOTEL ROOM OPENINGS

The Middle East’s tourist boom shows no sign of slowing – as new figures reveal the region has overtaken Europe in regards to the number of new hotel rooms in the pipeline.

According to ‘The Middle East Hotel Construction Overview’ report by TOPHOTELPROJECTS – prepared ahead of this year’s editions of The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia (10-12^th April 2018) and The Hotel Show Dubai (16-18^th September 2018) – the Middle East is set to add 238,963 new hotel rooms to its current supply, the majority of which will open in the next five years.

There are 214,743 guest rooms set to open in Europe, putting the Middle East ahead of its neighboring region – despite Europe having more new hotel builds in the pipeline.

Ray Tinston, Portfolio Director of The Hotel Show events, said: “This new report reveals the extent to which the room to project ratio for Middle Eastern hospitality projects is considerably higher than average.

“Hospitality here is synonymous with luxury, opulence and pushing boundaries in terms of scale, magnitude and grandeur. As five star developments and mega resorts continue to dominate its construction pipeline, it’s not surprising that this region has an extraordinary number of rooms in development, even higher than compared with regions with a larger amount of individual hotel projects.”

The UAE (222 projects / 126,576 rooms) and Saudi Arabia (143 projects / 55,810 rooms) are the two most active countries for hospitality development in the Middle East.

An even clearer indicator of continued growth for the region is its having more hotel rooms on the way than South America and Africa combined.

“Dubai continues to lead the global hospitality industry in terms of innovation,” said Tinston. “The world’s tallest hotel has just opened here, and it is due to welcome the first hotel in the world with its own rainforest. Developers here continue to push boundaries – it’s a very exciting market.”

Pictured: Gevora Hotel – the tallest hotel in the world – recently opened on Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road

The region’s strong placing is being attributed to substantial growth across its major countries. Saudi Arabia, for example, is in the midst of widespread change in line with the governments’ Saudi Vision 2030 – with a focus on improving its position as a destination for tourism.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts currently operates 11 hotels across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and has five hotel projects under development in its major cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, Al Khobar – popular with leisure tourists with its coastal location – and industrial city Wa’ad Al Shamal.

Marc Descrozaille, President Middle East & Africa, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, said: “Saudi Arabia is not only home to the Gulf’s largest population, with more than 33 million residents and a robust domestic tourism market, but has become the focal point for government and international investment, based on economic diversification plans designed to secure its long-term prosperity.

“We continue to seek more opportunities to expand our footprint in Saudi Arabia, given its long-term business, investment and tourism prospects. New cities, bigger airports, major leisure-focused tourism attractions and new visa rules are all part of the plan to put the Kingdom on the global tourism map. Saudi’s big-picture plans for development will benefit the hospitality market and the economy at large.”

Pictured: Upcoming hotel opening for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mövenpick Hotel Heraa Jeddah

The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia 2018 is set to return to the Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events next month (10-12^th April 2018) for its sixth edition, with highlights including its highly anticipated ‘Inter-Hotel Culinary Competition’ endorsed by WORLDCHEFS, The Saudi Arabian Chefs Association and Culinary Partner, Unilever Food Solutions.

Hundreds of global brands will showcase the latest products and services designed for the hospitality industry from interiors to technology to thousands of hoteliers and restaurateurs in the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, the 19^th edition of The Hotel Show Dubai will take place 16-18^th September 2018 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Its world-renowned live features including The Middle East Housekeepers League of Champions and The Middle East Hospitality Leadership Forum, are set to return in a big way for 2018.

Find out more about The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia 2018 and The Hotel Show Dubai 2018 at: www.thehotelshowsaudiarabia.com / www.thehotelshow.com.

FROM THE WORLD’S TALLEST HOTEL TO THE FIRST WITH A RAINFOREST: NEW HOTELS AND RESORTS TO EXPERIENCE IN THE UAE IN 2018

NOW OPEN (as of Q4 2017)

Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai

Dubai’s Business Bay is quickly becoming a top destination for hotels and the place to stay in the city with easy access to all of its key locations. Strengthening Marriott International’s portfolio of luxury lifestyle hotels (think of its other impressive recent openings La Ville Hotel CITY WALK Dubai, and the Lapita Hotel at Dubai Parks and Resorts – both from its Autograph Collection), Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai opened late last year.

