Taiba Investments and Hilton to Introduce Madinah’s First Waldorf Astoria

Taiba Investments and Hilton to Introduce Madinah’s First Waldorf Astoria

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 14, 2024

Taiba Investments, a leader in Saudi hospitality and real estate, has announced a strategic partnership with Hilton (NYSE: HLT) to bring the renowned Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand to the holy city of Madinah. The agreement was signed during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) in Dubai, emphasizing Taiba Investments' ongoing expansion into the luxury hospitality market. This collaboration aims to elevate Saudi Arabia's tourism sector through partnerships with world-class hospitality brands like Hilton.

“This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our strategic growth, reflecting our unwavering commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s hospitality offering across diverse segments,” stated Sultan Al Otaibi, CEO of Taiba Investments. “Our collaboration with Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts will elevate tourism and hospitality by delivering an extraordinary guest experience in line with the ‘Pilgrim Experience Program.’ This project not only reaffirms our leadership in the sector but also highlights our dedication to Saudi Vision 2030 by providing world-class accommodation that honors the Kingdom’s rich heritage.”

Set to open in 2028, Waldorf Astoria Al Madinah will be the brand’s debut in the city, introducing its unparalleled standards of luxury and signature service. Ideally located on the northern side of the Prophet’s Mosque (PBUH), the hotel offers exclusive, direct views of this holy site and is just a few minutes’ walk away.

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with Taiba Investments through this remarkable project,” remarked Carlos Khneisser, Vice President of Development, Middle East and Africa at Hilton. “Saudi Arabia remains one of our fastest-growing markets where we plan to expand our footprint to exceed 100 hotels in the coming years. Waldorf Astoria Al Madinah will bring the brand’s timeless hospitality and elegant service near one of the world’s most sacred sites. Together with Taiba, we look forward to expanding our network across the Kingdom and delivering unforgettable experiences to our guests.”

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Waldorf Astoria Al Madinah will feature over 300 sophisticated guest rooms and suites, three world-class dining concepts—including the celebrated Peacock Alley café—and two thoughtfully curated restaurants, including a signature venue. The hotel will also house two multi-functional halls, a boardroom, a private club lounge, a prayer room, and a fitness center.

By pioneering transformative projects, Taiba Investments aims to significantly contribute to local economic growth, generate valuable job opportunities, and support tourism infrastructure development, all while delivering an experience deeply rooted in tradition.

As part of this strategy, Taiba Investments plans to renovate the existing Taiba Front Hotel, rebranding it as Waldorf Astoria Al Madinah. This transformation will merge the global brand’s timeless luxury with the cultural essence of the holy city, enhancing the property’s sophistication and exclusivity while solidifying Taiba’s position as a key player in redefining Madinah’s hospitality landscape.

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 8,000 properties and over 1.2 million rooms in 126 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history.

About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning portfolio of 35 iconic properties that deliver a unique sense of place with a commitment to sincerely elegant service and culinary mastery in landmark destinations worldwide.

About Taiba Investments

Taiba Investments Co. (TASI: 4090), established in 1988, is a leading hospitality and real estate company headquartered in Saudi Arabia, managing a portfolio of 39 properties, including hotels and residential communities.


Ludlow Coffee Supply Expands in Miami with New All-Day Café Concept

Ludlow Coffee Supply Expands in Miami with New All-Day Café Concept

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

Ludlow Coffee Supply, the Lower East Side-born coffee brand known for its community-driven approach and single-origin coffees, is expanding its presence in Miami with a new location at Domus Brickell Park. The opening marks the brand’s third location in South Florida and second in Miami.

This new outpost represents a significant step for Ludlow Coffee Supply, introducing its first all-day café concept that transitions from a daytime coffee destination into an evening cocktail lounge. The move reflects the brand’s evolution from a neighbourhood coffee shop into a broader hospitality experience that blends coffee culture with nightlife.

Building on its success in New York and South Florida, the brand has developed a loyal following through its specialty coffee offerings and fresh food selections. The Domus Brickell Park location will roll out in two phases. The first phase will feature Ludlow’s signature café experience, similar to its existing outlet at 801 Brickell, while the second phase will introduce a full-service evening menu along with curated programming such as DJ sets, listening sessions, and late-night events.

Speaking about the expansion, John Seymour said, “Miami has always felt like an extension of what we built on the Lower East Side; a city that moves fast but still makes time for real connection. Domus Brickell Park gives us the space to fully realize that vision: a place where the morning espresso crowd and the late-night cocktail crowd are really the same people, just at different hours. We're not just opening a café - we're planting a neighborhood.”

The café menu will feature crafted lattes, espressos, single-origin cold brews, teas, and smoothies, along with signature flavours such as maple, bourbon vanilla, salted caramel, and mocha. Food offerings include breakfast tacos, sandwiches, salads, and grab-and-go options. As the day transitions into evening, a dedicated cocktail programme will take centre stage, extending the experience into a social nightlife setting.

