Building MENA’s future: 40 hotel projects to watch
From beachfront resorts and mountain retreats to city stopovers and desert oases, MENA’s hospitality project pipeline is as diverse as its many unique destinations. Our round-the-region snapshot spotlights 40 exciting projects that key hotel operators have planned for end-2025, 2026 and beyond.
Dubai leads UAE hotel sector growth, says Cavendish Maxwell
According to new research and insights from Cavendish Maxwell , the UAE’s hotel sector is seeing strong growth across all segments. Vidhi Shah, director and head of Commercial Valuation at Cavendish Maxwell, notes that Dubai continues to lead the market, outperforming other emirates in occupancy.
Redefining Emirati cuisine with chef Ali Yazdi
Ali Yazdi, Emirati chef and founder of Ali Yazdi Consultancy, fuses traditional heritage with modern techniques to elevate Emirati cuisine. He discusses his vision for bringing UAE flavors and culinary traditions to a global audience.
Culinary advisor chef Elie Lteif reveals the bold flavors
In this exclusive, the talented chef Elie Lteif, culinary advisor at Nestlé Professional, dishes on the hottest culinary trends shaping the region’s flavors.
Mastering cocktails with Claudiu Mnerau, beverage manager of Bâoli Dubai
At Bâoli Dubai, beverage manager Claudiu Mnerau is raising the bar with nearly two decades of global experience and award-winning expertise. Indeed, he combines research, creativity and precision to craft drinks that feel both timeless and surprising. He explains more in this exclusive interview.
A tribute to heritage with Mahmoud Sakr, GM of The Chedi Muscat
Muscat’s heritage deeply influences how general manager Mahmoud Sakr leads The Chedi Muscat. Here, he reveals the secret behind shaping unforgettable, culturally rich guest experiences.
Ciel Dubai Marina opens in November 2025
Dubai is preparing to welcome a groundbreaking hospitality landmark with the highly anticipated November 2025 opening of Ciel Dubai Marina. Soaring 377 meters into the sky, the 82-floor property will become the world’s tallest hotel and feature the highest infinity pool.
Expansion plans on the menu with Karl Atallah, CEO and founder of Amar restaurants
By blending Lebanese tradition, modern innovation, immersive design and genuine, memorable guest connections, Amar restaurant group has successfully expanded its operations across Lebanon. We caught up with Karl Atallah, CEO and founder, to learn about the story behind the brand and its newest branches in KSA.
Building Cheez Hospitality from Beirut to the world with founder and CEO Joseph Kalaydjian
Joseph Kalaydjian, founder and CEO of Cheez Hospitality, is redefining real estate and hospitality. From a single room in Beirut to a global platform, he blends design, culture and technology to create seamless, meaningful stays. In this interview, he shares the story, philosophy and vision behind Cheez.
Preserving Levantine heritage with Two-time Michelin award winner chef Salam Dakkak
Chef Salam Dakkak leads with heart, turning memory into meals and preserving Levantine heritage through every dish she serves at Bait Maryam and Sufret Maryam. We learn more about her vision and mission in this exclusive interview.
