IHG Hotels and Resorts Leading the Way in Saudi Arabia's Hospitality Boom

IHG Hotels and Resorts Leading the Way in Saudi Arabia's Hospitality Boom

By Author

Published on October 18, 2023

Future Hospitality Summit recently held in Abu Dhabi with the prominent hoteliers around the world converging to share insights, innovations, and strategies to shape the future of the global hospitality industry.

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director of Middle East, Africa, and South West Asia for IHG Hotels and Resorts, was enthusiastic about IHG's role in the region, stating that over 100 projects are in the works in Saudi Arabia alone, accounting for 50 percent of IHG's regional development. This is primarily in response to Saudi Arabia's ambitious tourism vision, known as Vision 2030, which aims to attract over 100 million visitors to the Kingdom.

Mattar noted, "The Kingdom aims to build another half-a-million hotel rooms, and we obviously, being the first operator there, have a great name and a reputation to position ourselves to be one of the preferred brands for private investors and for the government."

IHG has a storied history in Saudi Arabia, having introduced the first international five-star brand to the country with the opening of InterContinental Riyadh in 1975. As one of the earliest international entrants into the Saudi market, IHG has played a pivotal role in supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.

IHG currently stands as the largest operator in Saudi Arabia and has an array of upcoming projects. By the end of this year, the ultra-luxury brand Six Senses is set to make its debut in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea project. Additionally, InterContinental in the Red Sea is scheduled to commence operations by the second quarter of 2024.

It is also revealed that the soon-to-be-introduced Kimpton Hotel will be deeply intertwined with Saudi cultural elements. The Kimpton Riyadh, a first for the region, will feature five culinary venues, including an all-day dining establishment, a specialty restaurant, a lobby lounge, a lobby living room café, and a pool bar.

"In addition, we see immense growth potential in our midscale brands, especially with the Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express brands," Mattar added.

IHG Hotels and Resorts is at the forefront of Saudi Arabia's booming hospitality industry, aligning itself with the Kingdom's ambitious tourism goals and showcasing a commitment to both luxury and cultural authenticity in its diverse projects.


Azerai La Residence, Hue Elevates Spa and Dining Experience

Azerai La Residence, Hue Elevates Spa and Dining Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 22, 2024

Azerai La Residence, Hue, a heritage hotel overlooking Vietnam’s Perfume River, has elevated its offerings with new spa treatments and an enhanced dining menu. Celebrating Hue’s rich cultural and culinary traditions, these additions provide guests with immersive wellness and gastronomic experiences.

Le Spa: Rejuvenation Redefined

Le Spa, renowned for its wellness expertise, has introduced treatments that blend tradition and innovation. Signature therapies include:

  • Tibetan Singing Bowls: Utilizing sound waves to harmonize body and mind.

  • Reiki Healing: Channeling energy to promote physical and emotional well-being.

  • Moxibustion Therapy: Stimulating blood flow and boosting immunity with burning moxa herb.

The 60-minute “Tibetan Singing Bowl, Reiki Healing and Moxibustion” package integrates these therapies for a deeply restorative experience. Additionally, the spa offers traditional Vietnamese treatments like bamboo leg therapy, cupping, and a natural herbal hair wash designed to enhance hair health and shine.

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Le Parfum: A Culinary Journey

Le Parfum, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, now features 30 new dishes on a menu that fuses Western, Asian, Vietnamese, and Hue cuisines. Highlights include:

  • Authentic local delicacies such as Hue Pancake and Bun Bo Hue.

  • International favorites like Pad Thai and Japanese Wagyu Striploin A5.

  • A revamped vegetarian section with balanced, low-calorie meals like Creamy Pumpkin Soup and Da Lat Artichoke Curry.

The Colonial Life: Tailored Experiences

The hotel’s curated dining programs, under “The Colonial Life,” celebrate Hue’s legacy as a hub of culinary artistry. Guests can explore:

  • The Imperial Feast: A royal dining experience featuring music and cuisine inspired by the Nguyen dynasty.

