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Hospitality News ME is distributed to trade professionals in the catering and lodging industry in the Middle East.
Guillaume Gomez, Personal representative of the President of the French Republic for Food and Gastronomy
FRANCE: A GASTRONOMIC PIONEER
GUILLAUME GOMEZ, personal representative of the President of the French Republic for Food and Gastronomy, explains how France is leading the way in global gastronomic diplomacy, while championing the nation’s core values and transmitting cultural heritage through food.
In the realm of gastronomy, the adage ‘eating is a political act’ resonates deeply. It underscores the profound impact of food choices on personal wellbeing, economic landscapes and ecological footprints. France champions the consumption of locally sourced, organic produce, encouraging mindful decisions that reflect a commitment to ethical farming practices and environmental stewardship.
Beyond restaurants
French gastronomy transcends mere dining experiences; it embodies a rich tapestry of culinary craftsmanship and ethical sourcing. From the bustling kitchens of renowned chefs to the artisanal techniques of local producers, France celebrates the intricate balance between taste, tradition and sustainability. Each meal tells a story of meticulous care for ingredients, animal welfare and minimizing food waste.
Educating through gastronomy
Through acclaimed recipe books and innovative diplomatic endeavors, France shares its culinary legacy with the world. These initiatives not only preserve timehonored recipes, but also promote global awareness of sustainable practices and cultural diversity.
Global platforms
On the world stage of major sporting events like the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, France shines a spotlight on its gastronomic prowess. These occasions serve as global showcases for regional specialties, emphasizing the use of locally sourced ingredients, organic farming practices and strategies to minimize plastic waste. Through these efforts, France reaffirms its commitment to culinary excellence and environmental responsibility.
Future plans
Looking ahead, France aims to expand its culinary influence through educational initiatives and strategic collaborations. By promoting food literacy and sustainable practices, France seeks to address global food security challenges, while maintaining its status as a premier destination for culinary tourism.
Life without good food would undoubtedly be just as poor as life without good art and indeed, culinary arts have earned a rightful place alongside the other arts.
Nouhad Dammous (December 2020)
Late editor-in-chief Docteur Honoris Causa
AUG - OCT 2024
HORECA NETWORK
8 HORECA Oman raises the bar once again
10 HORECA Jordan unveils exciting new features for its ninth edition
11 Looking ahead: Saudi HORECA Riyadh
EVENTS
WHERE TO BE SEEN
12 New location and new features for Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai
13 Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh on the horizon
14 SIAL Paris to mark 60-year anniversary
15 Future Hospitality Summit World reveals first speakers for 2024
15 Calendar
NEWS INDUSTRY
16 L'École Valrhona Dubai to open its doors in September 2024
BUSINESS
INTERVIEW
20 Putting Ajman on the travel map With HE Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi
OPINION
22 3 key takeaways for hoteliers eyeing long-term success INFLUENCERS
26 10 hoteliers share their formulas for sustainable success
Special report: NEW PROJECTS
40 Regional hotel pipelines: from vision to reality
42 Why third-party operator contracts are gaining traction
44 To refurbish or to build new?
46 How to go the extra green mile in hotel development
48 The future of investments and financing: hospitality sector trends
50 A region ripe for industry investment: experts share their insights
52 MENA’s impressive 40+ hotel project pipeline
ARCHITECTURE
60 Designing standout spaces for today’s guests TOURISM
62 Why tourism must be for all and not the few
MARKET UPDATE
64 Saudi Arabia’s transformation: a new chapter unfolds
SIAL Paris
HORECA Oman
Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi
TECHNOLOGY
66 5 reasons to include TV in your hotel marketing strategy EYE ON
68 Portugal: a genuine culinary compass TRENDS
72 6 dining-out trends to watch F&B
76 Tareq Ziad Taha: an all-star is born
78 How to create a culinary landmark
SOLUTIONS
MANAGEMENT
80 5 top tips for exporting to new markets MARKETING
81 Pinterest: a marketing tool full of possibilities HUMAN RESOURCES
82 Why inspiration is the new motivation GREEN
83 6 ways to elevate your well-being offering
PRODUCT ZONE
TECHNOLOGY
84 Why the online travel booking industry is flying high FOOD
88 5 experts on why we’re saying ‘Yes please’ to cheese BEVERAGE
92 In praise of the mighty white stuff ON THE MARKET
95 New products CHOCOMANIA
96 Classic Chocolate Madeleine
Coming issue
NOV 2024 - JAN 2025
• Special report Luxury travel
• Influencers Nightlife
• Equipment Tableware
• Food Chocolate
• Beverage Spirits
38 New projects
82 Why inspiration is the new motivation
18-20 SEP 2024
SALON DU CHOCOLAT | DUBAI
3rd edition
Salon du Chocolat Dubai is a show dedicated to those passionate about chocolate. Bringing together professional chocolate tasters, chocolatiers and chocolate enthusiasts. salonduchocolatdubai.com
1-3 OCT 2024
HORECA JORDAN
9th Edition
Bringing together professionals and exhibitors from Jordan and the wider region. horeca-jordan.com
25-27 NOV 2024
SAUDI HOREC A | ri yadh
13th Edition
The biggest international food, beverage & hospitality exhibition. saudihoreca.com
25-27 NOV 2024
SAlon du chocolat
| RIYADH
2nd Edition
chocolate and pastry held concurrently with Saudi Horeca Riyadh
The largest event in the world dedicated to salonduchocolat-ksa.com
4-6 DEC 2024
whisky live beirut
7th Edition
A must for whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs, showcasing the finest and rarest whiskies on the market. whiskylivebeirut.com
14-16 JAN 2025
HORECA KU WAIT
13th Edition
HOSPITALITY SERVICES
8-11 apr 2025
HORECA lebanon
29th Edition
The business meeting place for the hospitality and foodser vice industries. horecashow.com
21-23 APR 2025
TBA BEIRUT COOKING FESTIVAL
9th Edition
The ultimate culinary event highlighting the country’s top chefs, leading food and beverage brands, artisanal products and the art of living. beirutcookingfestival.com
SAUDI JEDDAH
3rd
HOREC A | Edition
KSA's largest food, beverage and hospitality exhibition. saudihoreca.com/jeddah
27-29 May 2025
HORECA OMAN
3
rd Edition
Bringing hospitality professionals and industr y experts together for the only show of its kind in Oman. horecaoman.com
THE GARDEN SHOW & SPRING FESTIval
17th Edition
An essential destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plants, flowers and ideas to enhance and decorate outdoor spaces. the-gardenshow.com
HOSPITALITY NEWS MIDDLE EAST
Focusing on the latest news, innovations and trends within the region’s hospitality and foodser vice sectors.
Daily news bulletins on hospitalitynewsmag.com
TASTE & FLAVORS
The ultimate English language food and lifestyle reference, packed with recipes, chefs’ picks, gift ideas, home and gardening tips, and lifestyle advice.
Daily updates on tasteandflavors.com
LEBANON TRAVELER
Lebanon’s key tourism reference, highlighting the countr y’s best kept urban and rural secrets, top destinations and activities.
Daily updates on lebanontraveler.com
TR AVEL LEBANON
7th Edition
An annual celebration of Lebanon's magnificent beauty spots, travel destinations and the best summer activities. lebanontraveler.com
TBA
Kuwait’s annual hospitality and foodser vice event. Horecakuwait.com TBA
SALON DU CHOCOLAT | BEIRUT
6th Edition
Dedicated to chocolate, the salon welcomes
the country’s top chocolatiers and hosts the finest chocolate brands and chefs from around the world.
salonduchocolatbeirut.com
A social initiative that reinforces Beirut’s global reputation as a center of excellence, talent and creativity
Celebrating the finest culinar y experiences across Beirut.
HORECA OMAN
RAISES THE BAR ONCE AGAIN
HORECA Oman, the annual meeting place for the hospitality and foodservice industries, celebrated a successful third edition at Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre in June.
Showcasing cutting-edge innovations and trends, the event attracted over 8,500 buyers and trade visitors, 200 exhibitors and more than 1,500 local and international brands. Additionally, 100 participants competed in daily competitions.
Hosting more than 32 competitions and masterclasses over 5,000 square meters of exhibition space, HORECA Oman gave attendees the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities. These included the Hospitality Salon Culinaire, Junior Chef Competition, Oman Barista Competition, Latte Art Competition, Bed Making Competition and Mocktail Competition.
The event also featured an engaging series of panel debates, titled HORECA Talks. A highlight of HORECA Oman, these insightful discussions tackled various topics, from hospitality investments in the sultanate to sustainability, recruitment and supply chains.
Joumana Dammous Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, HORECA Oman organizer, said: “The success of HORECA Oman reflects the vibrant and growing hospitality industry in the region. This event not only showcases Oman’s rich culinary heritage, but also highlights its dynamic future. We are proud to be a part of this journey, fostering innovation and excellence in the heart of Oman.”
Maha El-Khoury, projects and sales director of Hospitality Services, confirmed that the next edition of HORECA Oman, which is set to take place from May 27-29, 2025 at Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre, will be 30 percent larger, covering additional sectors within the hospitality industry.
“We are also expanding our competitions to include more participants, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic event,” she commented. “With Muscat’s rich cultural heritage and thriving hospitality scene, the fourth edition is one not to miss.” horecaoman.com
HORECA JORDAN
UNVEILS EXCITING NEW FEATURES FOR ITS NINTH EDITION
Taking place from October 1-3, 2024, at Jordan International Exhibition Center – Mecca Mall, Amman, HORECA Jordan is set to celebrate the best of hospitality and foodservice in the country.
Endorsed by the World Association of Chefs Society and the Academy Nationale de Cuisine, and held in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Jordan Tourism Board, Jordan Hotel Association and Jordan Restaurant Association, the event has become a valuable meeting place for the hospitality industry. Indeed, professionals can look forward to a highly interactive experience and a rich program of activities, competitions and networking opportunities.
Poised to welcome over 10,000 visitors, the renowned trade show will showcase the products and services of more than 120 exhibitors. Furthermore, this ninth edition of HORECA Jordan will bring together 350 participants for a range of competitions, including the Hospitality Salon Culinaire, Jordanian Barista Competition, Bed Making Competition and Mocktail Competition.
Committed to highlighting the latest trends, HORECA Jordan 2024 will host the Vegan, Gluten-Free & Organic Food Festival, showcasing the best-in-class and providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about what’s available in the market.
In addition, this year’s edition will feature a vibrant and interactive schedule, crowned by the Buyers’ Program, which will welcome buyers from Iraq, Palestine and Egypt.
Joumana Dammous Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, HORECA organizer, stated: “HORECA Jordan is one of the most successful hospitality events in the region and honors the country’s longstanding legacy and its futuristic ambitions in this sector. This year’s edition will highlight Jordan’s unique mix of tradition and innovation, bringing together local and international talents to celebrate our industry and explore its magnificent opportunities. We are proud to showcase Jordan’s efforts and dedication to excellence in hospitality and we look forward to a very promising edition this year.”
Thuraya Husseini, chairperson and CEO of Lawrence & Husseini Consult, co-organizer of HORECA Jordan, noted that this year, HORECA was witnessing stronger demand from local and international companies who are eager to participate in and attend the forthcoming exhibition. She added: “HORECA Jordan provides a platform for companies to meet face to face with their clients and network, with opportunities to grow their businesses. It is also a place where people can discover the latest innovations and witness talented professionals in action.”
horeca-jordan.com
LOOKING AHEAD: SAUDI HORECA RIYADH
From November 25-27, 2024, Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center will welcome hospitality and foodservice professionals from near and far for the 13th edition of SAUDI HORECA Riyadh. We share a taste of what’s to come at this key industry event, considered the largest of its kind in the Kingdom.
Taking place across 33,000 square meters of event space in seven halls, SAUDI HORECA Riyadh will gather together impressive 42,000 trade visitors annually for three days of networking and discovery. Indeed, more than 400 companies, including food producers, suppliers, equipment manufacturers, packaging and labeling firms, and solutions providers are set to take part.
Jad Taktak, general manager of Semark, co-organizer of the event, said: “We are working on an outstanding edition. Our focus is on providing an even richer visitor experience, with unique access to the world of hospitality and foodservice, activities, forums and networking sessions.”
With all eyes on Vision 2030 and related large-scale investments in tourism, SAUDI HORECA Riyadh offers a vital gateway for stakeholders looking to unlock the Kingdom’s hospitality potential.
Furthermore, SAUDI HORECA Riyadh recognizes and rewards the country’s rising stars. More than 250 participants will compete in the renowned Hospitality Salon Culinaire, in a bid to impress a panel of international chefs and judges, while the Saudi Barista Competition and Mocktail Competition will crown their 2024 champions.
Another exciting feature of the event is HORECA Talks, which brings together hospitality leaders and experts for insightful conversations on trending topics, such as sustainability, luxury travel and mega projects in KSA.
Joumana Dammous Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, the firm behind the HORECA Network, said: “Phenomenal growth and impressive developments in KSA have made it an exciting destination, and we are thrilled to be co-organizing the 13th edition of this event. It will be interesting to discover the new brands, especially homegrown concepts, that are making an impact in the Kingdom’s hospitality and foodservice sectors. Therefore, we encourage all professionals to attend SAUDI HORECA Riyadh 2024.” saudihoreca.com
NEW LOCATION AND NEW FEATURES FOR SALON DU CHOCOLAT ET DE LA PÂTISSERIE DUBAI
Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie, a show dedicated to chocolate, pastry, gelato and sweet delights and coffee, is set to launch its third edition in Dubai from September 18-20, 2024.
The renowned event will take place at its new location, Madinat Jumeirah, where international and local professional chocolatiers, pastry chefs and industry specialists will be presenting pastries, chocolate creations, ice cream and desserts. Visitors will also be invited to discover, taste and buy exquisite chocolates from leading international brands and meet renowned pastry chefs.
The third edition will feature a special program, introducing new pavilions for gelato and barista professionals, in addition to the participation of date and honey producers, ice-cream shops, importers, suppliers and celebrity chefs.
Visitors can look forward to a range of unique activities, including: the magical Chocolate Fashion Show, showcasing 13 exquisite chocolate dresses created by executive pastry chefs and Esmod Dubai; the Pastry Show, featuring workshops led by leading executive pastry chefs; and the Choco Démo, a space where guests can enjoy culinary demonstrations by chefs and experts, along with unique drinks and pairings, curated by mixologists and baristas. The event will also feature several competitions, playing host to a series of 13 contests designed to celebrate the skills of talented professionals and junior chefs, organized in partnership with the Emirates Culinary Guild.
Together with the guest of honor Guillaume Gomez, personal representative of the President of the French Republic for food and gastronomy, the salon will welcome 50 celebrity executive pastry chefs, expert baristas and mixologists from Dubai and the world, including Victor Del Pierre and chef Philip Khoury.
Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai will also host The Coffee in Good Spirit Competition, in collaboration with the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association-UAE). The winner will represent the UAE in the World of Coffee championship. Another highlight will be The Talks, which is set to bring together industry leaders, pastry specialists and coffee experts for a series of insightful discussions on the latest trends in pastry and chocolate, the vibrant coffee scene and the importance of local production. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) will host a talk on food waste and sustainability.
Joumana Dammous Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, the event organizer, said: “Dubai is a hub for chocolate connoisseurs and enthusiasts. Indeed, it has been the center of renowned international chocolate events and festivals. We take pride in fueling the city’s passion for chocolate and pastries, and being at the forefront of this thriving industry. We look forward to welcoming visitors to this third edition, which promises to be much bigger.”
Maha El Khoury, projects and sales director at Hospitality Services, said: “Salon Du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie is back this year at a new location with a lively spirit, offering its visitors unique features. We promise you an unforgettable edition, where passion for chocolate meets innovative creativity. “
Since its launch in Paris almost 30 years ago, Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie has become a global reference for those interested in discovering the latest chocolate and pastry trends. Today, the show is held in major cities around the world, including New York, Tokyo, London, Brussels, Cologne, Lyon, Shanghai, Marseille, Zurich, Cannes, Milan, Hong Kong, Beirut and beyond.
salonduchocolatdubai.com
SALON DU CHOCOLAT ET DE LA PÂTISSERIE
RIYADH ON THE HORIZON
The second edition of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie returns to Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center from November 25-27, 2024. We reveal what’s planned and what differentiates the event.
Taking place in 15 locations around the world, Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie is the destination for chocolate and pastry enthusiasts, providing an excellent access point for brands to introduce their products to the public and for the industry to come together.
“This year marks the second Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie in Riyadh, and we are thrilled to be expanding the concept in Saudi Arabia. We have many exciting events planned,” said Joumana Dammous Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services and co-organizer of the event.
In addition to more than 60 exhibitors, the show will feature a Chocolate Fashion Show, Pastry Show and Choco Demo, where an impressive lineup of pastry chefs will treat the audience to masterclasses and workshops, sharing their expertise and tips.
Jad Taktak from Semark, the event’s co-organizer, said: “The first edition of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie was a great success, and we are looking forward to an even bigger gathering that pays tribute to the artistry and craftsmanship behind chocolate.”
The event is held concurrently with HORECA KSA Riyadh. salonduchocolat-ksa.com
SIAL PARIS TO MARK 60-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
SIAL Paris will celebrate its 60th anniversary in style with a special, five-day program, from October 19-23, 2024, that will include several new highlights and awards.
Taking place in Paris North Villepinte, this year’s event will explore four themes that are set to be crucial for the agri-food industry in the coming years, namely: CSR (corporate social responsibility); Deep Tech & AI; Supply Chain; and Africa. Each topic will be discussed during the SIAL Summits, which represent a new feature for 2024. Offering forward-looking content, delivered by world-class speakers, the summits will
explore the themes and their implications in detail, before developing solutions for future challenges.
New anniversary award
SIAL Innovation, meanwhile, will once again feature its popular, sectoral, themebased awards. Alongside these, the event will introduce additional special awards, including: the ‘Own the Change’ (CSR) award; the Start-up Encore prize; the Public Choice award; and a ‘60 Years Best Innovation Award,’ for the landmark anniversary edition, among others.
Enjoying celebrations, addressing challenges
SIAL Paris has become known as a must-attend global meeting place for food innovation, gathering together professionals from around the world to reflect and act on industry trends and developments, under the banner ‘Own the Change.’
The event forms part of the SIAL network of global trade fairs dedicated to the food industry.
Nicolas Trentesaux, SIAL managing director, described the milestone edition as an opportunity for attendees to celebrate the event’s 60th anniversary together, while also exploring topical issues, doing business and matchmaking.
“SIAL Paris returns in 2024 with a very optimistic outlook on food, despite a world that has been somewhat rocked by economic, political and societal crises,” he said. “We must all work together to maintain a medium-term course that will make it possible to meet the major food challenges of the next 30 years.”
sialparis.com
FUTURE HOSPITALITY SUMMIT WORLD REVEALS FIRST SPEAKERS FOR 2024
Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World has revealed its first speakers, together with several new features, for its 2024 event. The hospitality investment conference returns to its original venue - Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah - for what is set to be its biggest edition to date from September 30 - October 2, 2024. Impressive lineup emerging
Among the first confirmed speakers for FHS World are: Satya Anand, president, Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), Marriott International; Philip Barnes, chief executive officer, Rotana; Robin Rossmann, managing director, STR; Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, chief executive officer, Millennium Hotels & Resorts & Lakhraim Group; John Pagano, group CEO, Red Sea Global; Stephen Sackur, presenter, HARDTalk; Pat Thaker, editorial director, Middle East & Africa, The Economist Group; Choon Wah, chief financial officer (CFO), H. World International and managing director, Steigenberger Hotels GmbH; Dr. John Blakey, CEO executive coach and author; Tatiana Labaki, head of hotels and tourism advisory, PSU, Tonomus; and Pascal Armoudon, partner, Kearney.
New features, more floor space
The carefully designed program will cover trends, sustainability, destination development, Middle East investment opportunities and more, across four dedicated stages: Summit; Future; Innovation; and Exhibition.
Always popular, FHS Intelligence Talks will be a focal point on the Summit stage, alongside the finals of the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge and in-depth debates on global investment trends. Other highlights are set to include an allnew investor relations drive, dedicated zones for hospitality-related topics, a Tech Zone and an ESG (environment, sustainability and governance) Lab.
Jonathan Worsley, chairman of The Bench, FHS World organizer, said: “FHS is, and always will be, about so much more than just business. It’s a dynamic platform for nurturing relationships, igniting innovation and collectively shaping the future of hospitality investment. Having added The Arena of Madinat Jumeirah to our canvas this year, we have almost doubled our floor space, bringing more opportunities to showcase and celebrate our industry’s achievements and exciting future.”
futurehospitality.com/ae
SEPTEMBER 2024
10 Sep. RIYADH, KSA
FAST FOOD & CAFE CONVENTION FFCC
fastfoodconvention.com
17-19 Sep. RIYADH, KSA
THE HOTEL & HOSPITALITY EXPO SAUDI ARABIA
Dmg: Events Middle East & Asia thehotelshowsaudiarabia.com
18-20 Sep. DUBAI
SALON DU CHOCOLAT ET DE LA PÂTISSERIE DUBAI HSME salonduchocolatdubai.com
24-26 Sep. DUBAI
PRIVATE LABEL MIDDLE EAST DWTC prime-expo.com
30 Sep.-2 Oct. DUBAI FHS MIDDLE EAST Bench futurehospitalitysummit.com
OCTOBER 2024
1-3 Oct. AMMAN, JORDAN HORECA JORDAN Laurence & Husseini Consult & Expo Jordan horeca-jordan.com
20-25 Oct. SINGAPORE 2024 WORLDCHEFS CONGRESS & EXPO Worldchefs worldchefscongress.org
28-30 Oct. RIYADH, KSA SAUDI INTERNATIONAL HALAL EXPO & SUMMIT 2024 CASCI saudihalalexpo.com
30 Oct.-3 Nov. PARIS, FRANCE SALON DU CHOCOLAT ET DE LA PÂTISSERIE PARIS Event International salon-du-chocolat.com
NOVEMBER 2024
5-7 Nov. LONDON, UK WORLD TRAVEL MARKET RX GLOBAL wtm.com/london/en-gb.html
In a move that will further elevate Dubai’s vibrant culinary landscape, Valrhona, a leading global name in sweet gastronomy, is set to open a new, state-of-the-art school in the Emirate in September.
Combining French savoir-faire with local culture
Valrhona’s decision to open a school in Dubai represents a response to increasing demand for high-quality professional training in the region.
Guillaume Lafaix, IMEA Business Unit manager at Valrhona Selection, noted that having had a presence in the Gulf countries since 2007 and witnessing the region’s culinary expansion since then, the time felt right to bring the brand’s expertise, built up over 100 years, to the UAE. “The strong growth in recent years, accelerated by a concentration of talented chefs in the area, led Valrhona naturally to pursue a fifth L’École Valrhona and make it available to international chefs at City Walk in Dubai,” he said.
Like its other renowned educational facilities worldwide, L’École Valrhona
Dubai will set out to unite a multicultural community of chefs by promoting the development of its creations, while instilling in them the brand’s key values, which include excellence, commitment and responsibility.
Professionals will be immersed in a universe of culinary innovation, combining French savoir-faire and local cultures, in keeping with Valrhona’s longstanding traditions.
An ideal destination
Situated at the crossroads of Asia, the Middle East and Europe, Dubai shines as a global commercial, culinary and cultural hub, proudly displaying diverse influences and artistry at every turn.
Its cosmopolitan outlook and broad range of inspired gastronomic offerings are among the many reasons that Valrhona identified the Emirate as an ideal location to open its new school and continue its mission to cultivate talents, develop technical skills and unleash pastry potential.
In a landmark move, the premium French chocolate manufacturer Valrhona has chosen the regional culinary hotspot of Dubai as the location for its new educational and creative facility. HN goes behind the scenes to discover more about the cutting-edge facilities and innovative courses that will soon be available to professionals at Valrhona’s latest state-of-the-art school.
Surrounded by hotels and restaurants in the heart of a city where there is great enthusiasm for high-end cuisine, the new L’École Valrhona is poised to be both a center of excellence and a premier regional destination for sweet gastronomy professionals. This latest school will follow in the footsteps of L'Ecole Valrhona Tain L'Hermitage, Paris, Brooklyn and Tokyo.
