Almal Real Estate Development Joins Celebration of ‘The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel' Inauguration in Spain
In a bold move set to shape the landscape of luxury hospitality, Almal Real Estate Development is proud to attend the inauguration of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel—the first destination under The Unexpected Hotels brand. The reimagined Ibiza hotel marks the beginning of an ambitious international journey—one that Almal Real Estate Development is spearheading in the Middle East region with its flagship development: The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residences, set to open its door in 2027, on Al Marjan island, Ras Al Khaimah.
Almal Real Estate Development celebrates a defining moment in luxury hospitality with the official inauguration of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel, the first destination under the bold new Unexpected Hotels & Residences brand. The launch signals the beginning of a global expansion journey—led in the Middle East by Almal's flagship development: The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residences, set to open in 2027 on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah.
Pioneering the Brand in the Middle East
The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residencies will feature 422 exclusive hotel and residential units, all offering high energy experiences, unexpected entertainment, vibrant day-to-night life. Located just steps from the Wynn resort, guests will enjoy panoramic views of both the Wynn resort and the serene sea.
The destination will offer standout amenities, including an infinity rooftop pool, a vibrant beach club, entertainment facilities, curated wellness offering with focus on active workouts, lush pocket gardens, groundbreaking dining concepts and so much more.
Led by Almal Real Estate Development, the flagship project will be completed in collaboration with Palladium Hotel Group at Q1 2027. The Spanish group will manage The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residences, a unique luxury brand anchored in three core pillars: avant-garde design, first-class gastronomy, and unique entertainment experiences, – all seamlessly connected through the language of music. To realize this vision, Almal has also appointed the renowned Design & Architecture Bureau (DAR) as the lead design consultant for its revolutionary development on Al Marjan Island. The project not only redefines coastal luxury but also reflects Almal Real Estate Development's growing influence in the region and its vision to deliver globally inspired destinations that resonate with today's discerning traveller. The project has already set a new benchmark on Al Marjan Island, with units sold at an impressive AED 6,300 per sqft — the highest on the island to date.
From Ibiza to the Emirates: A New Era of Disruptive Luxury
The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel was born as an innovative proposal of experiential luxury in the heart of Playa d'en Bossa, an essential destination for those looking for high-quality entertainment with an attitude. After a comprehensive renovation, The Ushuaïa Tower has reinvented itself to make way for this new concept, inspired by the iconic and neighbouring Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel, which will continue to combine the best DJs in the world with exceptional accommodation.
The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel recently debuted Gordon Ramsay Restaurants' first Hell's Kitchen in Europe, completing its delicious gastronomic offer with 6 bars and restaurants. The Body Hub, an innovative, fully personalized wellness gym, further reinforces its commitment to bespoke guest experiences.
For Almal Real Estate Development, the Ibiza launch is more than a brand reveal—it's a strategic milestone that reinforces the company's role as the exclusive developer bringing The Unexpected Hotels vision in partnership with Palladium Hotel Group to the GCC. As Ras Al Khaimah continues its rise as a global lifestyle and tourism destination, Almal is leading from the front, shaping what will become one of the region's most original coastal hospitality experiences. The inauguration of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel marks the debut of Palladium Hotel Group's brand, The Unexpected Hotels. Evolving from the iconic Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel, this bold new concept redefines luxury through a disruptive and boundary-pushing lens.
Positioning Almal as a Global Visionary
Since its establishment in 2022, Almal Real Estate Development has been dedicated to raising the bar for luxury hospitality and real estate in the UAE. The company's award-winning Harrison La Mer project, recognized as the 'Private Villa Project of the Year 2024,' highlights its commitment to creating cutting-edge properties. Recently launched The One By Almal Brand is set to open across 6 destinations worldwide in Southeast Asia. Almal Real Estate Development continues to play a pivotal role in the UAE's economic diversification strategy, further strengthening the nation's standing in the global tourism market.
