Latest news with #luxurytourism
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Shurooq sees real estate portfolio expand at 48.9% CAGR
The real estate portfolio of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has been growing at a compound annual growth rate of 48.9 per cent between 2018 and 2024. The entity has sold over 4,100 residential units to buyers from more than 98 nationalities. 'Our developments are designed to be lived in — not just occupied. We focus on human-scale design, integration with nature, cultural resonance, and accessibility, ensuring that every project is built around the people who will call it home,' Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, told Khaleej Times in an interview. With investments exceeding Dh5 billion in real estate alone, Shurooq reinforcing Sharjah's position as a competitive investment destination in the UAE and beyond. Over the past 15 years, Shurooq has announced Dh7.2 billion in investments across 52 groundbreaking projects and experiences, transforming over 60 million square feet throughout the emirate. Shurooq's hospitality portfolio, including properties of Shurooq's flagship hospitality brand, Sharjah Collection, and the upcoming LUX resorts, has set new benchmarks for luxury and heritage tourism. 'Our hospitality philosophy goes beyond luxury; it is about memory-making, cultural immersion, and human connection. With the Sharjah Collection, we have created sanctuaries that speak to the soul — destinations where travellers can slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the authenticity of Emirati heritage. Whether it's glamping in Mleiha or waking up to the sounds of nature in Kalba, each destination is a carefully crafted narrative,' Al Qaseer said. A major project by Shurooq is Sharjah Sustainable City. 'Beyond the solar panels and energy-efficient infrastructure, what makes this project remarkable is its ability to empower families to live healthier, more meaningful lives. Reduced utility bills, cleaner air, green spaces for children to play — these are tangible benefits that improve the daily lives of residents,' Al Qaseer said. The entity's upcoming resorts in partnership with The Lux Collective, LUX Khorfakkan and LUX Al Bridi, are expected to introduce a new layer of refinement to the tourism scene, while retaining the spirit of place that defines us. 'What gives us a competitive edge is our ability to create emotional touchpoints — guests leave with stories. We curate experiences that honour the land, its people, and its future,' Al Qaseer said. Shurooq has successfully partnered with international brands such as Eagle Hills and The Lux Collective. 'Partnerships are, at their best, about shared purpose. We select our partners at Shurooq for their technical capability, but most importantly for their alignment with our values. Our collaboration with Eagle Hills on Maryam Island and with The Lux Collective on our upcoming resorts is built on mutual respect and a shared ambition to uplift communities. These alliances allow us to elevate Sharjah's offerings while preserving the human element that is central to our development philosophy,' Al Qaseer said. Shurooq's cultural tourism with heritage destinations include projects like The Chedi Al Bait and Najd Al Meqsar. 'Heritage is not something to be showcased behind glass — it must be lived, experienced, and felt. This belief drives our work in cultural preservation. At The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, and Najd Al Meqsar in Khorfakkan, we have transformed historic structures into living spaces that honour the past while serving the present. We restored buildings not just for architectural value, but for the stories they hold and the lives they once nurtured,' Al Qaseer said. As Shurooq looks ahead, a number of projects remain in focus. 'We are excited about Ajwan in Khorfakkan, which will transform the East Coast into a haven of oceanfront living. Projects like Nomad and Al Rayaheen Retreat reflect our belief in low-impact, high-value tourism that respects the natural environment. The expansion of the Sharjah Collection, and our continued partnerships with luxury brands, signal a shift from volume to value — from mass tourism to meaningful engagement. Our upcoming projects will continue to prioritise community impact, sustainability, and unique storytelling,' Al Qaseer said. Al Qaseer began his journey in Shurooq nearly two decades ago. 'I began with the vision to create spaces that bring people together. Today, as CEO of Shurooq, that vision remains unchanged, though it has grown in scale and depth. Leadership, to me, is about listening — listening to the land, to the needs of our communities, and to the aspirations of our youth. It is about building teams who share a sense of purpose, and guiding them with humility and clarity,' he said.
ABC News
6 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Queensland government backs LNP donor's court fight for tourism venture
The Queensland government is backing an LNP donor's appeal against a council decision to reject his luxury tourism development. In January, the Sunshine Coast Council knocked back Geoffrey Thomas's controversial plan to build 38 new short-stay units at an award-winning wedding venue in Maleny. Council officers recommended rejecting the development because it would block hinterland views, require major earthworks, and did not fit with the rural area. The proposed buildings were within allowable height limits, but the site was not a sewered area, so toilet wastewater would have to be stored then pumped out for disposal. In a tight debate, councillors voted 6-5 against the proposal. Those voting against it warned of setting a precedent that could allow similar developments in rural areas. Mr Thomas is a prominent Queensland businessman and former government trade advisor. He has been a long-term LNP supporter and donated $56,000 to the party in 2020. He appealed the rejection in March, with a hearing to take place in the Planning and Environment Court. The government has since applied to join the proceedings on tourism grounds. It means the Queensland government will join Mr Thomas in his court fight against the council. Tourism Minister Andrew Powell, who is also a local MP, said he had supported the luxury project since he was first briefed on it two years ago. "I'm acutely aware of the need to grow eco-tourism offerings and we desperately need more accommodation on the Sunshine Coast," Mr Powell said. "I'm always happy advocate on behalf of locals, especially with developments that could increase jobs and visitors to Glass House." Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie denied he had used his powers as planning minister to overrule the council's decision. "We've simply applied to be a party to the proceedings so we can represent the state interest," he said on Monday. "It's important that we do support projects across the state — ecotourism particularly. "We have not overridden any council process. "The planning department is simply applying … to be a part in the proceedings so the state interests are better served." Earlier this year, Mr Bleijie used his powers to revoke approval for two affordable housing developments in the region, while a third is under review. Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she respected the court process and "it would be inappropriate to comment further". Opposition Leader Steven Miles said the government's decision to appeal against the council's decision was inconsistent with its decision to cite community sentiment in cancelling a large wind farm.