An impressive team
Led by Brice Konan-Ferrand, executive pastry chef of L’École Valrhona Dubai, the school will encourage professionals to undertake new culinary discoveries, while acquiring and revisiting new technical skills. Brice Konan-Ferrand, who brings with him many years of experience specializing in pastry and chocolate acquired at L'Ecole Valrhona and prestigious global establishments, said: “Dubai has become the epicenter of top global gastronomy and we are delighted to bring our expertise in chocolate and pastry to our dynamic community.”
After working as a kitchen chef in Europe and Africa for a number of years, Brice Konan-Ferrand enrolled in Olivier Bajard (Best French Craftsmen, special discernment: Meilleur Ouvrier de France [MOF]) School to specialize in pastry. He then worked for Arnaud Lahrer (MOF) in Paris for seven years, before moving to Lyon with Sebastien Bouillet as a chocolate maker in charge of Production and Gourmet classes. To test his willingness to take on new challenges, he participated in the television competition show ‘Qui sera le prochain grand Pâtissier?’ (Who will be the next great Pastry Chef?) France (2) and other competitions, including the European Sugar Art Challenge in Belfort. Konan-Ferrand joined L’École Valrhona in 2015, bolstered by the 12 years of experience he had gained and enriched by the people with whom he had shared his passion. After seven wonderful years in Asia-Pacific (APAC) at L’École Valrhona Tokyo, in November 2022, he took over as pastry chef of L’École Valrhona for the IMEA region in Dubai. He is now the
new executive pastry chef of L’École Valrhona Dubai.
Brice Konan-Ferrand will be joined at L’École Valrhona Dubai by Fatima K. Rahman as assistant pastry chef, who has worked with many MOF chefs and trained under numerous awardwinning experts. She brings technical skills, creative flair and experience gained abroad to her role, alongside a longstanding, unwavering love for her craft. “I worked with Valrhona couvertures at the start of my career and remain as passionate about chocolate today as ever, empowered and inspired by Valrhona’s innovative benchmark recipes,” she said.
Diverse and creative courses
L’École Valrhona Dubai’s offerings will include:
• Training – two-to-three-day workshops, led by L’École Valrhona’s training chefs, guest pastry chefs and exceptional artisans, covering various themes such as chocolate-making, vegan pastry, alternative desserts,
creative viennoiseries, chocolate candies and holiday desserts.
• Technical business consulting - with L’École Valrhona pastry chef instructors visiting a client’s laboratory and providing a customized service.
• Conferences - technological insights into significant advancements in pastry and chocolate practices.
• Workshops – held in the laboratory and focused on key industry topics, with a program that moves from theory to practice, during which participants gain the tools and techniques to reproduce culinary creations.
• Demonstrations - presentations of the Valrhona range of products, offered through practical applications before a plenary assembly.
The courses will also reflect Valrhona’s forward-looking focus and innovative outlook, with topical subjects such as alternative desserts and plant-based pastry explored. High on this list will be a course titled ‘Reasoned Indulgence,’ led by Frédéric Bau, pastry explorer at Maison Valrhona. The impressive line-up
Brice Konan-Ferrand & Fatima K. Rahman
of chefs who will be leading the courses at L’École Valrhona Dubai includes: Fabrice David, executive chef of L’École Valrhona Tokyo; David Briand, MOF and executive chef of L’École Valrhona Tain L’Hermitage; Philippe Givre, executive chef and coordinator of know-how at L’École Tain L’Hermitage; Gianluca Fusto, co-founder of Fusto Milano; François Daubinet; or Louisa Lim, executive pastry chef at three-Michelin-starred Odette in Singapore, to name just a few.
Green initiatives a priority
Innovation is undoubtedly at the heart of everything that Valrhona does, as is sustainability. Unsurprisingly, therefore, L’École Valrhona Dubai is equipped with state-of-the-art, cutting-edge machines which are highly energy efficient, in line with the company’s commitment to sustainable practices. The equipment has been designed to minimize electricity usage and enhance water management by handling greywater and steam effectively. Work on waste management and the overall valorization of ingredients to reduce food waste have also been focal points for L’École Valrhona Dubai, underscoring the brand’s wellestablished dedication to excellence and environmental stewardship in culinary education. In keeping with Valrhona’s green values, plastic use has been excluded from the laboratories and replaced with eco-responsible materials.
Making use of technical skills
Philippe Rigollot, the award-winning MOF mentor for the initiative and whose illustrious career in pastry and chocolate-making is well documented, said that for him, L’École Valrhona Dubai represented everything that a school of culinary creativity and expertise should embody. “It’s about transmitting and
sharing knowledge, learning from everyone, and working on the evolution of pastry with new techniques and products,” he said. “It’s also about committing to the new challenges of our profession, such as ecoresponsibility, traceability and the origin of products. It is an honor for me to be the mentor of L’École Valrhona Dubai, which will shine a light on French pastry and chocolate-making in this beautiful region of the world. Long live pastry! Long live chocolate-making! Long live knowledge-sharing!"
The opening of L’École Valrhona Dubai will mark the next chapter in a success story that dates back to 1922, when pastry chef Albéric Guironnet organized a workshop in the Rhone Valley, France. He later developed a chocolate manufacturing business dedicated to serving fellow chocolatiers, which he named Valrhona. The premium chocolate manufacturer’s facilities in Tain L’Hermitage remain to this day, with the highly regarded and respected practices passed down through the generations. Simultaneously forward thinking, Valrhona has also played an active role in shifting the status quo toward a fairer, more sustainable cocoa industry, in line with its mission statement, which is: ‘Together, good becomes better,' and their B Corp certification, gained in January 2020.
More about L’École Valrhona L’École Valrhona was born 34 years ago from the joint desire of Valrhona and Frédéric Bau to transmit excellent know-how and reveal the talents of taste artisans from around the world. This transmission is a promise of learning, encounters and enrichment, which comes to life thanks to the school’s network - one that extends to the four corners of the world - while guaranteeing everyone support and chocolate expertise. Faithful to the spirit of the Tain L’Hermitage campus, an iconic place for an entire profession, the Valrhona School campuses have been developed in Tokyo, Paris, Brooklyn and now Dubai. These centers of expertise, dedicated to the best of chocolate know-how and creativity, are where 40 pastry chefs of the Valrhona School offer excellent training programs, ranging from initiation and perfecting gestures to precision techniques. They are places for sharing among chocolate enthusiasts, where everyone is allowed to develop their talent, but above all, can enrich themselves through contact with others and constantly push the limits of creativity.
valrhona.com
Philippe Rigollot
LET’S CULTIVATE TALENTS
"WHERE
CHOCOLATE EXCELLENCE MEETS GLOBAL INSPIRATION"
L’École Valrhona Dubai
PUTTING AJMAN ON THE TRAVEL MAP WITH
HE MAHMOOD KHALEEL ALHASHMI
Combining charm and warm hospitality with a vibrant culture and rich heritage, Ajman has plenty to offer visitors looking for a memorable and authentic stay in the UAE. HE Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, director general of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, talks HN through the steps that the Emirate is taking to showcase its distinctly diverse tourism offering to the world.
What major tourism projects and activities does the Ajman Department of Tourism Development have planned for 2024-2025?
The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) has curated an impressive and varied array of yearround events and activities to captivate visitors of all interests and ages. These include the Ajman Motor Festival, a showcase of automotive innovation held at various locations across Ajman, along with exciting sports competitions, like the Ajman Running Race, the Gulf Youth Games and cycling challenges. Cultural enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the Liwa Ajman Dates and Honey Festival, the Folklore Strings Festival and the Poetry Evening ‘Bawh Al Qawafi,’ while food lovers can indulge in culinary delights at the Food Festival. The year 2024 will culminate in a grand New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display, creating a spectacular welcome for 2025. Visitors can also look forward to engaging in activities focused on adventure, such as the Masfout Trails for hiking and Tarfih Karting for go-karting, wellbeing and retail experiences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy now and in the future in Ajman. We are confident that these tourism initiatives will collectively contribute to a memorable and enriching travel experience.
How is the ADTD integrating innovation and sustainability into its projects?
The ADTD is prioritizing key principles of innovation and sustainability in its strategic focus. This includes showcasing Ajman’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant events calendar and diverse tourism offerings to both domestic and international audiences. Collaborations with strategic partners are seen as crucial for fostering further growth and enhancing Ajman’s position as a leading destination in global tourism. By partnering with esteemed entities, the department aims to offer world-class hospitality and experiences,
ensuring visitors have memorable and enriching stays. Ajman is also committed to sustainable tourism development and cultural enrichment, highlighting initiatives that promote responsible travel practices and preserve the emirate’s unique heritage for future generations.
We envision sustainable growth, innovative experiences and cultural enrichment to be key focal points in the future for Ajman’s tourism industry.
Can you update us on the growth underway in Ajman’s tourism industry?
The ongoing expansion of the tourism sector in Ajman is evident from the significant surge in tourism activities and international arrivals. In 2023, international visitor numbers rose by an impressive 29 percent compared to 2022, with diverse source markets contributing to this success. The sector’s growth is further supported by a range of accommodation options, with 52 hotel establishments, offering a combined 4,315 rooms across various categories.
How is the ADTD contributing to the region’s broader tourism strategy?
The ADTD is playing a crucial role in advancing the overall tourism strategy for the region. By showcasing Ajman’s unique charm, vibrant culture, rich heritage and warm hospitality to both domestic and international travelers, the department is helping to attract a diverse range of visitors. Moreover, through strategic partnerships forged during events like ATM 2024, the department is contributing to broader efforts to enhance the tourism sector and foster economic growth in Ajman. These collaborations enable Ajman to offer exceptional accommodation options, luxurious amenities and world-class experiences, ensuring that every visitor enjoys a memorable and enriching stay. By doing this, we are, in turn, further solidifying Ajman’s position as a leading destination in global tourism.
What do you regard as the ADTD’s most memorable achievements over the past year?
The ADTD has reached several significant milestones in the past year. The 29-percent rise in international visitor numbers in 2023, year-on-year (y-o-y), confirmed Ajman’s growing appeal as a travel destination. Additionally, the department saw a commendable 5 percent rise in revenue per available room (RevPAR) and impressive 11 percent growth in total revenue y-o-y, reflecting the sector’s robust financial performance. The positive developments have continued this year, with figures for Q1, 2024 indicating significant increases in occupancy rates, total revenues and the number of visitors in y-o-y comparisons, pointing to sustained interest and growth in Ajman’s tourism sector. These achievements underscore the department’s commitment to enhancing Ajman’s position as a leading destination that provides exceptional experiences for travelers.
How do you envision Ajman’s tourism sector evolving?
Taking account of the current global travel landscape and emerging industry trends, the ADTD envisions sustainable growth, innovative experiences and cultural enrichment to be key focal points in the future for Ajman’s tourism industry. By continuing to showcase Ajman’s unique offerings, fostering collaborations and embracing new technologies and trends, and in line with Ajman Vision 2030, Ajman aims to position itself as a leading destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences, diverse activities and memorable adventures.
visit-ajman.ae
KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR HOTELIERS EYEING LONG-TERM SUCCESS
The hospitality industry is no stranger to turbulence. From economic downturns to unexpected events like pandemics, the challenges that hoteliers are tasked with managing are diverse and require core skills. However, within the chaos lies opportunity. By embracing adaptability, fostering strong communication and proactively planning for the future, hoteliers can not only weather the storm, but emerge as stronger leaders on the other side.
1- Adaptability
The ability to adapt quickly has always been of paramount importance in a dynamic hospitality landscape, especially with new technology speeding up every aspect of our lives. Shifts in guest preferences, technological advancements and unforeseen disruptions require constant reevaluation of strategies. Learning to adapt undoubtedly comes with experience, but this skill also benefits from a systematic approach, implementing measures like the following:
Resilient to the core, the hospitality industry has a great ability to weather challenging economic times, identify opportunities and emerge stronger on the other side. Bastien Blanc, CEO and board member at TroKadero Hospitality Global, shares his three-fold approach for hoteliers looking to check these boxes.
• Embrace data-driven decision making
- I will never tire of repeating this advice. Great leaders need to leverage technology to gather guest feedback, analyze market trends and optimize pricing strategies. Data empowers informed decisions that cater to evolving guest needs and a changing market.
• Be flexible - cross-train team members to handle diverse situations and create a workforce that can seamlessly shift gears when needed. Consider offering flexible schedules or part-time positions to attract talent in a competitive market.
• Reimagine guest experiences - don’t be afraid to experiment with new offerings and identify every opportunity to generate revenue from your property. Consider contactless check-in, curated local experiences or innovative F&B concepts to cater to changing demographics and travel styles.
Never lose sight of long-term goals while navigating the more immediate challenges.
2- Communication
Clear and consistent communication is the bedrock of a strong team, especially during turbulent times. Ways in which you can achieve this include:
• Ensuring transparency with your team - keeping your team informed about challenges and opportunities will provide better understanding, as well as potential opportunities to generate solutions together.
• Having open communication with guests - we all know that sometimes, unfortunately, mistakes are made. However, any guest concerns need to be addressed promptly and proactively. Utilize all the tools in your
toolbox to drive total quality assurance, gauge sentiment and address problems.
• Strengthen partnerships - it takes a village to deliver a hotel stay, so, when challenges occur, this village needs to come together. Maintaining strong relationships with vendors, local businesses and tourism authorities is hugely beneficial. Collaboration can unlock solutions to a crisis, open up new revenue streams and enhance the guest experience.
3- Planning
One of my favorite quotes is a comment made by Antoine de Saint Exupery, who said: ‘A goal without a plan is just a wish.’ It’s important to never lose sight of long-term goals while navigating the more immediate challenges. I like to use these guiding principles to help keep my plans on track:
• Invest in team development - empowering your team with training programs not only improves service delivery, but also boosts morale and improves retention.
• Focus on sustainability - eco-conscious practices, like energy efficiency and water conservation, are not only good for the environment, but also resonate with an increasingly sustainability-focused clientele.
• Embrace technology - invest in innovative solutions like contactless check-in, selfservice kiosks and mobile room keys to streamline operations and enhance guest convenience.
• Develop a strong digital presence - by maintaining an engaging website and actively participating on social media platforms.
The hospitality industry is known for its ability to dig deep and find the resilience needed to navigate turbulent times. Always remember, successful hotel management is not just about navigating a difficult journey, but also drawing on the experience and recognizing it as an opportunity to chart a course for long-term success.
tkh.global
Transform
At the heart of life
Treasured
SHARE THEIR FORMULAS FOR SUSTAINABLE SUCCESS
HOTELIERS10
The regional hotel industry is known for its remarkable resilience, constantly pivoting to meet the changing demands of guests. HN asked 10 industry experts to share the lessons they’ve learned over the years that have helped them to build the firm foundations needed for long-term success. Prepare to be enlightened on everything from visionary leadership tips to why ‘bleisure’ is the current buzzword.
CHEVAL COLLECTION
MOHAMMED ALAWADHI Managing director
Cultivating a unique story
When you look at the brands that have achieved long-term success within the region, the key ingredients are the same: they’ve invested in timeless design; maintained high standards in amenities; and focused on offering excellent hospitality.
A brand must cultivate a unique story and ethos that resonate with guests across generations, leveraging marketing to highlight its history and values. In such a competitive market, it is important to continuously innovate while preserving core values to stay relevant and respected in the industry. I often think the phrase, ‘Creating exceptional experiences through genuine care and attention to detail,’ sums up my outlook, since it embodies my commitment to ensuring that every guest feels valued and has a fantastic experience with us.
Inspire and support your team
A true leader is someone who can not only motivate and inspire a team, but must also be able to empathize and be approachable. To be successful, they need to have the ability to develop new leaders and allow them to grow to their full potential. In a busy hospitality environment, we don’t always take the time to show our appreciation for people. A good leader needs to be able to recognize the efforts of their team and celebrate their successes, while also retaining a willingness to keep learning themselves.
A leader is someone who can motivate and inspire the team, but they must also be empathetic and easy to connect with. A successful leader has the ability to develop new leaders and help them grow to their full potential. In a busy hospitality environment, we don’t always take the time to appreciate people. A leader should recognize their team’s efforts, celebrate success, and, above all, foster a willingness to learn every day.
A green, tech-led future
Over the next five years, I see the hotel industry continuing to make sustainability a priority, with further investment in green technologies and eco-friendly practices. Technology will enhance guest experiences, through innovations, such as smart rooms and mobile check-ins, while the rise of remote work will boost ‘bleisure’ (business and leisure) travel.
Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai
STEPHEN ANSELL
Managing director, Middle East and Africa Hyatt hyatt.com
hyatt
Prioritizing exceptional service
Service excellence and consistency are key for transforming a hotel brand into a legacy, since guests remember and return to hotels where they consistently experience exceptional service. We also believe storytelling plays a significant role in differentiating the Hyatt brand from others. Additionally, the people who work at the hotel are the soul of the establishment, bringing the Hyatt brand to life. Investing in staff training and wellbeing practices ensures that your team embodies the brand’s values and help create memorable guest experiences.
A forward-thinking focus
The ability to persevere through challenges, as highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic, is vital for maintaining service excellence in the face of adversity. Forwardthinking is also a key leadership quality, as innovation drives long-term success. Leaders must continually seek new ideas and technologies to enhance guest experiences and stay ahead of industry trends. Creativity is another important quality, as the industry thrives on creating unique and memorable experiences. Integrity is another vital contributor to success, since honesty and strong moral principles build trust with guests, employees and stakeholders, ensuring a reputable and reliable brand.
The hospitality industry is unique in offering diverse and unlimited career opportunities. By embodying exemplary qualities and values, leaders in this industry can drive their organizations toward enduring success and create a lasting legacy. There’s a famous southern German expression that translates as ‘Work hard and build houses.’ For me, it resonates as ‘Work hard and build hotels.’ I feel fortunate and proud to witness the growth of hotels throughout my career. I have had many role models, but my parents and grandparents truly inspired me with their wisdom and strength, offering valuable life advice and demonstrating resilience through adversity.
Robust strategies taking shape
The hospitality industry climate in the Middle East is positive, signaling promising growth ahead. In the past year, markets such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE have remained in high demand when it comes to Middle East tourism. These countries, along with others in the GCC have made substantial progress in developing comprehensive and robust strategies for ensuring sustainable development in their hospitality sectors. Other trends include a significant rise in ‘bleisure’ travel. This shift reflects a growing desire among professionals to balance work and personal life, and enjoy the experiences that the destination has to offer, whatever the reasons for travel.
Park Hyatt, Doha
TIM CORDON
COO, MEA & SEAP
Radisson Hotel Group radissonhotels.com radissonhotels
Championing brand values
Forming memorable experiences that build emotional connections for guests is key when it comes to ensuring a brand has what it takes to achieve a lasting legacy. It’s also essential to invest in your people and teams to create a hotel brand they’re proud to work for, invest in and visit. I also believe in the importance of consistently communicating your brand values to maintain authenticity and trust.
Lead, don’t manage
I always say that it’s important to be a general leader, not a general manager. People are at the heart of every part of our business, so support your team and
empower people. True leaders prioritize their people, understanding that great teams and exceptional service are the cornerstones of success. They foster a supportive environment, encouraging and empowering team members to excel and take the initiative. By nurturing talent and promoting a culture of trust and collaboration, leaders inspire their teams to deliver outstanding guest experiences. Create a collaborative environment where team members feel valued and empowered. When you have a solid foundation of support, you can streamline processes and remove unnecessary complexities. In a nutshell: support your team no matter what - then simplify and deliver.
Support your team no matter what - then simplify and deliver. This means standing by your team through every challenge and success, providing support and encouragement. It’s about creating a collaborative environment where every team member feels valued and empowered. With a solid foundation of support, you can streamline processes, removing unnecessary complexities to ensure that goals are met efficiently. By simplifying tasks, you can focus on what truly matters: delivering high-quality results.
Sustainability and digitalization
It’s clear that sustainability will be a central pillar, rather than secondary, in the coming years, with actions such as using local products, minimizing waste, optimizing energy and water use, and engaging in community support becoming standard. Simultaneously, digital innovation will enhance the guest experience through mobile apps, online booking platforms and immersive virtual experiences. Hotels will invest in technology to streamline operations and provide seamless, personalized services to guests.
Radisson Hotel & Residence, Riyadh, Olaya
President, Middle East & Africa Hilton hilton.com
Evolve and innovate
Ultimately, we are a business of people serving people, and our teams are key to building and carrying our legacy forward. We have also built our legacy by creating a lasting positive impact – driven by Travel with Purpose, our global environment, social and governance (ESG) strategy. We are always evolving and innovating with industry-leading technology enhancements, such as our mobile messaging platform and Digital Key Share.
Lead by example and never stop learning
I think that it’s paramount for leaders in the industry to have a positive, solutionsdriven mindset - one which inspires their teams and drives success. Great leaders must also lead by example, be excellent communicators, work hard and take the time to invest in continually learning. I’m a firm believer in staying agile and flexible in your thinking as an industry leader. Mottos and mantras can sometimes lock you into a specific focus, when each situation needs to be evaluated on its individual merit. When it comes to role models, I draw inspiration and learn from many people, and have been
I believe it's essential to stay agile and flexible in your thinking. Mottos and mantras can sometimes lock you into a specific focus when each situation needs to be evaluated on its individual merit. I have many role models and draw inspiration from various people, having been fortunate to be mentored by some fantastic leaders. From inspirational figures like Nelson Mandela to a management trainee I just met in one of our hotels in Morocco, I believe life is a journey of constant learning.
fortunate to have been mentored by some fantastic leaders. From inspirational leaders like Nelson Mandela to a management trainee I just met in one of our hotels in Morocco, I believe life is a journey of constant learning.
Spotlight on Saudi Arabia
In the Middle East and Africa, we expect growth to continue apace, especially in Saudi Arabia, a key strategic market. Our multi-brand strategy has seen us sign new hotels across the region. Additionally, we see significant opportunity in the branded residences sector.
GUY HUTCHINSON
IHG HOTELS AND RESORTS
HAITHAM MATTAR
Managing director for India, Middle East and Africa
IHG Hotels and Resort ihg.com ihghotels
A responsible approach
To create a legacy, a brand must not only fulfil the existing needs of its guests, but also tap into the desires that remain unexpressed. It needs to foster a culture that welcomes a diverse range of travelers. Embracing diversity and inclusivity by creating a positive workplace environment that prioritizes employee well-being should be another priority. It’s also important to think about the communities we operate in and the planet we call home. We should constantly strive to act more responsibly with a view to safeguarding our future.
Forge strong connections
Adaptability is a key quality for leaders working in tourism and hospitality, especially given the dynamic nature of the industry. Being able to assess and adjust strategies against a backdrop of changing circumstances, as in the Covid-19 pandemic, is paramount. Transparency is another cornerstone. Open and honest communication, be it with team members or guests, fosters trust and ensures that everyone feels informed and safe. Empathy is also vital; understanding the concerns of colleagues and travelers is so important. It’s about connecting on a personal level and providing support during challenging times. I also believe that innovation is the key to
Nothing is impossible once you’ve set your conscious and subconscious mind to it! With the right mindset and determination, you can overcome any challenge and achieve greatness.
staying competitive. Embracing technology and using it to drive innovation within guest experiences ensures that we remain at the forefront of the industry.
A community-led focus Sustainable development will serve as the foundation for the expansion of the tourism and hospitality sector in the years to come. An increasing number of guests are deciding whether to book a stay based upon a property’s carbon footprint, sustainable practices and how it supports the communities in which it operates.
InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh Resort & Spa
GOLDEN TULIP
AMINE E. MOUKARZEL
Founder and president of Flamingo Hospitality, Golden Tulip MENA/Louvre Hotels Group flamingohotelsgroup.com, louvrehotels.com louvrehotels_group
Win-win opportunities
The hospitality industry is the backbone of the tourism industry. Each community has the opportunity to highlight a brand’s presence within the area, while every hotel brand can position itself to promote its individual offering and the contribution it can make to the marketplace. These include: talent development; training and development for members of the local community; employment; brand knowhow; standardization; innovation; and the opportunity to promote a destination worldwide.