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Web Release
3 days ago
- Web Release
Almal Real Estate Development Joins Celebration of ‘The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel' Inauguration in Spain
In a bold move set to shape the landscape of luxury hospitality, Almal Real Estate Development is proud to attend the inauguration of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel—the first destination under The Unexpected Hotels brand. The reimagined Ibiza hotel marks the beginning of an ambitious international journey—one that Almal Real Estate Development is spearheading in the Middle East region with its flagship development: The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residences, set to open its door in 2027, on Al Marjan island, Ras Al Khaimah. Almal Real Estate Development celebrates a defining moment in luxury hospitality with the official inauguration of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel, the first destination under the bold new Unexpected Hotels & Residences brand. The launch signals the beginning of a global expansion journey—led in the Middle East by Almal's flagship development: The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residences, set to open in 2027 on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah. Pioneering the Brand in the Middle East The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residencies will feature 422 exclusive hotel and residential units, all offering high energy experiences, unexpected entertainment, vibrant day-to-night life. Located just steps from the Wynn resort, guests will enjoy panoramic views of both the Wynn resort and the serene sea. The destination will offer standout amenities, including an infinity rooftop pool, a vibrant beach club, entertainment facilities, curated wellness offering with focus on active workouts, lush pocket gardens, groundbreaking dining concepts and so much more. Led by Almal Real Estate Development, the flagship project will be completed in collaboration with Palladium Hotel Group at Q1 2027. The Spanish group will manage The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residences, a unique luxury brand anchored in three core pillars: avant-garde design, first-class gastronomy, and unique entertainment experiences, – all seamlessly connected through the language of music. To realize this vision, Almal has also appointed the renowned Design & Architecture Bureau (DAR) as the lead design consultant for its revolutionary development on Al Marjan Island. The project not only redefines coastal luxury but also reflects Almal Real Estate Development's growing influence in the region and its vision to deliver globally inspired destinations that resonate with today's discerning traveller. The project has already set a new benchmark on Al Marjan Island, with units sold at an impressive AED 6,300 per sqft — the highest on the island to date. From Ibiza to the Emirates: A New Era of Disruptive Luxury The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel was born as an innovative proposal of experiential luxury in the heart of Playa d'en Bossa, an essential destination for those looking for high-quality entertainment with an attitude. After a comprehensive renovation, The Ushuaïa Tower has reinvented itself to make way for this new concept, inspired by the iconic and neighbouring Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel, which will continue to combine the best DJs in the world with exceptional accommodation. The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel recently debuted Gordon Ramsay Restaurants' first Hell's Kitchen in Europe, completing its delicious gastronomic offer with 6 bars and restaurants. The Body Hub, an innovative, fully personalized wellness gym, further reinforces its commitment to bespoke guest experiences. For Almal Real Estate Development, the Ibiza launch is more than a brand reveal—it's a strategic milestone that reinforces the company's role as the exclusive developer bringing The Unexpected Hotels vision in partnership with Palladium Hotel Group to the GCC. As Ras Al Khaimah continues its rise as a global lifestyle and tourism destination, Almal is leading from the front, shaping what will become one of the region's most original coastal hospitality experiences. The inauguration of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel marks the debut of Palladium Hotel Group's brand, The Unexpected Hotels. Evolving from the iconic Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel, this bold new concept redefines luxury through a disruptive and boundary-pushing lens. Positioning Almal as a Global Visionary Since its establishment in 2022, Almal Real Estate Development has been dedicated to raising the bar for luxury hospitality and real estate in the UAE. The company's award-winning Harrison La Mer project, recognized as the 'Private Villa Project of the Year 2024,' highlights its commitment to creating cutting-edge properties. Recently launched The One By Almal Brand is set to open across 6 destinations worldwide in Southeast Asia. Almal Real Estate Development continues to play a pivotal role in the UAE's economic diversification strategy, further strengthening the nation's standing in the global tourism market.
