You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Author
Published on November 9, 2023
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the leading names in the hospitality industry, is making waves with its latest announcement. They've just inked a franchise agreement to bring the second Vignette Collection hotel to Dubai, in collaboration with The Heart of Europe, a flagship project by Kleindienst Group. The grand opening of the Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection, The World Islands Dubai, is scheduled for January 2026. This marks a significant moment for The Heart of Europe, further cementing IHG's presence on The World Islands, a stunning archipelago off the coast of Dubai in the Arabian Gulf.
The Vignette Collection brand is a perfect blend of retaining the distinctive identity of world-class independent hotels while harnessing IHG's global reach and luxury expertise. This exciting project is situated within 'The Heart of Europe,' a self-sustaining holiday destination spanning six islands, each combining European architectural charm with top-tier hospitality, all set against the backdrop of serene beaches.
The Heart of Europe is a wonderland of opulent properties, including beachfront villas, premium hotels, a groundbreaking underwater living experience, and a range of world-class amenities, such as climate-controlled streets and a coral institute dedicated to marine ecosystem preservation.
Upon completion, Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai, will boast 150 rooms overlooking the pristine Arabian Gulf, offering a unique blend of exclusivity, community, and a dash of Andalusian-inspired design with contemporary architecture.
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director for India, the Middle East, and Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, stated, "We are excited to partner with The Heart of Europe to bring the second Vignette Collection resort to Dubai, a testament to IHG’s commitment to delivering exceptional stays and experiences for our guests. Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai will significantly reimagine luxury and set future regional hospitality benchmarks. We look forward to welcoming travelers worldwide upon the hotel’s opening in 2026."
The Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai, is currently under construction and is set to become a pivotal example of IHG's commitment to creating remarkable guest experiences and raising the bar for luxury in the region.
Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group and The Heart of Europe, commented, "It is an honor to partner with one of the world’s leading hotel groups to bring the Vignette Collection brand to The World Islands Dubai. This collaboration aligns with our vision of creating a unique destination in one of the world’s most iconic cities. Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai promises to offer guests a remarkable and distinctive stay, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Dubai and presenting a perfect blend of luxury, innovation, and the beauty of the UAE."
In the Middle East, IHG currently operates 108 hotels across eight renowned brands, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, Hotel Indigo, voco, and Six Senses.
Swiggy Partners with FITPASS to Promote 360-Degree Wellness ...
Swiggy Ltd. has announced a strategic partnership with FITPA...
Fairfield by Marriott Agra Strengthens Leadership Team with ...
Fairfield by Marriott Agra has announced the appointment of ...
IHCL's Taj Named India's Strongest Brand for the Fifth Conse...
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India's largest hospitality co...
Spain Set New FIFA World Cup Record as Final Hospitality Pri...
Spain secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final w...
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on July 22, 2026
Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, India's largest specialty coffee company, has officially entered the GCC market through a strategic partnership with Ambrosia Foods. Marking its regional debut, the brand has opened its first café at BurJuman Mall in Dubai, bringing its farm-to-cup coffee philosophy and craft-led coffee experience to one of the world's leading café destinations.
The expansion is being led by Ambrosia Foods, a GCC-focused food and beverage platform that partners with innovative consumer brands to help them grow across the region. By combining Blue Tokai's expertise in sourcing, roasting, and serving premium Indian coffee with Ambrosia Foods' regional market knowledge and operational capabilities, the partnership aims to build a strong long-term presence across the GCC.
With this addition, Blue Tokai becomes the fourth brand in Ambrosia Foods' growing portfolio, joining Biryani By Kilo, Furn Beaino, and Mr. Brown. The company continues to strengthen its presence in the region by bringing premium and scalable food and beverage concepts to GCC consumers.
Speaking on the launch, Vishwaroop Narain, Executive Chairman, Ambrosia Foods, said, “Blue Tokai is a landmark addition to our growing GCC portfolio and a brand that perfectly reflects Ambrosia Foods vision of bring proven, category-defining concepts to the region and building them for long-term success. Indian brands are increasingly finding strong resonance across the GCC, and Blue Tokai is exceptionally well positioned to introduce more consumers to the quality, craftsmanship and diversity of India's specialty coffee."
