From Private Beaches to Trendy Interiors, Here are the New Hotels Shaking up Dubai’s Hotel Market

By Jessica Montevago

Travel advisors are sure to be familiar with Dubai, with its international airport a gateway to travelers making easy connections to other continents while providing a luxurious layover. In recent years, the ultra-modern city in the United Arab Emirates has made a push to become a sought-after destination by American travelers.

And there is plenty to offer, including a host of record-breaking attractions, notably the tallest building in the world, the 160-story Burj Khalifa. Ain Dubai, the world's largest observation wheel, stands about 246 feet taller than the London Eye. And, besting Vegas, the world’s tallest fountain shoots 22,000 gallons of water up 500 feet in the air within the 30-acre Burj Lake. Of course, a city synonymous with luxury and wealth, there’s plenty of shopping. Finally, Dubai is home to the largest mall in the world, with more than 1,200 shops.

But what’s a trip without the right hotel to complete the experience? Here are a few new hotels on the market that are perfect for every type of traveler.

The traveler who loves a beach resort

Upgrade the beach resort experience for one on its own island off the coast of Dubai, with views of the dramatic city skyline off in the distance. Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas has opened the very first resort on Dubai’s “World Islands,” an archipelago of 300 islands. The secluded property, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort, is home to 70 rooms, suites, and villas, with a private beach just steps away from every room. The island is not without Dubai’s signature opulence. The luxury hotel brand’s Dining By Design concepts includes a candlelit dinner inside a temperature-controlled glass bubble, and an al fresco beach cinema dining experience for two. The resort can be accessed by boat in just 15-minutes.

For the 30-something traveler

Creatives, hipsters, and stylish 30-somethings would love a stay in this design-forward hotel by European brand 25hours. Upon walking into the lobby at 25hours Dubai One Central, guests are greeted by a massive fountain surrounded by shelves of over 5,000 books. Sitting atop the library fountain is a rotating globe showcasing works by local artists. That thread is continued throughout the hotel, where design features include hammocks, double rainfall showers, freestanding bathtubs, and an eclectic mix of decorative items. The already city-famous rooftop jungle bar, Monkey Bar, is perched on the 25^th floor offering impressive views of the Museum of the Future.

For the no-frills traveler

Marriott’s EDITION brought its sophisticated, minimalist-chic approach to luxury to the city, offering a nice contrast to the grandeur that encapsulates Dubai. Opening at the tail end of 2021, The Dubai EDITION is located within the Downtown district near the world-famous shopping mall. The green-filled entrance opens to a lobby with a 50-foot-high domed ceiling reminiscent of Italian architectural structures. From there to the guestrooms, the design incorporates the brand’s elevated simplicity, with touches like neutral tones, soft textures, and warm lighting. Italy is also the inspiration behind the hotel’s restaurant, Duomo, designed after its namesake with vaulted arch ceilings. The restaurant’s menu offers modern interpretations of the traditional cuisine. Afterwards, grab a drink at the Thia Skylounge for majestic views of Burj Khalifa.

For the jet-setting family

Kids will have just as much fun as their parents at the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. Connected family suites have child-size bathrobes, slippers and pillows, as well as a wide selection of children's TV channels. For the adults, large marble bathrooms include double vanities, large baths, and separate walk-in showers, and the spacious seating area has a 42-inch TV and desk. Beyond the guestrooms, there’s a supervised Coco’s Kids Club for kids ages 4 to 12 years old where there’s everything from painting and origami to team games and a mini bounce house. Hotel guests can enjoy two complimentary hours per child under the supervision of the trained staff. Babysitting services are also available.

These hotels offer something new and exciting to Dubai’s hotel market. Travel advisors can expand their sales to the long-haul destination by offering one of these properties to prospective clients.

Book these properties using the TRAVELSAVERS Preferred Hotel Program today!

6 Things to Do in Las Vegas Right Now

On your next visit to Sin City, add these fresh attractions and classic sights to your must-do list.

By Patricia Harrison

No matter how many times you’ve visited Las Vegas, there’s always something exciting to experience, thanks to the glittering city’s ever-evolving roster of things to do. That makes it easy for business and leisure travelers alike to fill their itineraries with fulfilling endeavors—whether they have an hour, evening or days to explore. To inspire your next getaway, we’ve rounded up six new and classic must-have experiences.

