Hospitality News
OYO to add 2000 Apartments for ex-pat Housing as Abu Dhabi’s Startup Ecosystem Surges
Global hospitality technology company OYO has announced that it plans to add 2000 apartments in Abu Dhabi to meet the growing demand of expat accommodation in Abu Dhabi. These are ready-to-move-in accommodations by OYO Life which provides fully furnished, fully managed long-term housing rental spaces for professionals.
OYO has already added 750 apartments across key destinations such as Khalifa, Al Zeina and Al Raha. This strategic move aligns with OYO’s commitment to providing comfortable accommodation in premium properties for guests around the globe. Expats living in these units will access a wide range of services such as laundry, food, cleaning, transportation, groceries, discounted furnishings and white home appliances etc.
According to the 2023 Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER), from July 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022, Abu Dhabi created $3.9 billion in ecosystem value representing a growth of 134 per cent from the previous period.
The surge in Abu Dhabi’s startup ecosystem, coupled with enticing incentives like the Golden Visa program, has attracted over 25 prominent companies, including PolicyBazaar, DealShare, Momos, Raena, Hippo Video, Ultrahuman, India Gold, ClassPlus, Mensa, and Expand My Business. These enterprises have already opted for OYO’s premium apartments as their go-to choice for accommodating their employees in the vibrant city.
The addition of 2000 apartments will significantly enhance OYO’s existing presence in Abu Dhabi and enable the company to offer a broader range of options to expats seeking long-term stays. These apartments will be strategically located across key areas, including business districts such as Khalifa City, Al Zeina, Al Raha, Al Reem Island, Al Reef and Al Mushrif and popular tourist destinations that include Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Emirates Palace, Etihad Towers, Louvre, Ferrari World, Warner Bros World, Yas Waterworld and Sea World.
OYO’s commitment to quality remains at the forefront of this expansion. Each apartment will be meticulously designed, furnished, and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience for guests. By providing a diverse range of accommodation choices, OYO aims to meet the varying needs and preferences of expatriates working primarily in the startup sector in Abu Dhabi.
Speaking on the development, Ankit Tandon, Global CBO and CEO Southeast Asia & Middle East, OYO said “We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s thriving startup ecosystem and expat community and foster a sense of belonging for expatriates living here. OYO recognises the unique requirements of expats. We are committed to creating a hassle-free living experience where expats can focus on their professional and personal endeavors while enjoying the comfort and convenience of their accommodation”.
Abu Dhabi, known for its thriving economy, cultural attractions, and excellent employment opportunities, has experienced a significant influx of expatriates in recent years. Recognizing the need for comfortable, affordable, and conveniently located housing, OYO has undertaken this initiative to address the accommodation requirements of the expat community.
Statistical estimates reveal that accommodation and food services experienced a remarkable growth of 14.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period last year. Furthermore, data from the Department of Culture and Tourism indicates that hotel occupancy rates exceeded 40 per cent during this timeframe.
Praveen Jaiswal, Software Engineer 4, 100ms added “I have been staying at Oyo, Al Raha, Abu Dhabi for the past 9 months and I must say that I am very impressed with their services. They have been quick to resolve any issues that I have had, ranging from kitchen and AC problems to cleanliness and regular pest control. The staff is very supportive and helpful, and they have been very accommodating with my requests”.
Guests choose OYO’s platform for many reasons, including accessibility to OYO’s hotels at competitive prices, quality accommodation, ease of use of its app, personalization, and flexibility of the OYO platform. They can also resolve their queries quickly with OYO’s 24*7 chatbot – Yo! Chat.
Hospitality
LOVE WITH A VIEW: A MAGICAL VALENTINE EXPERIENCE AWAITS AT JOE’S CAFÉ DUBAI

Love deserves a setting as iconic as the moment itself. This Valentine’s Day, Joe’s Café Dubai creates an unforgettable Valentine experience; from golden-hour moments to the sparkle of the fountain shows, every detail unfolds effortlessly. Located in the prestigious Dubai Mall within the Fashion Avenue, the elegant Joe’s Café offers a seamless blend of Knightsbridge sophistication and modern Middle Eastern hospitality.
Overlooking the majestic Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, Joe’s Café sets the stage for an intimate celebration designed to linger in memory. Whether it’s your first Valentine together or a tradition you hold close, the experience is thoughtfully curated to bring warmth, flavour, and connection to the forefront.