Designed by Zyscovich, the space blends Ludlow’s Lower East Side character with Miami’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Guests can enjoy a bright coffee bar for work and meetings, along with an open patio designed for relaxed, all-day gatherings. As night falls, the venue transforms into a vibrant cocktail space, bringing a new energy to the neighbourhood.

Adding to the experience, Ludlow Market Supply will offer a curated selection of wellness products, pantry essentials, home goods, and vintage items, enhancing the brand’s community-focused approach.

With this launch, Ludlow Coffee Supply continues to expand its footprint while introducing a new format that brings together coffee, culture, and nightlife in a seamless experience.


The Imperia by Dhaba Appoints Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef

The Imperia by Dhaba Appoints Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

The Imperia by Dhaba has announced the appointment of Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef. The restaurant, known for its fine-dining Indian cuisine, is part of a well-established family-owned group with a strong presence across New York City and New Jersey.

With an impressive 36 years of culinary experience, Chef Adhikari brings deep expertise in Indian cuisine, especially in traditional and tandoor-based cooking. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation for balancing authenticity with evolving global tastes, shaped by his extensive work across international kitchens.

He has previously worked with Old World Hospitality, including its well-known restaurant Chor Bazar, where he contributed to showcasing India’s rich culinary heritage. His international experience includes roles at Tandoori King, Indian Restaurant Maharani, and Indian Restaurant Ganga, further refining his skills and understanding of diverse dining preferences.

In India, he has also been associated with Residency Resort Pvt. Ltd., strengthening his foundation in premium hospitality and guest-focused dining experiences. His career across continents reflects his adaptability, consistency, and commitment to quality.

In his new role, Chef Adhikari will support the culinary leadership team in delivering authentic Indian flavours while maintaining the brand’s standards of excellence and innovation.

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Sharing his thoughts, Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari said, “I am truly honored to join The Imperia by Dhaba, a brand that represents authenticity and excellence in Indian cuisine. I look forward to contributing my experience to create memorable dining experiences while staying true to traditional flavors.”

The management expressed confidence that his experience and passion will play a key role in enhancing guest satisfaction and further strengthening the restaurant’s reputation in the region.


Azerai Resorts Introduces Premium Wedding Packages in Vietnam

Azerai Resorts Introduces Premium Wedding Packages in Vietnam

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 18, 2026

Azerai Resorts has introduced new premium wedding packages across its properties in Vietnam, offering couples a chance to celebrate their special day in scenic and thoughtfully designed settings. The offerings focus on personalised experiences that bring together elegance, comfort, and attention to detail.

The wedding packages are available at Azerai Ke Ga Bay and Azerai La Residence, Hue. Both properties combine natural surroundings with Azerai’s signature hospitality, offering flexible indoor and outdoor venues suited for celebrations of different sizes. Each wedding is customised to match the couple’s preferences, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay, located in southern Vietnam, offers a beachfront setting ideal for intimate and mid-sized weddings. The resort can host up to 100 guests, with options to exchange vows at a beachfront sunken lounge for smaller gatherings or on a spacious pooldeck for larger celebrations. Dining experiences can be arranged by the poolside, at the Dining Room restaurant, or in a garden lounge overlooking natural surroundings. Couples also have the option to book the entire resort for a private celebration, with personalised décor and arrangements designed to reflect their vision.

Situated around a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, the resort is spread across five hectares of landscaped gardens, with views of Hon Ba Island and nearby sand dunes. Azerai Ke Ga Bay has also received notable recognition, including a MICHELIN Key in 2025 as a “very special stay” and the Best Boutique Resort of the Year at the Gourmet Vietnam Awards by Epicure magazine. It has also been ranked among the most Instagrammable hotels globally and recognised as one of Southeast Asia’s leading boutique properties.

For those looking for a more historic setting, Azerai La Residence, Hue offers a riverside venue in Vietnam’s former imperial capital. The property can host weddings for up to 300 guests, with popular options including poolside dinners overlooking the Perfume River. Ceremonies and receptions can be held at the Le Gouverneur Bar Terrace or on the wooden deck near Le Spa, while dining experiences are hosted at Le Parfum restaurant.

The hotel also offers themed wedding packages with elegant décor, curated menus, and personalised elements. Couples are provided with a one-night stay in a Superior Riverview Room, along with a set-menu dinner, a bottle of Champagne with a glass tower, and a 60-minute spa treatment for two.

Azerai La Residence, Hue is built around a colonial mansion dating back to 1930, known for its art deco design and architectural character. The property has also been recognised as one of Vietnam’s top hotels by The Times in the UK.

With these new offerings, Azerai Resorts continues to position itself as a preferred choice for destination weddings, combining scenic locations, personalised service, and curated experiences for modern couples.

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