Explore a Vintage Pinball Haven

There are a bevy of eclectic museums to check out in town, including those dedicated to the city’s iconic neon signs and the mob. One that has recently expanded is the Pinball Hall of Fame, which moved into a larger 25,000-square-foot location on the Strip in 2021. Save your quarters to play more than 400 machines from the 1960’s, ’70s, and ’80s, it’s the largest collection of its kind in the world.

Grab a Bite at Martha Stewart’s Restaurant

The famed food and entertaining pioneer opened her first Las Vegas eatery, Bedford, this August—part of an ongoing refresh of the dining offerings at the Paris Hotel and Casino. Grab a seat on the farmhouse-chic restaurant’s expansive, greenery-lined patio, where you can sip Martha-tinis and Martha-ritas (yes, really) and dig into crab cakes and rib eye steaks.

Photo credit: MichaelVi - stock.adobe.com

Admire the World’s Largest LED Screen

Dazzling lighting displays are Las Vegas’ trademark, and you can find one of the coolest off the Strip. At the Fremont Street Experience, a five-block pedestrian mall in downtown Las Vegas, visitors can stroll under Viva Vision, a 1,400-foot canopy equipped with the world’s largest LED screen. Catch the themed video shows, which take place on the hour once darkness falls.

Take in a Concert

Las Vegas has some of the most impressive event venues in the world—and an unbeatable schedule of shows and concerts to match, meaning music lovers have tons of applause-worthy upcoming shows to choose from. This year, book seats to see Billy Idol (November 11–19, 2022 at The Chelsea), Adele (Nov 18, 2022–Mar 25, 2023 at The Colosseum), George Strait (December 2–3, 2022 at T-Mobile Arena) and many others.

Pair Sips with Whimsical Shows at Area15

Area15, a district offering “experimental entertainment” debuted behind Treasure Island Hotel & Casino this past August. Since then, patrons have flocked there to view immersive art installations, enjoy thrill rides—and savor inventive food and drink. Check out Lost Spirits, a rum distillery that complements libations with cirque shows featuring burlesque, acrobats and live music.

Spy on Wild Creatures

A destination like Las Vegas may seem like an unusual place to have wildlife encounters. But there are several opportunities to see animals, many of which reside in impressive man-made habitats. Go nose to nose with majestic swimmers at Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin habitat at the Mirage Las Vegas; spot flamingos, exotic birds and fish at the Flamingo Hotel and Resorts’ wildlife habitat; or view more than 2,000 marine animals at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino’s Shark Reef Aquarium.

Where to Stay

Resorts World Las Vegas
When it opened in 2021, Resorts World became the first newly built hotel on the Las Vegas Strip in a decade. Encompassing 88 acres and three properties—the Crockfords, Conrad Las Vegas and Las Vegas Hilton—it is a one-of-a-kind destination. Highlights include multiple marketplaces, a restaurant district, massive gaming area and an incredible spa with the country’s first aufguss performance sauna.

**Special Note** - If you’re joining us for Travel Market 2022 this October 27 – 30, you’ll get to experience this amazing location for yourself! Make sure to register to attend today!

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
In 2021, Virgin Hotels, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, debuted in the former Hard Rock Hotel property with more than a dozen dining options and sweet outdoor entertainment setups, including a five-acre pool complex and 4,500-person capacity theater. Furnished with bight accents and playful, modern art, the rooms are spacious and chic picks for style-loving travelers.

Red Rock Casino Resort Spa
Tucked in Summerlin South near the Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area, Red Rock Casino Resort Spa is an excellent choice for those who want to reside away from the bustle of Las Vegas Boulevard (though the action of the casino-lined Strip is only 12 miles away). Perks include a newer spa (part of a recent $35 million overhaul), three acres of pools and great dining options, including upscale Italian and sushi.

Top and bottom banner photo credit: lucky-photo - stock.adobe.com

Authentic Arabian Food Tour Across Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's culinary scene is diverse, delicious and booming. From delectable gourmet cuisine to fragrant Arabic dishes, there's something to suit every pallet.

The Largest Modern Olive Farm in Al Jouf

Al Jouf has been growing olives — a staple in the Saudi culinary scene — since 2007. Today, this area in the northern part of the country is home to the largest modern olive farm in the world, a title awarded by Guinness World Records to the Al Jouf Agricultural Development Company, whose more than 5 million olive trees produce about 15,000 tons of olive oil per year. January traditionally sees the area’s annual two-week Olive Festival, which features cultural, social, recreational and educational events, including art contests and seminars about olive cultivation.