Develop regional talent
Hospitality is rewarding, but also demanding, so anyone thinking of it as a career will need to feel passionate about the industry. Leaders should always remember that our employees are our most important asset, so engaging with them, empowering and motivating them, and developing talent in the region should be priorities. This also helps to create a positive work environment, which makes it easier to meet the challenges we face. Many entrepreneurs have paved the way for us to learn from their style of leadership. One lesson I think it’s always important to remember is that since our industry is constantly evolving, we must be prepared to keep learning!
Many businesspeople and entrepreneurs have paved the way for us to learn from their leadership. We have observed their success in how they operate and develop their businesses. There isn’t just one role model; instead, we keep learning every day, especially in a dynamic industry like hospitality, which is constantly evolving, paving the way for us to achieve success through the contributions of people, knowledge and implementation. The sky is the limit! Keep learning and believe in people.
Collective promotional efforts
In the last 24 months we have witnessed a welcome post-Covid return in travel to pre-pandemic levels. We are optimistic that hotels will deliver a healthier return on investment and also believe that the increase in properties under construction across the region is a positive sign for the coming years. Collective efforts nationally among stakeholders to promote tourism will help to ensure that the industry retains its position as one of the strongest contributors to GDP.
Golden Tulip - Duhok
KEMPINSKI
TIMUR SENTUERK,
Chief operating officer, Middle East & Africa
Kempinski Hotels and Member of the Management Board kempinski.com kempinski
A future-proofing strategy
Building a strong, consistent brand identity, focused on exceptional guest experiences, impeccable service and innovation, is key to achieving long-term success. It’s also vital to put your people first by investing in selection, staff training and development. Sustainability and community engagement are additional essential priorities for hoteliers today, as is the need to cultivate customer loyalty through personalized services and leveraging technology. Brands positioning themselves for the future must also ensure they maintain high standards and are able to adapt to changing market trends, while still preserving core values.
All-round leadership skills
I see key leadership qualities as including empathy, humility, adaptability, strong communication skills and a customercentric approach. Leaders should be visionaries, able to inspire and motivate their team, and possess problem-solving skills. Emotional intelligence and the ability to handle stress and make quick decisions are also crucial. I like to remember the saying ‘Excellence is in the next five minutes, not in the future,’ in my work. The Ritz-Carlton co-founder Horst Schulze is someone I look to for inspiration, due to the way that he revolutionized the hotel industry with his commitment to service excellence and his philosophy of treating employees and guests with equal respect and care.
My motto is ‘Excellence is in the next five minutes.’ It could be the next phone call, the next email or the next task. Excellence is not in the future; it is in the now. Sweat the small stuff, as in, the details.
Personalized guest experiences
It’s clear that the hotel industry will see a surge in technology integration, such as AI for personalized guest services and automation, in the coming years. Sustainable practices will become even more critical. I believe there will also be a continued rise in boutique and lifestyle hotels. Health and safety will remain a priority, post-pandemic, and demand for unique, local experiences will increase.
Marsa Malaz Kempinski Hotel The Pearl, Doha
Going
beyond accommodation
Turning a hotel brand into a legacy involves creating an emotional connection with guests through memorable experiences and a strong sense of cultural connection. Legacy in our industry is about more than just a name; it’s about the lasting impact on guests’ hearts and minds. Accor currently counts 275 properties across all brands in the Middle East, as well as 111 properties in the pipeline, including branded residences and immersive resorts. Hospitality today for us goes beyond accommodation. It’s about ensuring that guests carry their experiences with them for a lifetime, fostering a sense of cultural connection, tradition and belonging that spans generations.
Lead as you would want to be led
In our fast-paced hospitality industry, leadership requires agility, a clear vision and consistent communication. These pillars provide a stable foundation, guiding the team in understanding how and why we do things, facilitating decision-making. Successful leaders navigate challenges with flexibility, making informed decisions to keep the business on course. Thus, maintaining a blend of clear vision, consistent communication and agility are essential for thriving in dynamic environments. I believe in treating people as you want to be treated. Lead people as you would want to be led. Reward people as you would want to be rewarded. These principles serve as the cornerstone of effective leadership and foster a culture of respect, empathy and excellence.
Treat people as you want to be treated. Lead people as you would want to be led. Reward people as you would want to be rewarded. With over 22,000 team members in the Middle East, Africa and Türkiye we call Heartists, these principles serve as the cornerstone of effective leadership and foster a culture of respect, empathy and excellence. My role model is Nelson Mandela, admired for his exceptional resilience and commitment to justice, equality and reconciliation, and who continues to inspire generations worldwide.
A welcoming, inclusive environment
We know that the hospitality of tomorrow depends on the sustainable foundations we create today. We thrive by fostering a multicultural and inclusive environment that welcomes all people, empowers team members and cultivates individual and collective innovation and performance. Travelers will increasingly demand personalized experiences and a sense of localization, as they now have access to a wealth of information. Guests will seek authentic interactions, wishing to feel like locals, with services provided by those who know the area best. Consequently, service will continue to evolve, becoming more relaxed and personal. The industry’s future looks promising as it adapts to these trends, which will enhance the overall travel experience.
PAUL STEVENS
Chief operating officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division for Middle East, Africa & Türkiye at Accor all.com
Mövenpick Resort Antalya Tekirova
ROTANA
EDDY TANNOUS Chief operating officer
Rotana rotana.com
tannouseddy
Building on firm foundations
Offering a personalized service allows us to build a legacy around customer satisfaction and loyalty. We make sure to focus on authentic experiences and connecting guests with the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality by creating what we describe as moments of treasured time. By putting firm foundations in place, we are able to continuously develop our offerings, enabling us to exceed the expectations of guests in a dynamic industry.
Support your team
A strong leader will always have as their main focal point the well-being of each member of their team, motivating them and encouraging them to achieve excellence. Mastering this art involves understanding each of your team members’ capabilities, strengths and aspirations. By building the right rapport with each individual, you can help them to maximize their potential and then collectively achieve success as a team. This chimes with my motto which is to always be the best I can be and, in this regard, I view my father as an ideal role model.
My guiding principle is to always strive to be the best version of myself, and my role model is my father, whose example inspires me to reach for excellence and embody strong values.
The ‘bleisure’ principle
The region’s hospitality industry is thriving and poised for continued growth, with significant transformation driven forward by technology and sustainability innovations. The MICE sector will continue to play a pivotal role in attracting travelers, buoyed by the number of major sporting and entertainment events, and international trade exhibitions that are taking place in the region. In addition, we anticipate a continued uptick in ‘bleisure’ travel, with guests extending or combining their stays to accommodate business and leisure trips. Overall, we’re excited to witness these trends and explore how we can continue to innovate and cater to the evolving needs of today’s travelers.
Mangrove Rotana, Ras Al Khaimah
SANDEEP WALIA, Chief operating officer, Middle East Marriott International marriott.com
Leading in the near and long term Leadership in hospitality is about creating a culture of excellence, where every member of the team feels supported and empowered to deliver unforgettable experiences for our guests. By embodying qualities such as empathy, adaptability and effective communication, leaders can not only drive success in the short term, but also foster a culture of long-term growth and innovation. We must always remember that our people are the most important element of our business. It is imperative that leaders engage with their teams as often as possible to thank them for what they do, ensure they feel empowered and to listen to what they have to say.
The power of positive thinking I like to adopt a ‘glass half-full’ approach, since I believe that optimism and positivity bring out the best in a situation and help to achieve better results. I also see every problem as providing an opportunity to grow - approaching challenges with tenacity can be a defining factor in achieving success.
It’s about authentic leadership and cultivating a ‘people-first’ culture. Direct interaction helps you understand the pulse of the organization, spot challenges and identify opportunities for growth. Being on the ground allows you to see company values in action and provide invaluable feedback to continually enhance guest experiences and employee well-being. As we expand into markets like Saudi Arabia, localization becomes critical and understanding our staff’s nuances is key to delivering authentic and memorable hospitality.
Building relationships
Our industry has undergone many changes, however providing a personal, human touch and creating memorable experiences for our guests is as vital today as ever. I also believe that building relationships with guests and partners based on trust will always be the bedrock of the industry. The integration of technology in the industry will continue to advance. Technology has simplified processes and enriched guest experiences through features like mobile check-in and personalized recommendations. The trend for localized experiences, meanwhile, has pushed us to adapt our services, design and offerings, while sustainability is increasingly becoming a key component of travel.
Marriott - Marquis - Dubai
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NEW PROJECTS:
HERE’S TO 2025 AND BEYOND
The Middle East is home to a flourishing travel and tourism industry, with forecasts indicating a bright outlook for many individual destinations and the region as a whole. This positive scenario is reflected in the strong project pipeline of hotels and resort development currently underway across MENA, with heightened construction activity and plans in progress both hallmarks of the region’s hospitality landscape.
Against this vibrant backdrop, our special report features an in-depth, destinationhopping roundup of the many exciting projects that key hotel operators have planned for MENA. You’ll also find insights and advice from leading experts on the opportunities for investors and developers keen to contribute to the next chapter of the region’s hospitality success story.
Roll on 2025!
FEATURING
P.40
REGIONAL HOTEL PIPELINES: FROM VISION TO REALITY
P.42 WHY THIRD-PARTY OPERATOR CONTRACTS ARE GAINING TRACTION
P.44 TO REFURBISH OR TO BUILD NEW?
P.46 HOW TO GO THE EXTRA GREEN MILE IN HOTEL DEVELOPMENT
P.48 THE FUTURE OF INVESTMENTS AND FINANCING: HOSPITALITY SECTOR TRENDS
P.50 A REGION RIPE FOR INDUSTRY INVESTMENT: EXPERTS SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS
P.52 MENA’S IMPRESSIVE 40+ HOTEL PROJECT PIPELINE
REGIONAL HOTEL PIPELINES: FROM VISION TO REALITY
Despite global financial and geopolitical headwinds, the Middle East continues to be a hotbed of hotel investment and development activity. Driven by ambitious visions, growing economies and significant capital investments in the tourism sector, hotel pipelines are looking highly impressive.
Mega projects and mixed-use developments
Some of the core investment trends continue to revolve around mega projects and the attractions of the world’s best luxury hotel brands. The recent openings of Six Senses Southern Dunes and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve at the Red Sea, mark an important milestone for Red Sea Global in Saudi Arabia. Further up the coast, Neom's
The regional hotel investment and development environment is undoubtedly dynamic, buoyed by a robust pipeline of ambitious and diverse projects.
Kostas Nikolaidis, senior account manager MEA for STR, maps out the hotel projects which are collectively transforming the Middle East into a world-class tourism destination.
first resorts are also about to be unveiled, with a plethora of high-end brands, such as Four Seasons and Marriott Luxury Collection. Often developed with high sustainability standards, such hotel projects feature highly on the development agenda.
Further inland across Saudi’s biggest urban centers, diversification beyond luxury is an emerging trend, with the acceleration of the upscale and midscale pipeline compared to past years. Brands such as Hilton Garden Inn and Holiday Inn Express now feature prominently in the hotel development pipeline.
Finally, another key trend is the move to integrate hotels with residences, retail and entertainment components in mixed-use developments. Such projects are often found in urban centers and offer a blend of hospitality and lifestyle experiences, which are increasingly sought after by investors and developers.
Regional pipeline roundup
Saudi Arabia: the Kingdom is growing at a blistering pace, driven forward by Vision 2030 and the progressive reforms of the past few years. The Kingdom aims to diversify its economy and increase tourism’s contribution to GDP. STR data confirms that Saudi Arabia’s hotel pipeline is not just the largest in the region, but also the third-largest of any country worldwide. The Kingdom currently has 102,279 rooms in its active pipeline, ahead of key traditional hotel development superpowers the UK and Germany, which have 99,438 and 77,857 rooms underway respectively. The anticipated growth in Riyadh is especially
impressive. With 29,069 rooms currently under development, Saudi Arabia’s capital city has the largest hotel pipeline in the world, ahead of second-placed London. With upcoming mega-events, such as Riyadh Expo 2030, the 2029 Asian Winter Games and FIFA World Cup 2034, there is no doubt these rooms will be required to meet high demand.
Dubai: the hotel-sector rebound continues unabated in the Emirate, with the city breaking record after record in the current post-pandemic era. EXPO 2020 spurred a huge wave of hotel openings, with more on the way, as the expansion continues. Dubai Economic Agenda D33 aims to double the size of the economy and tourism features highly as a key growth sector. As a result, Dubai is expected to grow from its current inventory of 151,424 rooms to 169,382, ahead of 2033.
Qatar: the country’s role of FIFA World Cup host in 2022 marked a milestone for its hospitality sector. Hotel room inventory in 2022 increased by a massive 24 percent, with an additional 38 hotels and 7,279 rooms entering the market. The post-World Cup period has seen sustained interest, with significant investments in both new hotels and refurbishments, aimed at capitalizing on the global exposure and legacy of the
With 29,069 rooms currently under development, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital city, has the largest hotel pipeline in the world.
Saudi Arabia 3rd on world leader board Global countries, rooms in the active pipeline, April 2024
str.com In collaboration with
event. Looking ahead, should Qatar’s bid for the Olympics 2036 be successful, it could mark the beginning of yet another hotel development super-cycle in Qatar. In broad terms, the Middle Eastern hotel investment and development landscape continues to be as vibrant as ever and is constantly evolving. Aided by visionary projects, diversified offerings and a commitment to sustainability, the region is set to remain a key player on the global hospitality stage. STR data underscores the robust pipeline and bright outlook, indicating that the vision of transforming the Middle East into a world-class tourism destination is rapidly becoming a reality.
Riyadh has the world's largest pipeline, Makkah & Jeddah follow Global cities, Rooms in the active pipeline, April 2024
WHY THIRD-PARTY OPERATOR CONTRACTS ARE GAINING TRACTION
Traditionally, three primary models of hotel operation contracts have dominated the industry: ownership, franchise and management. However, over the past decade, hybrid agreements, such as the manchise, have also become increasingly popular, alongside the use of third-party operators.
The key characteristics of these contracts are explained below:
Ownership: direct ownership means that both the asset and the hotel operations are owned. This option provides owners with the most control, but also comes with the highest level of risk. It requires the owner to make significant capital investment and also contribute management expertise to the project.
Franchise: this model allows owners to maintain operational control, while benefiting from a brand’s recognition, marketing, loyalty programs and reservation systems. The franchisee pays an initial fee and ongoing royalties, based on revenue, and is bound to global, brand-imposed initiatives. The model is contingent on owners having the required skillset to operate the hotel themselves.
Management: these contracts involve a hotel owner ceding operations to a hotel brand or hotel management company to run the property for a fee, which is often a percentage of revenue and incentive on profit. The brand/management company is responsible for day-to-day operations, staffing, marketing and overall management, while the owner retains ownership of the property.
In an industry marked for decades by tradition, new hotel operation contract models are producing shifts in the landscape. Jad Shamseddin , COO of Aleph Hospitality, explains why these more recent additions are becoming increasingly popular.
Manchise: this hybrid model combines elements of management and franchise contracts to customize the balance of control and support. With shared responsibilities and benefits, it allows owners to initially operate the hotel under a management contract with a hotel brand, which can later transition to a franchise agreement, once certain conditions are met.
Third party operators in demand
The use of franchising models is on the rise, buoyed by many brands shifting their focus from hotel operations to brand development and distribution. This, in turn, is fueling the need for third-party operators (TPOs), also known as independent operators or white-label operators. During the last 10 years in Europe, the number of hotels operated by TPOs has increased by 40 percent, according to a study by HVS. While the rise in the Middle East has been slower, we have still noted a steady increase in demand for this model over the past two years from both hotel owners and hotel brands - a trend which is likely to continue.
The massive growth across the hospitality sector in the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, is attracting many investors/owners who want to be involved in the asset management and decision-making process of their projects. However, some may lack the experience, team members or time to operate the hotel alone. Working for and with the owner, third-party operators have the required skillset and regional knowledge to manage the hotel, while also remaining hyper-focused on profitability.
Benefits for all parties
The rise of third-party operators is also rooted in the alignment of interests between the owner and the operator. TPOs allow hotel owners to have better control over the management of their assets, clearer operational visibility and more contractual flexibility, all designed to drive high returns on their investments.
Contracts with a third-party operator take the form of a management contract. As part of their scope, TPOs can help select the most suitable brand and handle franchising negotiations on behalf of the owner. This three-way partnership between the owner, brand and operator is usually beneficial to all parties, with the TPO mediating between the brand’s focus on its individual success and the interests of the owner.
Third-party management unpacked
A third-party management agreement provides a structured framework that allows owners to leverage the expertise of a management company, ensuring the efficient and profitable operation of the hotel, while maintaining ownership and benefiting from the property’s long-term value appreciation.
In these types of agreements, management companies provide operational agility and reactiveness, with established and transferable processes and procedures in place, while often bringing the benefits of multi-brand experience.
Third-party operators can manage all aspects of hotel operations at any stage of development - from site selection to dayto-day operations, including:
• Business development and advisory
• Design and construction
• Pre-opening
• Takeover and turnaround
• HR and training
• Sales and marketing
• Revenue management
• Accounting
• Technology.
Workable solutions
Management contracts are ideal for real estate investors who own hotel properties but lack the expertise or desire to manage daily operations. They are also suitable for developers who focus on construction only and outsource all management of operations. Additionally, management contracts are often preferred by multiproperty owners with diverse international brands or local brands, as well as institutional owners.
Third-party management contracts have several benefits for hotel owners, which include:
• Owner-centric decision-making and engagement based on transparency
• Shorter and flexible contracts
• Tailored-to-fit and highly focused management services
• Expertise of a management company in operating hotels efficiently and profitably
• In-depth market knowledge of a management company’s local team
• Performance accountability with benchmarks for the management company, such as occupancy rates, RevPAR and overall profitability
• Rigorous cost control with regular financial reporting and auditing rights by the owner
• Access to professionals through clustering capabilities
• Access to global distribution solution partners driving incremental revenues at a lower cost (also applicable for branded [franchised] properties
However, there are also challenge associated with these contracts, including:
• Owners must cede a degree of operational control (lower when compared to the brand-managed property model, however)
• Management fees and other associated costs may be perceived as substantial
• A financial risk if the management company fails to meet performance benchmarks or brand requirements
Manchising: a balanced approach
The manchise model is often ideal for hotel owners looking to benefit from professional brand management expertise initially while planning for greater control and autonomy in the future.
During the initial management phase, the brand management company has operational oversight. They are responsible for the day-to-day operations, staff training, marketing and adherence to brand standards. The owner benefits from the expertise, support and training in setting up and stabilizing the operations.
After a predetermined period or achievement of performance benchmarks, the management contract can transition into a franchise agreement. The hotel continues to operate under the same brand, but the owner takes over the operational control or decides to appoint a third-party operator to oversee the management of the asset under the franchised brand.
Management contracts are ideal for real estate investors who own hotel properties but lack the expertise or desire to manage daily operations. In
Manchise agreements are well suited to new hotel developments, where the owner seeks to stabilize operations before taking full control. They are also popular in cases where an owner plans to eventually manage the property, but initially needs the expertise of an established brand.
Again, there are several benefits of a manchise agreement for owners, namely:
• Risk mitigation during the critical initial period of operation
• Smooth transition from management to franchise with operational standards in place
• Flexibility for owners not yet ready for operational responsibility but planning to assume this in the future
• Continued association with a reputable brand, which enhances marketability and trust.
The challenges tend to be:
• The dual-phase nature of the agreement, which can lead to complex contract terms
• Transition risks from management to franchise
• Initial higher costs
• Risk of quality drop after takeover by the owner’s team.
The hotel management approach, which is dominated by the franchise model managed by a third-party operator, is proving to be a winning formula for all parties involved.
alephhospitality.com
TO REFURBISH OR TO BUILD NEW?
The growing demand for luxury and wellness-focused travel experiences is expected to drive strong financial returns, and there is no lack of financial backing or development partners willing to help boost the supply of high-end accommodation.
In 2023, we witnessed the opening of an array of hotels spanning a diverse range of business models, including converted legacy buildings and refurbished properties operated by legacy brands, and others launched as new spectacular hotels.
Decision-driving criteria
When choosing whether to stay at a refurbished hotel or a new property, travelers will make their decisions based on several criteria, starting with personal preferences and budget. Some will prioritize modern amenities and design, while others value historical charm and the unique character of a restored hotel.
A percentage of guests, meanwhile, are willing to pay a premium for a new stateof-the-art venue. However, for hotel and real estate investors, and brand operators,
It’s a million-dollar question and one that many hotel developers may need to ask themselves in the initial phase of project planning. Both options offer exciting opportunities, but also present challenges.
Chirine Salha, board member of the Syndicate of Owners of Restaurants, Cafes, Night-clubs & Pastries in Lebanon, weighs up the pros and cons.
deciding whether to invest in refurbished or new hotels involves different sets of considerations, each with its own set of potential risks and rewards. Below are some key implications and factors that will influence these decisions.
The initial considerations
Newly built hotels: the main issues that will require thought with new builds are land scouting, zoning, acquisition, construction and infrastructure costs.
Other considerations will include furnishing, finishing and technology integration. It’s also important to remember that professional fees for project management, architects and engineers will be higher, while licenses and permits, together with regulatory challenges, may well lengthen the development time.
Refurbished properties: the financial implications with these hotels may be lighter, with operations usually focused on stripping down the property and renovations, modernization and refreshing
design and décor. Other work is likely to involve upgrading to current safety compliances, bringing the property in line with brand standards. However, these costs may escalate quickly, depending on the state of the building, the condition of its structural integrity, the scope of work needed to undertake updating and upgrading of the facility, and the labor costs.
Historic and cultural benefits
Provided there are no hidden renovation surprises or unexpected land acquisition costs, and the basic structure is in place, converting a building into a hotel usually means a lower initial investment and reduced debt and interest burden than with new builds. Market penetration risk is also lower, since refurbished properties are often already well established in areas with existing demand. The advantage of market differentiation in historic and unique properties can also provide a competitive advantage and a distinctive guest experience, helping the refurbished hotel to stand out from the crowd.
Championing heritage
One example is Six Senses Roma, an IHG Hotel which opened in 2023 in a prime location in Rome. Marking the 96 keys Six Senses Luxury brand’s entry into Italy’s capital city, the hotel is housed in the historical 18th-century Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini near the Trevi fountain and Pantheon. Significant funds were channeled into carefully restoring the building’s historic features, including frescoes, stone walls and other architectural elements, ensuring that the building’s architectural heritage was preserved. This was then balanced with the incorporation of modern amenities, with investment in the overall project estimated at more than Euro 200 million.
Not all converted buildings have the same potential, however. Many investors face challenges with the structural limitations of existing properties that might prevent these hotels from offering the same level of modern amenities, comfort and convenience as brand-new hotels. Once operational, maintenance issues may also arise and prove to be higher in terms of costs than those for new builds on an ongoing basis. Significantly, the market perception can also be a big variable, especially for properties without a unique selling proposition.
Creating the iconic In growing markets, where land is available in abundance, building new hotels may well prove to be advantageous. Investment in luxury accommodation remains strongest in the Gulf and Saudi Arabia, buoyed by the vast expanses of land available for development in the GCC countries. Here, investors can acquire land to build new hotels relatively easily. In countries where things are never done by halves, investors, brand owners and operators alike have the opportunity to create hotels that
are also iconic structures, showcasing cutting edge features. From the latest in-room technology and energy-efficient systems to luxurious amenities, these groundbreaking properties are fully designed with the modern traveler in mind. While initial costs may be higher and development times longer, these new builds will appeal to investors and operators with the necessary resources, whose vision and goals are long term.
Scalability potential
Customizing a new hotel gives the designer the flexibility to meet both current and future market trends. Large hotel chains, in particular, may prefer building new properties to ensure brand consistency and incorporate the latest trends and technologies. New hotels can also be branded to fit seamlessly with the hotel chain, ensuring consistency and brand recognition. Importantly, these tailored constructions offer hotel investors the opportunity to include a certain scalability that makes it easier to incorporate solutions for future expansion or upgrades.
Perhaps the biggest advantage with new builds is that they are designed with energy efficiency and operational efficiency in mind. In
Perhaps the biggest advantage of new builds, however, is that they are designed with energy efficiency and operational efficiency in mind, incorporating the latest in green building technologies and reducing long-term operating costs.