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman to receive 63,000 new residential units by 2030 as population grows
Oman plans to deliver 62,800 residential units by 2030, with 5,500 entering the market this year, real estate consultancy Cavendish Maxwell said in a report. The Gulf country is set to add 5,800 hotel rooms to its current inventory over the next five years, with 35 new hotels and resorts scheduled to open by 2030, the report said. The new rooms will boost current inventory by around 25 per cent. Residential real estate inventory grew by 3.6 per cent in 2024, with 38,400 new homes delivered. Oman's population is expected to reach 7.7 million from the current 5.3 million, driven by increasing numbers of both Omani nationals and expatriates. More than 80,000 new homes are projected to be delivered between now and 2040, Cavendish Maxwell said. Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) will play a pivotal role in shaping Oman's real estate sector as non-Omani nationals can own freehold property. Several ITCs are under development in locations like Muscat, Dhofar, South Al Batinah, South Al Sharqiyah and Musandam, the report said. Oman is currently home to 270 hotels and resorts, with 24,000 rooms between them. Another 5,800 rooms across 35 hotels and resorts are set to come online by 2030, with 54 percent in the upper upscale and luxury segments, suggesting a shift towards high-value tourism, Cavendish Maxwell said. (Writing by P Deol; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
Trade Arabia
20-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Les Roches launches new Master's in Hospitality Management
Les Roches, a top hospitality education institution, has launched its new Master of Science in International Hospitality Management programme. The programme, which will be introduced across its international campuses in a phased rollout, will equip students with leadership, operational, and strategic expertise to thrive in the ever-evolving hospitality industry. The programme, which combines Swiss hospitality heritage with experiential learning, aims to bridge the gap between academic rigor and industry demands, preparing students to become innovative leaders in hospitality and luxury tourism. The programme is designed to address the talent shortages in the industry, which is expected to create nearly 126 million new jobs within the next decade. The programme offers a robust foundation in international hospitality management, equipping students with a dynamic blend of strategic, operational, entrepreneurial, innovation, sustainability, technological business, data-driven decision-making skills, and leadership capabilities. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, focusing on emerging trends such as digital transformation, sustainability, and AI-driven personalization. Through coursework, case studies, real-world projects, and an international business field trip, students will develop strategic, operational, and financial expertise to formulate innovative and sustainable solutions to face the complexities of the global hospitality landscape. Les Roches' Career Services team provides personalized support and connects students with an exclusive global network of employers and alumni, providing a direct path to top industry placements. 'By aligning our curriculum with industry needs, we aim to prepare graduates to seamlessly integrate themselves into leadership roles, thereby addressing the pressing talent shortages and contributing to the industry's sustainable growth' said, Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO Les Roches.
Travel Daily News
19-05-2025
- Travel Daily News
True luxury is the authentic experience: Where tradition and local culture meet the modern traveler
Modern tourism luxury is redefined by authenticity, cultural connection, and emotional resonance – valuing shared experiences, local identity, and genuine hospitality over material opulence. Luxury in tourism has taken on a new face. No longer defined solely by opulence, exclusivity, or high-end services, real luxury today lies in meaningful connection – with people, with place, and with culture. It is the authentic experience, born from tradition, local identity, and the everyday life of each destination. In a world saturated with curated content and mass-produced experiences, today's traveler seeks something more: a sense of belonging, even if only for a few days. They long to smell freshly baked bread from a village oven, wander through alleyways untouched by tourism, hear stories passed down through generations, dance in a local festival, cook traditional dishes with locals, and understand what makes a place truly unique. But authenticity alone is not enough. For an experience to be truly memorable, the visitor must feel welcomed – not as a customer, but as a guest. Genuine hospitality, kindness, and attention to detail create a sense of care that elevates a trip into something deeply personal. When a traveler feels seen, heard, and valued, the emotional connection with the destination becomes lasting. Culture and tradition are not museum pieces – they are living parts of a destination's identity. When activated with respect and care, they offer something priceless: a genuine, unforgettable experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere. This form of travel does not simply appeal to the eyes – it speaks to the soul. Through gastronomy, music, customs, and daily rhythms, the traveler becomes part of a living cultural narrative. They are no longer mere spectators; they become participants in a place's story. And most importantly, the traveler who is moved, inspired, and touched by this authenticity becomes an ambassador. They return home with stories worth sharing, with feelings worth remembering, and with a sincere desire to promote what they have lived. They become the most powerful form of destination marketing – not because they were asked, but because they want to. The luxury of tomorrow will not be measured in stars, but in moments. In real human encounters. In the warmth of a shared meal, the echo of a traditional song, or the silence of a sacred landscape. This is the kind of luxury that leaves a mark – not just on the memory, but on the heart.
