The First Group Hospitality Expands Global Footprint with Multiple Hotel Signings at FHS Dubai

The First Group Hospitality Expands Global Footprint with Multiple Hotel Signings at FHS Dubai

By Hariharan U

Published on November 5, 2025

The First Group Hospitality has taken another major step in its growth journey, announcing a series of hotel management signings during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World in Dubai. The deals highlight the company’s expanding reach both within the Middle East and internationally, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing hotel management firms in the region.

At the summit, The First Group unveiled the rebranding of three of its flagship Dubai properties under Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio and Autograph Collection. The newly branded hotels, The First Collection Marina, Dubai, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel; The First Collection Waterfront, Dubai, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel; and Hotel Local Dubai, Jumeirah Village Triangle, Autograph Collection, reflect a strategic alignment with Marriott’s global presence and loyalty network.

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Spread across three vibrant neighbourhoods, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, and Jumeirah Village Triangle, these properties are designed to offer lifestyle-driven experiences that blend local flair with world-class hospitality standards.

Adding to the excitement, The First Group announced its partnership with BB Holding to launch Radisson RED Marjan Island, the UAE’s first franchised Radisson RED property. Scheduled to open in 2027, this 261-key hotel will be located on Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island, one of the emirate’s most sought-after destinations known for its mix of relaxation and adventure.

The company also revealed its first European project, Gennadi Seaside Resort in Rhodes, Greece, marking The First Group Hospitality’s debut in the European market.

Commenting on these developments, Rob Burns, CEO of The First Group, said, “These milestone signings reflect The First Group Hospitality’s expanding collaboration with leading global hotel groups who trust us to manage flagship properties in the UAE and beyond. We sincerely thank our partners for their confidence in our vision and continued support throughout this growth journey. The variety of management agreements demonstrates our versatility as third-party operators to work across a spectrum of properties, from midscale to luxury, from city hotels to beach resorts.”

The series of announcements at FHS World come at a time of strong momentum for the company’s portfolio. Beyond the summit, The First Group also joined hands with IHG Hotels & Resorts to launch Holiday Inn Dubai Village Circle, a 349-key property located near Al Maktoum International Airport. The project further extends the firm’s collaboration with IHG, following notable ventures such as Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection, soon to become the world’s tallest hotel.

Headquartered in Dubai, The First Group Hospitality continues to build its reputation as a trusted hospitality management company specialising in hotel operations, asset management, and F&B strategy. With a team of seasoned professionals, the firm focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, revenue growth, and guest satisfaction across its expanding global portfolio.


Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Welcomes Festive Season with Joyful Cake-Mixing Ceremony

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Welcomes Festive Season with Joyful Cake-Mixing Ceremony

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 18, 2025

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach opened its festive season with its much-awaited annual cake-mixing ceremony, creating a lively afternoon filled with joy, high tea, and seaside celebrations. Held by the poolside, the event brought together guests, families, and culinary enthusiasts for a cherished pre-Christmas ritual that leads into the upcoming Tree Lighting Ceremony and New Year’s Eve festivities.

Set against the scenic backdrop of the sea, the celebration reflected the warm spirit of the season, showcased through the hotel’s popular F&B outlets, The Square, Gadda Da Vida, Sampan, Bageecha, and Péché Mignon. Guests joined hands with the hotel’s culinary team for the traditional cake-mixing ritual, symbolising community, togetherness, and the joy of giving.

The afternoon continued with an elegant seaside high tea featuring a curated selection of savoury bites, sweet treats, and refreshing beverages. The atmosphere carried the perfect blend of warmth and celebration, truly capturing the festive essence of Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.

Kunal Shanker, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, shared, “Our annual cake-mixing ceremony is a celebration of togetherness and marks the beginning of our festive preparations. It is always heartening to see families, friends, and even first-time participants join hands in this joyous ritual, sharing laughter and creating memories. As these ingredients mature over the coming weeks, they will carry with them the warmth, camaraderie, and festive spirit that define this special time of the year.”