One example is the One & Only Za’abeel, a luxurious mixed-use development located in Dubai. This first vertical urban resort boasts the longest infinity pool in the UAE and features a distinctive dual-tower design, connected by a panoramic sky concourse known as ‘The Link.’ Offering stunning views of Dubai skyline, The Link is one of the longest cantilevered buildings in the world, highlighting the innovative engineering aspect of the new build.
The decision of whether to choose a refurbish property or new hotel for a project will depend on a variety of factors, from financial considerations to market opportunities and brand strategy. While each option offers its own set of challenges and opportunities, one essential driver in the decision-making process should be ensuring that the property aligns with the operator’s long-term vision. syndicatercnp.com
HOW TO GO THE EXTRA GREEN MILE IN HOTEL DEVELOPMENT
We all love to travel, don’t we?
But are we really aware of the impact that our ‘pleasure’ traveling has on our environment and on the lives of our children?
Tourism is globally responsible for about 8 percent of the world’s carbon emissions, according to Sustainable Travel International, a nonprofit organization that aims to protect and conserve the planet’s most vulnerable destinations by working on the impact that tourism has on nature
Today’s travelers are seeking sustainable experiences that align with their values, offering industry investors and developers the opportunity to implement eco-solutions that are truly innovative. Daniel During, principal and managing director of Thomas Klein International, offers a definition of sustainable tourism which goes well beyond the dictionary versions and is one that the hospitality industry can’t afford to ignore.
and people. The figure becomes easier to comprehend, when you think that a simple return flight from Dubai to Paris generates 2.2 tons of carbon. Compare that with the 10 tons an average household generates in a year and you have used 22 percent of your yearly household allowance in a sixhour flight.
A green mindset
But sustainable tourism goes well beyond being ‘green’ and ‘sustainable’ and ‘ecofriendly.’ It spans from the seashells we
pick up from the beach and take home, to the water bottle caps that fall out of our pockets and remain in the sand. It is the impact that Airbnb has on the price that local residents pay for the monthly rental of the place where they live or the increased price of fresh seafood that residents are forced to pay during the tourist season.
A couple of years ago, while planning a trip to Colombia, I came across a site on Instagram named ‘Untraceable.’
I contacted them to ask whether they could help me organize my travel plans and we have remained friends ever since. Their idea is that tourists (and tourism in general as a consequence) should leave no traces of their visit once they return home. ‘Only your footprint on the sand’ were the words of Samuel Mejia, Untraceable’s owner and operator. And this is my point. In its February 19th edition, Medium described eco-innovations in the travel and hospitality sector as ‘more than just a trend.’ Today’s travelers, it added, aren’t simply looking for a place to stay, but are seeking sustainable experiences that align with their values. And hotels the world over are responding with innovations that range from photovoltaic glass facades to zerowaste policies and farm-to-table dining.
Beyond the obvious
One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking of the UAE is their Green Certification. Spearheaded by HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid as a requirement for all new buildings almost 20 years ago, this initiative is today incorporated into the fabric of designers, builders and operators alike. However, being green is about far more than obtaining a certificate; it’s about breathing green, talking green and acting green in every aspect of our lives, making an effort to be "greener" every day. It is a mindset that rules not just how we design a building, but how we operate it minute on minute, every day.
Water conservation - conserving water is not just about implementing lowflow toilets and faucets, or aeriated showerheads. It is about training staff and changing the mentality of the teams that clean the rooms, for example. A low-flow toilet will not save you water if your staff flush the toilet five times during cleaning. Equally, dishwashers that are programmed to minimize water usage are only effective in saving water when and if used properly. Ginox, a Swiss refrigeration and hoods manufacturer, for example, has developed a self-washing hood that uses enzymes to clean the filters from grease and fat, then uses enzymes again to clean the water that has rinsed the filters. What to do with that used water is in the hands of the operator - perhaps it could be used to flush toiletsbut Ginox claims it is even safe to drink.
Energy efficiency - energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems can minimize energy consumption if staff also switch off the lights when they go home. Or perhaps you are prepared to turn off the spotlights on your façade and signage after a certain hour. Again, a mindset, a ‘modus vivendi.’
Sustainable materials - we pledge to design hotels and restaurants specifying only sustainable materials. Whether the investor/developer or the builders decide to comply with our specifications or whether they seek alternative, nonsustainable, cheaper materials, remains their choice and responsibility. Certainly, however, these choices are a reflection of their commitment - or not - to a sustainable future.
Responsible profitability vs. greed
Whatever steps you decide to take - paying a premium for highly technological equipment such as a phoyovoltaic façade, to save water or energy, filtering and bottling your own water, (thus saving plastic and transport) or introducing initiatives to treat your waste - it is no longer about saving money in the longer term. Neither is it about whether you answer to an ever more demanding, eco-driven, green clientele or you turn away the opportunity.
Rather, it is about whether you are a responsible, self-critical and selfchallenging individual who cares for the world you leave to the next generations, or whether you just look at today's profits. Yes, you are operating a business and businesses need to be profitable. But there is a difference between responsible profitability and greed, between a responsible return on investment and deforesting, over-chilling, over-heating and over-lighting, simply for show. A show that, in the current context, will not last that long.
Those choices, my dear hospitality colleagues, remain yours to make.
thomaskleingroup.com
Yes, you are operating a business and businesses need to be profitable, but there is a difference between responsible profitability and greed.
THE FUTURE OF INVESTMENTS AND FINANCING: HOSPITALITY SECTOR TRENDS
The hospitality industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences and evolving global economic trends. These changes are reshaping how investments and financing in the sector are approached. Over the next two decades, the industry is expected to witness substantial evolution in investment strategies and priorities.
A complex landscape
At present, there are approximately 300,000 rooms under development across the GCC. However, in the current economic environment, challenges such as rising borrowing costs, development expenses and operational expenditures are increasingly impacting hotel values and project returns. This situation is creating a complex landscape for investors and developers. To navigate these challenges and optimize project returns, industry professionals should employ various strategies, which include: carefully analyzing market dynamics; implementing robust financial planning; and embracing innovative solutions. With strategic planning, comprehensive evaluation and a deep understanding of investment costs, hotel investment and development in the region can offer attractive returns.
As the hospitality industry continues to adapt and grow, investors are beginning to expand their strategies and priorities, aligning with broader changes evident across the sector. Hala Matar Choufany , president of HVS Middle East and Africa, shines a spotlight on six key emerging trends that look set to characterize the hospitality investment and financing landscape over the next two decades.
The global pandemic forced many developers and investors to make significant changes to their development, financing and operating models. Six specific emerging trends currently gathering momentum look set to make their presence felt on the future of investments, development and financing across the hospitality industry.
1-Alternative and flexible accommodation models, notably:
• Extended stay and co-living spaces - the rise of remote work and digital nomadism will lead to increased investments in spaces meeting these specifications. Such properties will offer flexible living arrangements, combining the comforts of home with the amenities of a hotel. Coworking areas, communal spaces and flexible accommodation plans will cater to long-term guests and remote workers.
• Mixed-use developments - investments in mixed-use developments will continue to grow. These projects integrate hotels with residential, retail and office spaces, creating vibrant, multifunctional environments. Mixed-use developments offer diverse revenue streams and appeal to a broader range of guests, from tourists to business travelers and local residents.
• Boutique and lifestyle hotels - investment in boutique and lifestyle hotels will increase as travelers seek unique, personalized experiences. These properties will focus on niche markets, offering distinctive designs, personalized services and culturally authentic experiences. Boutique hotels will cater to travelers looking for a more intimate and customized stay.
• Wellness tourism - with a growing emphasis on health and wellness, investments in wellness tourism infrastructure will increase. Hotels will offer specialized health programs, including spas, fitness centers and wellness retreats. These facilities will cater to rising demand for health-oriented travel experiences, providing guests with opportunities to focus on their physical and mental well-being.
• Luxury hotels with residential components - luxury hotels dominated by residential components will see growth for both greenfield and repositioned developments.
• Design and build, and modular construction - these methods will dominate the mid-market and upscale segments.
2-Financing and risk assessment, with traditional bank loans and equity financing being complemented by alternative financing models, including the following:
• Crowdfunding platforms - these enable small investors to participate in funding new hotels and resorts, democratizing investment opportunities. Real estate investment trusts (REITs) and private equity are also gaining traction as viable sources of capital for hospitality projects, attracting a broad range of investors, from institutional investors to individuals seeking stable returns from the hospitality market.
• Asset-light model - this model, where companies focus on branding and management rather than ownership, will gain traction. Investors will favor franchising and management agreements, allowing hotel brands to expand without the capital-intensive requirements of property ownership. This model offers flexibility and reduces financial risk.
• Crisis preparedness and business continuity planning - following the lessons of the Covid-19 pandemic, investments in crisis preparedness and business continuity planning will increase. Hotels will develop flexible operational models and diversified revenue streams to mitigate risks and ensure resilience in the face of future crises.
3-Emerging markets and global expansion:
• Emerging markets - investment in emerging markets, particularly in Asia, Africa and Latin America, will increase. These regions offer high growth potential, due to rising middle-class populations and increased tourism. Investors will seek opportunities in underserved and highgrowth areas, capitalizing on the expanding travel markets in these regions.
• Global brand expansion - major hospitality brands will continue to expand globally, investing in new properties and franchises. This expansion will focus on both developed and emerging markets, with a strategic emphasis on growing brand presence and market share.
4-Cultural and experiential focus:
• Local and authentic experiencesinvestments will increasingly focus on providing authentic local experiences. Hotels will partner with local businesses, offer cultural immersion programs and use locally sourced amenities. This approach will appeal to travelers seeking genuine and immersive experiences that reflect local culture and heritage.
• Themed and experiential hotels - themed hotels and experiential properties will attract investment. These hotels will offer unique, immersive stays, catering to niche markets and providing distinctive guest experiences. Themes could range from historical settings and fantasy environments to adventurebased and wellness-focused stays.
Significant capital will be directed toward smart technologies, sustainable practices and flexible accommodation models.
5-Resilience and adaptability:
• Agility and innovation - investors will prioritize properties and companies that demonstrate agility and innovation. The ability to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences will be crucial for long-term success. Continuous investment in new technologies and business models will help hotels to stay competitive and relevant.
• Technology-driven investments - there will be substantial investments in artificial intelligence and automation, IoT and smart infrastructure, and cybersecurity and health and safety technologies. Postpandemic, investments in health and safety technologies will remain high.
6-Sustainability and green technology:
• Investors have an opportunity to develop and operate properties with cuttingedge designs. Significant investments are expected in energy efficiency and renewable energy, green building certifications and circular economy practices.
The future of investments in the hospitality industry is set to be shaped by technological innovation, sustainability and evolving consumer preferences. The competitive landscape for hotel financing will remain complex and influenced by a myriad of factors, including economic conditions, market trends, regulatory environments and emerging technologies. Hotel developers and operators must navigate these factors effectively, presenting compelling business cases that align with current market demands and trends. Significant capital will be directed toward smart technologies, sustainable practices and flexible accommodation models. As the industry continues to adapt and grow, investors will seek opportunities that combine profitability with social and environmental responsibility, ensuring that the hospitality sector remains dynamic and forward-thinking.
hvs.com
A REGION RIPE FOR INDUSTRY INVESTMENT:
EXPERTS SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS
At The Bench, our teams are gearing up for the biggest, boldest and most influential Future Hospitality Summit to date. Renamed and rebranded FHS World to reflect the continued expansion of the travel and hospitality sector, it will take
SULTAN
BADER AL-OTAIBI Chief executive officer
Taiba Investments
taiba.com.sa
taibainvest
The Middle East’s vibrant hospitality landscape and its opportunities for both investors and project developers will undoubtedly be high on the agenda at Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World, a key, three-day industry event for the region which opens in Dubai on September 30, 2024. Jonathan Worsley, chairman of The Bench, FHS World’s organizers, caught up with three industry leaders ahead of the summit to get their take on the openings for investors, the challenges and everything in between.
place back at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, from September 30 - October 2, 2024.
The Middle East’s awe-inspiring, recordbreaking hospitality and tourism sector is growing by the second, and new projects and hotel investment will undoubtedly be
An appealing investment climate Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector has experienced significant growth since 2022, with the industry projected to reach USD 16.9 billion by 2029. The Kingdom plans to invest USD 550 billion in tourism over six years, with the aim of boosting its contribution to GDP to 10 percent and attracting 100 million tourists annually.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia plans to build 320,000 hotel rooms by 2030 at an estimated cost of USD 37.8 billion, supported by strategic infrastructure developments and new urban developments. Public-private partnerships facilitate large-scale projects, while rising disposable incomes further enhance the region’s investment appeal.
ESG – essential, not optional
Navigating hospitality investments with environmental, social and governance (ESG) regulations involves understanding evolving rules like the Securities and Exchange Commission’s climate disclosures and the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. Implementing ESG infrastructure and engaging stakeholders is crucial, with over 60 percent of consumers prioritizing ESG. Setting ESG key performance indicators involves identifying relevant indicators,
a key theme at FHS World. In the run-up to the event, I spoke to three industry leaders to get their take on the key factors, opportunities and challenges affecting those investments. Read on for their insights and comments.
linking initiatives to financial performance, adopting reporting frameworks like the Global Reporting Initiative and measuring progress regularly. Ignoring ESG can be detrimental, so integrating these considerations into investment strategies is essential. At Taiba Investments, eco-friendly construction is a priority, utilizing sustainable materials and designs to enhance energy efficiency. Likewise, adhering to responsible governance ensures effective operations, financial stewardship, cybersecurity and compliance.
Aligned funding initiatives
Financing hospitality projects is facilitated by a variety of sources, each presenting distinct opportunities. Government grants and incentives, notably in Saudi Arabia, mitigate initial capital outlay and align projects with national development goals such as Saudi Vision 2030. The Ministry of Tourism’s Hospitality Investment Enablers (HIE) program, aligned with the national tourism objectives, aims to attract USD 11 billion in private investment by 2030, effectively boosting GDP by USD 4 billion and providing substantial financing options for the hospitality industry.
AMR EL NADY Head of Hotels & Hospitality MEA and managing director, Global Hotel Desk JLL
jll-mena.com jll
Favorable conditions
Growing tourism numbers, increased consumer spending, a stable business environment and positive economic conditions all drive greater investments in new hospitality projects. Innovations in the industry, particularly in technology, and a growing preference for better personalization and unique guest experiences, appeal to both the modern traveler and investors. Favorable investment dynamics, such as attractive annual yield and high returns, further encourage investments in the sector. Supportive government policies, including tax incentives and streamlined regulations, also play a significant role. To minimize disruptions, appropriate staffing and a well-trained workforce are crucial.
Flexible financing options
The most common and widely accessible form of financing is traditional bank loans that offer market interest rates with longer payment periods, but stringent approval processes and potential interest rate hikes pose challenges. Mezzanine financing, while flexible, comes with higher costs, shorter tenure and increased risk, often necessitating larger equity contributions. Islamic financing
GREGORY DJEREJIAN
Group chief legal officer and group head of investments
Red Sea Global (RSG)
redseaglobal.com
redseaglobal
appeals to investors seeking compliance, but may entail higher transaction costs. We also have government-backed initiatives, like the Tourism Development Fund in Saudi Arabia, which provides competitive financing terms, is more flexible and fully understands the high potential of hotel investments.
Opportunities vs. risks
When it comes to assessing distressed hotel assets entering the market, a nuanced understanding of economic indicators, market dynamics and property-specific factors is required. It is often not an underperforming market, rather, the failure of the owner to drive operational efficiencies or adopt tactics to keep the business afloat that leads to such challenging situations. Investors must analyze the extent of distress, potential for value appreciation and feasibility of turnaround strategies. Economic downturns, oversupply and changing consumer preferences impact asset availability in any market. While distressed assets present opportunities for acquiring undervalued properties, investors must also contend with risks, such as market volatility, operational challenges and the need for significant capital investment in renovations or repositioning efforts.
Local and likeminded partners
The Red Sea Global (RSG) mission of regenerative tourism – acting to enhance local environments, communities and the Saudi economy – allows us to explore a range of investment opportunities. Red Sea Global was the first company to achieve a Riyal-denominated Green Finance credit facility in 2021. So far, we’ve secured contracts across all procurement divisions, totaling over 12,000 agreements and valued at SAR 67.8 billion. In deploying our capital, we prioritize partnering with local and likeminded organizations that share our ambition for doing better by people and the planet, with over 70 percent of our contracts awarded to Saudi businesses.
ISO focused
To ensure that our partners meet our strict standards, we have developed a series of tools to support our due diligence. For example, we made our internal control toolkit publicly available to act as a guide to best practice in governance, for other organizations in Saudi Arabia to implement
and benefit from. RSG have undertaken a series of ISO certifications, including ISO14001:2015 accreditation for environmental excellence. When selecting partners to work with, we seek out similar levels of accreditation to underscore our commitment to delivering for both people and planet. Tourism ripe for investment
The launch of Vision 2030 heralded a new wave of opportunity for hospitality and tourism in Saudi Arabia, such as the 14 giga-projects, which include The Red Sea. Numerous financing options have been created to support hospitality in Saudi Arabia. In fact, investment in the KSA’s FDI net inflows hit USD 2.93 billion in Q3 2023, 58.3 percent higher on a year-to-year basis. Tourism was the most popular sector for investment, with 26 FDI investments announced between July and September 2023. Saudi Arabia’s economy is going from strength to strength and is set to become one of the world’s top 15 economies by 2030.
MENA’S IMPRESSIVE
40+ HOTEL PROJECT PIPELINE
The region’s transformation into a top tourism destination is gathering pace, as the exciting range of ambitious projects underway and in the pipeline confirms. Devised with a diverse mix of travelers in mind, numerous hotels and resorts are taking shape across destinations spanning Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Türkiye and the UAE. We've compiled the facts and figures on more than 40 projects in the region’s impressively robust project pipeline.
ACCOR
Swissôtel Rua Al Madinah
Swissôtel Rua Al Madinah will boast 466 rooms, suites and apartments, with a direct view over the Prophet’s Mosque. The hotel will offer an array of premium products and venues, including an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant,
Swissôtel Antalya Kalkan
Swissôtel Antalya Kalkan will feature 245 rooms and two restaurants offering fine dining experiences, a Café Swiss, two bars, a private beach, a swimming pool and a 900-sqm fitness and spa facility.
Grand Mercure Ankara
Grand Mercure Ankara will be located in the heart of the city, close to the business, shopping and entertainment areas, ministries, government buildings and numerous company headquarters. Ankara Esenboga airport is just 30 minutes away.
an exclusive guest lounge and a lobby lounge café.
Opening: Q1 2027
Location: Madinah, Saudi Arabia all.com all_mea
Novotel Rua Al Madinah
Novotel Rua Al Madinah will offer travelers to Madinah a direct connection to the Prophet’s Mosque through a pedestrian pathway, enhancing accessibility. The property will offer 328 hotel rooms featuring a modern and comfortable
Opening: Q1 2025
Location: Antalya, Türkiye all.com
Mövenpick Living & Residences Cairo, New Capital City
Mövenpick Living & Residences in Egypt’s New Capital City will feature 150 serviced apartments and 40 branded residences.
This development includes hospitality, residential, entertainment, commercial and retail components, offering a sustainable, diverse real estate portfolio of mixed-use contemporary developments.
The property will feature 250 modern and spacious rooms, including 216 standard business rooms, 18 corner rooms, 14 suites and two presidential suites.
Opening: Q1 2025
Location: Ankara, Türkiye all.com all__tr
design, along with an all-day dining restaurant and a social hub with a food bar and grab & go concept.
Opening: Q1 2027
Location: Madinah, Saudi Arabia all.com all_mea
Opening: Q4 2026
Location: New Capital City, Egypt all.com all_mea
CHEVAL COLLECTION
ENVI LODGES
ENVI Al Jabel Al Akhdar
ENVI has partnered with Oman’s Ministry of Defence Pension Fund to develop a sustainable mountain lodge featuring 40 luxury expedition tents, some with pools. Highlights will include a farm-to-table restaurant, wellness centre, a swimming
HILTON
Hampton by Hilton at NEOM Community
Hilton will open a 201-key Hampton by Hilton at NEOM Community in 2025. This is the second hotel for the brand at NEOM Community, following the
HYATT
Miraval The Red Sea
Miraval The Red Sea will offer guests
180 guestrooms and suites, including 20 villas, spread across the 3 million square-foot plot. The luxury wellness resort will introduce the brand’s signature mindfulness-based wellness practices to a new corner of the world. When it opens,
Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai
Cheval Collection has signed a management agreement to add a second property in Dubai under its Cheval Maison flag, with the repurposing of The Leadership Pavilion. Following extensive renovation, the property will house a mix of 150 studios, one- and two-bedroom units, and will feature a rooftop pool and
meetings and events spaces, as well as a restaurant and bar, brasserie and coffee shop. The property’s two existing royal suites will also remain.
pool, an events space hosting community activities and guest experiences embracing mountain life.
Opening: Q3, 2025
Location: Jabel Akhdar, Oman envilodges.com/jabelakhdar envilodges
ENVI Al Sifah
This eco-retreat on the Al Sifah shores will feature 40 luxury sea-view tents, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, a wellness centre, swimming pool, kids’ club and an open-air beach cinema. Curated experiences will range from dhow
restoration, cooking workshops and yoga to kayaking, snorkelling, paddle boarding and sustainable fishing.
Opening: Q4, 2025
Country: Al Sifah, Oman envilodges.com/envi-al-sifah envilodges
successful opening of Hampton by Hilton Sharma in February 2024. The hotel aims to deliver the thoughtfully designed accommodations and amenities associated with the Hampton by Hilton brand.
Grand Hyatt The Red Sea
This 430-room hotel will be the first Grand Hyatt property on Shaura Island, the hub of the ambitious Red Sea Project on Saudi Arabia’s west coast. The luxury resort hotel will represent the largest of 11 hotels set
Opening: Q2 2025 (expected)
Location: NEOM, Saudi Arabia hilton.com hiltonhotels
this property is expected to be the Miraval brand’s fourth resort and its first outside the US.
Opening: 2025
Location: Red Sea Project, Saudi Arabia hyatt.com hyatt
to open on the island and will occupy a prime position within this innovative tourist development.
Opening: 2025
Location: Red Sea Project, Saudi Arabia hyatt.com hyatt
IHG HOTELS & RESORTS
Crowne Plaza Dubai Business Bay
Crowne Plaza Dubai Business Bay will be aiming to play a leading role in the blended travel space, specifically targeting the thought leadership segment. Offering 280
Hotel Indigo Riyadh King Fahd Road
Featuring 140 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, Hotel Indigo Riyadh King Fahd Road will draw inspiration from its local
InterContinental The Red Sea Resort
Building on the brand’s heritage as a beacon of approachable luxury travel, InterContinental The Red Sea Resort will
Kimpton KAFD Riyadh
Kimpton Riyadh will be built in the heart of King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). It will offer five food and beverage options, including an all-day dining restaurant,
Regent Jeddah Corniche
Regent Jeddah Corniche will be the first Regent hotel in the Middle East providing uninterrupted views of the Corniche and Jeddah’s Formula 1 racetrack. Located on the scenic Jeddah Corniche, it will feature around 180 rooms, alongside
voco Rusd Towers Jeddah
Strategically located on Jeddah Beach Road, the 110-room voco Rusd Towers Jeddah will feature a wide selection of rooms, each with their own character, including suites. Guests will find three
Crowne Plaza Taiba Riyadh
The hotel’s 192 rooms and 110 serviced apartments will provide a holistic experience for transient and extended-stay guests alike. Alongside the new-generation design, the hotel will also have strong F&B
rooms, it will provide its guests and visitors with spaces and services which support their modern lifestyle, whether they seek to make time for productivity, relaxation or connection.
neighborhood, culture and popular trends in food and drinks. The design is aimed at creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere.
Opening: H2 2025
Location: Dubai, UAE ihg.com ihghotels
InterContinental Kuwait
Al Thuraya City
Due to Al Thuraya City’s ever-increasing popularity among both business and
feature 210 rooms focused on satisfying guests’ desire for knowledge and culturally rich experiences.
