As the region prepares for Eid Al Adha 2026, travel advisors have a golden opportunity to curate extended itineraries for their clients. According to astronomical calculations, the Day of Arafah is expected to fall on Tuesday, May 26, with Eid celebrations likely beginning on Wednesday, May 27.
For many residents in the GCC, this creates a seamless six-day break when combined with the following weekend.
Whether your clients are seeking a productive workcation to bridge the gap between business and leisure, or looking to be the first through the doors of a brand-new Himalayan retreat, this listicle highlights the most compelling new openings and curated staycation offers for the season.
Mantis launches
luxury off-grid retreat
Mantis Collection has opened Mantis Hiddn in Addo, a luxury off-grid mountain retreat within an 800-hectare private reserve in Addo Elephant National Park, in South Africa. Positioned high above the landscape, the property focuses on nature-led, wellness-driven experiences and sustainable luxury.
The retreat features 12 suites and two private villas designed to blend with the surrounding environment, powered by solar energy and supported by water recycling systems. Guest stays are curated with dedicated Experience Guides, offering personalised itineraries focused on restoration, creativity and connection with nature.
Wellness is central to the concept, with bespoke therapies, yoga, meditation and outdoor experiences integrated into daily routines. Culinary offerings emphasise seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and personalised menus.
The Lake Como
EDITION opens
Omnam Group has announced the opening of The Lake Como EDITION on the western shores of Lake Comoin Italy, marking a major milestone in its European luxury portfolio.
Developed with Bain Capital and operated under Marriott International’s EDITION brand, the hotel is a redevelopment of the historic Hotel Britannia Excelsior.
The 148-room property blends 19th-century heritage with contemporary design, featuring multiple dining venues, a destination spa, fitness centre and Lake Como’s largest floating pool. Interiors combine modern aesthetics with local craftsmanship, maximising natural light and lake views.
Culinary offerings are led by Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco, while wellness is delivered in partnership with The Longevity Suite, offering advanced treatments and holistic experiences.
Qasr Al Sarab launches workcation retreat
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara has launched its Desert Workcation Retreat within the Rub’ al Khali. Located around 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi, the initiative combines work and extended stays in a desert setting.
Designed for flexibility, the retreat provides in-room and villa work setups, connectivity, meeting facilities, and services such as printing and unlimited coffee. The experience also caters to families, with Kids’ Club support for remote learning.
Guests can balance work with desert experiences including dune drives and camel trekking. The package includes savings on rooms and villas, dining and spa discounts, and benefits such as upgrades and flexible check-in.
Available to UAE and GCC residents until September 30, 2026, the offer requires a minimum three-night stay, positioning the resort as a destination for extended workcations.
Punta Tragara
enhances luxury
Punta Tragara, part of the Manfredi Fine Hotels Collection and a premium boutique destination in Capri, has opened its 2026 season with enhancements, including a new suite and refreshed dining spaces. Overlooking the Faraglioni rocks and Marina Piccola Bay, the property continues to blend Mediterranean elegance with contemporary design.
A key highlight is the new Parthenope Suite, a 70-square-metre space inspired by local mythology and Capri’s marine landscape, featuring fluid architectural lines, bespoke furnishings and sea views.
The hotel has also refurbished its Michelin-starred restaurant Le Monzù, along with Cin Cin Bar and the Gin Bar, offering updated interiors and dining experiences.
InterContinental RAK
launches 36-hour
staycation
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa has introduced a curated 36-hour staycation offer for UAE residents and visitors, combining relaxation, family-friendly benefits and coastal experiences.
Located around an hour from Dubai, the beachfront resort provides a short escape with flexible check-in and check-out.
The package includes daily breakfast, upgrades to Club InterContinental rooms, and access to leisure facilities such as private beach areas, swimming pools and tennis courts.
Families benefit from children under 12 staying and dining free, alongside access to the Planet Trekkers Kids’ Club.
Guests can also enjoy dining and spa discounts, including 50 per cent savings on treatments.
Oberoi opens Rajgarh
Palace in Khajuraho
The Oberoi Group has announced the opening of The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace Khajuraho, a restored 350-year-old palace set within a 76-acre estate in Khajuraho.
Originally built by the Bundela dynasty, the property combines royal heritage with modern luxury, located near Panna National Park and the UNESCO-listed Khajuraho temples.
The hotel features 65 rooms, suites and villas, including private pool accommodations with views of forests, hills and a natural lake.
Dining venues highlight regional cuisine and curated experiences, while wellness offerings include a lakeside spa accessed by boat and two temperature-controlled pools.
Guests can explore immersive experiences such as heritage tours, wildlife safaris and cultural performances. The property also integrates sustainable practices including solar energy, water recycling and local sourcing.
TUI Blue Paro Taktsang set for opening
TUI Group is expanding into Bhutan with the launch of TUI Blue Paro Taktsang, set to open this month (May 2026).
This marks the first TUI Blue property in the country and a key step in the company’s Asia-Pacific growth strategy.
Located in the Himalayas near major landmarks such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the hotel will offer 34 suites, dining venues, wellness facilities, and curated cultural experiences.
Designed with traditional Bhutanese architectural elements, the property focuses on experience-led hospitality, combining wellness, local culture and sustainable practices.
The development is aligned with Bhutan’s environmental and tourism vision, with an emphasis on responsible operations, community engagement and local employment.
The opening strengthens TUI’s regional footprint, adding to its portfolio of hotels across Asia, with over 30 additional projects planned as part of its long-term expansion strategy.