Hospitality News

AMSA Hospitality and Accor Join Forces to Redefine Saudi Arabia’s Hospitality Landscape

Published

2 years ago

June 8, 2023

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The Integrator had an exclusive interview with Denis Sorin, President of Hospitality, AMSA Hospitality.

How does AMSA Hospitality differentiate itself in the industry and what is its core principle?

AMSA Hospitality is not just an ordinary company; it stands out with its unique approach. We have a unique presence on the global market with the Arabian hospitality proposal. We go much further than anyone else down that road. It’s not only décor elements and Arabized uniforms, it’s a new hospitality concept. We were able to come up with such an out of box forward thinking – imagine: bringing centuries-old Arabian traditions of welcoming and generosity to 21st-century expectations -, so we were able to come up with this unique Arabian hospitality concept thanks to our core principle, which is being the hallmark in the industry. To us, being the hallmark means being different and leading the way. We consider ourselves a citizen company, which encompasses caring for the environment, and people, and setting an example for others. When we hire someone, it’s not just based on their skills and expertise, but also their concern for their colleagues and the environment. A hotel is more than just a physical structure; it’s an ecosystem of people, and we value that aspect. We also extend our care to suppliers and various other stakeholders.

As an example of our commitment, we are in the process of implementing a fair trade system. This means that we strive to ensure that the products we purchase, including items like bed sheets, linens, and tableware, are sourced through fair trade practices. We aim to eliminate any involvement of child labor or any unethical practices from our supply chain. AMSA Hospitality goes beyond providing exceptional hospitality; we strive to make a positive impact in every aspect of our operations, caring for both people and the environment.

What kind of opportunities do you see in KSA for the hospitality industry that led you to start this startup?

Saudi Arabia is becoming a prime destination not just within the Middle East, but also beyond it. The transformation that has taken place in the past couple of decades is remarkable. With the multitude of projects being announced almost daily, one can envision the potential for numerous opportunities. It seems like there could be two hotels here, ten projects there, and perhaps even five more in another location. It’s a market with endless needs, and we can only try our best to meet them all.

As you know, during the 2023 edition of the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, we signed a global agreement with Accor to establish 18 hotels in the Kingdom’s secondary cities. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Project 2030, an initiative by the government to develop not only the major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah but also the secondary cities. The aim is to enhance the quality of hotels in these areas. So, we decided to contribute by venturing into these cities, and developing top-notch hotels in collaboration with Accor.

How does the Arabian hospitality industry differ from other parts of the world?

Western countries already have Western hospitality ingrained in their culture, so they don’t need to promote it actively. However, Arabian hospitality has its distinct identity. We proudly claim our Arab heritage and possess our unique way of thinking. When we delve into the concept of Arabian Hospitality, we ponder upon the dominance of Westernized hotel chains in the region. Most renowned chains follow a Western model, but we challenge that norm. We believe in standing apart and saying, “No, we want to be different.”

Consider Asia, where the Shangri-La brand represents an authentic and luxurious Asian experience. We aim to achieve a similar status for the Arab world. We aspire to become the Shangri-La of the Arab region, offering a genuinely Arab lifestyle hospitality experience that showcases our cultural richness and values available to all, that’s why our new brand aims at the midscale market.

What kind of initiatives are you currently working on to showcase Arab culture in modern tourism?

When you visit Saudi Arabia, one of the notable observations is that Saudi nationals are not yet the majority of the employees in hotels, particularly in areas such as restaurants and housekeeping. To address this issue, we have taken the initiative to maximize the Saudization of our hotels. In the ongoing project with Accor, our goal is to have our hotels staffed by 80-90% Saudi nationals. We are not merely pretending; we are genuinely committed to Saudization.

What are your upcoming plans for AMSA Hospitality in the next five years?

We have ambitious plans, although I cannot disclose them at this moment. However, I can assure you that we will be announcing them next year. We work on our plans well in advance before implementing them. Currently, our primary focus is on the development of secondary cities. The project entails the establishment of 18 hotels, which is a substantial number. We also aim to develop more hotels in major cities, where we keep our unique approach in terms of people management, Saudization, and care.

In cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, you either find local hotels with lower quality or international brands dominating the market. We want to differentiate ourselves by offering an authentic experience. When visitors come to these cities and seek something genuine, we want them to choose us. Therefore, our project includes developments in Jeddah, Riyadh, and anywhere else where we see an opportunity in addition to the 18 hotels in collaboration with Accor. Rest assured, there is much more to come beyond these ventures.

Hospitality

Coop House weekly offers: your new go-to in Mirdif

Published

3 weeks ago

August 21, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

The Coop House is turning weekdays and weekends into mini occasions. With the Coop House weekly offers, the Mediterranean-meets-Italian favourite at Mirdif City Centre now pairs comfort dishes with sharp value and a touch of theatre. Moreover, the space mixes rustic textures and modern lines, so families, foodies, and casual diners feel instantly at home. Meanwhile, the menu still delivers its signatures—wood-fired pizzas, rich pastas, coastal seafood, and playful crossovers like the Risotto Biryani—yet the new line-up adds a rhythm to every day.