Opening: H2 2025
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ihg.com ihghotels
Opening: H2 2025
Location: The Red Sea Resort, Saudi Arabia ihg.com ihghotels
a specialty restaurant, a lobby lounge, a lobby living room café and a pool bar. Kimpton KAFD Riyadh will also host an outdoor amphitheater terrace, health club and swimming pool.
five penthouses, built over 29 stories and facing the Red Sea. Characterized by luxury and sophistication, the hotel will feature a 1,500 sqm spa by Raison d’Etre, a 200 sqm health club, indoor and outdoor pools, epicurean experiences, three concept eateries and lounge.
distinct dining options, including an allday dining venue, a specialty restaurant and a cozy coffee shop. The property will also feature four venues for meetings and events, a fitness center and a swimming pool.
offerings, including a lobby lounge, an all-day dining option and a café. Crowne Plaza Taiba Riyadh will also feature 200 square meters of meeting space, as well as fitness and recreational facilities.
Opening: H1 2025
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ihg.com ihghotels
Opening: H2 2025
Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia ihg.com ihghotels
leisure travelers, the brand plans to open a new property there in late 2025. InterContinental Kuwait Al Thuraya City will offer 120 rooms and nine F&B outlets.
Opening: H2 2025
Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia ihg.com ihghotels
Opening: H2 2025
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ihg.com ihghotels
Opening: Late 2025
Location: Al Thuraya City, Kuwait ihg.com ihghotels
LOUVRE HOTELS
Kyriad Prestige City Centre
Scheduled to open in early 2025, the Kyriad Prestige City Centre, Tunis, will mark the brand’s debut there. The brand’s aims include supporting efforts to grow the national tourism industry and providing
Golden Tulip Duhok
With a well-established presence in Baghdad, the brand is now extending its reach further in Iraq with the scheduled opening of an upscale property in Duhok, in the Kurdistan region. Set to provide welcome facilities for local and
Kyriad Prestige Le Patio
The 120-room Le Patio is a new project following on from the successful branding of Royal Tulip Skikda, Golden Tulip Alexandre Constantine, Golden Tulip Opera and Golden Tulip Royaume. Located
Tulip Russikada
With a view to both complementing and strengthening the hospitality development
Tulip Hotel Carthage
This mid-scale hotel is set to strengthen the brand’s presence in the district of Carthage. Featuring 106 rooms, it will
Golden Tulip Qasr Al Ansar
Marking the brand’s fourth hotel in Madinah, the Golden Tulip Qasr Al Ansar will offer visitors to the historic and
Golden Tulip Amman
Marking a new upscale four-star hotel for Jordan’s capital city, the Golden Tulip Amman is scheduled to open early next
Kyriad Bejaia
Complementing the Kyriad Prestige Le Patio in Ain Benian, Algiers, Kyriad Bejaia is another project in the pipeline which is set to showcase Algerian hospitality and contribute to the local community. Poised to help put Bejaia on the map, the hotel will feature 48 rooms.
employment locally. Kyriad Prestige City Centre will offer 73 rooms.
This upscale hotel is set to offer extensive facilities for travelers who are undertaking the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, when it opens in the first part of 2025. Ideally located in the holy city of Makkah, it will feature 454 rooms and extensive facilities.
in Ain Benian, Algiers, Kyriad Prestige Le Patio will be an upscale four-star hotel, offering all the facilities that international travelers require, with extensive food and beverage options, and conference facilities.
in Skikda, Tulip Russikada will be positioned as a mid-scale, four-star hotel. The hotel will feature 172 rooms.
cater to local and international guests, with business travelers in mind, specifically serving the MICE segment.
popular city a welcome additional option for their stay. The hotel will feature 490 rooms, alongside extensive facilities.
year. As well as featuring 105 rooms, it will offer a diverse range of food & beverage concepts.
Country: Madinah, Saudi Arabia louvrehotels.com louvrehotels_group
Opening: Q1 2025
Location: Amman, Jordan louvrehotels.com louvrehotels_group
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL
Autograph Collection AlUla
Spanning 22,635 sqm, this hotel is set to include 250 rooms and suites, and extensive recreational and entertainment offerings. These comprise four dining venues, a spa, a swimming pool, a fitness
W Riyadh
W Riyadh is expected to feature 210 luxury guest rooms and suites, seven restaurants, retail space and expansive event and meeting facilities. Design plans for the property also include signature brand spaces, such as the Living Room,
center, a business center, meeting facilities and retail space, among others.
Opening: 2025
Location: AlUla, Saudi Arabia marriott.com marriotthotels
Forty West Tribute Hotel
The Tribute Portfolio Hotel at Forty West – SODIC’s signature residential building complex in West Cairo - will comprise 170 guestrooms, including 48 suites, along with multiple dining experiences and recreational facilities. Ideally situated in SODIC West, the heart of the flagship mixed-use development, the hotel will be
RADISSON HOTEL GROUP
Lincoln Hotel, A Radisson Collection Hotel, Casablanca, Morocco
A Radisson Collection Hotel, the Lincoln Hotel is the oldest hotel in Casablanca, dating back to 1916. Once relaunched, the hotel will have 120 standard and superior rooms, suites and its own lounge bar and
patio. The hotel will also host fitness and wellness facilities.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Al Ahsa will be situated in the city center of Al Ahsa, located 60 km inland from the coast of the Arabian Gulf and 100 km south-east from the city of Al Khobar. The hotel will be 14 km south-
WET Deck®, AWAY® Spa and FIT® fitness center. The hotel will also provide the brand’s iconic Whatever/Whenever service.
Opening: 2025
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia marriott.com marriotthotels
easily accessible from the newly opened Sphinx airport and a short drive from the city’s main attractions.
Opening: 2027
Location: West Cairo, Egypt marriott.com marriotthotels
west of Al Ahsa airport, which welcomes weekly international flights
Opening: 2025
Location: Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia radissonhotels.com radissonhotels
ROTANA
Luxor Rotana Resort
Set on the picturesque Nile and near the historic city center with its monuments, tombs and temples, Luxor Rotana Resort is scheduled to open in 2027 as a luxury five-star resort. The property will offer 319 rooms and suites, a wide selection of food
Yasmina Rayhaan by Rotana Riyadh
Close to King Abdullah Financial District, Yasmina Rayhaan by Rotana Riyadh will feature 71 rooms, an outdoor pool, various dining options and three versatile meeting rooms, once complete. Ideal for business and leisure travelers alike, guests can
and beverage options, recreation facilities and more.
Opening: 2027
Country: Luxor, Egypt rotana.com
Rotana_Hotels
White Palace Rotana Resort
Work is underway on the White Palace Rotana Resort, a five-star resort situated in the heart of the city, overlooking the ancient pyramids. The resort will offer 353 rooms and suites, diverse dining options
expect modern amenities, attentive service and a prime location for relaxation and productivity.
Opening: 2025
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia rotana.com
Rotana_Hotels
Mangrove Rotana Ras Al Khaimah
Located on the Ras Al Khaimah creek with views of the mangroves, this twin-tower hotel will offer 240 rooms, extensive conference facilities and diverse dining options. Guests will be able to unwind with wellness amenities, such as an
including two specialty restaurants, stateof-the-art facilities and 11 meeting rooms.
Opening: 2026
Location: Cairo, Egypt rotana.com
Rotana_Hotels
indoor squash court, jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, ensuring a relaxing stay in picturesque surroundings.
Opening: 2025
Location: Ras Al Khaimah, UAE rotana.com
Rotana_Hotels
QATAR ON COURSE FOR A BUMPER SUMMER SEASON
Home to a wealth of diverse attractions and having successfully hosted numerous high-profile global events, Qatar is today firmly established as a must-visit destination among tourists worldwide. Now, the country is breaking new ground once again by installing pioneering, sustainable air-cooling technology in its popular outdoor spaces, helping to make visits to these destinations thoroughly enjoyable all year round.
Qatar’s summer season is now in full swing, with a packed calendar of exciting events underway, offering something for visitors of all ages, whatever their interests.
Among its many attractions, Qatar is known for its wealth of outdoor activities, which range from hiking and cycling trails to fun-filled watersports, available at its pristine beaches.
However, the high temperatures that are a hallmark of the Gulf countries in summer have often led to visitors opting to focus on indoor attractions instead through the hottest months, such as Qatar’s renowned shopping malls and museums, where air-conditioning units provide plenty of comfort.
Cool innovations
In a significant development that spells good news for lovers of the great outdoors, however, several of Qatar’s most popular, high-profile destinations have now been fitted with pioneering, sustainable aircooling systems for open spaces, making these popular locations both accessible and enjoyable, even in high summer.
Aside from reaffirming Qatar’s position as a leader in the field of cuttingedge, environmentally friendly cooling technology, these developments align with the country’s broader tourism strategy to enhance its entertainment offerings and boost the hospitality sector during the summer months.
Qatar first began developing innovative, outdoor cooling systems several years
ago as part of its preparatory plans to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. Having funded numerous scientific research projects in the field, the country was then able to successfully introduce these systems across the football stadiums where the matches were held, providing pleasant conditions for both the participating teams and the more than 1 million visitors who attended the tournament.
Over the years, Qatar has also begun integrating these pioneering facilities into the design of other popular locations to provide added comfort and enjoyment to visitors and locals in the hotter summer months.
Groundbreaking global firsts
A prime example is Al Gharrafa Park, which holds the prestigious title of first air-conditioned park in the world. The cutting-edge integrated outdoor cooling and air-conditioning system in place there means that visitors can now enjoy the 50,000 square-meter park’s picturesque surroundings, complete with stunning Islamic architecture, all year round.
In a separate groundbreaking development, one of Qatar’s best-known addresses – Katara’s 21 High Street – has secured another global first by becoming the first outdoor street in the world to introduce air-conditioning. This means visitors can now stroll along the street, browse and buy in the big-name stores, which include Galeries Lafayette, in full comfort.
Other popular destinations with outdoor cooling technology now in place include Place Vendôme, a must-visit destination lined with restaurants and cafes, alongside its iconic fountain square, where boat trips are available. Visitors to Lusail Boulevard can also look forward to a cool, comfortable welcome, making a leisurely stroll around its squares and pathways an enjoyable experience even in summer.
Already high on the checklists of many visitors keen to admire its shops and art and cultural offerings, and set against a backdrop of breathtaking Italian-inspired architecture, Al Hazm Mall is another airconditioned location. Equally stunning, thanks to its lush green lawns, is the Oxygen Park, located in the Education City of Qatar Foundation. Set out over 130,000 square meters, and home to everything from picnic areas to running, walking and cycling tracks, the park is now equipped with air-conditioning in covered walkways to enhance visits in the warmer months.
Cooling technology has also been installed at some of Qatar’s newest outdoor attractions, including West Walk Al Waab, a location with a contemporary design where visitors can take a leisurely stroll, browse and shop.
Impressive start for 2024
Thanks to the introduction of the cooling technology across these and other popular locations, and many other initiatives, Qatar’s tourism sector continues to go from strength to strength. The country
welcomed over 2.6 million visitors in the first half of 2024, putting it well on track to top the record-breaking, fullyear total for 2023 of 4 million. Hotel keys now top 39,000, with visitors able to choose from a vast range of accommodations to suit all budgets and requirements.
Summer campaign in full swing
For 2024, visitors are being kept up to date on the many events available this summer through Visit Qatar’s ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign, in which Bahraini influencer and filmmaker Omar Farooq highlights what’s on during a 24-hour trip to Doha, while also giving information about the many special offers and promotions available.
Returning for a second year to the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center this summer, the Qatar Toy Festival will be high on the checklists of younger members of the family, who will also undoubtedly want to visit some of the country’s renowned indoor parks, such as Doha Quest, Virtuocity, Angry Birds World and Trocadero. Outdoor fun for families is also available in abundance at Qatar’s waterparks, including at the newly opened Meryal Waterpark in Lusail, located on Qetaifan Island, which boasts an 85-meter-tall waterslide, among many others.
Visitors will also want to check out the country’s many beaches, where swimming in pristine waters and a fantastic range of activities for thrill-seekers are available.
Many of these destinations, which include West Bay Beach, 974 Beach, Doha Sands Beach, Banana Island Resort, Doha Beach Club and Katara Beach, offer special promotions.
Dining out is an essential part of a trip to Qatar, which has established itself as a renowned global culinary hub in recent years. Visitors and locals alike are now able to choose from thousands of restaurants, serving a vast range of cuisines from around the world, from high-end gastronomy to tasty quick takeouts, helping to ensure a stay in Qatar is truly unforgettable.
To find out more about what’s on in Qatar this summer, download the Visit Qatar app or go to visitqatar.com/intl-en/ events-calendar.
Lusail Towers Doha
Katara 21 High Street, Doha
Place Vendome Mall, Doha
DESIGNING STANDOUT SPACES FOR TODAY’S GUESTS
In the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, architecture plays a pivotal role in shaping guest experiences that transcend mere accommodation. Through planning, attention to detail and a deep understanding of the target audience, hospitality architects and designers can create environments that evoke emotions, inspire discovery and leave lasting impressions on guests. Against this backdrop, hospitality architecture and design play key roles in helping to create distinctive and unforgettable experiences.
All about the experience Creating experiences through hospitality architecture is a trend that is undoubtedly gaining momentum, reaffirming the importance of designing spaces that go beyond meeting utilitarian demands. Interior architecture serves as the canvas for these memorable experiences, blending aesthetic appeal with functional comfort and emotional resonance. It starts with detailed research and guest persona development, tailoring design elements to specific preferences and cultural backgrounds.
Incorporating local materials and artwork is well worth considering. It not only
Creating memorable moments for customers has rightly become a top priority for hospitality providers and interior architecture is playing a key role in helping them to achieve these goals. Dina Murali, design director at DZ Design, shares her ideas on how to successfully evoke that all-important sense of place and create environments that will leave lasting impressions on visitors.
supports the community but also gives a space a sense of place, fostering an authentic connection. The use of customizable room settings, such as adjustable lighting, climate control and other technologies, can also elevate the guest experience and enable tailored interactions.
At the other end of the spectrum, meanwhile, balancing guests’ demands for both functional communal spaces and others offering solitude can be achieved by providing lounges and dining areas, alongside private nooks. In these scenarios, it’s vital that the layout is intuitive, ensuring easy navigation and reducing any risk of confusion or stress for guests. Integrating natural elements, such as plants, water features and abundant natural light, creates a calming environment that promotes well-being.
Creating a sense of place
As the renowned architect Tadao Ando once said, “I create enclosed spaces mainly by means of thick, concrete walls. The primary reason is to create a place for the individual, a zone for oneself within society.” This philosophy is echoed in current hospitality design, where creating a sense of place and a personal sanctuary is paramount.
Accommodating diverse requirements: today’s trends focus on immersive environments that seamlessly blend with natural surroundings, employing biophilic design principles to promote guest well-being. Technological integration, sustainability and inclusivity are key considerations, with smart rooms, eco-friendly materials and designs that accommodate diverse needs becoming standard. This holistic approach ensures that hospitality architecture creates spaces where guests feel connected, inspired and valued.
Materials matter: creating distinctive and memorable experiences involves careful planning, attention to detail and the use of appropriate materials. For example, in our design for the highend outdoor restaurant Amaseena in The Ritz Carlton JBR in Dubai, the thoughtful use of handcrafted terracotta tiles of warm tones and artisanal quality infuses the space with authenticity. By using the same type of tile for both the counters and the floor, we created a cohesive aesthetic, while allowing subtle differences to distinguish the surfaces. The floor tiles are laid in a traditional herringbone pattern, providing durability and ease of maintenance, while the counter tiles are arranged in custom vertical cladding, creating
In collaboration with
an eye-catching focal point. This thoughtful use of terracotta not only enhances visual appeal but also connects guests to the material’s historical and cultural significance, making the dining experience both unique and memorable.
Hospitality architecture is not just about constructing buildings; it is about creating immersive experiences that linger in guests’ memories.
Expressing identity and vision: adopting a timeless approach, with a focus on enduring elements that offer lasting appeal, rather than chasing trends, is recognized as having many advantages. Our renovation project for the Pullman Hotel in Downtown Dubai exemplifies this, using the Memphis style. This postmodern design movement, characterized by bold colors, geometric shapes and playful forms, was popular in the 1980s. With thought and care, we reinterpreted it to meet contemporary tastes. This unique combination of historical influence and contemporary application creates a space that feels both original and timeless, offering
guests a memorable and engaging experience and reflecting the brand’s innovative spirit. Similarly, when we renovated the Emirates Park Zoo Resort, we evoked the immediate zoo’s surroundings within the room’s design, creating a cohesive spirit that flowed seamlessly throughout the various areas.
Ultimately, hospitality architecture is not just about constructing buildings; it is about creating immersive experiences that linger in guests’ memories. By focusing on elements that evoke emotional responses, support cultural and community values, and integrate sustainability and technology, architects can design spaces that truly stand out.
Trevi Towers Dining
Hotel Residence confidential
Qabala Reception Lobby
Socialicious Pullman Hotel
Sunny Wellness Harmony Walk
WHY TOURISM MUST BE FOR ALL AND NOT THE FEW
Accessible travel, often referred to as ‘tourism for all,’ is a critical component of sustainable tourism. It aims to provide equal access to tourism activities for people from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, the elderly, families with young children and individuals with limited financial means. This inclusive approach not only upholds the social right to travel, but also enhances business prospects by broadening the range of potential tourists.
A human right
Accessible tourism is about creating an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of disability or background, can enjoy travel experiences. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) emphasizes that accessible tourism should cater to all individuals, including those with mobility, hearing, sight, cognitive or
Accessible tourism is not just a luxury, it’s a right. Michael Donald, co-founder of Halo Business Consulting, takes us through the groundbreaking innovations that are helping to create a more inclusive and equitable travel and tourism industry.
intellectual disabilities, the elderly and people with temporary disabilities. This encompasses accessibility in the physical environment, transportation, information, communications and other facilities and services, both publicly and privately owned. Accessible tourism is essential for several reasons: it is a human right, allowing everyone to engage in tourism activities regardless of their physical abilities or financial status, and it significantly expands the customer base. Furthermore, accessible tourism aligns with sustainable tourism principles, promoting social inclusion and fostering economic growth and development.
Dubai in the driving seat
Dubai highlighted its commitment to accessible tourism at the 4th Accessible Travel and Tourism International Conference earlier this year. Held at the JW Marriott in January 2024, the conference brought together
decision-makers and experts in the field of accessible tourism to foster collaboration and share best practices. It also showcased Dubai’s efforts in supporting both local and international communities, while spotlighting the UAE’s achievements in prioritizing people with disabilities.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the event patron, highlighted the need for a comprehensive tourism offering that can satisfy the aspirations of the millions of people with special needs. He called for international efforts to ensure the provision of easily accessible tourism for the more than 1 billion people around the world who could face challenges when looking to travel. From his side, Ghassan Suleiman, secretary general of the conference, urged stakeholders across the travel and tourism chain to work together to remove obstacles to travel.
Officials and experts representing international organizations, including the UNWTO, UNESCO, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airport Council International (ACI World) made key contributions at the event. Topical issued explored included an analysis of the roles and initiatives required to improve accessible tourism and address the needs of people with disabilities when traveling and exploring tourist destinations.
Accessible tourism disruptors
Several innovations are paving the way for more accessible tourism experiences, both regionally and beyond, driving change through technological advancements and inclusive design practices, while catering to the diverse needs of travelers. Pioneering examples include:
Autism-friendly tourism
Dubai has shown a strong commitment to making its tourism sector more inclusive through its Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) accreditation. In just over a year since the launch, more than 13,000 individuals have received autism and sensory awareness training via Dubai Way, a training and engagement platform for people interacting with tourists as part of their work. This initiative ensures that tourist facilities and services in Dubai are equipped to cater to the needs of visitors with autism, creating a more welcoming and supportive environment.
Newcastle United’s ‘haptic’ football jerseys
The UK football team Newcastle United, in collaboration with Sela, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to make football matches more accessible for deaf fans. As part of its ‘Unsilence the Crowd’ campaign, Sela has introduced special ‘haptic’ shirts that transform stadium noise into a real-time touch sensation. The shirts work by using conductive textiles and haptic modules
that are integrated into the fabric. Broadcast microphones capture the sound around the pitch, which is then converted from analog to digital format using specialized software. The initiative aims to inspire other clubs to adopt similar technologies, making live football more inclusive.
Virtual reality is revolutionizing accessible tourism by offering immersive travel experiences for people with disabilities.
Accessible travel apps
The increase in accessible travel apps is revolutionizing the way people with disabilities plan and enjoy their trips. Apps like Wheelmap and Access Earth allow users to find and review accessible places around the world. Helping travelers with disabilities to plan their trips with confidence, these apps provide detailed information about the accessibility of hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and public transportation.
Universal design in accommodations
Many hotels and accommodations are adopting universal design principles to make their facilities more inclusive. This includes features such as stepfree entrances, wider doorways, grab bars in bathrooms and accessible room controls. Some hotels are going a step further by balancing style with functionality and providing sensoryfriendly rooms for guests with autism or sensory-processing disorders.
Virtual
reality (VR) travel experiences
Virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing accessible tourism by offering immersive travel experiences for people with disabilities. VR technology, with its 3D near-eye displays and pose tracking, allows users to explore attractions and
interact with environments in ways previously inaccessible. For example, a theme park in the Netherlands has launched a VR version of its ‘dream flight’ attraction, enabling people with disabilities to experience and interact with the attraction virtually. This approach promotes social inclusivity by allowing disabled tourists to share travel experiences with friends and family.
How hotels can help
There are several ways in which hotels can support the accessible travel drive. These include:
• Adopting universal design principles Include step-free entrances, wider doorways and accessible bathroom features, such as grab bars and roll-in showers.
• Creating sensory-friendly rooms
Provide rooms designed for guests with autism or sensory-processing disorders.
• Providing employee training
Train staff on accessibility and disability awareness to ensure they can offer appropriate assistance to guests.
• Offering accessible transportation
Collaborate with local transport services to ensure accessible transportation options are available.
• Promoting accessible attractions
Highlight accessible attractions and services in the region.
• Providing detailed accessibility information
Offer comprehensive accessibility information on the hotel’s website and booking platforms to help guests plan their stay with confidence.
Accessible tourism is not just a luxury, it’s a right. Ensuring that everyone can participate in tourism activities is essential for promoting social inclusion, economic growth and sustainable development. By adopting comprehensive strategies and embracing technology, stakeholders will be playing their part in creating a more inclusive and equitable tourism industry.
gohalo.co.uk
A NEW CHAPTER UNFOLDS SAUDI ARABIA’S TRANSFORMATION:
Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify the economy delivered significant results in 2023, with official figures from the authorities indicating that non-oil activities now accounted for 50 percent of GDP. Mammoth investments played a key role in driving the Kingdom’s socioeconomic development plans forward. Yet, inevitably, the complex external economic backdrop also brought challenges.
A challenging backdrop
Growth in the Kingdom’s non-oil and private sectors reached just 2.8 percent in Q1 2024, weighing on GDP, which contracted for a third consecutive quarter.
In the first four months of 2024, GDP decreased 1.8 percent in a year-on-year (y-o-y) comparison, according to the General Authority for Statistics, pushed down by cuts to petroleum activities, which fell 10.6 percent. Lower crude prices at the end of 2023, meanwhile, also impacted the economy’s performance.
Against this backdrop, the IMF lowered its growth forecast for 2024 from 2.7 to
Saudi Arabia continues to roll out its impressive mega projects against a backdrop of record tourism demand, despite also having to accommodate a challenging external economic environment. Nada Alameddine, managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, analyzes the strategies that the Kingdom is adopting for the next phase of its socioeconomic development, which include seeking out alternative funding options and new partners.
2.6 percent. However, on a more positive note, it said it still expects GDP to reach an estimated 6 percent in 2025.
Oil remains a key disruptor in the mix. The Gaza conflict has pushed barrel prices up, while OPEC is predicting growth in demand this year. However, prices haven’t yet reached the USD 96 mark that the country needs to balance its budget. In the meantime, and with signs that the projected budget deficit could reach 70 billion riyals in 2024, the finance minister announced delays in May to some of the Kingdom’s mega development plans, although no specifics were given.
Additional funding sought
Faced with this situation, the authorities are turning to debt to boost spending and keep the domestic economy afloat. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has already raised billions through the sale of bonds and Aramco has announced similar plans.