The first Renaissance Hotel in the UAE is famed for its unique design features led by interior firm WA International. As described by Marriott: “…the hotel’s design sets the stage to inspire a sense of spontaneous discovery at every turn: from the dynamic art installation of Dubai’s cityscape that takes center-stage upon arrival, to the cheeky photography in each guestroom, complemented by a Pablo Picasso’s famed camel sketch reimagined into a 3D iron rod sculpture – both playful jests to reframe your stay.”

Alongside its epic design features, amazing views of Downtown Dubai and the Water Canal, and amenities including an indoor infinity pool and outdoor pool and new Six Senses Spa (coming soon), the hotel boasts some of Dubai’s most exciting new culinary outlets – no mean feat. This includes the first UAE restaurant from renowned Chef Masaharu Morimoto and brand new concepts ‘Bleu Blanc’ (reflecting a Southern French farmhouse) and ‘BASTA!’ (a contemporary interpretation of Roman trattoria), from Chef David Myers. New debut ‘BHAR’ (the Arabic word for spice) will offer Middle Eastern cuisine, whilst ‘Grounded’ will serve as the hotels premiere coffee shop with international beans and unique brewing methods on offer.

Pictured: BHAR Sunset Terrace, Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai
Find out more from Marriott.com

Bulgari Resort & Residences Dubai

The Bulgari Resort & Residences Dubai opened in December 2017 on Dubai’s new ‘treasure island’ – Jumeirah Bay. Shaped like a sea-horse, the impressive island is connected to Downtown Dubai via a 300m bridge. Now Dubai’s most expensive hotel, the Bulgari Resort Dubai is the world’s fifth Bulgari Hotels and Resorts property and it’s first in the Middle East (existing locations include Bali, London, Milan, and Beijing).

Despite its central location, close to some of Dubai’s biggest landmarks including the world’s tallest building, the beachfront property (designed by renowned Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners) is spread across only four floors with 101 rooms and suites, as well as 20 Bulgari villas with pool, garden and sea-view, providing guests with a more personalized stay. As described by Bulgari: “…with a Mediterranean village feel, the complex features the Resort, six residential buildings with 173 sea facing apartments, 15 private mansions, and Bulgari’s first-ever Marina and Yacht Club.”

The brand new resort offers a wide range of amenities, including gourmet Italian cuisine at ‘Il Ristorante – Niko Romito’, ‘Il Café’ which is open all day, ‘Il Bar’ and the ‘La Spiaggia’ Beach Club with private beach. Its unique mosaic-design outdoor swimming pool is complemented by a 1,700 square-metre Spa with an indoor pool, hammam, fitness centre and beauty salon.

Pictured: Bulgari Resort & Residences exterior
Find out more from Bulgari.com

InterContinental Fujairah Resort

Located on the sands of Fujairah’s stunning Aqah Beach, this five-star InterContinental is the brands first resort in the Middle East, definitely worth the trip from Dubai. Offering a spectacular change of scenery beneath the backdrop of the Hajar Mountains, the resort features 44 rooms and 38 suites with expansive balconies and uninterrupted views across the Arabian Sea. It also features impressive amenities including O Spa by L’Occitane, an outdoor infinity pool, and two gourmet dining options.

The hotel recommends an ideal day at the resort and exploring Fujairah which sounds too good to miss:

Morning: For a rejuvenating start to your day, we recommend a morning jog on the beach. Early morning, you’ll pass by the local fishermen getting their catch of the day. After your exercise, revel in the abundant choice of our international buffet at Nama Restaurant for your breakfast, after which you can set sail with our Captain, who will take you on a voyage from our private beach. An incredible experience and a great vantage point to view the resort! The skipper will set off to show you Snoopy Island, a rocky marine outcrop about 100 meters offshore from Al Aqah Beach. You will have the opportunity to embark on one of the most famous activities in the area: Scuba diving or snorkeling, exploring the vibrant underwater life in the area.

