Beirut-infused indulgence with pastry chef Philip Khoury
Philip Khoury, an award-winning pastry chef and author, is renowned for crafting desserts that honor tradition while embracing innovation and sustainability. In this exclusive interview, he discusses his creation Beirut Chocolate and how chocolate can tell powerful cultural stories by seamlessly blending indulgence, tradition and sustainability.
The Luxury Collection Resort Ras Al Khaimah to open before 2027
Marriott International, Inc. and Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) have officially signed an agreement to develop a luxury resort and residential project.
Saurabh Tiwari on creating luxury travel for a new era
Having achieved one of its aims of opening up to 30 hotels annually in India in recent years, Taj Hotels is now firmly focused on MENA for the next phase of its expansion. Saurabh Tiwari, area director for the Middle East and CIS at Taj Hotels, tells HN what the luxury hotel chain has planned for the region and how it is adapting to meet the changing demands of today’s travelers.
Embracing culinary diversity with Rahif Akkad, owner of Chef Akkad Company
With 15 years of experience in prestigious five-star hotels, Rahif Akkad, founder of Patisserie Akkad and Chef Akkad Company, shares his thoughts on the vital role diversity plays in sparking creativity and enriching dining experiences.
Trademark Collection by Wyndham set to launch in the UAE
Signum Hotels and Resorts has entered into a strategic partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to operate properties under Wyndham’s Trademark Collection. This partnership will primarily focus on introducing the upscale Trademark Collection brand to the UAE.
The changing face of Oman’s hospitality sector with James Reeves
Much like the rest of the world, Oman’s hospitality sector is being transformed by technology. We spoke with James Reeves, GM of Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa in Oman, to learn more about how digitization is improving efficiency and enhancing the guest experience.
Hyatt Place AlUla set to open in Saudi Arabia by end of 2025
Hyatt has announced that it has officially entered into a strategic management agreement with the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). As part of this agreement, Hyatt will introduce the first-ever Hyatt-branded hotel in AlUla, further strengthening its presence in Saudi Arabia.
Cultural heritage in the spotlight with chef Tareq Taha
Tareq Taha, head chef, consultant and winner of Top Chef All-Stars 2023, is a renowned Palestinian chef based in Jerusalem. Known for expertly blending traditional Palestinian flavors with modern techniques, Taha creates innovative dishes that honor his cultural heritage. Here, he shares how Jerusalem’s rich history influences his menu development and dining experiences, seamlessly combining tradition with modern culinary innovation while preserving authenticity.
Rising to the challenge with Bassam Zakaria of Dusit International
An award-winning hospitality professional with over two decades of experience at prestigious hotels across Europe and the Middle East, Bassam Zakaria is passionate about fostering teamwork, particularly in his current role as area general manager of Dusit International. We caught up with him to learn more about his responsibilities, how he handles challenges and the trends shaping decision making at Dusit.
Surge in Makkah’s licensed hospitality facilities hits 80 percent
Saudi Arabia experienced a significant rise in the number of licensed hospitality facilities in Makkah, reaching 1,030 by the end of 2024. This marked an impressive 80 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism. Consequently, Makkah now leads the kingdom in the number of licensed facilities and rooms.