This search for alternatives to petrodollars is key for the Kingdom, since several mega projects, requiring billions in investments, are
already under development. Officials are still actively seeking new partners to cover costs and meet deadlines. The leading venture is the futuristic city of Neom, which could cost up to USD 500 billion. In May, Neom secured a revolving credit facility worth USD 2.67 billion from local creditors, not long after the Ministry of Economy denied rumors that the Kingdom was scaling back its initial plans for the mega project.
Developments open their doors
The Red Sea Project, with its ambitious touristic infrastructure covering more than 20 islands, is facing challenges of a different type. Its location in the Tabuk area, close to one of the world’s busiest shipping routes, has been affected by political instability. However, the project is still expected to become the Kingdom’s top touristic destination when it opens in 2030, with up to 8,000 hotel rooms planned across 50 establishments, as well as 1,000 residential properties. The Saudi authorities have announced that it could contribute USD 5.3 billion annually to the country’s revenues. Other developments include the
inland Six Senses Southern Dunes and the seaside St Regis Red Sea, which are already open. The Red Sea International Airport has started operating local flights and a seaplane company is providing a shuttle between the islands. The latest to start operations is Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve which takes guests to private island retreats. Other international names, such as Four Seasons, Rosewood, Grand Hyatt and SLS, are also developing their own resorts. The first phase of the overall project should be completed in 2025.
Spotlight on sports and entertainment
Qiddiya, 40 minutes away from Riyadh, is a large complex designed to become the future Saudi capital of entertainment, sports and culture. It will include parks, attractions and sports and cultural venues. Many components have yet to be announced, but we already know that there is going to be a new futuristic F1 racing track, the Speed Track, which will be suspended 20 stories above ground and is set to replace the Formula 1 Jeddah Street Circuit by 2027. Other much talked-about attractions include the first Dragon Ball theme park and mega water park, Aquarabia. Saudi Entertainment Ventures (Seven) and Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) are joining forces to develop several other entertainment destinations, ranging from
Saudi Arabia continues to reap the rewards of its unprecedented move to open its borders to international visitors a couple of years ago, welcoming 27 million foreigners in 2023.
arcade venues, rides and virtual reality areas to bowling, cinemas, retail and F&B outlets. Seven is also working on a new complex in Al Madinah. Another highly anticipated project is The Rig, which takes inspiration from the country’s history of oil rigs. Located 40 km away from the shoreline, the USD 5 billion development will include three hotels, 11 restaurants, an adventure park and helipads.
The Saudi authorities are also looking for funds and partners for the New Murabba initiative, a mixed-use program in downtown Riyadh. The focal point will be the Mukaab, advertised as one of ‘the largest built structures in the world,’ standing at 400 meters in height, width and length. The project is still in the excavation stage.
Record tourism demand
In the meantime, Saudi Arabia continues to reap the rewards of its unprecedented move to open its borders to international visitors a couple of years ago. In 2023, the country welcomed 27 million foreigners and registered 77 million domestic tourists. The Central Bank announced record spending by international visitors of nearly USD 36 billion in 2023, up 42.8 percent y-o-y. The authorities’ ‘Quality of Life’ program led to the creation of 925,000 jobs last year in the tourism sector alone.
Demand has already reached an all-time high in 2024, despite external challenges remaining. The number of international visitors entering the Kingdom surpassed 3 million each month in the first quarter. Domestic tourism also remains strong, according to Almosafer travel platform, and there is more to come.
Summer campaign underway
The government recently launched its 2024 campaign ‘Saudi Summer is Next Door,’ putting the spotlight on seven cultural, natural and historic destinations: Aseer; Al Baha; Tai; The Red Sea; Jeddah; Riyadh; and AlUla. The campaign offers deals and packages for traveling, lodging, food and beverage, and shopping. Highlights include the return of Jeddah Season and the launch of Asher Season festivals. Esports competitions and boxing matches will also be held in Riyadh and Jeddah. In a separate development, the authorities are also facilitating visa procedures for international visitors, opening the eVisa system to 66 nationalities and reducing its price by 20 percent. Under the system, GCC residents are able to obtain multi-entry permits. In terms of hospitality, Saudi Arabia continues to extend its hotel offering, with 25,000 new hotel rooms announced this year, bringing the total to an expected 320,000 by 2030. hodema.net
REASONS TO INCLUDE TV IN YOUR HOTEL MARKETING STRATEGY
With competition fierce and guest experience reigning supreme in hospitality, hotels are constantly seeking new ways to captivate guests and stand out from the crowd. Given the limitless marketing channels available, one gem that shines, but is still often overlooked, is TV advertising. In today’s digital era, with screens dominating our daily lives, harnessing the power of TV can be a gamechanger for hotels looking to increase their brand presence and connect with guests in style on a deeper level. Below are five of the several benefits that television as an advertising medium offers hoteliers.
1- It delivers engaging visual narratives: television provides a dynamic platform for hotels to weave a compelling narrative and showcase their unique offerings through captivating visuals. From stunning scenery to sumptuous cuisine, TV advertising brings the hotel experience to life in a way that resonates with viewers on a visceral level. By immersing guests in a visual journey, hotels can evoke emotions, stir desires and inspire travelers to explore more on their adventures.
2- It can build lifestyle connections: beyond just accommodation, hotels aspire to be integral to guests’ lives. Television advertising acts as a medium for this shift, enabling brands to build personal relationships with viewers and position themselves as indispensable partners in life’s journey. By crafting narratives that mirror the aspirations and values of their target audience, hotels can embed themselves in the fabric of everyday life, fostering loyalty and an affinity that extends far beyond the confines of a single stay.
In an age of digital saturation, television advertising offers hotels a not-to-be missed opportunity to engage with guests on a deeper level. Remote in hand, Lovetto Nazareth , managing director at Prism Digital, shares five ways in which hoteliers can leverage this often overlooked medium.
3- It establishes trust and authority: in a business built on trust, trust is paramount. Television provides a platform for hotels to demonstrate their commitment to efficiency, safety and guest satisfaction. By showcasing real employees, real testimonials and behind-the-scenes glimpses, hotels can humanize their brand and build trust with viewers. The credibility conferred by TV advertising helps hotels stand out in a crowded market and build trust among potential guests, ultimately leading to bookings and loyalty.
TV advertising brings the hotel experience to life in a way that resonates with viewers on a visceral level.
4- It can provide strategic AI-driven targeted promotions and direct messaging: one of the most powerful features of television advertising is its ability to accurately reach specific demographics, regions and target audiences. Hotels can tailor their message to align with their ideal customers through various channels and dayparts, ensuring high impact
and relevance. Additionally, AI-driven television programming enables hotels to promote highly targeted offers and packages, capturing the attention of potential guests at precisely the right moment.
5- It can highlight environmental commitment: as sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration for travelers, hotels prioritizing eco-friendly practices can leverage television advertising to showcase their commitment to environmental stewardship. By highlighting initiatives such as energy conservation, waste reduction and community engagement, hotels can appeal to the growing segment of eco-conscious consumers and align themselves with broader societal values.
Television and AI-driven programmatic advertising represents a golden opportunity for hotels to increase their brand presence, connect with audiences and achieve better results. In an age of digital saturation, it represents a powerful tool that hotels can use to stand out, make an impact and leave a lasting legacy in the hearts and minds of travelers worldwide.
prism-me.com
PORTUGAL: A GENUINE CULINARY COMPASS
Portuguese cuisine is as contrasting, rich and varied as the country’s landscape, traditions and history. By the 12th century, the territory had already been populated by several Celtic peoples, integrated in the Roman Republic, colonized by Germanic people and conquered by the Moors, all of whom left their mark on Portugal’s culture and heritage. In the 15th century, Portugal began a period of maritime expansion that extended its reach to Africa, Asia, Oceania and South America. These connections have helped to shape Portugal’s cuisine, which is Mediterranean based, but includes ingredients and techniques from other continents. At the same time, our unique geography has also influenced our traditions and gastronomy on a region-byregion basis.
Portugal has a wide variety of landforms, climatic conditions and soils, and each
Defined by both history and geography, Portuguese cuisine has plenty to offer diners,from its iconic sardines, fresh from the Atlantic Ocean, and popular cod, to its flavorsome Iberian pork and world-famous pastel del nata sweet treats. José Avillez, chef at Grupo José Avillez and a reference in Portuguese gastronomy, takes us on a culinary tour of his homeland, crossing mountains and coastal cities, with a little island-hopping in between.
from olive oil and cheese to meat and vegetables, and dried fruits. Our long coastline also explains why fish and seafood is a culinary flag.
Nature’s wonders in the north
The region between Douro and Minho is marked by geographical contrasts, with the Atlantic coast and mountain interior and valleys crossed by rivers. The fertile soil here provides varied and abundant products, with the vineyard omnipresent. It is here that the unmistakable Portuguese vinho verde is produced.
The region of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, meanwhile, presents a wealth of natural resources. Here, too, viticulture plays a central role, while the gastronomy features unique combinations. These include Mediterranean staples, such as bread, olive oil and wine, and those of the
Perfect for pasturing
Unsurprisingly, fishing was the main source of livelihood for centuries in the coastal region of Beira Litoral. The stews have a captive place here and the seafood rice is a key dish of the region. Among the mountains, the Serra da Estrela range offers abundant pasture for the Bordaleira sheep, whose milk is transformed into the area’s namesake cheese.
Estremadura e Ribatejo is a fertile region, as is evidenced by its abundance of fruit, vegetables, cereals, olive oil, wine and fishing activity. The omnipresent cod is typically the star of the show, while dessert recipes include the renowned Rio Maior sponge cake and rock pear, which has lent its name to the famous drunk pear, cooked in wine, with sugar, cinnamon and lemon.
From fresh pargo to pork
As expected, the capital city of Lisbon is urban and modern, but also retains plenty of tradition. Its cuisine is lavish in both small fish dishes, such as our iconic sardines, horse mackerel and pout, and
larger ones, including cherne, pargo, bream and sole. These are usually prepared simply, by either grilling or baking. Here, the cod is served Brás style, com grão (with chickpeas) or in pataniscas (coated in batter and deep-fried). in the traditional pasteis, which are found in almost all the cafes of the city. Desserts include what has undoubtedly become an iconic sweet treat globally, the pastel de nata, made from a recipe of conventual origin.
The largest region in Portugal, Alentejo is home to undisturbed plains and offers ideal climatic conditions for growing wheat, oats, barley and sunflower, earning it the nickname ‘the granary of Portugal.’ Its olive oil has also achieved worldwide fame. While Alentejo’s cuisine is regarded as simple and modest, in many ways, the reality couldn’t be farther than the truth. Aromatic herbs spanning coriander, pennyroyal, oregano, mint, basil and sage bring rich aromas and subtle flavors rooted in Arab cuisine to a typical Alentejo table that features bread, olive oil, olives, goat’s cheese and Iberian pork sausages.
Coastal culinary connections Algarve, meanwhile, is known for its searelated activities and connections, with fishing, aquaculture, sea-salt production and an old canning industry among its highlights. Mackerel, hake, sardines, shrimp, crayfish, octopus and clams dominate the catches. The best recipes are those of fishermen, who have perfected the way to preserve the taste of fish and seafood, grilling them slowly on charcoal. The Arab heritage is particularly evident in the region’s desserts, as seen by the presence of nuts, such as almonds, and figs, locally produced honey and fruit jams.
When it comes to our islands, Madeira is known for its simple, but unique cuisine. The climate allows the cultivation of tropical species, such as anona, mango, banana and sugarcane, alongside potatoes, corn, wheat, beans and fruit trees. Its longstanding tradition of fishing means recipes with tuna, swordfish and mackerel are always popular. Across in the Azores, meanwhile, dishes that are common to all the islands include stewed octopus with aroma wine and pork stews.
The best recipes are those of fishermen, who have perfected the way to preserve the taste of fish and seafood.
All about the flavor
The cooking techniques used in Portugal vary from region to region. Grilling is a popular method used for seafood and meats, especially with sardines, for example, which can be cooked over charcoal to release a distinctive smoky flavor. Baking is a popular choice for meat and our dominant cod dishes, and, of course, our bread and pastries, while slow stewing allows for flavors to meld in our famous fish and meat stews. Roasting is a popular technique used for delicacies such as suckling pig and chestnuts in the autumn, when they’re in season.
Old meets new Alongside this renowned range of regional, traditional delicacies, Portugal’s culinary offerings have expanded in terms of diversity and supply on the back of tourism growth in recent years.
A rise in the number of high-quality restaurants has given Portuguese cuisine greater visibility, including international recognition, as evidenced by the number of Michelin-starred venues, for example. There is also a greater focus on training chefs and professionals in schools and restaurants, which has raised the technical level and generated new talent, helping to bring added creativity and innovation to kitchens.
We are seeing different varieties of vegetables, herbs, shoots and flowers gaining prominence, as well as lesser-known citrus fruits, mushrooms and condiments being introduced in recipes, bringing new dimensions in textures and flavors. Producers are also supplying more quality products to meet demand.
The topical issue of sustainability is also being given more attention, fueled by greater demand for local, seasonal and organic ingredients from local producers. These are being supported by measures implemented to optimize energy consumption and minimize waste.
I am confident that we will continue to witness the rediscovery and growing appreciation of our culinary traditions, ingredients and recipes, in line with a broader drive underway that is strengthening Portuguese identity and culture. Investment and the development of tourism outside of major cities will continue to deliver new opportunities for the industry, as will the arrival of visitors who bring their own traditions, experiences and knowledge.
joseavillez.pt
the culinary magician REAL DAIRY CREAM,
Because of its generous fat content (minimum 30%), dairy cream from Europe, especially from France, is a wonderful medium that welcomes or draws out the flavours and scents from an array of ingredients.
Fresh dairy cream metamorphoses effortlessly from its liquid form to a spectrum of textures. In its original state, it’s smooth and rich – making it a quintessential ingredient for both sweet and savoury dishes. With a gentle whip, it turns to soft peaks, an ethereal delight for desserts. Gradually, as the beat strengthens, stiffly whipped cream emerges. This is ready to adorn cakes or be piped into pastries. When air is meticulously incorporated with cream, the result is a frothy consistency. Like a gentle cloud, this form is best used to elevate an assortment of beverages. Additionally, crème fraîche is the effect of cream’s embrace with a cultured richness; its lends tang and decadence
to all manner of dishes.
Such versatility makes cream the culinary magician, transitioning seamlessly to offer velvety luxury or airy lightness, an alchemical touch that turns dishes into dreamscapes of taste and texture. But with its transformative consistencies, fresh cream also becomes a canvas for gastronomic exploration through hot, or cold, infusion.
Fresh and dried herbs, spices, coffee, tea, citrus zest, rose petals, toasted nuts… the list is endless. And any combination has the power to transport our tastebuds to different corners of the globe, painting flavours that resonate with the rich cultures and landscapes from which they originate.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or FranceAgrimer. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
STIFFLY WHIPPED
Texture: thick
Taste: mildly sweet and creamy
Use it for: decorating cakes, pies and pastries or dollop it on hot drinks and desserts.
LIQUID
Texture: silky
Taste: subtly rich
Use it for: soups, sauces, ice cream, curries, casseroles, custards and much more!
SOFT PEAKS
Texture: smooth and airy
Taste: mild and slightly sweet
Use it for: mousses, trifles, and fruit salads.
CRÈME FRAICHE
Texture: velvety
Taste: tangy, rich and creamy
Use it for: thickening soups and sauces or as a finishing touch to savoury dishes and desserts.
FROTHED CREAM
Texture: light and airy
Taste: mild, balanced and creamy
Use it for: adorning hot and cold beverages.
DINING-OUT TRENDS TO WATCH
The global dining landscape is undergoing significant transformation, driven by shifting consumer preferences, technological advancements and evolving economic conditions. Understanding these trends is crucial for businesses who operate in the food service industry or are planning to do so. Against that backdrop, six key trends currently stand out among others on the global dining-out scene. These disruptors are not only making their presence felt across the F&B scene today, but are also set to play a key part in shaping the future industry for restaurateurs and consumers alike, making them well worth spotlighting.
Today’s global food service scene is both dynamic and rapidly evolving, driven forward by changing customer demands, which creative and forward-thinking industry experts are only too willing to accommodate. Diogo Ildefonso, general manager of Glee Hospitality Solutions, highlights six current eating-out trends, which are also expected to continue disrupting dining preferences over the coming years.
1- Health and wellness
One of the most prominent trends on the global dining scene is the increasing focus on health and wellness. Consumers today are more healthconscious than ever, seeking nutritious, organic and sustainably sourced food options. This shift is driven by a growing awareness of the impact of diet on overall health and well-being. Restaurants are responding by offering menus with a variety of healthy options, including plant-based dishes, alongside gluten-free and low-calorie meals. The rise of ‘clean eating’ (opting for whole foods that are closest to nature or in their least-processed state) and the popularity of superfoods are reshaping menus, making healthful choices more accessible and appealing.
2- Technological integration
Technology is revolutionizing the dining experience. From online reservations and digital menus to contactless payments and delivery apps, technology is enhancing convenience and efficiency for both customers and restaurants. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of technology in the food service industry, with many establishments embracing digital solutions to maintain operations during lockdowns. Today, tech-savvy consumers expect seamless integration of technology in their dining experiences, whether it’s through mobile ordering, virtual queuing or personalized marketing via data analytics.
3- Sustainability and ethical eating
Sustainability has become a key consideration for diners globally. There is growing demand for restaurants to adopt sustainable practices, from sourcing local and organic ingredients to reducing food waste and utilizing eco-friendly packaging. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their food choices and prefer dining establishments that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. This trend is also reflected in the popularity of plant-based and lab-grown meat alternatives, which cater to environmentally conscious consumers.
4- Experience-driven dining
In the era of social media, dining out has become not only about food, but also about the experience. Consumers are seeking unique, memorable dining experiences that they can share on social platforms. This has led to the rise of themed restaurants, pop-up dining events and interactive dining experiences. Restaurateurs are focusing on creating immersive environments, innovative presentations and exceptional service to attract and retain customers. The emphasis on experiential dining highlights the importance of atmosphere, creativity and storytelling in the modern food service industry.
5- Cultural fusion and global flavors
Globalization has brought a blend of diverse culinary traditions to the forefront of the dining scene. Diners are increasingly adventurous, looking for new and exotic flavors. Consequently, we have witnessed the proliferation of fusion cuisine, where chefs combine elements from different culinary traditions to create innovative dishes. Demand for authentic global flavors has also risen, with regional specialties from around the world becoming popular in mainstream dining. This trend not only enriches the dining experience, but also encourages cultural exchange and appreciation.
In collaboration with
Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their food choices and prefer dining establishments that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices.
6- Convenience and on-the-go dining
With busy lifestyles and the rise of remote work, convenience has become a significant factor in dining choices. There is a growing preference for quick, easy and flexible dining options, such as food trucks, meal kits and ghost kitchens. Delivery and takeaway services have increased exponentially, driven by the convenience of online ordering and consumers’ ability to enjoy restaurantquality meals at home. This trend aligns with the shift toward more casual, flexible dining experiences that cater to the needs of time-pressed consumers.
The global trends in eating out point to a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry. Health and wellness, technological integration, sustainability, experiencedriven dining, cultural fusion and convenience are reshaping how and where we dine. For businesses in the food service industry, staying attuned to these trends and adapting accordingly will be key to succeeding in an increasingly competitive market. As consumers continue to seek diverse, convenient and enriching dining experiences, the future of eating out promises to be both exciting and transformative.
gleehospitality.com
Contact your sales representative today.
Bahrain: Fine Foods
Egypt: AM Foods
Jordan: Frozen Food House Co.
Kaylani Food Center
Kuwait: Alyasra Foods
Azzad Trading Group
Legion
United Supply Food Services
Lebanon: Societe Jabra
Morocco:
Stellar International Enterprises
Oman:
Chef Middle East Oman
Qatar: Chef Middle East Qatar
Deliopolis
Qatar National Import & Export Co
Saudi Arabia:
Arabian Food Corporation
Gulfwest Company Riyadh
Gulfwest Company Jeddah
UAE: Aramtec
Chef Middle East Abu Dhabi
Chef Middle East Dubai
Faisal Al Nusif Trading Company
Rastelli Global Middle East
Transmed Overseas Incorporated
TAREQ ZIAD TAHA AN ALL-STAR IS BORN
Having placed third in Top Chef Middle East Season 5 in 2022 and then winning the highly prestigious All-Stars Season 7 edition earlier this year, Tareq Ziad Taha knows only too well the rewards that hard work and listening to the best in the business can bring. Here, the consultant and chef tells HN what he learned from his peers, the judges and guest chefs during his time on the television show, while sharing his passion for creating dishes that give traditional Palestinian cuisine a contemporary culinary twist.
How did you discover your love for culinary art?
I discovered my true passion for culinary art at the age of 18, during my studies in hotel management at Bethlehem University. Initially, I intended to spend a year exploring this field while pursuing my studies in art and design. However, being fully immersed in culinary art ignited an intense passion in me for cooking, with the result that I decided to channel my energy into this discipline. During the first few years, I had the privilege to work with several renowned chefs in Jerusalem on a variety of culinary concepts, which played
a crucial part in helping me to develop my skills, increase my knowledge and shape my own cooking style. At the age of 28, I landed my first job as head chef and was able to begin creating my own menus. What prompted you to decide to use your skills professionally?
The decision to pursue a career in culinary art came naturally as my passion for food and art grew. Not only do I find it deeply fulfilling to share this passion with other people, but it also allows me to express myself and use my imagination to create the ultimate culinary experience. Like art, cooking is an ongoing process of
self-reflection. Every day brings with it the chance to widen my knowledge and develop my skills and, over time, come up with new ideas.
What were the biggest challenges you faced during the Top Chef competitions?
Participating in Top Chef Season 5 was a huge challenge for me for various reasons. As a chef, it was my first experience competing on television against peers to create exceptional dishes within a short period of time. In fact, time management was my biggest challenge during the series. Fortunately, I had the opportunity
to compete again in Top Chef All-Stars Season 7, where I came up against a different set of challenges. In addition to competing against some of the most talented chefs in the show’s history, the primary challenge was to surpass my own culinary reach and push boundaries with my abilities to create exceptional dishes in each episode. Overcoming these challenges ultimately helped me to win the competition.
What did you learn during your time on the show?
In addition to time management and self-discipline, I learned that the outcome of anything we do in life depends on our mindset. I also realized that real satisfaction comes not just from the win itself, but from eventually transforming an idea into a dish that tells a story. As well as these important lessons, I learned how to focus in under-pressure situations and how we can transform our mistakes into motivation to improve on a daily basis. Another learning curve came from the judges and the guest chefs. They showed
us how to cook with confidence and how simple ideas, created and executed in the correct way, can form the basis of great dishes.
Real satisfaction comes from transforming an idea into a dish that tells a story.
Do you have any advice for next season’s competitors?
My advice for next season’s competitors is: be true to yourselves and cook food that reflects your identity as chefs. Participating in Top Chef requires knowledge and knowhow, but it’s only when we have to dig deep and push boundaries that we discover our real talent. That’s when we can be creative and think outside of the box. I’d also encourage Top Chef participants to go back to their roots, take this opportunity to work on developing traditional food and be part of the change that is happening on the culinary scene.
What sets your native cuisine apart from others?
Palestinian cuisine is still underrated on the international culinary scene, in my opinion. When explored properly, it’s soon evident that this cuisine includes a diverse range of dishes, revealing the influence of the many civilizations that have inhabited the region over time. Palestinian cuisine also benefits from the agricultural nature of the land, which provides a variety of ingredients with distinctive flavors. When combined harmoniously, these resonate with many people worldwide. Like all the Levant countries, Palestine is known for many simple dishes, such as hummus, falafel, kibbeh and hindbeh. Other popular creations include more festive offerings, like musakhan, maqloobeh, mansaf and qidreh. From my side, I strive to utilize local products like olive oil, sumac and qizha to create dishes that honor traditional tastes, while also embracing contemporary culinary creativity. mbc.net
HOW TO CREATE A CULINARY LANDMARK
In a competitive industry, location and the partnerships that restaurateurs establish with landlords, have a key role to play in elevating a venue to the status of must-visit dining destination. Duncan Fraser-Smith, CEO of Craft Hospitality Group, offers two checklists and more to help businesses navigate these all-important decisions.