Afternoon: After lunch, we highly recommend exploring the city of Fujairah, where you can visit historical sites such as the Fujairah Museum – our personal favorite! The museum houses a great collection of artifacts dating from the early Bronze Age. Spend your time wandering around the historical part of the city and conclude your afternoon by visiting the iconic Fujairah Fort. Built in 1670, it is considered the oldest fort in the United Arab Emirates.

Evening: As the sun begins to set, head down to one of Fujairah’s major landmarks, the iconic Sheikh Zayed Mosque. It is a beautiful structure and a must-see right after sunset! We personally love the lighting features that illuminate this majestic mosque. On your way back to the resort, stop by Al Bidyah Mosque, the oldest extant mosque in the United Arab Emirates. Once you reach the resort, meet me and the team with a final touch of magic to end your day! Join us to enjoy al fresco dining at Drift beach bar and grill with delectable cocktails and succulent dishes to delight your palate, all with the most amazing ocean views!

Pictured: Intercontinental Resort Fujairah 
Find out more from IHG.com

STILL TO COME (Q1-4 2018)

W Dubai – The Palm

Opening in June 2018, a second W Hotel will launch in Dubai, located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah shoreline. With its sleek design synonymous with the W brand, the new property will feature 350 guest rooms and 58 suites with a sea view including ‘the largest suite in Dubai’ (the E-WOW Suite), six restaurants and bars, a private beach with a range of water sports on offer from windsurfing to canoeing, a state-of-the-art gym and spa, and the W’s famous Pets are Welcome or ‘PAW’ programme.

Pictured: W Dubai – The Palm exterior rendering
Find out more from W Hotels

Mandarin Oriental Dubai, Jumeirah Beach

Opening in the final quarter of 2018, the resort’s 200 luxurious rooms and suites will include 12 spacious and exclusive over-the-water villas, accessible via a private bridge. Each villa will have its own infinity pool and a private swim platform, allowing for direct access to the Arabian Gulf. The hotel itself also centers around a variety of infinity pools leading down towards the beachfront. Design elements will be influenced by local culture and the Group’s oriental heritage. The resort will feature nine dynamic restaurants and bars including a signature pier-top restaurant with dedicated docking facilities, allowing for access by private yacht guests. An all-inclusive Spa will offer Mandarin Oriental’s award winning signature programmes as well as specially developed treatments inspired by local traditions and customs. Further facilities include a vitality pool, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, heat and water therapies, and an extensive fitness centre.  In addition, a dedicated Beach Club will provide a range of water sports activities.

Pictured: Mandarin Oriental Dubai, Jumeirah Beach
Find out more from Mandarin Oriental

The world’s first hotel featuring a RAINFOREST: Rosemont Hotel and Residences

Set to become the world’s first hotel with a RAINFOREST – construction on the two-tour Rosemont Hotel in Dubai’s Barsha Heights is set to be completed in April 2018. Designed by ZAS Architects, the 450-room hotel will be operated by Hilton Worldwide under its Curio brand. A man-made jungle, artificial beach and stunning ‘sky pool’ will feature on a five-storey podium, which connects the two towers. The hotel will also offer guests three restaurants, a lobby café and two bars, a fully equipped gym, an outdoor pool and a spa. One of the most exciting spots alongside the man-made jungle looks set to be the outdoor infinity pool, which extends to the edge of the building with views along Sheikh Zayed Road down to the Burj al Arab and the Burj Khalifa.

Pictured: Rosemont Hotel and Residences Dubai
Find out more about the project from ZAS Architects Dubai.

The Anantara Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah

Described by developers as a “…scenic waterfront community, showcasing both Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty and rich heritage”, Anantara’s first resort in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah will be situated in a secluded and picturesque area with a private beach. Overlooking a mangrove-lined eco-reserve, the surrounding area is to be kept unspoiled and feature a discovery and eco learning centre. The first Maldives-inspired overwater villas of their kind in the Emirate will provide the ultimate in relaxation and luxury, whilst the health club on-site will promote an active leisure lifestyle, inviting travellers to stay in shape with energetic gym sessions such as aerobics and racket sports. World-class Anantara Spa journeys will incorporate indigenous wellness traditions whilst culinary experiences will celebrate the flavours of Asia.

