Hospitality News
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Taking Hospitality to the Next Level
By: Moe Raslan, Regional Sales Director MENA, CommScope Ruckus Networks
The hospitality industry, like many others, has undergone a profound transformation catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, this crisis prompted a reimagining of traditional practices, leading to the integration of innovative technologies that are reshaping the guest experience. Among these technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key player in revolutionizing how hotels interact with their guests and optimize their operations.
As the industry gradually recovers from the pandemic’s impact, hotels have had to exceed the heightened expectations of a tech-savvy and health-conscious customer base. One of the most notable changes has been the shift toward contactless experiences. AI has played a pivotal role in enabling seamless check-ins, check-outs, and other guest interactions. By leveraging AI-driven self-service kiosks and mobile apps, hotels are enhancing guest convenience while reducing physical touchpoints, ensuring safety and comfort.
The advancements in AI have also led to the rise of smart hotels, where predictive analytics and data-driven insights create a tailored experience for each guest. These technologies allow hotels to anticipate guest preferences, offering personalized services that go beyond a mere stay. From room preferences based on previous visits to suggesting dining options aligned with dietary requirements, AI enhances the overall guest journey, fostering loyalty and positive reviews.
Hospitality Market in the Middle East
According to data from UNWTO, the Middle East is the first region in the world to recover to pre-pandemic numbers in Q1 2023. Dubai alone received 14.36 million international visitors in 2022, a difference of 97% YoY from 2021. The Middle East travel and tourism sector contributed to $327 billion to the regional economy. Anticipating robust expansion, projections by the World Travel and Tourism Council reveal that the regional sector’s GDP contribution will exceed $413.2 billion by the end of the year.
Efficiency and Sustainability: AI-Enabled Operational Excellence
A significant aspect of AI’s impact on the hospitality sector lies in operational efficiency. As hotels navigate through a challenging economic landscape, the ability to optimize costs while maintaining service quality is paramount. Integrated IT and Operations Technology (OT) solutions powered by AI enable hotels to streamline various processes, from energy management to asset tracking. This not only drives cost savings but also contributes to the industry’s growing focus on sustainability. AI-driven insights help hotels monitor and regulate energy consumption, contributing to both environmental conservation and cost reduction.
Security is another critical dimension where AI is making substantial headway. In an environment prioritizing guest and staff safety, AI-powered surveillance systems can proactively identify suspicious activities and ensure secure access control. Lost keycards can be tracked to prevent unauthorized entry, enhancing both security and peace of mind for guests and personnel. Additionally, AI-equipped devices such as panic buttons provide immediate assistance to employees in uncomfortable situations, fostering a secure environment.
Optimizing Networks for Seamless Experiences
The integration of AI isn’t limited to guest interactions and security; it extends to network management and analytics. A robust network infrastructure is foundational for delivering exceptional guest experiences. AI-driven network analytics, offered by solutions like RUCKUS Analytics, empowers hotels to monitor and optimize their networks in real-time. This ensures a seamless Wi-Fi experience, which has become a key determinant in guest satisfaction. Machine learning algorithms provide insights that might have been overlooked using traditional analysis methods, allowing hotels to proactively address network issues and minimize disruptions.
As hotels continue to adapt and evolve in this dynamic landscape, the relevance of AI will only grow stronger. From enhancing guest experiences to improving operational efficiency and security, AI is redefining the hospitality industry. As guests demand more personalized, seamless, and sustainable experiences, AI is not just a technological tool but a strategic imperative that enables hotels to exceed expectations and thrive in the post-pandemic era. With the right blend of AI technologies and a solid network foundation, hotels can confidently embrace the “new norm” and set a new standard of excellence in hospitality.
Hospitality
THIS VALENTINE’S DAY, MCGETTIGAN’S DUBAI PRODUCTION CITY, SWAPS CANDLELIT DINNERS FOR KARAOKE, COCKTAILS, AND CHEMISTRY WITH VALENTINE’S GOT TALENT
This Valentine’s Day, McGettigan’s is inviting couples across the UAE to turn up the volume on romance with ‘Valentine’s Got Talent’; a lively, interactive celebration that blends great food, handcrafted drinks, and on-stage entertainment for a night that’s anything but ordinary.
Running on 14 February from 8.00 pm onwards at McGettigan’s Dubai Production City, the experience is designed for couples who prefer shared laughter and memorable moments over predictable candlelit dinners. At the heart of the celebration is a duet karaoke competition, hosted by popular emcee Shanice Michaels, where couples can take to the stage and showcase their chemistry through music.