As the ceremony progressed, guests donned chef’s caps, aprons, and gloves, preparing to mix an aromatic blend of premium ingredients such as sultanas, candied ginger, macerated dates, crystallised fruit, and hand-picked nuts. These ingredients were combined with fine spirits to begin the months-long maturation process essential for the hotel’s signature Christmas offerings.

The lively ambience, enhanced by festive melodies and the soothing seaside backdrop, created a memorable experience for every participant. Families and friends came together to enjoy this unique tradition, marking the joyful beginning of the holiday season at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.


Hilton Mumbai International Airport Opens Festive Season with Cake-Mixing Ceremony and Sunday Brunch

Hilton Mumbai International Airport Opens Festive Season with Cake-Mixing Ceremony and Sunday Brunch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 18, 2025

Hilton Mumbai International Airport welcomed the festive season with a lively Cake-Mixing Ceremony followed by the hotel’s signature Sunday Brunch. The celebration marked the beginning of the hotel’s festive calendar and brought together media, influencers, key clients, and Hilton Honors members.

Guests took part in the traditional cake-mixing ritual, blending dry fruits, spices, and festive flavours that set the tone for the hotel’s Christmas preparations. The afternoon continued with an indulgent brunch featuring global cuisines, live stations, festive-inspired dishes, and artisanal desserts.

The hotel announced that this was only the start of its festive offerings. Guests can look forward to exclusive staycation and holiday packages, Nikkei Table, a Peruvian culinary experience hosted by Chef Vishag, and a special showcase celebrating the culture of Bengal curated by Chef Ananya Banerjee. The season will also include a Christmas Eve Dinner with classic holiday favourites, a grand Christmas Day Brunch for families, and the Big Bang New Year’s Eve Celebration featuring music, gourmet food, and memorable experiences.

Hilton Mumbai International Airport is set to create a festive season filled with culture, creativity, and unique culinary journeys, bringing a blend of tradition and innovation to its guests. More festive experiences will be announced through December and into the New Year.


Clarks Exotica Rings in the Festive Season with a Joyous Cake Mixing Celebration

Clarks Exotica Rings in the Festive Season with a Joyous Cake Mixing Celebration

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 13, 2025

Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa welcomed the festive season with its much-awaited annual Cake Mixing Ceremony, held at the scenic poolside of the Clubhouse. The cherished tradition brought together guests, residents from Swiss Town, Hollywood Town, and Serene Garden, along with the senior management and resort team, for an evening filled with laughter, warmth, and community joy.

The event began on a grand note with the reveal of specially designed cake-mixing logos, offering a creative glimpse into the resort’s evolving story and setting an air of anticipation for its upcoming chapter. This thoughtful addition added excitement to the evening and reflected the brand’s commitment to innovation and storytelling.

As the music played and festive aromas filled the air, guests joined hands with the Clarks team to mix a rich medley of dry fruits, nuts, and spices, a symbolic gesture of joy, togetherness, and prosperity for the season ahead. The ceremony concluded with a sumptuous poolside spread of snacks and beverages, creating the perfect prelude to the holiday celebrations.

Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Mr. Balaji M, CEO, Clarks Exotica, said, “At Clarks Exotica, we believe every celebration is an opportunity to create lasting memories. The annual cake mixing reflects the values we hold close, community, warmth, and connection. Seeing our guests, residents, and team members come together in such high spirits reminds us that hospitality is ultimately about people, not places. This event marks not just the start of the festive season, but also a renewed chapter in our brand’s story.”

As the resort prepares to unveil its new brand identity, this year’s cake mixing stood as a symbolic celebration of blending tradition with innovation. With the festive cheer in full swing and an exciting future ahead, Clarks Exotica continues to redefine hospitality through experiences that celebrate togetherness and timeless joy.

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