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Pictured: The Anantara Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah
Find out more from Anantara.com

The WORLD’S TALLEST hotel: The GEVORA Hotel

At a whopping 356 meters high, with 75 floors, Time Out Dubai has reported that the Gevora Hotel will open later this year. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road in the Trade Centre area, the gigantic new hotel will boast 528 guest rooms and launch four new restaurants to the city. When it opens it will beat the current record holder for the tallest hotel in the world – JW Marriott Marquis Dubai – which is located on the opposite side of the same road, but further up in the Business Bay area of Dubai. To put its stature in perspective, Time Out compared the Gevora Hotel to be three times taller than Big Ben, 56 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower, and around equal to the length of three football pitches. They also reported that bedroom sizes would also be set at a not so modest 46 square meters, with the largest two-bedroom suite measuring a massive 85 square meters.

Pictured: The Gevora Hotel exterior and pool views
Find out more from The Gevora Hotel Facebook page

2018 FORECAST AS BUSY YEAR FOR UAE HOTEL OPENINGS WITH 83 NEW PROJECTS SET TO LAUNCH

As the region’s largest and longest-standing hospitality event draws to a close for 2017, forecasters have revealed that 2018 is expected be hugely eventful for the UAE’s hospitality industry – with no less than 83 new hotels set to open.

The latest Middle East and Africa Hotel Construction report by TOPHOTELPROJECTS –  commissioned by The Hotel Show Dubai 2017, the 18^th edition of which concludes today (20^th September 2017) at the Dubai World Trade Centre – has identified the UAE as being the busiest country for hotel construction in the Middle East and Africa.

The region currently has more than 200 hotel projects in the pipeline, with Dubai (164 projects), Abu Dhabi (25 projects) and Ras al Khaimah (12 projects) seen as the busiest areas for hotel construction in the UAE. Of these properties, 83 will open next year.

Some of the most anticipated hotel openings include Dubai’s Rosemont Hotel and Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton (730 rooms) and Fairmont Abu Dhabi Marina Hotel & Residences (812 rooms).

“The spotlight is firmly on the hospitality industry in this region, particularly the UAE,” commented Gary Williams, Event Director of The Hotel Show, part of the dmg events hospitality portfolio which also includes The Leisure Show and the Middle East Hospitality Awards – which have all run in Dubai this week to massive success.

“We have welcomed more regional and international guests to our events this week than ever before in our 18-year history serving this market, some of which have massive expansion plans for the region, covering hundreds of hotels.

“Some of the business deals orchestrated at our shows this week have been unprecedented, and this just goes to illustrate once more how continually forward-thinking and how constantly growing the hospitality market is in this part of the world. With experts revealing that hotel openings are going to galvanise the market from 2018, we are set to provide the industry with an even larger showcase of the best products and insights.”

Event organisers have today revealed the dates for next year’s The Hotel Show Dubai and The Leisure Show Dubai. Both will take place 16-18^th September 2018.

In making that announcement, the event organisers also unveiled how both shows will be brought to life with more live features than ever before.

Following on from the huge success of its debut running in 2017, The Middle East Housekeepers League of Champions will once again pit the region’s exceptional pool of background staff against one another in The Hotel Show’s timed contest to clean-up ransacked guest rooms, which attracted an incredible 28 different teams for its inaugural hosting.

The Middle East Hospitality Leadership Forum – which itself drew capacity crowds to every discussion at this year’s show – will return too, maintaining the same quality caliber of speakers which included Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM).

At The Leisure Show, new features will include The Landscaping Competition, The Outdoor Furniture Showcase and Everything Golf – the latter geared at providing all the equipment vital to developing and maintaining the region’s unparalleled golf offering.

The ever-popular Fit Hub will bring live gym sessions back to the Dubai World Trade Centre once more, while the Pool and Spa Conference will gather leading professionals to dissect both the challenges and opportunities facing one of the Middle East’s fastest growing industries.

To find out more about the 2018 editions of The Hotel Show and The Leisure Show, please access: www.thehotelshow.com and www.theleisureshow.com