World’s largest aquarium coming to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi on Yas Island
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will contain 25 million liters of water and will house more than 68,000 marine animals.
UK’s ‘Red List’ could cause Egypt USD 2M of daily losses
WTTC said this is due to fears over the additional costs incurred on expensive hotel quarantine for 10 days on arrival back in the UK.
Staybridge Suites Dubai Internet City is now open
The Staybridge Suites brand has grown to more than 305 properties worldwide with over 33,000 rooms, with Dubai Internet City being the latest addition.
Influential hotelier: Mohamed Awadalla
As we enter a period of recovery, the hospitality industry is abuzz with new and exciting projects. We spoke to some of the region’s top hoteliers to learn more about their development pipelines.
DoubleTree by Hilton to debut in Bahrain in 2022 with a 113-key property
DoubleTree by Hilton Al Sayh Residences will be located just a short drive from Bahrain International Airport.
Food for the soul with Mario Haddad Jr.
Raised in an environment of cinema lovers and among people who share a passion for food, Mario Haddad Jr. has artfully blended his expertise in the film industry with a love for gastronomy and a unique flair for both storytelling and creating unforgettable experiences. Besides managing the film distribution side of his family legacy, Empire cinemas, he is responsible for some of the most successful F&B concepts in Lebanon, namely: Le Sushi Bar; Mario e Mario; Mariolino; and Al Falamanki. Haddad Jr. has now set his sights on a new adventure with Mariolino Sahel. HN spoke to him to learn more.
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort and Spa to open by year end
The resort is part of RAK Properties’ strategy aiming to transform the emirate’s tourism sector into an engine for economic growth.
The First Collection Jumeirah Village Circle to open next month
The First Collection Jumeirah Village Circle will open in September 2021. The 40-story high-rise tower will house an array of dining and leisure facilities.
The case for franchising
Hospitality franchising has quickly grown in popularity because it offers benefits to both parties. Adul Kader Saadi, managing director of Glee Hospitality, weighs up the pros and cons of franchising.
IATA: 2020 was the worst year for the travel industry
According to the IATA, the Middle East suffered the largest loss in passenger traffic, with a drop of 71.5 percent in RPKs versus 2019.