In the competitive world of dining and hospitality, the success of a restaurant often hinges on two critical factors: the right location and a strong, mutually beneficial partnership between tenant and landlord. Both elements are crucial for establishing a dining destination that attracts patrons, fosters a thriving business environment and ensures long-term sustainability.
Location, location, location
Identifying the right location for a restaurant is a cornerstone of success. Contributory factors to take into account when looking to select the ideal spot include:
1- Visibility and foot traffic - one of the most obvious, yet vital, aspects of a successful restaurant is its visibility. Highvisibility areas with ample foot traffic naturally draw in potential customers. Locations near busy streets, shopping districts or popular attractions provide a steady stream of passers-by who may become loyal patrons. For instance, a restaurant situated in a bustling urban center or a tourist hotspot, is more likely to attract a diverse and steady clientele, compared to one hidden away in a less frequented area.
2- Target market proximity - understanding the demographics and preferences of the target market is essential. A high-end dining establishment, for example, benefits from proximity to affluent neighborhoods, business districts, or luxury hotels. Conversely, a family-friendly restaurant would thrive near residential areas, schools, and parks. By positioning the restaurant where the target demographic resides or frequents, owners can maximize their reach and appeal.
3- Accessibility and convenience – these play a significant role in a restaurant’s appeal. Easy access to public transportation, ample parking spaces and pedestrian-friendly environments enhance the overall dining experience. Customers are more likely to visit and return to a restaurant that is easy to reach and navigate. Locations with good infrastructure, such as well-maintained roads and clear signage, also contribute to ease of access.
Emerging trends, such as sustainability, experiential dining and technology integration, will influence how restaurants choose locations and interact with landlords.
A symbiotic tenant-landlord partnership
The nature of the partnership you as a tenant establish with your landlord will also play a key role in securing success. Below are some of the factors that can help make this important collaboration work:
1- Clear communication and expectations - the foundation of a successful tenant-landlord relationship is clear communication. Both parties must have a shared understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and expectations. This includes transparent discussions about lease terms, rental rates, maintenance responsibilities, and any potential future changes. Open communication helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters a collaborative environment.
2- Flexible lease agreements: flexibility in lease agreements can be beneficial for both tenants and landlords. For example, a lease that includes provisions for periodic reviews and adjustments based on the restaurant’s performance can create a more adaptive and supportive arrangement. This flexibility can help tenants to navigate initial financial uncertainties and allow landlords to share in the restaurant’s success. Rent structures that incorporate percentage rents (where rent is based on a percentage of sales) can align the interests of both parties, incentivizing landlords to support the tenant’s business growth.
3- Joint marketing efforts: collaboration on marketing initiatives can enhance the visibility and attractiveness of both the restaurant and the property. Landlords can support tenants by promoting the restaurant through property-wide advertising, social media campaigns and events. In turn, successful restaurants can draw attention to the property, benefiting other tenants and increasing overall foot traffic. Joint marketing efforts create a winwin scenario, leveraging shared resources for greater impact.
4- Maintenance and upkeep - a wellmaintained property reflects positively on both the landlord and the tenant. Establishing clear guidelines for maintenance responsibilities ensures that the restaurant and surrounding areas remain attractive and functional. Landlords who invest in regular upkeep and improvements not only support the tenant’s business but also enhance the property’s value. Tenants, on their part, should maintain their leased space to high standards, contributing to a positive impression and customer experience.
Breathing new life into old spaces
Renovating historic buildings into dining destinations showcases the impact of thoughtful location selection and strong tenant-landlord partnerships. The Distillery
District in Toronto and the Battery in San Francisco are prime examples. These projects involved significant collaboration between developers, landlords and tenants to preserve the historical integrity of the buildings while creating modern, appealing dining environments. The result is a unique dining experience that attracts locals and tourists alike.
The future of dining destinations
As the dining landscape evolves, the importance of strategic location and robust tenant-landlord partnerships will continue to grow. Emerging trends, such as sustainability, experiential dining and technology integration, will influence how restaurants choose locations and interact with landlords. Restaurants that prioritize eco-friendly practices and unique dining experiences will seek locations that support these values. Likewise, landlords who embrace innovation and sustainability will attract forward-thinking tenants.
Technology and data-driven decisions
Advancements in technology and data analytics are transforming how restaurants and landlords approach location selection and partnership management. Geographic information systems (GIS), demographic analysis and consumer behavior insights enable more precise location scouting. For landlords, leveraging data can help identify potential improvements and tailor offerings to tenants' needs. By embracing technology, both parties can make informed decisions that enhance their success.
In a rapidly evolving industry, restaurants and landlords who prioritize these elements will be well-positioned to create dining destinations that captivate customers and thrive in the competitive market. By working together and embracing innovation, they can transform spaces into culinary landmarks that leave a lasting impression. crafthospitality.group
Case study
Successful dining: the rise of the food-hall concept
Food halls have become a popular dining destination model, exemplifying the importance of location and partnership. These spaces, often located in urban centers or revitalized historic buildings, offer a variety of dining options under one roof. The collaborative nature of food halls creates a vibrant atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd. For example, Grand Central Market in Los Angeles and Time Out Market in Lisbon have become iconic dining destinations due to their prime locations and the synergistic relationships between vendors and property managers.
When it comes to exporting to a new market, there are several challenges to navigate and considerations to take on board throughout the inception-to-completion process, which usually takes between 12 and 24 months. Five fundamental components are key to achieving success in this endeavor: thorough market research; product adaptation; efficient distribution channels; regulatory compliance; and a comprehensive marketing and promotion strategy. Each of these elements has a critical part to play in ensuring that a product or service can effectively penetrate and sustain itself in a new market.
1- Thorough market research: understanding a target market’s demographics, consumer preferences, regulatory landscape and competitive environment is essential. By conducting comprehensive research, exporters can identify opportunities, assess demand and develop effective strategies to penetrate the new market. Market research provides valuable insights into consumer behavior, buying patterns and potential barriers to entry. It allows businesses to tailor their offerings to meet the specific needs and expectations of the target audience. This research can involve surveys, focus groups, analysis of market trends and studying competitors’ strategies. The more detailed and accurate the market research, the better equipped a company will be to make informed decisions and mitigate risks.
2- Product adaptation: adapting products or services to meet the specific needs and preferences of the target market is crucial for success. This may involve modifying
5
TOP TIPS FOR EXPORTING TO NEW MARKETS
Taking a product or service into a target market and securing sustainable success requires meticulous preparation. Sam A. Jaoude, consultant and CEO of Madenlebanon LLC, based between the US and the Middle East, offers five essential steps that will give businesses a healthy head start in the breakthrough stage.
packaging, labeling or product features, or changing the overall brand image to align with local tastes, cultural norms or regulatory requirements. Packaging may need to be redesigned to appeal to local aesthetics or to provide information in the local language. Brands that demonstrate sensitivity to local culture and consumer preferences are more likely to gain acceptance and trust in the new market.
Strong distribution channels enhance product accessibility and availability, which are critical for driving sales and customer satisfaction.
3- Efficient distribution channels: effective distribution ensures that products reach customers in the new market promptly and efficiently. This may involve forging partnerships with local distributors, wholesalers and retailers or leveraging online platforms to reach a wider audience. Distribution channels should be carefully selected based on the nature of the product and the target market’s buying habits. Building a robust distribution network can also involve negotiating terms, setting up supply chain logistics and ensuring the products are available where customers shop. Strong distribution channels enhance product accessibility and availability, which are critical for driving sales and customer satisfaction.
4- Regulatory compliance: understanding and adhering to a new market’s regulatory requirements and trade regulations is vital for smooth export operations. This includes compliance with customs procedures, import/export regulations, product standards, certifications and other legal obligations. Different countries have varying regulations relating to product safety, labeling, environmental standards and trade tariffs. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in delays, fines, or even bans on the product. Exporters need to keep updated about the regulatory environment of the target market and work closely with legal and compliance experts to ensure all requirements are met.
5- A comprehensive marketing and promotion strategy: creating awareness of a brand and products among the target audience is critical for generating interest and driving sales. This may involve a mix of advertising, digital marketing, public relations, participation in trade shows and other promotional activities tailored to the preferences and behavior of the target market. Effective marketing strategies help build brand recognition and credibility. A well-executed marketing plan ensures that the product stands out in a competitive market and attracts the target audience’s attention.
Bonus tip: teaming up with a food and beverage broker can help when it comes to penetrating new export markets, bringing valuable expertise and connections. The comprehensive support they offer can increase the chances of successful market entry.
madenlebanon.com
In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, platforms like Pinterest often get overlooked in favor of giants like Facebook and Instagram. However, Pinterest offers a unique and powerful tool for restaurants looking to expand their reach and engage with potential customers in creative ways.
So, why Pinterest?
Pinterest is not just another social media platform; it’s a visual discovery engine where users actively seek out inspiration and ideas. Unlike other platforms where content is quickly forgotten, Pinterest pins have a longer lifespan and continue to drive traffic months after they are posted. For restaurants, this means that wellcrafted pins, showcasing attractive dishes, innovative recipes and stunning dining setups, can attract a steady stream of new customers over time.
Pinterest users are also highly engaged and come to the platform with a purpose. According to Pinterest Business, 85 percent of users have made a purchase based on pins they’ve seen from brands. This statistic highlights the platform’s potential for influencing consumer decisions and driving real-world actions. For restaurants, this translates into more reservations, increased takeout orders and greater overall brand visibility.
PINTEREST: A MARKETING TOOL FULL OF POSSIBILITIES
Despite often finding itself in the shadows of the bigger social media platforms, Pinterest offers restaurateurs a powerful marketing alternative, helping them to reach new customers and strengthen their online presence. Monica E. Chikhani, managing director and founder of MEC Workshop, explains why this visual discovery engine is still very much packing a punch.
Creating
engaging content
The first step in leveraging Pinterest for your restaurant is to create engaging and visually appealing content. High-quality images and videos are essential, as Pinterest is a highly visual platform. Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture your dishes in the best light or investing in a good camera and learning some basic photography skills.
Your pins should also tell a story. Share behind-the-scenes looks at your kitchen, highlight seasonal ingredients or feature customer testimonials. Pins that offer value, such as recipes or cooking tips, tend to perform well. For example, a pin detailing how to recreate one of your signature dishes at home can generate significant interest and drive traffic to your website.
The first step in leveraging Pinterest for your restaurant is to create engaging and visually appealing content.
Utilizing Pinterest’s features
Pinterest offers several features that can help restaurants maximize their marketing efforts. Rich Pins, for example, provide additional information directly on the pin, such as ingredients for recipes or prices for menu items. This added detail can increase engagement and drive more clicks to your website.
Promoted Pins are another useful tool. These are paid advertisements that appear in users’ feeds and search results, much like regular pins, but with greater visibility. Promoted Pins can be targeted based on keywords, interests, location and more, ensuring that your content reaches the right audience.
Pinterest also allows you to create boards, which can be organized by theme or menu category.
Measuring success
Like any marketing strategy, it’s important to measure the success of your Pinterest efforts. Pinterest Analytics provides valuable insights into how your pins are performing, including metrics like impressions, saves, clicks and overall engagement. Use this data to refine your strategy, identify which types of content resonate most with your audience and make informed decisions about future pin creation. Additionally, track the traffic driven to your website. Look at metrics such as page views, bounce rate and conversion rate to assess how well your Pinterest marketing is translating into tangible business results.
The benefits for restaurants
Embracing Pinterest marketing can yield numerous benefits for restaurants. Increased visibility on the platform can lead to more website traffic, which in turn can boost reservations and takeout orders. Moreover, Pinterest’s search functionality makes it easier for users to discover your restaurant. By regularly updating your pins and boards, you can maintain a strong online presence and stay top-of-mind with your audience. mecworkshop.com
When considering the new generation of team members entering hospitality, we are up against a challenge of old mindsets versus the digital natives. Managers grew up learning about technology and discovering how to implement it to improve the workplace, while digital natives were born with complete connectivity. Motivation is now an old concept that was rooted in management ‘motivating’ the staff, meaning managers persuading team members to do what they wanted the employee to do. It was a concept that depended on goal-oriented behavior, hanging incentives in front of the team and encouraging them to move toward the management’s objectives, with an array of evaluations, KPIs and the like. Motivation in this form is dead. Inspiration is the new motivation!
Beyond employment opportunities
‘Staff’ is a dead term. Employees no longer exist. We live in a world of team members, associates, stakeholders and entrepreneurs who dream of enormous personal success that is far greater than the simplistic offer of an employment opportunity. Getting a job is purely a means to an end and no longer necessarily a career choice. The thought of performing the same task for years is buried and it is the digital world that is responsible for this shift.
Share the dream with your team and show them how they can grow.
WHY INSPIRATION IS THE NEW MOTIVATION
Mark Dickinson, of DONE! Hospitality Training Solutions, explains why a change in mindset at management level is key to bringing out the best among the new generation of team members.
Their time to shine
Management need to inspire their teams, rather than motivate them. The challenge here, however, is that management must be inspired themselves and many are not. The dedicated employees, who love their company and are committed no matter what, are a relic of the past. Team members want to: be important; have meaningful engagement; and have the opportunity to shine. And yet customers are still waiting to be served. How do we cross this divide? The answer is through inspiration.
Why inspiration works
Share the dream with your team and show them how they can grow. Invest in their personal learning experiences in a way that they see massive value. Share your challenges with them and let them be a part of the solution. The idea of inspiration is that it is:
• an external influence - authentic managers as living role models, mentoring and coaching team members to believe they can achieve personal success.
• an emotional connection - empathetic managers, listening and asking, ‘What can we do to make your experience here amazing?’
• transformative - managers sharing the vision of how they are experiencing their own growth and laying a trail for team members to pick up on.
• something that involves trustgenuine belief from seniors that team members can contribute and that their contribution is valued.
Change in mindset
This approach brings challenges, however. It requires managers to: acknowledge digital influence; be authentic leaders; and embrace employee expectations of growth and feeling valued. Overcoming these hurdles requires a shift at the organizational level of the business. This can be done by:
• sharing the dream - ensure that every new team member is made aware of the business’s dream from the outset. Make recruitment exciting, tech savvy and alluring. Talent will be drawn magnetically to a genuine vision of greatness.
• investing in learning - allow team members to select the kind of learning that they would like to experience.
• embracing authenticity and trust - the leadership team must be genuinely interested in the rise of the team members through meaningful work.
If we seek to inspire our teams, they will respond, feel engaged and valued, and contribute beyond simply doing their job. The bottom line will reflect team members’ contributions as they seek to share with your customers the values that you have shared with them. done.fyi
There has been a growing global consciousness about the importance of nutrition, wellness and sustainability across all markets in recent years. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact their choices have on their health and the environment, which can be seen across multiple generations. ‘Eat food as medicine and not medicine as food’ is an approach that is being widely adopted. Recognition of the importance of worklife balance and being able to work from anywhere are also driving up demand globally for access to healthy food options, gym and wellness facilities while traveling, whether for leisure or work. Significantly, the type of facilities available at hotels and other properties is influencing consumers’ decision-making at the point that they make their travel bookings.
There are a number of steps that hotel operators, asset managers and owners can take to prioritize nutrition, wellness and sustainability, with a view to enhancing the customer experience, reducing costs, increasing revenue and improving customer – and stakeholder – satisfaction and loyalty:
1. Think profit, not cost: do not see your spa, wellness, gym and nutrition offering as an amenity or cost center, but focus on what the customer trends are and turn it into a profit center. Engage the right people and team members who share the same values as your guests.
2. Commit to a strong selfcare concept: find the right partner who can help amplify your values. Partner up with a fitness expert, whose job it is to train the best of the best.
3. Elevate the gym concept: today’s travelers want to continue their workout regime while traveling, just like at home or better.
WAYS TO ELEVATE YOUR WELL-BEING OFFERING
There’s no getting away from it, wellness, nutrition and sustainability are three buzzwords that hoteliers can no longer afford to ignore when looking at how they plan to develop their facilities. Judith Cartwright, founder and managing director of Black Coral Consulting, shares a six-step checklist on how industry players can meet rising demand for these services, while also increasing revenue.
How good is your gym? Is it the standard 60 sqm or are you equipped to take guests on a fitness journey with experts who push boundaries and get the best out of visitors? Guests expect access to state of the art fitness, yoga, meditation and spa facilities, offering a range of holistic treatments.
Nutrition and wellness go hand in hand and play a significant role in shaping consumer choices worldwide.
4. Explore wellness openings beyond massages and facials: wellness programs and facilities that provide opportunities for relaxation, rejuvenation and maintaining well-being while traveling are key. Engage with experts to convert your gym into a profit center by offering services such as: personalized wellness assessments; sleep enhancement programs; digital detox; and wellness technology-integrated, virtual fitness programs.
5. Know the backstories: countries like Thailand, Japan and India have a rich history of selfcare, where well-being is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and customs. These cultural influences shape the unique character and focus of wellness offerings in each country, providing guests
with diverse and authentic experiences. From the spiritual tranquility of Thailand and the precision of Swiss wellness to the Zen simplicity of Japan, these are well worth researching when making decisions on your offerings.
6. Focus on food goals: nutrition and wellness go hand in hand and play a significant role in shaping consumer choices worldwide. Travelers today are far more health conscious, seeking products that are locally grown, promote well-being and support their dietary goals. Demand for organic, natural and whole foods has risen, with consumers prioritizing clean eating and opting for nutrient-rich options.
Focusing today on wellness, nutrition and sustainability is a must for industry players. There are several key questions that need to be considered, starting with: how will you set yourself apart from the competition? Equally important is: will you spearhead this trend or follow?
blackcoralconsulting.com
WHY THE ONLINE TRAVEL BOOKING INDUSTRY IS FLYING HIGH
The online travel booking industry is going from strength to strength, boosted by rising demand from consumers for seamless, streamlined services and tech innovations, including AI and VR, which are enhancing the end-to end travel experience. Four experts share their thoughts on the trends shaping this essential industry segment, from travel booking apps to AI-driven avatars.
TAREK AHMED
Growth lead, Middle East, Africa and Turkey
Agoda Booking Holdings agoda.com agoda
Tech first, travel second
At Agoda, we leverage our extensive global resources, while working closely with local teams to deliver internationalquality services that are personalized for each of our core markets. We are a tech company first and a travel company second. Innovation drives us, with over 1,000 engineers operating and more than 200 experiments running at any given time to continually enhance our offerings. We aim to democratize travel, an aim reflected in our mission to help travelers ‘see the world for less.’
Next level offerings
There are several trends that are currently driving the online booking industry forward. High on this list is the increasing reliance on smartphones, which is spearheading what I refer to as the mobile-first approach. This development is prompting online travel agencies (OTAs) to prioritize mobile-friendly platforms and apps, offering seamless booking experiences on the go. Another trend evident is the part that artificial intelligence
(AI) and machine learning are playing in improving user experience and operational efficiency. We are also seeing generative AI being used to create personalized travel itineraries, generate content for marketing and even simulate travel experiences, offering users a more immersive and customized planning process.
GenAI integration
The integration of connected travel bookings is revolutionizing the travel industry by simplifying the planning process. This approach allows travelers to manage all aspects of their tripflights, accommodations and activities - through a single digital platform. Agoda’s initiative to offer bundled discounts is a prime example of this trend, addressing the modern traveler’s need for both efficiency and value. One of the most transformative forecasts for the travel industry centers on fintech, with innovative payment solutions and financial services removing barriers, increasing accessibility and streamlining the entire experience.
MAMOUN HMEDAN
Chief
business officer
Wego wego.ae wegoarabia
Sourcing the best deals
Wego has a laser focus on serving the needs of MENA travelers. There are hundreds of travel agents, airlines and hotel chains making their products available for purchase via the Wego marketplace so users can search, compare and shop the travel market in one go to get the best deal. Our local focus can be seen in our product localization, the features we’ve built for Middle East users and the variety of travel products and travel deals that we offer. It is also evident in the range of local payment options on Wego and the live customer service we offer in Arabic and English, 24/7.
Bleisure boom
Bleisure and workation continue to be among the top trends we’re observing. Travelers are frequently extending their business trips with a few additional days for leisure on either side of their business activities. Today’s travelers are also attracted by the allure of health and wellness retreats. Another trend is the growing commitment to sustainable tourism, with travelers increasingly seeking eco-friendly options like eco-conscious hotels and carbon-neutral tours.
FOUAD TALAAT
Regional manager, Middle East & Africa booking.com booking.com bookingcom
A smoother trip
We are progressing toward our longterm vision of simplifying travel with the Connected Trip. The current travel experience is often complex and frustrating. Our goal is to make planning, booking and experiencing travel more effortless, personalized and enjoyable, while providing greater value to our travelers and partners. We have the ability to offer our customers a wide array of the world’s most extensive inventory of accommodations, communicating in 43 languages that we support through translated and localized content.
Central role for AI Personalization, AI and other technological advancement will continue to play an important role in making travel easier. Booking.com has long been investing in machine learning and AI technologies, and last year, we introduced our AI Trip Planner in both the US and UK markets. Leveraging our existing machine learning
Elevating the travel planning experience
The role of travel booking apps in the next five-to-10 years will be transformative, focusing on personalization, enhanced user experience and integration of advanced technologies. Key aspects include: personalization and AI: enhanced UX, with voice-activated searches, chatbots and virtual assistants streamlining the booking process; sustainable travel; real-time information; AR and VR, with virtual tours helping users make informed booking decisions; security and privacy, protecting user data; and a partner ecosystem that includes stronger collaborations with airlines, hotels and agencies. By incorporating these trends, travel booking apps will elevate the travel planning experience, meet evolving traveler needs and shape the future of the travel industry.
models, the AI Trip Planner is also partially powered by large language model (LLM) technology from ChatGP to create a new conversational experience for people. The AI Trip Planner is getting better at answering customers’ inquiries and we know that this is just the start.
Upwardly mobile
Mobile remains the preferred device for consumers to plan and book their travel, and this trend is likely to continue in the coming years. Half of the room nights booked in 2023 were done so on our mobile app, marking a 5 percentage-point increase on the figure for 2022. In the Middle East, the share of mobile phones is much higher than the global average and is expected to continue growing. We see a very high level of direct bookings through the mobile app, which is an important platform as it allows us more opportunities to engage directly with travelers and for accommodation partners and customers to interact directly.
ALL ABOUT INTEGRATION
Jane Thomason, emeritus chair of the World Metaverse Council, author and influencer, shares her thoughts on how OTAs and other industry players can make the most of the metaverse.
Virtual opportunities
Integrating online booking websites into virtual environments within the metaverse opens up a world of opportunities for businesses who choose to capitalize on these innovations. Users can explore virtual representations of hotels and destinations, virtually ‘walk through’ rooms, check amenities and explore surroundings. AI-driven avatars can assist with bookings in real-time, while embedded booking systems allow seamless reservations, payments and confirmations within the metaverse. Users can also share their plans and experiences, and make collective decisions.
Challenges vs. opportunities
Admittedly, these initiatives are not challenge free. Hurdles include technological barriers, such as high development costs, the need for advanced infrastructure and compatibility across platforms. Security and privacy must be a priority, while content will need to be high quality, since users will expect to see virtual representations that are both interactive and constantly updated.
Once these and other hurdles are overcome, the rewards can be substantial. Businesses have the
opportunity to strengthen engagement with users by offering them standout experiences that differentiate their brand and offer greater satisfaction. They also have access to new revenue streams from offerings such as exclusive previews and branded experiences. In addition, these services will provide businesses with valuable data insights, enabling them to analyze user interactions for improved marketing and personalized offers. Importantly, businesses can also extend their global reach, attracting a wider audience without geographical constraints.
Looking ahead
We expect to see the evolution of partnerships in collaborative content creation, with hotels partnering with developers for high-fidelity virtual models, tours and events. Integrated booking systems will also become more widespread, with advance passenger information systems (APIs) developed for seamless real-time bookings within virtual environments. Other trends that are set to rise include cross-promotional activities, marketing campaigns linking virtual previews with real-world destinations and loyalty programs. insta.glammy drjanethomason.net
OTHER ONLINE BOOKING WEBSITES
Airbnb: airbnb.com
Cleartrip: cleartrip.ae
Expedi: a expedia.com
Flyin: flyin.com
Hotels.com: hotels.com
Kayak: kayak.com
Musafir: musafir.com
Rehlat: rehlat.com
Travelstart: travelstart.com
TripAdvisor: tripadvisor.com
Trivago: trivago.com
FAST FACTS
AGODA
Founded in: 2005 and headquartered in Singapore.