Speaking about the campaign, Nitin Makhijani, General Manager, McGettigan’s said: “Valentine’s Day has evolved, and so have our guests. With ‘Valentine’s Got Talent’, we wanted to create an experience that feels energetic, inclusive, and genuinely fun. It’s about celebrating connection in a way that reflects the McGettigan’s personality; social, spontaneous, and full of life. Whether couples choose to sing or simply soak in the atmosphere, the goal is to create memories that last well beyond the night.”
Couples can enjoy a specially curated Valentine’s menu, paired with drinks, while cheering each other on; or competing head-to-head for prizes and bragging rights. The AED 399 per couple package includes a three-course menu, three cocktails per person or a bottle of house wine, making it a complete evening of dining and entertainment in one vibrant setting.
Adding an extra layer of fun, McGettigan’s is encouraging guests to embrace the theme by dressing up as iconic singing duos. Couples who arrive in themed outfits will stand a chance to win a bonus prize, rewarding creativity and playful participation beyond the stage.
Well known for delivering high-energy social experiences alongside warm Irish hospitality, McGettigan’s continues to position itself as a destination where dining meets entertainment. From live music and sports screenings to themed celebrations, the brand has built a loyal following by offering experiences that bring people together.
With limited performance slots available, couples are encouraged to book early to secure their place; whether they plan to sing their hearts out or simply enjoy a front-row seat to watch the action.
Hospitality
RENAISSANCE BUSINESS BAY HOTEL, DUBAI UNVEILS RAMADAN EXPERIENCES DESIGNED FOR COMFORT AND CONNECTION

Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai welcomes the holy month with a limited time collection of Ramadan stay experiences and dining offers, designed to bring greater comfort, flexibility, and value throughout the season. Whether planning a restful city stay aligned with fasting routines, gathering for a relaxed Iftar after sunset, or hosting a large corporate celebration, the hotel presents thoughtful options for every occasion during Ramadan.
Iftar Buffet at Podium
For guests gathering after sunset, Podium offers a relaxed Iftar buffet designed for easy Ramadan evenings with family, friends, or colleagues. The spread begins with traditional Ramadan staples, followed by a generous selection of mezze and fresh salads, then comforting mains featuring rice dishes, slow-cooked specialities and grilled favourites. The experience ends on a sweet note with classic Arabic desserts. To finish, guests can enjoy classic Arabic sweets. With no minimum booking requirement, it is a flexible option for both small tables and larger groups, making it suitable for spontaneous plans as well as organised meet ups. Guests can enjoy the buffet at the standard rate of AED 165 per person, with a special corporate, early bird, and promotional rate of AED 125 per person, offering added value for group bookings and weekday gatherings.
- Corporate, early bird and promotional rate: AED 125 per person
- No minimum booking requirement
Ramadan Stay Offer
Created to suit the rhythm of Ramadan, the hotel’s Ramadan Stay Offer combines thoughtful inclusions with practical timings that make each stay feel seamless from arrival to departure. Guests can choose between Iftar, breakfast, or sahur included, allowing the experience to fit individual routines and schedules. For added everyday value, the offer includes AED 50 in food and beverage credit per person, per day, redeemable at selected venues and ideal for relaxed dining moments throughout the stay. With early check in from 10:00 AM and late check out until 4:00 PM, guests are invited to slow down, rest more, and experience the holy month at a calmer pace.
- Iftar, breakfast or sahur included
- Early check in from 10:00 AM and late check out until 4:00 PM
Exclusive Ballroom Iftar
For larger Ramadan gatherings, Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai’s Ballroom Iftar offers a private, spacious setting designed for easy hosting and meaningful time together. Ideal for corporate Iftars, community events, and big family get-togethers, guests can enjoy a generous buffet in a dedicated venue that feels polished and comfortable. With room to gather, connect, and celebrate at scale, it is a considered choice for organisers looking for a seamless group experience with a clear, all in rate and minimal fuss from start to finish
- Minimum booking: 100 guests
- Suitable for: corporate Iftars and large private group bookings
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.
-
Tech News2 years agoDenodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
VAR10 months agoMicrosoft Launches New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
-
News10 years ago
SENDQUICK (TALARIAX) INTRODUCES SQOOPE – THE BREAKTHROUGH IN MOBILE MESSAGING
-
Tech Interviews2 years agoNavigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News7 months agoNothing Launches flagship Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) in theme with the Iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai
-
Tech News2 years agoBrighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
VAR1 year agoSamsung Galaxy Z Fold6 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Clash Of The Folding Phenoms
-
Editorial1 year agoCelebrating UAE National Day: A Legacy of Leadership and Technological Innovation