Coop House weekly offers: Pizza & Pasta Night (Thursdays)

Every Thursday from 6 PM, dinner shifts into comfort mode. Guests choose from creamy Penne Alfredo, bubbling Lasagna al Forno, classic Spaghetti Bolognese, or aromatic Truffle Mushroom Risotto. For pizza lovers, options include a blistered Margherita, smoky Pepperoni, and earthy Spinach & Mushroom Bianca. Even better, the Live Pasta Station brings flair as the chef finishes dishes to order—steam, sizzle, and all. Each main comes with a soft drink for AED 69, so you can wind down the week with flavour and fun.

Coop House weekly offers: Seafood Nights (Fridays)

Fridays from 3 PM, the kitchen leans into seaside comfort. The Seafood Linguine is generously tossed with prawns, calamari, and mussels in a light cherry-tomato sauce. Meanwhile, the Pan-Seared Salmon with herbed roast vegetables keeps things wholesome. For bolder palates, Chargrilled Prawns with lemon butter or Grilled Calamari with spicy salsa deliver a satisfying kick. Naturally, each seafood dish with a soft drink is AED 79, turning Friday into your coastal reset.

Business Lunch that feels special (Mon–Thu)

Weekdays from 12 PM to 3 PM, the Business Lunch brings a three-course menu that’s anything but routine. Start with Figs & Walnut Salad or creamy Tomato Burrata, then move to Rotisserie Chicken with velvety hummus and freshly baked fuchsia bread, or Basil Pesto Linguine. To finish, pick a rich Chocolate Fondant or a light Tiramisu. Thoughtfully portioned and swiftly served, the set menu lands at AED 79—perfect for colleagues, client catch-ups, or a solo upgrade to your workday.

Happy Hours, happier afternoons (Mon–Wed)

From Monday to Wednesday, 4 PM to 6 PM, take a well-earned pause. With 40% off the total bill, you can graze on crispy Dynamite Prawns, Feta & Beetroot Salad, golden Fried Calamari, or indulgent Truffle Fries topped with cheese and herbs. Pair your picks with an iced tea, a classic mocktail, or a freshly brewed coffee. Because the window sits before dinner, it’s an easy meet-up slot for friends and families alike.

Breakfast Tray for Two (daily)

From 9 AM to 1 PM, mornings start strong. The Breakfast Tray for Two blends Mediterranean and Arabic favourites: fluffy scrambled eggs, warm shakshouka, creamy labneh, hummus, foul medames, mini croissants, soft breads, jams, and marinated olives. It arrives with freshly brewed coffee or signature iced tea—all for AED 99. It’s abundant, shareable, and perfect for a relaxed start.

Spin the Wheel surprises (select days)

On quieter days, spending AED 75 or more earns a spin at The Coop House prize wheel. You might land exclusive discounts, complimentary bites, or a sweet treat to take home. It’s a simple touch, yet it keeps the experience playful and rewarding.

Plan your visit

You’ll find The Coop House at Mirdif City Centre, an easy stop for families and after-work diners. Because the venue is equally suited to quick lunches and long catch-ups, it works for almost any plan. And since the Coop House weekly offers run across multiple dayparts, you can pick the moment that fits—Thursday pasta theatre, Friday seafood, a weekday power lunch, or a leisurely breakfast.

Ultimately, the new offers are about more than price points. They’re about rhythm—adding dependable moments of flavour to your week. Come for the pizzas and pastas; stay for the seafood and sweets; return for the service and the way the room feels when the plates hit the table. That’s how regulars are made.

Check out our previous post, DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan: Hilton’s first hotel

Hospitality

DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan

Published

3 weeks ago

August 21, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Hilton has marked a milestone with the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Nathiagali—its first hotel in Pakistan—bringing the brand’s signature welcome to one of the country’s most beloved hill stations. Set in the Galiyat region, roughly 85 kilometers from Islamabad, the mountain retreat blends contemporary comforts with alpine scenery, offering a year-round base for families, couples, adventurers, and business travelers.

DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan: Hilton’s first foothold

The debut signals clear confidence in Pakistan’s tourism trajectory. As Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, notes, destinations with rich heritage and natural charm are primed for growth. Therefore, placing Hilton’s first flag in Nathiagali feels both strategic and guest-centric: travelers gain access to an international hospitality standard, while local tourism benefits from global visibility and jobs.

Where alpine scenery meets warm hospitality

Steps from Lalazar Park, the hotel sits within easy reach of Mushkpuri Top, Miranjani Peak, Ayubia National Park, the Dunga Gali Pipeline Track, and St. Matthew’s Church—many within five kilometers. Consequently, guests can plan mellow strolls, scenic drives, or summit days without long transfers. Meanwhile, pine forests and rolling meadows frame the property, creating postcard views in every season—from crisp summers to snow-blanketed winters.