Accommodations listed: more than 2.5 million properties.
Global presence: operates in more than 200 countries and territories.
Employs: over 4,000 people globally.
Mobile app downloads: over 50 million times on android devices alone.
Languages supported: 38.
Daily user numbers: millions of users daily, including many repeat customers. Customer reviews: over 30 million verified.
BOOKING.COM
Founded in: 1996 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Accommodations listed: over 28 million. Global presence: available in over 220 countries and territories worldwide.
Employs: over 17,000 people globally.
Mobile app downloads: over 100 million times on Android devices alone.
Daily user numbers: over 1.5 million room night reservations per day.
Customer reviews: over 220 million verified.
WEGO
Founded in: 2005 and is headquartered in Singapore and Dubai.
Accommodations listed: provides access to over 700,000 hotels and accommodations.
Global presence: operates in over 50 countries.
Employs: over 4,000 people globally.
Mobile app downloads: over 20 million times across Android and iOS devices.
Languages supported: 21.
Daily user numbers: millions of users daily, with a significant portion of traffic coming from mobile users.
A DECADE OF POWERING PROGRESS
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5 TO CHEESE
EXPERTS ON WHY WE’RE SAYING ‘YES PLEASE’
A favorite filling for sandwiches and used in numerous recipes, cheese remains as in demand as ever, in kitchens worldwide. Five experts offer HN a slice of their cheese-related insights on everything from regional pairings to plant-and-dairy hybrids.
PHILIPPE CAILLOUET
Cheesemonger and cheese expert in the Middle East
'Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2004' philippe_caillouet_mof
Elevating the burger offering
We’ve noticed that burger places are getting creative with cheese and promoting these offers. Chefs have opportunities to play with both taste and texture when it comes to selecting the cheese they incorporate into their burger creations. Being a competitive field, they are undoubtedly aware that the quality of all the ingredients they use, including the cheese, will have a huge impact on the final result.
Good for the gut
I’ve always made it a point to include raw-milk cheeses in my offerings, as they are often made by small-scale producers and come with great backstories. Some people have health worries around raw cheeses, but there’s really no need for concern, provided these products are handled properly, with no cool-chain break.
RODRIGO LLANES
Specialty chef Park Hyatt Dubai hyatt.com llanesrodrigo parkhyattdubai
The era of the fromelier
The cheese segment is constantly evolving, making these offerings an excellent proposition for bringing added quality and elegance to establishments focused on gastronomy. The fromelier, or cheese expert, is able to differentiate between the variety of cheeses available, from their quality and provenance to their origin and flavor, and seasonality. They are well placed to give informed advice and generate an excellent experience for the customer.
Sweet sensations
Today, we are well informed on the chemical composition of foods, which helps us to choose how to pair cheese with jellies, jams and honey, among others. We are able to ensure that the fresh cheese we select enhances another product. To give examples, goat’s cheese and ricotta have the perfect soulmate
The health benefits are well documented; raw-milk cheeses are known to contain many diverse, gut-healthy bacteria, which can be particularly useful if your immune system is low, such as when taking antibiotics.
Bringing out the taste
When it comes to pairing cheese, always look for new ideas. In fact, I like to say that my favorites are the ones I haven’t found yet! I consider a cheese pairing as both a taste experience for clients and an opportunity for me to unleash my creativity. It’s important to ensure all of the ingredients are of premium quality. The cheese should awalys be the main ingredient, with the additional element chosen to bring out the taste of the cheese or reduce its power.
in flower honey, while the intensity and salinity of blue cheeses makes them ideal with oak honey. Older cheeses, such as gouda and parmesan, work brilliantly with the more intense and robust heather honey.
A hybrid future
Dietary changes, focused more on the way food products are made and their impact on the environment, are inevitably influencing the industry. The decrease in meat and fish consumption is also having an impact on cheese consumption. Demand for cheese and products containing it continues to increase. Cheese is considered a viable alternative to meat and fish due to its versatility. Significant growth is expected in hybrid cheeses or dairy products which combine at least one traditional dairy component of animal origin with another of plant origin.
FRANÇOIS ROBIN
Cheesemonger, cheese consultant & pro trainer
‘Un des Meilleurs Ouvriers de France 2011’ robindescheeses
The
rise of raclette
In recent years, several surprising pairings have gained popularity in the market, including cheeses flavored with coffee, herbs and tea. Another trend of note is the well-documented surge in raclette combinations, which took France by storm after the Covid-19 pandemic. Some cheesemongers now offer raclette in more than 30 flavors and it’s evident that customers are keen to discover more about it. Honey pairings are popular in countries where consumers are known to have a sweet tooth. This is especially true in the Middle East, where dates stuffed with blue cheese work well. My personal go-to pairing is black garlic. I love the way it brings so much umami to the cheese.
Picture perfect
Interest in fermented and gut-friendly foods is undoubtedly on the rise, helped by the many photos of delicious looking dishes and recipes relating to this topical issue on social media. It’s easy for experts to adapt their range of raw-milk cheeses to accommodate these trends. Afterwork boards that include raw-milk cheeses, alongside veggies, fruits and cold cuts, are always a big thing when the raclette season is over.
From comments to clicks Instagram remains the go-to social media platform for foodies, providing valuable information on what’s trending, especially among younger consumers. However, Facebook is still an important platform for monitoring what other customers have to say. When it comes to Tik-Tok, I believe that while it generates plenty of clicks, not many are translating into sales in terms of cheese.
GÜRKAN ÖZKAN
Sommelier and restaurant manager
Mürver Restaurant, Novotel Istanbul
Bosphorus
murverrestaurant.com murverkarakoy
Finding harmony
When making wine-and-cheese pairings, we set out to achieve balance and harmony through both body and saltiness-sweetness on the palate. Red wine pairs well with hard and salty cheeses, such as parmesan and manchego, while white wine is better suited to lighter-bodied cheeses, such as goat’s cheese and smoked cheeses. Creamy cheeses, like brie and camembert, are often paired with sparkling wines like prosecco and champagne, since their texture enhances the beverages’ acidity and bubbles. Very salty cheeses, such as gorgonzola and roquefort, meanwhile, work well with white and semi-sweet wine.
Regional pairings
There’s a real drive underway to pair regional products, with the aim of providing a more authentic tasting experience for customers. The
initiative is reflected in the slogan ‘What grows together goes together,’ which is currently causing quite a buzz. Personally, I find it incredibly satisfying when we’re able to successfully pair cheese and wine from the same region and offer this experience to our guests. One example is tulum, a fatty and fragrant traditional Turkish goat’s milk cheese, which harmonizes excellently on the palate with Öküzgözü, a forest-fruitflavored and full-bodied Turkish wine.
A biodynamic buzz
We’re seeing a number of winemakers in countries that include Türkiye and Greece choosing to produce small batches of cheese alongside their wines, in a move that promotes sustainable and biodynamic practices. These exciting trends reflect a shift toward more personalized and experimental pairings, with an emphasis on quality, sustainability and the exploration of new flavors.
BEN WARREN
Cheese specialist, director of culinary & retail, Jones the Grocer jonesthegrocer.com
saltandflesh
Fostering deeper connections
With customers becoming increasingly adventurous and knowledgeable about their food choices, a fromelier not only curates an exceptional cheese selection, but also educates and engages guests. This expertise fosters deeper connections, personalization and cultivates a loyal customer base. Our monthly cheese club and weekly cheese and wine nights further amplify this engagement, while our crafted cheese grazing boards provide a visually appealing and tasty way for customers to explore more cheeses.
Highlighting unique characteristics
Our menus are crafted with a variety of cheeses to complement and enhance dishes, taking into consideration factors such as seasonal availability, flavor profiles and the origin of the cheese. We aim to create dishes that highlight the unique characteristics of each cheese - aged
CHEESY CHOICES GALORE
cheddar, comte and gruyere, sliced and melted in our toasties, for example, and creamy brie in our brie and mushroom omelet or burger. Aged parmesan, as a topping on our pasta or Caesar salad, brings comfort and familiarity. We also enjoy experimenting with regional varieties specific to Italy and Spain, such as taleggio and manchego. Our culinary team is always looking for innovative ways to incorporate these cheeses into our menu.
Sustainable sourcing
We foresee a growing interest in artisanal and plant-based cheeses, as well as a heightened focus on sustainability and traceability in the industry. We are preparing to incorporate these trends to offer our customers innovative and responsible dining options by expanding our selection of artisanal and vegan cheeses, and by continuing to emphasize sustainable sourcing.
HN brings you a roundup of what’s new on the cheese scene, from tasty flavor combos to new plant-based innovations.
KRAFT FLAVOR FUSIONS
Kraft Natural Cheese has launched Kraft Flavor Fusions, a trio of block cheeses that are ideal in recipes or for snacking. The trio is packaged in 7-oz blocks and can be sliced or shredded. The three flavors are: Garlic & Herb Cheddar; Buffalo Ranch Monterey Jack; and Tomato Basil Monterey Jack. KRAFT NATURAL CHEESE kraftnaturalcheese.com
GREENSTER CREAM CHEESE
Made from almonds fermented in the manner of traditional cheese, Greenster vegan cream cheese is the latest innovation from the Spanish company Quescrem. The vegan cream cheese has a high fiber content,
which, together with other nutrients, delivers health benefits. It also has a lower carbon footprint and comes in recycled packaging.
QUESCREM quescrem.es
VAIRY PROTEIN RICH PLANT-BASED SLICES
Boermarke’s new range of plant-based cheeses are fortified with vitamins and contain 10 percent protein. Crafted using a
fermentation process to replicate the taste and texture of traditional cheese, they have a high fiber content and low levels of saturated fat and salt. The three flavors available are: Gouda; Cumin; and Mediterranean.
BOERMARKE boermarke.eu
OH, GRATE!
I am Nut OK, the UK producer of cashew-based cheese alternatives, has released Oh, Grate! a flavorful, plant-based alternative to cheese. Offering users a tasty alternative to parmesan, this plant-based option is ideal for sprinkling on pasta, soups or salads or enjoyed as a snack in its own right.
I AM NUT OK iamnutok.com
IN PRAISE OF THE MIGHTY WHITE STUFF
Long an essential addition to hot and cold drinks and recipes, milk continues to retain a premium spot in kitchen fridges worldwide, alongside the many, increasingly popular plant-based varieties now available. Four industry experts share their thoughts on all things milk-related and more, from new nut-based options and flavorful pairings to achieving that all-important froth.
NICO ALLADO
Brand excellence coach
Costa Coffee UAE, Emirates Leisure Retail
costacoffee.ae
nicoallado04
nicoAllado
With health in mind
A rising number of consumers are seeking dairy-free and lower-calorie additions to coffee, which is resulting in plant-based milks, such as oat, almond, soy and coconut milk, becoming increasingly popular. In terms of dairy products, skim milk, or fatfree milk is a preferred choice for those looking to reduce fat intake. However, whole milk still remains a popular choice among many. Its rich and creamy texture complements coffee well, with the high fat content providing a smooth mouthfeel.
Coffee combos
Creating milk combinations for coffee drinks is a great way of enhancing the overall experience, providing exciting opportunities to balance flavors and textures. Oat milk works well in lattes and cappuccinos, for example, while almond milk pairs nicely with mochas and flat whites, adding a light, nutty touch. Soy milk provides a creamy texture and mild sweetness, making it suitable for lattes and cortados, while the more exotic
coconut milk is perfect for iced coffee and lattes with flavored syrups. With its rich, buttery flavor, macadamia milk is ideal for creating luxurious lattes and mochas, while cashew milk’s creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor complement lattes and cappuccinos.
Informed choices
At Costa Coffee, we display all our milk choices on the menu boards in-store, on our websites, our app and across all our communication channels. All Costa Coffee baristas will also then ask customers for their milk preference at point of service. Customers have the option to change their milk selection when ordering online. The only restriction we have in place is that we do not allow the use of multiple types of milk in one drink. Certain drinks are best suited to a particular type of milk and, in these cases, we make a recommendation when the customer is making a request to change the type of milk being used.
Bar manager and general manager
Element Hospitality and Salmon Guru
e-hosp.com
eli_kreidy salmongurudubai
Packing a punch
Right now, the biggest trend has to be milk punches. You’ll find at least one milkpunch-based cocktail in every bar. And for a good reason; milk punches allow you to play with unique ingredients that otherwise may be difficult to incorporate into your drinks. Knowing that you have control over the clarity, color and texture of your cocktail means you can turn your drink into something completely new.
Bringing out the flavor
At Salmon Guru, we currently have a drink on our menu named ‘Pantera Jackson,’ in which we’ve combined pisco, tequila, chlli, mango and fish sauce with Greek yogurt. It’s a crazy and weird mix which has earned this yogurt punch a space in the ‘WHAT THE F#@%K’ section of our menu! You get a burst of flavor and umami that otherwise wouldn’t be present in the drink. The yogurt allows us to run wild with fun ingredients, knowing that the end result will be punchy, still texturally pleasing and attractive to the eye.
Training manager
All about the quality
We’re currently witnessing several interesting trends in terms of milk usage in coffee drinks. Among these is high demand for milk that is organic and from grass-fed cows, which features in most traditional coffee drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos. I see this trend as forming part of a broader drive for higher-quality, ethically sourced dairy products. Flavored milks, such as vanilla, cinnamon and chocolate varieties, are also proving popular with customers, enabling providers to add unique twists to traditional coffee drinks. Unsurprisingly, the current focus on health and nutrition is also having an impact on milk products. One example is a higher number of requests for nutrient-enhanced milks, including options that are fortified with vitamins, minerals or proteins to enhance their nutritional value.
Dairy-free decisions
Plant-based milks, such as almond, oat, soy and coconut, are continuing to become more and more popular among consumers who are looking for lactose-free and vegan-
I tend to steer clear of using overly bitter ingredients in a punch since it can be difficult to disguise them, but overall, there’s definitely plenty of room for creativity and freedom. I especially like the idea of creating something nostalgic, like a strawberries and cream combination, or mint chocolate ice cream.
Mixing it up
I believe in encouraging people to have a free rein rather than follow trendswhatever you want to try, just give it a goit’s entirely up to you! Personally, I tend to steer clear of using overly bitter ingredients as they can be hard to disguise in a punch, but honestly, you can use any combination of ingredients you like. I know I’d love to make a punch with chocolate milk as some kind of variation on a White Russian!
friendly options. Each of these varieties has individual characteristics, which makes them suitable for different types of coffee beverages. Oat milk’s creamy texture means it creates a good froth and is therefore great for cappuccinos and lattes, for example. Soy milk also offers good frothability and has the added benefit of a neutral taste, so is suitable for a variety of coffee drinks. With its tropical connections, meanwhile, coconut milk is perfect in iced coffees or blended drinks.
Enhancing the flavors
There is plenty of potential for providers to combine milk varieties with other ingredients to create delicious and imaginative coffee drinks. Again, various milk alternatives work better than others, depending on the ingredients being used. Oat and almond milk both complement turmeric, bringing out its earthy flavor, while soy milk blends especially well with chocolate, making it ideal for mochas. When adding elaichi (cardamom) to coffee, both cow’s milk and almond milk really help to enhance the aromatic spices and flavors present.
ELIE KREIDY
STAVROS LAMPRINIDIS
Vivartia FS. Flocafe/Everest stavrosi
CHRISTIANE S. TRILCK Head of faculty
Richemont Masterbaker Dubai
richemont-masterbaker.com
richemontmasterbakerdubai
richemontmasterbakerdubai
Think before you bake
When using milk in cooking and baking, it’s important to differentiate between the different varieties of milk and consider the dish or product that you’re planning to cook or bake, since each has its ideal ingredient. We have numerous varieties of milk at our disposal, ranging from those with different fat contents, lactose-free options, fresh, pasteurized and UHT products to vegan types. All form part of the decision-making process, even though some are technically not ‘milk’ or ‘cream’ since they don’t contain any dairy fat.
Don’t discount dairy
Dairy fat in milk or cream is important as it will give flavor to a dish and change the consistency and taste, based on the amount of fat that it contains. Contrary to some of what you hear, dairy fat is not necessarily a bad fat. Importantly, its low melting point prevents it from leaving a greasy film on the palate. Our aim is to educate chefs, bakers and enthusiasts and share our knowledge with them so they can make informed decisions in their work.
Lactose-free lowdown
Demand for lactose-free milk products is rising, with growth expected to continue in the coming years, driven by customers’ choices and preferences. To summarize, lactose-free milk is simply milk that has been treated to split the milk sugar (lactose). Lactose is a disaccharide, which means it consists of two monosaccharides. In the treatment process, the lactose is broken down into two monosaccharides - galactose and glucose - which makes the milk drinkable for people with lactose intolerance. Milk contains on average 4.5 percent milk sugar. On a positive note, milk sugar is about one-third less sweet than regular cane sugar and can’t be fermented by baker’s yeast. This means that lactose-free milk has little difference in terms of taste and can be used in the same way as regular milk.
DELICIOUS AND DAIRY-FREE ALTERNATIVES
We take a look at the latest plant-based milk products causing a buzz across the F&B scene.
CALIFIA FARMS COMPLETE PLANTBASED MILK
Califia Farms Complete is a plant-based milk designed for consumers seeking a dairy alternative that doesn’t compromise on essential
nutrients. Made from a blend of pea, chickpea and fava bean protein, this nutrient-rich product is available in a 40-oz refrigerated format.
CALIFIA FARMS califiafarms.com
TÁCHE PISTACHIO MILK, ORIGINAL UNSWEETENED
Flying the green flag, Táche Pistachio Milk is made using
a fraction of the water needed for almond milk. Creamy and pure, it has no added oils, fillers or sugar. Baristas will also find that this blend is ideal for delivering a welcome froth to warm beverages.
TÁCHE pistachiomilk.com
ELMHURST UNSWEETENED MILKED HAZELNUTS
Made from just hazelnuts and filtered water, this vegan, dairy-free beverage delivers an especially pure experience. Consumers have the reassurance that there are no added gums, emulsifiers or artificial flavors,
and that the drink is also Carrageenan-free, gluten-free and non-GMO Project verified.
ELMHURST 1925 elmhurst1925.com
THREE TREES ORGANICS
Three Trees Organic Unsweetened Pistachio Nut Milk is ideal over cereal, in hot chocolate, chai tea smoothies or on its own. It delivers 4 grams of pure plant protein in a list of ingredients that comprises:
Naturally rich and creamy, the hazelnut milk from Hazelicious contains no added sugars, oils or preservatives and is non-GMO. Suitable for vegans, it is also highly barista-friendly, frothing like a dream when used.
HAZELICIOUS hazelicious.com
ORGANIC UNSWEETENED CASHEWMILK
Crafted from 100 percent organic cashews, this organic Cashewmilk is free from gums and unnecessary additives, enabling consumers to embrace a dairy-free milk that is pure, clean and simple.
FORAGER PROJECT foragerproject.com
ON THE MARKET
A round-up of what’s new and causing a buzz on the region’s hospitality scene.
CHRISTIAN DIOR X NADA DEBS
Studio Nada Debs has teamed up with Dior Beauty to create a limited-edition set of cases in walnut wood and mother of pearl for Dior’s Collection Privée fragrances.
STUDIO NADA DEBS
Nada Debs | Design, Furniture, Home Decor
WELLEN NEW COLLECTION
Wellen has created a new interior collection inspired by the designs of Karl Lagerfeld. The centerpiece is a midnight blue velvet sofa with 10 sectional elements.
GHENOS SRL ghenos.net
NATUZZI ITALIA MEMORIA SOFA
Designed by Karim Rashid, the Memoria sofa forms part of Natuzzi Italia’s Circle of Harmony collection. The sofa reinterprets the brand’s hallmark enveloping and generous lines.
NATUZZI natuzzi.com
FANTIN’S NEW WAVE COLLECTION
Made of curved metal and characterized by stylish minimalist aesthetics, the new Wave collection from Fantin includes a desk and a series of small furnishing accessories.
GHENOS SRL ghenos.net
LACIVIDINA COLLECTION
This latest collection from the highend Italian furniture brand, designed by Alessandro Stabile, combines an innovative vision with modern requirements and respect for the past.
GHENOS SRL ghenos.net
GROUP GM AND MINE PERFUME LAB
Evoking the freshness of the sea, Alleria is the signature fragrance of the new Mine hotel line by Group GM, which has a modern and minimalist design.
GROUP GM & MINE PERFUME LAB groupegm.com
TERRA KITCHEN
Longstanding partners, Antolini, a benchmark in natural stone, and Minotticucine, have teamed up to produce a new interpretation of their renowned and iconic Terra kitchen.
GHENOS SRL ghenos.net
RETREAT COLLECTION FROM CERAMICA MAGICA
Inspired by stone varieties from centuries ago, the Retreat tiles from Ceramica Magica will enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces, whether classic or modern in design.
GHENOS SRL ghenos.net
CAMIRA X2 FABRIC
Camira has increased the percentage of textile-to-textile waste in X2, its recycled polyester fabric, and expanded the color palette. Suitable for seating, panels, curtains and drapery.
CAMIRA camirafabrics.com
GREENERATION EDIBLES
These new offerings come in 70 varieties spanning microgreens, leaves, rare crops and edible flowers. Freshness is prioritized through same-day cutting and guaranteed one-day delivery.
GREENERATION greeneration.ae
CLASSIC CHOCOLATE MADELEINE
Known for their signature scalloped shell shape, these delicate, dainty cakes are especially delicious when given a chocolate twist, as Chef Russ Thayer shows us.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Madeleine Batter:
204 g butter
4 vanilla beans
120 g all-purpose flour
8 g baking powder
150 g whole eggs, room temperature
92 g sugar
4 g salt
75 g inverted sugar
9 g grapeseed oil
50 g whole milk
Q.S. (as much as required) butter, softened
Q.S. all-purpose flour
54 g Callebaut cocoa powder
To decorate:
Q.S. (as much as required) Callebaut chocolate
Dark Recipe N° 811 54.5% - block – 5 kg
Q.S. cocoa nibs - S502
Q.S. powdered sugar
Preparation
For the Chocolate Madeleine Batter:
Melt the butter, together with the vanilla bean scrapings and the vanilla bean, to infuse in a saucepan. Keep warm.
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder and baking powder. Whip the eggs, sugar, salt and inverted sugar to ribbon stage in a mixer.
Once the mixture is fluffy, add in the oil and mix, using a spatula. Add the flour mixture to the whipped egg mixture and fold it to the point that it comes together.
Strain the infused butter and gradually add it to the egg mixture. Mix well after each addition.
Warm the milk to 50°C (122°F) and add to the batter. Mix until perfectly combined and smooth.
Pour the mixture into a bowl and cover with plastic film, making sure the plastic touches the surface of the batter to prevent a skin from forming.
Refrigerate the batter overnight.
Butter the madeleine mold using a brush, making sure to apply a thin, even layer of butter into the mold.
Sift the flour onto the molds. Tap the mold on the side in both directions to ensure the molds are evenly floured and then remove the excess flour.
Pour the batter into a piping bag. Flatten it on the table and let the batter warm up, if required, in order to pipe more easily.
Pipe into the prepared madeleine molds. Ensure that the molds are all uniformly filled from the front to the back. About 90 percent of the mold should be filled.
Place the mold in a freezer for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, immediately bake at 180°C (356°F) for 8-10 minutes, depending on the power of your oven. For best results, put the madeleine tray straight into the hot oven from the freezer onto an already hot tray. Remove from the oven and unmold immediately. Allow to cool completely on a rack.
To decorate:
Fold the candy pad in half and cut a half circle in the middle to fit the tops of the madeleines.
Dip each madeleine into the pre-crystallized chocolate and then into the roasted cocoa nibs.
Place the madeleines onto a parchment lined tray and then use the candy pad as a stencil and sift some powdered sugar on top of each madeleine.
Madeleines are best enjoyed the same day as they are prepared. However, they can be stored for up to one day in an airtight container at room temperature.