Following the opening of its first café in Dubai, Ambrosia Foods plans to expand Blue Tokai's presence across the GCC, with more than 10 locations planned over the next few years.
Founded in 2013, Blue Tokai has been at the forefront of India's specialty coffee movement, making freshly roasted Indian coffee more accessible while promoting quality, transparency, and traceability. Today, the company operates more than 250 cafés, three roasteries across India, partners directly with over 80 coffee farms, and also has an international presence in Tokyo, Japan.
The new Dubai café offers guests a selection of Blue Tokai's single-estate coffees, signature blends, and seasonal offerings. Visitors can also explore different brewing methods that highlight the unique flavour profiles and origins of Indian coffee, all within a modern café setting.
Speaking about the expansion, Shivam Shahi, Co-Founder and COO, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, said, “India has an extraordinary coffee heritage, yet its potential as a world-class specialty coffee origin is only beginning to gain global recognition. For more than a decade, Blue Tokai has focused on strengthening the connection between coffee producers and consumers while creating spaces where people can discover the craft and stories behind every cup. Expanding into the GCC marks an important milestone in our journey as we introduce Indian specialty coffee to new audiences. The region's vibrant café culture and appreciation for thoughtfully crafted experiences make it a natural next step in our growth.”
Published on July 20, 2026
Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in an intense final that was decided in extra time.
The match remained goalless through regulation time before Ferran Torres, who came on as a second-half substitute, scored the winner in the 106th minute. Latching onto a loose ball inside the penalty area, Torres fired a left-footed strike under the crossbar to hand Spain its second FIFA World Cup title, the first since its triumph in 2010.
"It was a goal scored by 47 million people," Torres said, referring to Spain's population.
Spain's breakthrough came after Argentina were reduced to 10 men late in regulation when Enzo Fernández was shown a red card following a reckless challenge. The dismissal shifted momentum in Spain's favour before Torres delivered the decisive moment in extra time.
Spain's defence once again proved its strength, successfully protecting the narrow lead until the final whistle. The newly crowned champions conceded just one goal in eight matches throughout the tournament, setting a new record for the fewest goals conceded by a FIFA World Cup-winning team.
The victory also denied Lionel Messi a second consecutive World Cup title in what the Argentine captain had indicated would be his final appearance at the tournament.
The trophy presentation brought together several dignitaries, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, King Felipe VI of Spain, and US President Donald Trump, who presented the FIFA World Cup trophy to the Spanish team.
Before the trophy lift, Trump briefly greeted Spain captain Rodri, describing him as his favourite player before congratulating the team on its historic achievement.
As Spain celebrated lifting football's most prestigious prize, an emotional scene unfolded for Argentina. Led by Lionel Messi, the players collected their silver medals to a standing ovation from supporters inside the stadium. Fans applauded the team as the anthem "Muchachos" echoed around the venue, acknowledging Argentina's remarkable journey despite falling short in the final.
For Spain, the victory marks a return to the top of world football after 16 years, while Argentina's campaign ended with disappointment but earned admiration for reaching another FIFA World Cup final.
Published on July 18, 2026
The countdown has begun for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with Spain set to face Argentina in one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. While football fans from around the world are preparing for the title clash, concerns over deteriorating air quality have emerged across New York and New Jersey, where the final will be played.
Ahead of Sunday's final, France and England will compete in the third-place playoff at Hard Rock Stadium, Florida, before attention shifts to the championship match.
However, just days before the final, authorities issued an air quality alert for parts of New York and New Jersey after smoke from massive Canadian wildfires spread across the northeastern United States.
Smoke from hundreds of active wildfires in Canada has covered large parts of the country, stretching from the Midwest to the Northeast. Officials have advised residents and visitors to limit outdoor activities, remain indoors where possible and avoid prolonged exposure to the polluted air.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 19 (12:30 a.m. IST on July 20) at SoFi Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The air quality concerns intensified as Spain's squad arrived in New Jersey on Wednesday night, following its semi-final victory over France in Texas.
Despite the environmental challenges, preparations for the World Cup final continue, with thousands of supporters expected to travel to New Jersey to witness the clash between the European champions and the defending world champions.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring air quality levels closely in the lead-up to the final while advising residents, visitors and fans to follow public health guidelines if conditions worsen.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.