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By Nishang Narayan
Published on August 5, 2024
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of two new properties in the Kingdom of Bahrain under its iconic Taj brand. This strategic expansion marks IHCL as the first Indian hospitality company to establish a presence in Bahrain, further strengthening its footprint in the Middle East.
“We are pleased to announce two hotels in the island nation of Bahrain in line with our strategy of growing Taj’s presence in key gateway cities of the world. With a portfolio of seven hotels, including four under development in the Middle East, these hotels will extend our presence in the MENA region,” stated Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL.
The first property, a luxury resort in Hamala, will offer 251 elegantly designed rooms that reflect the serene ambiance of the island. This resort will feature an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty restaurants, a swimming pool, and an exclusive beach club. Designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort will also include wellness areas such as a state-of-the-art gym and a tranquil spa. The resort’s 1,200 sq.mt banquet facilities will cater to grand events and celebrations, positioning it as a key player in Bahrain’s emerging leisure sector.
In Downtown Seef, Manama, IHCL will introduce a 200-room Taj hotel strategically located in the heart of Bahrain’s bustling capital. This hotel is designed to cater to both business travelers and tourists, offering world-class wellness facilities, including a modern gym, spa, and swimming pool. Guests will enjoy a variety of culinary experiences from all-day dining and specialty restaurants to an exclusive pool bar. The Downtown Seef hotel will also feature banquet areas tailored for meetings, corporate events, and weddings.
“We are delighted to partner with Kingdom Projects to introduce the iconic Taj with its world-class hospitality, elevating Bahrain’s tourism landscape,” added Puneet Chhatwal. Jalal Al Wazzan, Managing Director of Kingdom Projects W.L.L, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are delighted to welcome the prestigious and world-renowned Taj brand, a first for Bahrain, which will work towards attracting tourists in greater numbers from across the region and around the globe, thereby enhancing the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP. In line with the Economic Vision 2030 driven by the Crown Prince, partnering with leading leisure and hospitality brands exemplifies Kingdom Projects’ vested commitment to contribute to the development and growth of the tourism sector and thereby, the diversification of the national economy.”
“We are delighted to partner with Kingdom Projects to introduce the iconic Taj with its world-class hospitality, elevating Bahrain’s tourism landscape,” added Puneet Chhatwal.
Jalal Al Wazzan, Managing Director of Kingdom Projects W.L.L, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are delighted to welcome the prestigious and world-renowned Taj brand, a first for Bahrain, which will work towards attracting tourists in greater numbers from across the region and around the globe, thereby enhancing the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP. In line with the Economic Vision 2030 driven by the Crown Prince, partnering with leading leisure and hospitality brands exemplifies Kingdom Projects’ vested commitment to contribute to the development and growth of the tourism sector and thereby, the diversification of the national economy.”
With these new additions, IHCL now has a presence of seven hotels with four under development in the Middle East, highlighting their commitment to expanding their luxury hospitality footprint in the region.
About the Owner
Kingdom Projects W.L.L is a pioneering company in the real estate sector, renowned for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. Driven by the Crown Prince’s Vision 2030, Kingdom Projects stands as one of the most esteemed and significant real estate development firms in Bahrain. The company is a diversified business group with various activities and services catering to the industry’s requirements in Bahrain.
About The Indian Hotels Company Limited
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj – the iconic brand for the most discerning travelers, ranked as World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2024 and India’s Strongest Brand 2024 by Brand Finance; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; and Ginger, which is revolutionizing the lean luxe segment.
Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, IHCL opened its first hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 326 hotels, including 102 under development globally across four continents, 13 countries, and in over 130 locations. It is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization and is listed on the BSE and NSE.
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By Hariharan U
Published on October 22, 2025
Hilton has reached a major milestone in its luxury and lifestyle segment, now operating over 160 hotels across Asia Pacific. This growth reflects rising demand for unique, experience-driven stays, and the company plans to expand its portfolio by at least 50% in the coming years.
The expansion follows the recent launch of Motto by Hilton Hong Kong Soho, Hilton’s first lifestyle brand in the region. The hotel offers a connected experience with thoughtfully designed guest rooms, dynamic public areas, and locally inspired food and beverage offerings. Recent openings of Waldorf Astoria Osaka and Secan Hotel Qingdao, Curio Collection by Hilton, also highlight Hilton’s growing presence in the luxury and lifestyle segment.
“Asia Pacific continues to be an engine of growth for Hilton’s luxury and lifestyle brands. The appetite for distinctive, experience-led stays is stronger than ever, and Hilton is proud to lead the way in shaping the future of hospitality in this vibrant region,” said Alan Watts, President, Asia Pacific, Hilton.
Hilton’s upcoming openings over the next 12 months include Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, Canopy by Hilton Shanghai Belfry Plaza, KROMO Bangkok, Curio Collection by Hilton, Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Nivata Koh Samui, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. The first Waldorf Astoria in Indonesia will debut in Bali in 2027, while NoMad Singapore and Canopy by Hilton Makati in the Philippines are set for 2026.
“Hilton brands lead the industry in terms of rooms under construction in this region. In Asia Pacific, we are on track to double our presence of Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, and LXR Hotels & Resorts, debut NoMad and Signia by Hilton, and expand our lifestyle brands which are seeing surging interest from owners across the region,” said Clarence Tan, Senior Vice President, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton.
