Search

Development Pipeline

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort - Sofitel opens its new seaside Resort in the United Arab Emirates

In the United Arab Emirates, a warm welcome means a contagious smile and a generous spirit. The new Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, the brand's sixth hotel in the Emirates, invites visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage in this northern emirate. Only 55-minutes from the Dubai International Airport, set in the historic and glowing glamorous destination of Ras Al Khaimah, the Resort is nestled between the seaside and the majestic Hajar mountains. An idyllic location, where visitors can delight in both the local culture and the exquisite landscape. An inspiring universe, showcased at the heart of the hotel, between Arabic touches and a French zest.

Sofitel
Al Jazeera Al Hamra, United Arab Emirates
Appointment

Ahmed Saleh has been appointed as Director of Revenue at Sofitel Dubai Downtown

Saleh, the new director of revenue also brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in revenue management and strategy. Most recently, he worked as cluster director of revenue management at Mariott International, overseeing the revenue operations of seven hotels in Saudi Arabia. His international experience spans other major markets, including Russia, Egypt and the UAE. Previous brands he's worked with include Fairmont, Ritz-Carlton, Hilton and IHG. He now joins to optimise business performance and revenue streams and enhance the brand's market positioning.

Sofitel
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Appointment

Sajeev Vasudevan has been appointed as Director of Sales & Marketing at Sofitel Dubai Downtown

Vasudevan, who will be joining as director of sales and marketing has a wealth of experience in driving growth and innovation in the luxury hospitality sector. With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has previously held leadership roles at Anantara Al Jabel Al Akhdar Resort, Shangri-La Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton DIFC.

Sofitel
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Ad HITEC 2026
Visit HITEC 2026 in San Antonio!

HITEC is the center for the latest conversations on hospitality technology. Come and see the technology shaping the industry.
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP)
Ad Guide
The next-gen metrics that move hotel P&L

Hotel tech has changed what's possible – and measurable. RevPAR and ADR aren't enough; discover the metrics that really matter. 
Mews
Appointment

Tom Roelens has joined Wynn Al Marjan Island as Chief Operations Officer (COO)

A prominent figure in Dubai's hospitality sector, Tom Roelens, who has been managing director of Atlantis Dubai (including Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal), is making a move to the UAE's first casino resort, Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort in Ras Al Khaimah. He will step into the role of chief operating officer at this integrated resort, which will house the country's inaugural casino. Roelens expressed excitement on LinkedIn, thanking Wynn Resorts' Craig Billings and Max Tappeiner for the opportunity to work with the team in this new venture. He will be joined by two other new hires: Sherri DeSalvio, appointed vice president of pre-opening planning and strategic initiatives, and David Patent, named vice president of casino operations. Patent, with prior experience at VizExplorer and Caesars Entertainment, will manage gaming operations, while DeSalvio, a Wynn veteran since 2008, will focus on strategic initiatives. The team will report to President Max Tappeiner as the resort, set to open in 2027, continues development with local partners Marjan LLC and RAK Hospitality Holding LLC.

Wynn Resorts
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Appointment

Christian Pertl has been appointed as VP Commercial for MEIA Region at Shangri-La Group

Shangri-La Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Christian Pertl as the new Vice President of Commercial for the Middle East, India, Indian Ocean, Europe, and the Americas (MEIA) region. This key leadership position highlights the Group's dedication to driving growth, optimising commercial strategies, and enhancing performance in diverse market environments.

Shangri-La
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Opinion Article Development

Comprehensive Guide to Hotel Investment in Dubai: Insights, Strategies, and Success Factors for Novice Investors

This executive summary will provide novice hotel investors, new owners, and hotel associates new insights into hotel investments in Dubai. The hospitality industry in Dubai presents lucrative investment opportunities for business investors seeking to capitalize on the city's status as a global tourism and business hub. Investing in the hospitality industry in Dubai requires a thorough understanding of the market dynamics, the key factors that drive success as illustrated in Figure 1.0, and the challenges that investors may face.

Mohamad SaadeFares YactineRonald Homsy
By Mohamad Saade, Fares Yactine, and Ronald Homsy
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Appointment

Stephen Ansell has been appointed as Managing Director Middle East and Africa (MEA) at Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Stephen Ansell is Hyatt's new Managing Director in its fast-expanding Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. In his role, Stephen will oversee the MEA regional portfolio, currently comprising 38 hotels, more than 9,000 rooms, and eight brands spanning the luxurious Park Hyatt brand to the stunning Alila Hotels & Resorts and more. He will also pay a key role in expanding Hyatt's presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, ensuring the brands offerings continue to meet the evolving needs of guests and partners.

Hyatt
Dubai, United Arab Emirates