  • Majestic Menu: Honoring the Imperial Emperor and Empress of Japan’s visit to the hotel.

  • Taste of Hue Cooking Class: Offering hands-on lessons in creating authentic Vietnamese dishes.

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Hue’s historical significance as Vietnam’s culinary capital is evident, with approximately 2,000 of the nation’s 3,000 traditional dishes originating here. Azerai La Residence continues to honor this heritage while crafting new traditions for its guests.

For bookings and more details, visit Azerai La Residence.


Marriott Brings Moxy Hotels to Dubai’s Al Barsha, Opening in 2025

Marriott Brings Moxy Hotels to Dubai’s Al Barsha, Opening in 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 16, 2024

Marriott International is all set to introduce its Moxy Hotels brand to Dubai’s bustling Al Barsha neighborhood by mid-2025. Partnering with Al Ali Property Investments (API), the existing property will undergo a rebranding and refurbishment to launch as Moxy Al Barsha Dubai.

Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice-President for Middle East Lodging Development at Marriott International, expressed excitement over the project:
“The Moxy Al Barsha Dubai will serve as a playful lifestyle hotel, bringing a spirited experience to Dubai’s vibrant hospitality landscape. Dubai remains an important growth market for the company, and we continue to see strong demand for hospitality experiences that are as stylish as they are affordable.”

The Moxy brand—celebrated for its industrial-chic aesthetic and social communal spaces—will make its UAE debut with this property. Guests can expect smart guestrooms, locally influenced programming, and vibrant common areas ideal for socializing and productivity.

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Jassim Al Ali, Managing Director of API, added:
“Moxy Hotels is an ideal fit for one of Dubai’s most dynamic areas with its energetic and stylish hospitality experience. The signing of Moxy Al Barsha Dubai is a great addition to our existing portfolio of properties, and we look forward to expanding our collaboration with Marriott International.”

Situated in Al Barsha, a popular hub with easy access to key local attractions and business districts, Moxy Al Barsha Dubai is positioned to cater to modern travelers seeking affordable lifestyle experiences.

Globally recognized for disrupting traditional hospitality, Moxy Hotels has established itself in the upper midscale lifestyle segment with over 135 properties across 25+ countries.

The upcoming Moxy Al Barsha Dubai also marks the third collaboration between Marriott International and API, following the successful agreements for Marriott Executive Apartments and Marriott Hotel Residences on Sheikh Zayed Road.

With its playful approach to hospitality, Moxy Al Barsha Dubai is set to redefine the guest experience and strengthen Marriott's footprint in the region.


Celebrate Christmas in Style at THE OZEN RESIDENCE

Celebrate Christmas in Style at THE OZEN RESIDENCE

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 10, 2024

This Christmas, create magical memories with your family at THE OZEN RESIDENCE, the crown jewel of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO in the Maldives. Designed for ultimate luxury, this stunning three-bedroom haven accommodates four adults and two children, making it the ideal retreat for a serene and unforgettable holiday.

The residence offers expansive living spaces, elegantly styled interiors, and a private artificial beach where families can reconnect and relax. Adding to the luxury is a private infinity pool that opens to breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, ensuring every moment feels like paradise.

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Dive into the festive spirit with an array of enchanting activities. Decorate gingerbread houses, enjoy a dazzling tree-lighting ceremony, and welcome Santa as he arrives on the beach. On Christmas Day, indulge in a lavish lunch at The Palms, and as the year draws to a close, revel in the spectacular Ice and Fire Fête. This grand New Year celebration features icy cocktails, gourmet dining, fiery performances, and thrilling entertainment, including a fly board show, fireworks, and live music.

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To elevate the experience, guests enjoy the luxury of a personal butler and bespoke dining services, ensuring every need is met with care and precision.

Book your holiday now:

Make this festive season extraordinary at THE OZEN RESIDENCE, where luxury and family moments come together in perfect harmony.

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