Long-term plans include seven new Waldorf Astoria properties in Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Sydney, Xi’an, Tokyo, Delhi, and Bali. Conrad Hotels & Resorts will grow in Jaipur, Kuala Lumpur, Nagoya, Bangkok, and several Chinese cities. LXR Hotels & Resorts will debut in Bengaluru, Hiroshima, and Xi’an, while Signia by Hilton is set to launch in India. Curio Collection by Hilton will arrive in Bengaluru, Wuxi, and Langkawi, and Canopy by Hilton will open in Bangkok and Okinawa.
Hilton’s growth has been accelerated by acquiring a majority stake in Sydell Group to expand the NoMad brand and an exclusive partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, giving Hilton guests access to independent luxury properties globally.
With this momentum, Hilton has added over 100 future luxury and lifestyle hotels to its global development pipeline in 2025 and expects to launch three new luxury and lifestyle hotels per week, adding approximately 150 hotels to its global portfolio.
London-based design studio Shed has revealed an all-new design concept for Jollibee, one of the fastest-growing restaurant brands from the Philippines. Tasked with redefining the brand’s global restaurant experience, Shed’s approach brings together interior design, graphics, and signage to tell Jollibee’s story in a contemporary and engaging way.
As Jollibee continues its ambitious expansion across Asia, Europe, the US, and the UK, the brand sought a modern design language to elevate its iconic identity. The refreshed concept debuted in five new Hong Kong restaurants, marking the beginning of Jollibee’s next chapter in international dining.
At the core of Shed’s creative direction is a simple but powerful idea, “Put a smile at the heart of everything.” This philosophy guided every element of the new design, combining joy and sophistication in a way that appeals to all generations while staying true to Jollibee’s Filipino roots.
The design draws from Jollibee’s cheerful personality while adding a refined visual edge. By balancing fun with modernity, Shed created a distinctive global identity that feels fresh yet familiar. The interiors showcase layered materials, bespoke furniture, and bold graphic motifs, while the brand’s beloved Bee and Chickenjoy mascots appear as reimagined design features that add charm and recognition.
“Our goal wasn't just about creating an instantly ownable piece of design, it was to craft a distinctly new Jollibee experience that encapsulated the joy and warmth the brand represents,” said Matt Smith, co-founder of Shed. “The challenge was to ensure this joy resonated universally, expressed consistently across all design and brand touchpoints.”
He added, “In competitive global markets, the detail matters. It was important to bring together subtle iconic elements with bold playful touches. The aim was balance, making each space distinctive yet quirky and sophisticated.”
Carl Tan, Chairman of Jollibee Foods China, shared, “Every detail was thoughtfully aligned with the original strategy, culminating in a true celebration of the Jollibee spirit. The result is an environment we are deeply proud of, one that radiates warmth, vibrancy, and a sense of joy.”
With its thoughtful blend of heritage and innovation, Shed’s new design sets the tone for Jollibee’s global future, a brand that continues to spread joy, one restaurant at a time.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on October 21, 2025
Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach, the Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond luxury resort in Sunny Isles Beach, has unveiled its newest accommodation: the One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite with Convertible Den. Designed by Isabel Tragash of STA Architectural Group, the suite offers a unique blend of residential comfort and Acqualina’s renowned service and amenities.
Located on the fifth floor of the resort, the 2,767-square-foot Villa Suite redefines the luxury hotel experience with its contemporary interiors, flexible layout, and expansive outdoor living spaces. The design embraces modern Mediterranean aesthetics, featuring curving silhouettes, muted color palettes, and dramatic uplighting, creating a sense of warmth and sophistication.
“The One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite represents a new chapter of luxury at Acqualina,” said Deborah Yager Fleming, CEO and Partner of Acqualina Resort & Residences. “Designed for both extended stays and intimate escapes, the Villa provides our guests with the feeling of a private residence while enjoying the impeccable service and amenities that have made Acqualina the most awarded beachfront resort in the United States.”
The suite features an open-concept layout with a gourmet kitchen equipped with Calacatta Oro marble countertops, Miele appliances, and a full backsplash. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and breakfast areas, adorned with custom-made furnishings, Italian-sourced pieces, and curated décor accents. Artistic touches include abstract artwork by Domenica Brockman, Innovations Pintuck wallpaper, and a Philip Jeffries Terra Tones accent wall, enhancing the suite’s elegant ambiance.
The primary bedroom is designed as a serene sanctuary, featuring a Pianca bed, Cattelan Italia nightstands, a curved upholstered sofa, and a dramatic crystal pendant light. The bathroom showcases Cosmos stone floors, onyx walls, expansive vanities, and premium fixtures by Dornbracht and Kohler.
A convertible den adds flexibility, transforming into a guest bedroom or private office with Italian-built millwork, a concealed queen-sized bed, and a dedicated bathroom.
One of the suite’s highlights is its two terraces, totaling nearly 900 square feet. The ocean-facing terrace, furnished with Harbour’s Victoria Collection, lush trees, and topiaries, offers an alfresco living experience, perfect for morning coffee, sunset cocktails, or sophisticated entertaining.
With its meticulous design, high-end international brands, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, the One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite sets a new benchmark for luxury accommodations in South Florida, promising an unmatched residential-style retreat for guests seeking both elegance and comfort.
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