Latest news with #AndazDoha
Skift
14-05-2025
- Business
- Skift
The Middle East's Newest Meeting Venues: From Desert Luxury to Gaming Resorts
The hotel industry in the Middle East is booming, with nearly half of the pipeline currently under construction. These are the latest entrants geared toward the meeting and incentive market. Opportunity abounds in the Middle East's meeting industry. At December's International MICE Summit, 12 new events were announced in Saudi Arabia alone. Hotel development in the region has taken off, and brand conversions also sit at record highs, according to Lodging Econometrics. Dubai took the top spot in the Middle East in Cvent's list of top meeting and event destinations, based on $16 billion of group business sourced through the Cvent Supplier Network. Throughout the Middle East, brands continue to expand, which includes the first gaming resort in the Middle East, Wynn Al Marjan Island, set to open in early 2027. Among these eight new Middle East meeting hotels and venues, two stood out for focusing on cultural heritage rather than offering opulent luxury, common in the region's high-end hotels. Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection is a new property on the edge of the Empty Quarter, the world's largest sand desert, and Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah, in Riyadh's historic district. Here are the eight new hotels and venues, featured in our just-released What's New in Meetings and Incentive Travel 2025 report. Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection Abu Dhabi, UAE Opened in early March 2025 on the Empty Quarter, the world's largest sand desert, and situated just over 100 miles from Abu Dhabi. The resort is suitable for incentive groups seeking unique experiences in the Middle East. Amenities include an outdoor pool, butler service, spa, and gym. Activities feature camel trekking, Arabic gahwa (coffee) tasting, archery, and stargazing. Andaz Doha Doha, Qatar Opened in February, Andaz Doha has 312 guest rooms across 26 floors. Amenities including a pool, spa, fitness center, and business center. The property includes three dining concepts, two of which will open later in 2025, and more than 20,000 square feet of event space across six rooms including an 8,000-square-foot ballroom. Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel Diriyah Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah, The property is located in Riyadh's historic district, where the First Saudi State was established in 1727. It is the first hotel to open in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia and offers 134 guest rooms including 34 suites, a fitness center, indoor pool, spa, and three restaurants showcasing the region's cuisine. Event spaces include five flexible areas and a 4,300-square-foot ballroom, accommodating up to 250 people. Raffles Jeddah Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Opening soon, Raffles Jeddah features 182 rooms and suites with views of the Red Sea. The luxurious hotel is positioned as a high-end option for meetings in Jeddah, located 25 minutes from King Abdulaziz International Airport. It features a 14,000-square-foot ballroom, a private dining room, pre-function areas, and a dedicated wedding showroom. Signia by Hilton Amman Amman, Jordan Signia by Hilton Amman marks the brand's first property outside of the U.S. Located in the Shmeisani business district, it offers the only convention center in the city. Three ballrooms — the largest accommodating 1,200 guests in theater style — are complemented by pre-function space, terraces, lounges and 15 meeting rooms. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness and business centers, and six restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Space42 Arena Abu Dhabi, UAE Located in the Al Raha Beach area, Space42 Arena features almost 27,000 square feet of versatile indoor event space, plus a lobby and 6,500 square feet of backstage space. It accommodates up to 3,000 people and features advanced sound and lighting systems and a 49-foot ceiling height. The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort Muscat, Oman Located along the Al Mouj waterfront, The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort marks the brand's debut in Oman. With 250 guest rooms, it features the 14,500-square-foot St. Regis Grand Ballroom, accommodating up to 1,200 guests, theater-style. Amenities include nine dining options, fitness and recreation facilities, spa, and 1,200 feet of private beach access. Adjacent is Al Mouj Golf, an 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course. Wynn Al Marjan Island Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Wynn Al Marjan Island (at top), the first gaming resort in the Middle East, opens in early 2027. The property will offer 1,542 guest rooms and marina-side Villa Estates, with views of the Arabian Gulf. It will also feature a full marina; 22 restaurants, lounges and bars; a nightclub and beach bar; a salon; a shopping promenade; and multiple pools. The property includes an 80,000-square-foot event center with outdoor event terraces and lawns. Download the full What's New in Meetings and Incentive Travel 2025 report here.
