United Hospitality debuts in Middle East
United Hospitality Management (UHM), a hospitality management company backed by investment firm United Investments Portugal (UIP), has now officially launched with a strategic focus on expansion in the Middle East and Europe.
UIP has previously managed hotels for 30 years and plans to redefine the art of hospitality through UHM, with ambitious growth plans to have in excess of 100 hotels and resorts globally under management in the next five years.
The announcement of UHM’s two recent signings, Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, and Arabella Beach Hotel Kuwait, both under the Vignette Collection brand by IHG is just the start of the company’s presence in the Middle East, with additional signings planned for the final quarter of the year and beyond. UHM continues to uphold its promise to deliver exceptional guest experiences and unparalleled service in the world’s leading tourist destinations.
With head offices located in both Dubai and Lisbon, UHM is primed for continuous growth in the Middle East and Europe.
IHG boosts presence in Al Shafa, Taif
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Holiday Inn & Suites Taif and Staybridge Suites Taif, in partnership with Al Jumaiah Group. Both properties are set to open in Q4 2025 in the Al Shafa, Taif, a relaxing destination located 2,500 m above sea level and known for its historical sites, panoramic scenic views, pleasant weather and fragrant rose gardens. The new resorts will play a vital role in supporting Taif’s growing hospitality scene and further cementing IHG’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are pleased to strengthen relationship with our existing partner, Al Jumaiah Group and bring two brands from our essential and suits offering to the beautiful city of Taif. Having opened first internationally branded hotel in Taif – InterContinental Taif decades ago, we are proud to continue to strengthen our footprint and bring new brands to the city as it grows into a prominent tourism destination in the country.”
Nikki Beach announced for RAK
Stirling Hospitality Advisors, one of the leading boutique advisory firms in the region, has been selected as the lead advisor to negotiate the hotel management agreement (HMA) between RAK Properties and Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts.
The HMA signing ceremony took place at the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa with Sameh Al Muhtadi, CEO and James Marsh, Chief Development Officer of RAK Properties; Alexander Schneider, President and Jihad El Khoury, EMEA CEO of Nikki Beach Hotels as well as Tatiana Veller, Managing Director and Armaan Singh Nirh, Senior Asset Manager of Stirling Hospitality Advisors.
As lead advisor on the project, Stirling Hospitality Advisors successfully brought all parties together, streamlining the working relationship, and enabling both the owner and operator to coexist peacefully and profitably for the entire duration of the contract. The resort marks Nikki Beach’s first branded hotel in Ras Al Khaimah and is in line with RAK Properties’ broader master plan for Mina Al Arab.
Vida Creek Beach opens its doors
Nestled in the picturesque waterfront of Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai’s newest destination, Vida Creek Beach is redefining luxury living. This upscale lifestyle destination, which boasts a total of 99 rooms and suites, effortlessly combines modern, carefree elegance with artsy glam in the heart of Dubai’s buzzing new hub as it revives experimental art movements with stunning lagoon views.
Dubai Creek Harbour, the neighbourhood where Vida Creek Beach is located, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle while being just minutes away from the city’s hotspots. The area boasts a vibrant 6km promenade adorned with lagoon views, providing residents and guests with a delightful backdrop for leisurely strolls.
It also offers boat tours that allow visitors to admire Dubai’s iconic landmarks from the vantage point of the water.