Arabian Business
02-06-2025
- Arabian Business
EXCLUSIVE: Inside Wynn Resorts' Las Vegas-style UAE expansion
The much-anticipated Wynn Al Marjan resort is well on its way to becoming the UAE's first integrated gaming resort, extending the experience to the Middle East and beyond. With construction currently 60 per cent complete, the resort is scheduled to open its doors to the public in early 2027. Arabian Business was among the first publications granted access to insights into Wynn's operations in Las Vegas, to understand how this vast enterprise will be translated 8,000 miles away in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Walking into the Wynn Las Vegas, the opulence and sheer scale is unmistakable – in fact, it is record-breaking, with the hotel being one of the biggest globally. The 50,000 sq. ft. property – encompassing both the Wynn and Encore resort, although different, seamlessly operates as one with a total of 4,500 rooms. The floral (Wynn) or butterfly (Encore) detailed floors hear the steps of thousands of people during the course of the day, from hotel guests to casino players to restaurant visitors and the general public – the grounds are always busy. With a resort of this scale housing thousands of rooms, several restaurants, bars, clubs, a golf course, casinos, swimming pools, luxury stores and more – operations needs to run with the precision of a well-oiled machine – undoubtedly, this takes a big and well-trained team across several departments. A similar operation is expected to translate to Ras Al Khaimah to run the first-of-its-kind concept in the Middle East, also mirroring a scale that is uncommon in the region. Wynn Al Marjan will house 1,500 rooms and the property will span over 60 hectares. From scents, lights and carpets down to the most minuscule elements – almost every corner of the hotel has been designed by Todd-Avery Lenahan, President & Chief Creative Officer of Wynn Design & Development – with every element picked to serve a purpose. The same attention to detail, intricacy (if not more) and process will be applied to Wynn Al Marjan, which Lenahan describes as 'something entirely distinctive for this region.' Wynn's staffing for success Part of the integrated leadership team will also be Max Topainer, former COO of Wynn Las Vegas, who is relocating to Ras Al Khaimah to take on the role of President for Wynn Al Marjan Island – a move symbolic of the global weight being thrown behind the project. And he's not coming alone. A wave of professionals from Wynn properties around the world are already preparing for the transition, with as many as 200 team members expected to move to Ras Al Khaimah within six months of the opening. The full team will be assembled on site, allowing ample time to instill Wynn's signature culture into operations – a value system deeply rooted in the brand. Training, cultural immersion and operational readiness are already high on the agenda. 'The nuts and bolts of how you're really going to run things, the decisions need to be made now and they need to make them when they can think about it and be thoughtful and really make the right calls. You don't want to do it six months before you open,' Michael Weaver, Chief Communications and Brand Officer, said during the tour. 'It's early, yes, but on the day it opens, it has to be perfect,' he explained. Wynn Al Marjan has already opened its hiring portal ahead of time. The hiring process is integral to maintaining the company culture standardised across Wynn properties across the world. Regional touch, global standards While Wynn Al Marjan has the same DNA as its Las Vegas sibling – right down to its high-count bedsheets, floral arrangements and 'Wynn at Home' amenities – it is being designed as an experience that speaks to the region's culture and guest expectations. From the gaming areas to the restaurants, shows and several other offerings across the hotel – the RAK integrated gaming resort will have similar experiences but elevated and catered to the region. 'This is our most culturally responsive room and suite design that we have ever done. We thought a great deal about personal modesty, religious principles and values and even the way people from the Middle East behave and conduct themselves in a hotel room differently than a Westerner or European would,' Lenahan said. Designing for the UAE's cultural context was non-negotiable. Certain suites will be designed in a way where a husband and wife can enjoy their stay without the woman ever being seen, even during room service delivery – a detail crafted to offer ultimate discretion. As seen in the first looks revealed by Wynn last month, the resort's King rooms are designed with distinctive entry vestibules which separate the sleeping quarters from the corridor – a contrast as compared to contemporary resort layouts. The interiors are heavily inspired by regional elements including the artistic and cultural heritage featuring arched forms, layered textures and reflective surfaces. Wynn Al Marjan will also debut a completely separate spa experience for men and women, with no interaction between the spaces, while still offering the same holistic wellness philosophy. The design ethos continues outdoors, with 12 pools including adult-only, family, and children's zones — but no gaming areas by the water, unlike in Las Vegas. Gaming: Separate and regulated While gaming has made headlines, Wynn is taking a nuanced approach. The gaming area will be physically separated from the rest of the resort. Visitors can access every other part of the property without ever seeing a gaming floor. Gaming regulations will be determined by local authorities. The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, established by Federal Decree Law and headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is currently shaping the oversight structure. Entertainment-wise, it was revealed that a custom-made show, currently under development will also premiere exclusively at Al Marjan. Details remain tightly under wraps for now. In true Wynn fashion, no detail is spared. In Las Vegas, the scale of operations is immense – up to 14,000 pieces of bread is baked daily, featuring over 200 varieties, while seasonal ingredients like Japanese sweet peas and fresh produce from France are featured year-round. The resort also houses 10,000 flowers refreshed every four weeks, and 800 orchids, all contributing to its immersive floral identity. Each resort features a signature scent, in similar fashion the Al Marjan signature scent will be created. While Wynn is globally known for motifs like flowers (Wynn) and butterflies (Encore), Al Marjan is set to have a dedicated motif reflecting culture and heritage that will be featured in various elements across the resort. The resort will feature several pieces of art, similar to its Las Vegas counterpart – carefully sourced by Lenahan and the team from around the world. During its opening, Wynn Al Marjan could potentially feature artwork loaned from other global Wynn locations. 'We have a major art story that we will be unveiling as we approach the opening, there will be such extraordinary riches artistically around this property – from incredible antiquity all the way to major contemporary works coming from all over the world that will find homes throughout this property,' Lenahan excitedly revealed. Several exciting developments are in the works, however, details are currently under wraps and will be revealed at a later date. One thing was made clear – what Wynn Al Marjan is set to offer in the region is unlike anything ever done before – the scale will be immense, the details will be intricate and the impact will be immediate.