Trade Arabia
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Trade Arabia
Hyatt opens Andaz Doha in Qatar
Hyatt has announced the opening of Andaz Doha, marking the debut of the lifestyle brand in Qatar and the fourth Hyatt brand in the city. Located in the prestigious West Bay, less than a 20-minute drive from Hamad International Airport, Andaz Doha offers a window to explore the city's wonders and cultural attractions including City Center Doha Mall, the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC), Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Centre and more. The hotel features 256 guestrooms, which includes 32 suites and 4 Royal suites, as well as 56 residences for guests seeking long-term stays, varying from one to three bedrooms. The property will have three distinctive dining concepts – The Salt Road Doha, which is now officially open, as well as Mr. & Mrs. Hawker and Mumble Jungle, which are set to open in the coming months. Stephen Ansell, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt, commented, 'We are delighted by the debut of one of our lifestyle brands in Qatar with the opening of Andaz Doha. The property marks an exciting milestone for Hyatt's growing brand portfolio as it represents the third Andaz branded property in the Middle East.' 'We are thrilled to debut the Andaz brand in Doha in one of the country's most sought-after destinations', said Jafar Abu Baji, General Manager at Andaz Doha. 'Through collaborations with local artists, Andaz Doha pays homage to the country's rich culture, and we look forward to welcoming guests to a new level of luxury lifestyle hospitality in the city.' CONCEPT AND DESIGN Andaz Doha is an elegant representation of Qatari culture, celebrating the city's authenticity through unique luxury touchpoints. A sophisticated color palette of gold, rose gold and bronze throughout represents the region's wealth and incredible contributions to art while the luscious maroon color honors the Qatari flag. Designed by Brime Robbins, Andaz Doha offers awe-inspiring 'Airlock' entrance; an immersive space featuring a sea of kaleidoscopic lights referencing the multi-faceted landscape of Doha. The canopy takes center stage in the hotel's elegant lobby, alluding to Qatar's traditional craft of Sadu weaving design. Guests will also encounter a replica of a traditional "Katara pigeon tower", paying tribute to Qatar's historic use of messenger birds. Ornate wooden doorways with custom handles shaped like Arab walking sticks are a nod to the region's Bedouin past, while custom water-inspired carpets weaving through the corridors are inspired by Doha's stunning coastline. The journey of discovery continues throughout the hotel with details found in every corner including geometric mosaic tiles, traditional woven textiles, calligraphy work, and disruptive art. GUESTROOMS AND SUITES The hotel's 312 rooms, suites and residences have been designed with modern interpretations of Qatari traditions and heritage. Spread across 26 floors, Andaz Doha guest rooms provides a luxurious and comfortable setting to enjoy the city's vibrant attractions. Sea or city views are available, with spacious 19 square meter bathrooms including a separate bath and shower. All rooms include a mini bar as well as eco-friendly amenities. Guests will encounter patterned cushions designed with the Qatari weaving technique, 'Al Sadu', iridescent orbs, locally sourced stone and kaleidoscopic shapes. Andaz Doha features 56 spacious residences including 34 one-bedroom residences, 12 two-bedroom residences and 10 three-bedroom residences; offering all the comforts of home in a stylish and luxurious space. Designed in tasteful hues of cream, amber and gold range in size from 100 square meters to 300 square meters and feature walk-in wardrobe spaces. The elegant residences are complete with dedicated parking spaces and resident-only elevators, designed to provide privacy and accessibility. Residents have access to the hotel's amenities including the gym, pool and spa with personalised hotel benefits available to long-term guests. DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT Andaz Doha's culinary offerings draw inspiration from across the globe, ranging from South African cooking-inspired concepts to Asian fare: Officially open now, The Salt Road Doha is located in the lobby and explores the vital ingredient 'salt', one of the earth's oldest minerals. Set to open in the coming months, Mr. & Mrs. Hawker (third floor) will draw from the concept of a Singaporean Hawker Center to feature a market-to-table philosophy. The dining options will also include the only enclosed outdoor terrace in Doha, with city and sea views. Expected to launch later this year, Mumble Jungle (third floor) nods to a rainforest aesthetic to feature an assortment of vibrant cocktails and mocktails, inspired by Afro-Cuban classic creations. WELLNESS Alara Spa, meaning 'water fairy' in Arabic, is focused on the Hammam bathing ritual. Featuring six treatment rooms with separate male and female areas, a herbal sauna, steam rooms and multi-sensory showers, Alara Spa's menu features a selection of wellness rituals, face treatments, body scrubs and soothing massages, all of which incorporate ancient customs with contemporary practices. