Al Habtoor Palace has retained its prestigious Four-Star rating in the 2026 Star Awards by Forbes Travel Guide, reaffirming its position among the world’s distinguished luxury hospitality destinations. The 68th annual Star Awards span 100 countries and recognise excellence in hotels, restaurants, spas, and cruise experiences.

Overlooking the scenic Dubai Water Canal, Al Habtoor Palace is renowned for its Beaux-Arts-inspired architecture and palatial interiors. The hotel features 182 guest rooms and 52 suites, offering a seamless blend of classical elegance and contemporary comfort. A signature highlight is its bespoke butler service, ensuring personalised attention and a refined guest journey from arrival to departure.

Culinary excellence remains central to the hotel’s identity, with a curated collection of fine dining venues presenting world-class cuisine in sophisticated settings. Guests can also unwind at the award-winning spa, designed to deliver restorative treatments and holistic relaxation experiences.

Located within Al Habtoor City, the property enjoys prime access to Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai’s cultural and entertainment hubs. With state-of-the-art event spaces and elegant surroundings, the hotel continues to be a sought-after venue for corporate gatherings, weddings, and grand celebrations.

Stefan Radstrom, Complex General Manager of the Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, said, “We are truly honoured to be awarded the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Rating for 2026. This recognition celebrates our continuous dedication to delivering an exceptional experience for every guest. We take pride in offering unmatched service, refined comfort, and world-class amenities with every stay.”

Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, added, “Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality. This year’s list reflects the changing landscape of luxury, with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities and enhanced well-being.”

The continued recognition underscores Al Habtoor Palace’s commitment to meticulous service, elevated experiences, and timeless luxury in the heart of Dubai.

Enrise by Sayaji, Latur has officially opened in the city’s Old MIDC Area, marking a strategic addition to the hospitality infrastructure of Maharashtra’s Marathwada region. The 30-room property is designed to cater to Latur’s rapidly expanding industrial and business corridor, reinforcing the city’s position as one of India’s fast-growing tier-2 markets.

Latur, home to over 24 lakh residents (Census 2011), is recognised as a major soyabean trading centre and for its 11 cooperative sugar factories, earning it the title “Sugar Belt of Maharashtra.” The region’s strong agro-industrial base continues to generate sustained demand for quality business hospitality.

The hotel offers 30 rooms across three categories - 18 Deluxe Rooms, 9 Executive Rooms and 3 Premium Executive Rooms, tailored for business and leisure travellers. Expansive MICE and event facilities include four banquet venues: Jewel, accommodating up to 700 guests in a theatre-style setup; Solitaire for mid-sized gatherings; Crystal for corporate meetings; and Connect, an intimate boardroom space.

Dining options include two multi-cuisine restaurants, Momentt and Horizon, serving resident guests, business travellers and local diners.

Ajay Kanojia, Associate General Manager, Sayaji Hotels Ltd, stated that Latur aligns with the brand’s strategic expansion into high-potential growth markets, bringing its signature “Yours Truly” service ethos to the region. Mayur Garje, Managing Director, Garje Unit, highlighted the partnership’s role in elevating hospitality standards in the district.

Located 3 km from Latur Railway Station and 120 km from Solapur Airport, the property offers convenient connectivity for corporate travellers. The opening reflects Sayaji Hotels’ continued focus on expanding across emerging business destinations in India

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) has announced the launch of its newest property, Regenta Ranjit Avenue, Amritsar, further strengthening its footprint in Punjab. With this opening, the group now operates five properties in the city, reinforcing its focus on high-growth urban and religious tourism destinations.

Strategically located at SCO 47-50, Ranjit Avenue, the hotel offers convenient access to Amritsar’s key landmarks. It is situated just 7 km (around 10 minutes) from the iconic Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh. The property is also 15 km from Shri Guru Ram Dass Ji International Airport and 5.5 km from the Amritsar Railway Station, making it accessible for both domestic and international travellers.

The hotel features 37 thoughtfully designed rooms that blend contemporary comfort with regal elegance, offering guests a serene stay experience.

Dining at the property includes three distinct venues. Pinxx Kitchen & Lounge serves as the signature all-day dining restaurant, where global flavours meet the authentic tastes of Amritsar. Mix Bar offers a chic setting with a curated selection of expertly crafted beverages, while Kitty Lounge provides an exclusive space for private gatherings and intimate social events.

For meetings and celebrations, the hotel boasts expansive banquet venues with regal detailing. A highlight is “Celebration – The Party Hall,” a 4,500 square feet space with 16-foot ceilings, ideal for grand events and corporate functions. Guests can also unwind at the rooftop swimming pool, adding a leisure edge to the property’s offerings.

Commenting on the launch, Chander K. Baljee, Chairman & Managing Director, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., said, “The opening of Regenta Ranjit Avenue marks a significant milestone in our strategy to strengthen our presence in India’s most iconic cultural and spiritual hubs. As our fifth property in Amritsar, this launch reinforces our commitment to the region and our ‘Vision 2030’ expansion roadmap. We aim to provide a sanctuary of 'Regal Hospitality and Eternal Serenity' that reflects the city's rich heritage while offering the modern, high-quality service our guests expect.”

With this addition, Royal Orchid Hotels continues to deepen its presence in key Indian markets, aligning growth with destinations that attract both leisure and pilgrimage travellers.