Rooms, dining, and wellness for every season

DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan features 110 rooms, including 14 suites that look toward the Mushkpuri and Miranjani hills. Thoughtful layouts, plush bedding, and mountain-view nooks make downtime feel restorative after a day outdoors. For dining, the lobby-level Coffee Shop serves fresh brews and gourmet bites; Shogun brings a refined Pan-Asian menu; and Zareen on the third floor spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a global touch. At the Lalazar Terrace Café, guests can linger over specialty teas, high tea, or a barbecue buffet under an open sky.

Wellbeing is central here. A curated spa menu covers soothing massages and holistic therapies, while a fully equipped fitness center supports daily routines. Additionally, the indoor infinity pool—with floor-to-ceiling panoramas—turns every swim into a viewpoint.

Meetings, celebrations, and memorable gatherings

Whether you are planning a board meeting or a mountain wedding, the property offers flexible venues and experienced support. Two signature banquet halls—Mushkpuri and Miranjani—each host up to 200 guests, ideal for receptions, conferences, or gala dinners. For more intimate sessions, Sohni and Nouri provide smaller meeting rooms. Moreover, tailored catering, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and in-house audiovisual support help events run smoothly from first brief to final toast.

New experiences on the horizon

DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan will soon introduce the country’s first mountain padel court, a private-cinema lounge, a children’s zone, and beauty salon services—enhancing the “all-ages, all-seasons” profile. Additionally, the on-site helipad simplifies arrivals and departures, particularly for celebratory occasions or executive retreats that benefit from time-saving transfers.

Hospitality with local impact

Partnerships shape successful openings. Owned and managed by The Baron Pakistan (Pvt) Limited, the hotel aligns international brand standards with local stewardship. As Managing Director Imtiaz Muslim underscores, the collaboration supports regional tourism while delivering lasting value to guests and communities. In practice, that means more training, broader career pathways, and a hospitality experience that honors place as much as it embraces polish.

Hilton Honors benefits, made simple

Members of Hilton Honors can unlock familiar advantages when booking directly via Hilton’s preferred channels. Because the app streamlines check-in, room selection, and Digital Key access, guests can move from arrival to relaxation quickly. Furthermore, the flexible Points-and-money slider helps members tailor stays to their budget—useful for families or groups planning longer mountain breaks.

Plan your Nathiagali escape

The Galiyat hills combine fresh air, pine scent, and sweeping viewpoints with easy access from Islamabad. Therefore, DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan makes a compelling base: mornings can start with a summit walk; afternoons might drift into spa time; evenings can stretch over terrace tea as the valleys glow. With new activities debuting soon, travelers will find more reasons to return—across seasons and occasions.

Check out our previous post Atlantis Dubai Executive Director of Sales: Dean Walsh Appointed

Hospitality

Atlantis Dubai Executive Director of Sales: Dean Walsh Appointed

Published

4 weeks ago

August 18, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Atlantis Dubai has named Dean Walsh as its new Executive Director of Sales, a promotion that reflects his proven leadership and impressive track record. In this role, he will spearhead global leisure market growth for both Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, two of the world’s most iconic luxury destinations.

Driving Leisure Market Growth for Atlantis Dubai

Since joining Atlantis Dubai in August 2023, Dean Walsh has enhanced the resort’s presence in key markets such as the UK, Europe, and Australasia. By aligning sales strategies with the brand’s commercial vision, he boosted market share across major leisure segments. Leading a global team of 15, he drove strong revenue growth while fostering collaboration and ensuring sales execution stayed aligned with broader business goals.

Expanding Responsibilities as Executive Director of Sales

In his new position, Walsh will direct and oversee Atlantis Dubai’s leisure sales strategy across both domestic and international markets. He will also manage Directors and Managers responsible for leisure segments worldwide, reporting directly to Kyp Charalambous, Vice President of Sales.

Charalambous praised the appointment, stating: “Dean’s proven track record, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him the ideal leader to guide our sales team through its next chapter of growth.”

Experience Across Global Luxury Hospitality

With nearly 20 years of hospitality experience, Dean Walsh brings extensive expertise to Atlantis Dubai. He has held senior sales roles at leading brands such as InterContinental, One&Only Resorts, Viceroy, W Hotels, and Jumeirah. Throughout his career, he has built high-performing teams, forged strong partnerships, and consistently delivered revenue growth across competitive markets.

Strengthening Atlantis Dubai’s Global Position

The appointment underscores Atlantis Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its commercial success while continuing to deliver world-class guest experiences. By placing Walsh at the helm of its leisure sales strategy, Atlantis Dubai is preparing to expand further into international markets and attract a new wave of travelers to its extraordinary resorts.

Check out our previous post on Kempinski Hotels Guest Experience Elevated with New Leadership