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the fitness center, a fully equipped, 24-hour studio with cardiovascular and weight-training equipment. Additionally, set to open to guests soon, a beautifully designed outdoor pool makes for an ideal setting to enjoy moments of poolside bliss, while the poolside bar serves refreshments. SOCIAL SPACES The property offers various facilities for business and leisure travel. On the ground floor sits the Andaz Lounge, a space for productive workflow or private meetings. The hotel also features 1,600 square meters of meeting and event spaces, including a 750-square-meter ballroom. With four studio spaces within Andaz Doha, each represents different aspects of Doha's rich cultural heritage. The Calligrapher Studio showcases the graceful form of writing, blending the old and new scripts through design. The Weaving Studio was inspired by the traditional "Al Sadu" technique, an ancient art form in which raw materials, such as sheep wool, cotton, camel hair and goat hair, are spun or knit into fabrics. The Architecture Studio draws on elegant artifacts with cultural references and provide a feeling of 'open workspace' through its neutral colour palette. Finally, The Navigator Studio takes inspiration from traditional fishing techniques, with its wooden floors designed to represent the Jalboot used for navigating the high seas to seek pearls.
Zawya
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Hyatt announces the opening of Andaz Doha in Qatar
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Hyatt today announced the opening of Andaz Doha, marking the debut of the lifestyle brand in Qatar and the fourth Hyatt brand in the city. Located in the prestigious West Bay, less than a 20-minute drive from Hamad International Airport, Andaz Doha offers a window to explore the city's wonders and cultural attractions including City Center Doha Mall, the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC), Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Centre and more. The hotel features 256 guestrooms, which includes 32 suites and 4 Royal suites, as well as 56 residences for guests seeking long-term stays, varying from one to three bedrooms. The property will have three distinctive dining concepts – The Salt Road Doha, which is now officially open, as well as Mr. & Mrs. Hawker and Mumble Jungle, which are set to open in the coming months. Stephen Ansell, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt, commented, 'We are delighted by the debut of one of our lifestyle brands in Qatar with the opening of Andaz Doha. The property marks an exciting milestone for Hyatt's growing brand portfolio as it represents the third Andaz branded property in the Middle East.' 'We are thrilled to debut the Andaz brand in Doha in one of the country's most sought-after destinations', said Jafar Abu Baji, General Manager at Andaz Doha. 'Through collaborations with local artists, Andaz Doha pays homage to the country's rich culture, and we look forward to welcoming guests to a new level of luxury lifestyle hospitality in the city.' Concept and Design Andaz Doha is an elegant representation of Qatari culture, celebrating the city's authenticity through unique luxury touchpoints. A sophisticated color palette of gold, rose gold and bronze throughout represents the region's wealth and incredible contributions to art while the luscious maroon color honors the Qatari flag. Designed by Brime Robbins, Andaz Doha offers awe-inspiring 'Airlock' entrance; an immersive space featuring a sea of kaleidoscopic lights referencing the multi-faceted landscape of Doha. The canopy takes center stage in the hotel's elegant lobby, alluding to Qatar's traditional craft of Sadu weaving design. Guests will also encounter a replica of a traditional "Katara pigeon tower", paying tribute to Qatar's historic use of messenger birds. Ornate wooden doorways with custom handles shaped like Arab walking sticks are a nod to the region's Bedouin past, while custom water-inspired carpets weaving through the corridors are inspired by Doha's stunning coastline. The journey of discovery continues throughout the hotel with details found in every corner including geometric mosaic tiles, traditional woven textiles, calligraphy work, and disruptive art. Guestrooms and Suites The hotel's 312 rooms, suites and residences have been designed with modern interpretations of Qatari traditions and heritage. Spread across 26 floors, Andaz Doha guest rooms provides a luxurious and comfortable setting to enjoy the city's vibrant attractions. Sea or city views are available, with spacious 19 square meter bathrooms including a separate bath and shower. All rooms include a mini bar as well as eco-friendly amenities. Guests will encounter patterned cushions designed with the Qatari weaving technique, 'Al Sadu', iridescent orbs, locally sourced stone and kaleidoscopic shapes. Residences Andaz Doha features 56 spacious residences including 34 one-bedroom residences, 12 two-bedroom residences and 10 three-bedroom residences; offering all the comforts of home in a stylish and luxurious space. Designed in tasteful hues of cream, amber and gold range in size