Guests can indulge in exclusive Valentine’s set menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, complemented by thoughtful romantic touches and uninterrupted skyline views. Each Valentine’s menu is crafted to delight the senses offering signature Joe’s Café classics with a romantic twist: strawberry matcha, Joe’s Pancakes, Risotto Al Mare, La Bolognese, Wagyu Rib-Eye Steak, Golden Lobster Risotto and sweet ending- Strawberry Cheesecake or Joe’s Dubai Chocolate.
The experience is elevated further with complimentary Valentine’s gestures including non-alcoholic champagne and table set up with flowers and little surprises, because romance is found in the details.
Date: Valentine’s experience is available from 13th to 15th February, 2026
Time: From 09:00 AM to 12:00AM. Advance booking required to enjoy a complimentary non-alcoholic champagne and decorated table set-up just for you.
Location: Joe’s Café Dubai, Fashion Avenue, First Floor, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
Whether it’s a sun-kissed breakfast, a leisurely afternoon lunch, or an enchanting candlelit dinner, Joe’s Café offers a Valentine’s experience where romance flows as seamlessly as the fountain below.
Born on Sloane Street, London in the early 1980s, Joe’s Café brings its iconic fashion-heritage charm to Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall, offering relaxed luxury dining with unrivalled views of Dubai’s most celebrated landmarks.
Hospitality
CELEBRATE LOVE WITH A BESPOKE EXPERIENCE AT INTERCONTINENTAL RESIDENCES DUBAI BUSINESS BAY
InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay invites couples to an intimate celebration overlooking the Dubai Canal and the iconic city skyline this Valentine’s Day. Priced at AED 3,500 per couple, the Valentine’s package includes a one-night stay in a One-Bedroom Residence Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal View, and breakfast.
The offer also comprises a romantic three-course set menu prepared exclusively for the occasion, accompanied by a bottle of prosecco to toast the evening. The dinner begins with a choice of starters including Salmon Carpaccio, Heirloom Tomato and Burrata, or Clam Chowder. For the main course, couples will indulge in a Surf and Turf of Tomahawk and Grilled Prawns, followed by a decadent dessert of Chocolate Fondue and Molten Chocolate Cake.
Designed for those seeking privacy and distinction, the hotel’s Valentine’s offer focuses on curated moments away from the crowds. Couples can enjoy a bespoke dinner served on a private balcony, providing a front-row seat to the Burj Khalifa and picturesque Dubai Canal.
By combining high-end service with intimate setting, InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay offers a premium romantic escape without the typical bustle of the city dining. This year’s packages are crafted to provide a memorable experience, ensuring every detail, from the view to the menu, feels personal and exclusive.
The Details
- What: Valentine’s Day Escape at InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay
- When: 13th to 15th February
- Inclusions: One-night stay for two in a One Bedroom Residence Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal View, inclusive of breakfast, three-course set menu and a bottle of prosecco
Hospitality
ALEPH HOSPITALITY SIGNS THIRD HOTEL IN RWANDA
Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa, has signed a hotel management agreement with DND Developers for the Best Western Premier – Royal Golf View, Kigali in Rwanda.
Marking Aleph Hospitality’s third hotel in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, the Best Western Premier – Royal Golf View is expected to open in July 2027. Located in Kigali’s upscale Kacyiru neighbourhood, near the Kigali Golf Club, the property will feature 60 hotel rooms and 41 branded residences as well as two food & beverage outlets, a health club and pool.
Daniel Mehari, Managing Director of DND Developers, said, “We are pleased to partner with Aleph Hospitality on the management of the Best Western Premier – Royal Golf View, Kigali. Their deep understanding of both the Rwandan market and the wider region, combined with their proven operational expertise, gives us great confidence in the future success of this landmark development.”
Bani Haddad, Founder and Co-CEO of Aleph Hospitality, said, “With a forecasted 1.65 million visitor arrivals, and the tourism sector’s economic contribution expected to grow by 13 %, there’s a clear demand for premium accommodations in Rwanda. The property will be a standout addition to the capital’s hospitality landscape, and we are fully committed to delivering an elevated guest experience while driving strong operational performance for our owners.”
Stefan Dubbeling, Managing Director Development EMEA and Managing Director Managed Hotels Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, BWH Hotels, commented: “Rwanda is one of Africa’s most promising hospitality markets, and Kigali continues to attract growing international demand. Best Western Premier – Royal Golf View, Kigali strengthens our premium presence in the region and reflects our commitment to expanding with trusted partners. Together with Aleph Hospitality and DND Developers, we look forward to delivering an exceptional guest experience in the capital.”
The partnership reflects Aleph Hospitality’s continued dedication to supporting hotel developers across Africa. In its expansion across Africa and the Middle East, Aleph Hospitality’s current portfolio counts 80 hotels, including 50 in operation and 30 under development.
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