The Traditional Dishes of the Najd Region

Najdi cuisine is influenced by the region’s topography and desert climates—Najd dishes are hearty and wholesome, the food is dominated by rich stews, wheat, and rice dishes paired with fragrant spices. The heirloom recipes differ from family to family and have been passed down many generations. The traditional cooking in the Najd is known for lengthy preparation; however, this labor of love is certainly worth the wait.

• Jareesh: a humble and hearty porridge dish made with coarsely ground wheat, choice of meat, tomatoes (or without depending on one’s choice), cooked together and topped with a heap of caramelized onions.
• Mataziz and Marquq: another savory duo, these pasta-like dishes featuring chunks of meat teamed with a handful of nutritious vegetables and wheat or rye flour dough discs, cooked in smooth tomato sauce. The only difference between the two is that Marquq discs are larger and soupier.
• Kleija: a stuffed biscuit dough shaped like a patterned disk with a special wooden mold. These biscuits hail from the date-rich province of Qassim and are filled with a variety of fillings including a smooth date paste or nut-sugar filling paired perfectly with a hot finjan of gahwa.
  
  

Inviting Umluj Eats

Publicized as being the Saudi Maldives, Umluj is truly a trending destination for unforgettable getaways. Boat racing with dolphins, tanning, swimming, and chasing sunsets is heaps of fun under the sun. But Umluj is also known for the cultivation of cream-of-the-crop mangos, guava, lemon, figs, and fresh seafood. Its most popular dishes include:

• Samak Nashif: In this dish, a Parrotfish is cleaned, split in half, doused in salt, and left to dry for at least a week under the sun. It’s usually served with Ma’dous, rice mixed with yellow lentils.
• Shorbat Habb: This is a dish mostly enjoyed during the holy month of Ramadan. It’s a soup made of wheat grains. The Umluj variant entails that it’s made with sheep milk (white) instead of being tomato-based conventionally (red).
• Aseeda: A wheat flour lump of dough cooked with dates, millet, or oats, and topped off with honey and ghee. Be prepared to dig in with your hands!

Medina on a Plate

Despite growing leaps and bounds from its humble origins, Medina still retains its historic character as an oasis town. Medina's cuisine is all about locally grown produce, be it the dates, herbs, or even the famed mint leaves. The city's cuisine uses these ingredients in different recipes, in one way or another. Must-try local flavors include:

• Medini Rice: The rice has a slightly sweet tang due to the massive amounts of raisins and carrots used in its preparation. It is often served with rotisserie chicken on top with a side of duggus (tomato salsa).
• Turomba: Turomba is a dessert usually eaten after a large meal, like Mandi or Kabsa. It's light and doughy from the inside yet has a crunchy texture from the outside. The dessert also pairs perfectly with hot tea.
• Red Tea with Mint: Red tea with mint may seem like a staple found anywhere else, but the specialty here lies in the mint that is used. Madinah's mint is well-known for its intense aroma. Visitors to the city can often carry bundles back with them. Twigs of locally grown mint are added to red tea giving it a strong minty flavor, which is believed to aid in digestion.
  
  

Sharqiya's Fresh Basket

The Eastern Province is the largest in the country, and one of the best ways to explore its diversity is through the local fare. The vast province shares its border with many countries. Their culinary influences can be traced to almost every traditional dish found here. Here are some of the region’s most popular dishes:

• Hassawi Rice: One of the most expensive rice varieties, Hassawi Rice, grows in the vast oasis of Al Ahsa. The rice is known for its reddish-brown color and for only growing in unusually high temperatures. It's highly nutritious, too, and that's why the locals don't mind shedding the extra buck for it. Grilled or fried fish best compliment a plate of steamed Hassawi rice.
• Balaleet: Balaleet is a traditional dish consisting of vermicelli. It is eaten either with sweet condiments like sugar and cardamom and rose water or savory with sautéed onions, potatoes, and topped with fried onion.
• Afousa: The kingdom is known to produce a few of the world's best dates, Afousa is a dessert made by mashing soft dates to form a paste. The easiest way to describe it is a combination of pudding and jam-packed with the sweetness of dates.

About Saudi Tourism Authority

Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), launched in June 2020, markets Saudi Arabia’s tourism destinations worldwide and develops the Kingdom’s offering through programs, packages and business support. Its mandate includes developing the country’s unique assets and destinations, hosting and participating in industry events, and promoting Saudi Arabia’s tourism brand locally and overseas.

Click here to learn more about Saudi Tourism Authority.