from 100 square meters to 300 square meters and feature walk-in wardrobe spaces. The elegant residences are complete with dedicated parking spaces and resident-only elevators, designed to provide privacy and accessibility. Residents have access to the hotel's amenities including the gym, pool and spa with personalized hotel benefits available to long-term guests. Dining and Entertainment Andaz Doha's culinary offerings draw inspiration from across the globe, ranging from South African cooking-inspired concepts to Asian fare: Officially open now, The Salt Road Doha is located in the lobby and explores the vital ingredient 'salt', one of the earth's oldest minerals. Set to open in the coming months, Mr. & Mrs. Hawker (third floor) will draw from the concept of a Singaporean Hawker Center to feature a market-to-table philosophy. The dining options will also include the only enclosed outdoor terrace in Doha, with city and sea views. Expected to launch later this year, Mumble Jungle (third floor) nods to a rainforest aesthetic to feature an assortment of vibrant cocktails and mocktails, inspired by Afro-Cuban classic creations. Wellness Alara Spa, meaning 'water fairy' in Arabic, is focused on the Hammam bathing ritual. Featuring six treatment rooms with separate male and female areas, a herbal sauna, steam rooms and multi-sensory showers, Alara Spa's menu features a selection of wellness rituals, face treatments, body scrubs and soothing massages, all of which incorporate ancient customs with contemporary practices. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the fitness center, a fully equipped, 24-hour studio with cardiovascular and weight-training equipment. Additionally, set to open to guests soon, a beautifully designed outdoor pool makes for an ideal setting to enjoy moments of poolside bliss, while the poolside bar serves refreshments. Social Spaces The property offers various facilities for business and leisure travel. On the ground floor sits the Andaz Lounge, a space for productive workflow or private meetings. The hotel also features 1,600 square meters of meeting and event spaces, including a 750-square-meter ballroom. With four studio spaces within Andaz Doha, each represents different aspects of Doha's rich cultural heritage. The Calligrapher Studio showcases the graceful form of writing, blending the old and new scripts through design. The Weaving Studio was inspired by the traditional "Al Sadu" technique, an ancient art form in which raw materials, such as sheep wool, cotton, camel hair and goat hair, are spun or knit into fabrics. The Architecture Studio draws on elegant artifacts with cultural references and provide a feeling of 'open workspace' through its neutral colour palette. Finally, The Navigator Studio takes inspiration from traditional fishing techniques, with its wooden floors designed to represent the Jalboot used for navigating the high seas to seek pearls. The opening of Andaz Doha represents Hyatt's growing lifestyle portfolio in the region and becomes the 3rd Andaz hotel in Middle East. The property joins Andaz hotels across leading destinations, including London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore and Tokyo. The term 'Hyatt' is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates. About Hyatt Hotels Corporation Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of December 31, 2024, the Company's portfolio included more than 1,400 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 79 countries across six continents. The Company's offering includes brands in the Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Sunscape® Resorts & Spas, and Alua Hotels & Resorts®; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, and Hyatt®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt®, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios, and UrCove. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar® DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit About Andaz Global in scale while local in perspective, the Andaz brand empowers self-expression and stimulates guests' curiosity through imaginative travel for a distinctively local experience. Through thoughtful, unscripted service tailored for travelers, Andaz hotels enable guests to go beyond the familiar to discover and define their personal essence while immersing themselves in the spirit of the eclectic culture around them. Currently, there are 29 Andaz hotels open: Andaz 5th Avenue in New York, Andaz San Diego, Andaz West Hollywood, Andaz Napa, Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Andaz Savannah, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, Andaz Mexico City Condesa, Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, Andaz London Liverpool Street, Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht, Andaz Prague, Andaz Singapore, Andaz Bali, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, Andaz Delhi, Andaz Xintiandi in Shanghai, Andaz Shenzhen Bay, Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills, Andaz Seoul Gangnam, Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, Andaz Dubai The Palm, Andaz Xiamen, Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere, Andaz Nanjing Hexi and Andaz Macau.