The National
02-06-2025
- The National
Arada unveils Akala, world's first precision wellness destination, with debut location next to Dubai's DIFC
Arada has unveiled Akala, the world's first precision wellness destination and a pioneering new global hospitality and branded residences concept. From an ancient Sanskrit word meaning 'beyond time', Akala uses future-facing design and technology and a weightless service model to help its residents, visitors and members unlock their full wellness potential. The brand's first and flagship location, Akala Hotel & Residences, which contains 534 branded residences, is ideally located between Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Downtown Dubai. Comprising two 220-metre-tall towers, the design of Akala features an architectural journey of compression and release, with signature elements flowing directly into a shared podium housing best-in-class spa, fitness, and clinical wellness facilities. Sales at the Dh5 billion development commence on Saturday 31 May with a two-day event taking place at Dubai's Museum of the Future. Every home – ranging from one-bedroom apartments to the show-stopping two-level penthouse The Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa - offers a lifestyle underpinned by a combination of advanced medical diagnostics, performance-driven therapies and seamless, intuitive hospitality, resulting in a unique, weightless experience. Featuring LEED Gold and WELL Silver pre-certification, construction on Akala is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2029. HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, Executive Vice Chairman of Arada, said: 'With Akala, we are creating a sanctuary that reflects how people want to live today, where peak health, personal performance, and rest are all part of the same experience. With an array of wellness facilities and services that is unmatched anywhere in the world, Akala is designed for the next generation of global citizens who want to live better, happier and longer.' Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: 'Akala represents the convergence of two powerful global shifts - the rise of wellness as a central life pursuit, and the demand for service-led, lifestyle-driven residential experiences. Dubai is the perfect place to launch this concept, and we're proud to introduce a new kind of brand from the region to the world.' Each residence at Akala has been meticulously designed to support physical, emotional, and environmental wellbeing. From advanced air and water purification systems to individually zoned climate control and circadian lighting, every detail enhances health and comfort. Materials and furnishings are selected for their natural, sustainable qualities, while integrated smart technology allows residents to personalise their environment with ease. Wellness-enhancing upgrades, including organic sleep systems, EMF-conscious design elements, and acoustic optimisation, combine to create a luxury home that actively supports longevity, focus, and rest. Life at Akala is backed by the world's most comprehensive wellness ecosystem. Facilities include a high-performance fitness club equipped with state-of-the-art strength and cardio equipment, private training pods, an indoor lap pool, and dedicated studios for cycling and group exercise. Complementing this is the Akala Spa, a full-service hydrothermal and treatment facility featuring saunas, hammams, thalassotherapy pools, and VIP suites, anchored by a comprehensive luxury thermal circuit. The wellness experience extends into dedicated Wellness Studios for movement, recovery, and mindfulness practices, with spaces crafted to promote restoration, balance, and emotional wellbeing. Everwell's state-of-the-art medical wellness clinic provides discreet, boutique healthcare services with a focus on diagnostics, preventative care, and personalised treatments, including proprietary stem cell therapies. Akala also features curated organic dining, a striking L-shaped pool, elegant social spaces and a range of residents-only amenities including gym, spa and private cinema. Akala also offers an extensive range of services and amenities that extend the wellness experience far beyond the home. A dedicated lifestyle and wellness concierge delivers seamless, personalised support - from daily housekeeping and in-home spa treatments to curated dining, fitness and recovery programs. Residents benefit from intuitive hospitality and specialist services such as family support, companion care, and event planning. Akala is designed not only as a destination but also as a community: a members' club with a global footprint, giving residents and guests access to exclusive wellness programming, content, and experiences across its future locations worldwide. Following its debut in Dubai, Akala is set to expand to major international hubs, with plans under development for properties elsewhere in the Middle East, Europe and Australia. Future locations will continue the brand's mission to deliver precision wellness, with each project curated to its environment and culture. About Arada Launched in 2017 and headquartered in the UAE, Arada was created to build spaces people connect with for healthier, happier and more meaningful lives. Arada's scope of operation covers property development, retail, education, healthcare, fitness, wellness and hospitality. The master developer has so far launched nine record-breaking communities in the UAE and has expanded into the Australian market, opening an office in Sydney in 2024. Arada also operates a portfolio of complementary brands and experiences, which includes large-scale gyms, F&B and retail assets, social initiatives and visitor destinations.
