Hospitality News
Water Parks to Revolutionize Saudi Arabia’s Cruise Industry
Saudi Arabia, in pursuit of hosting 1.3 million cruise visitors by 2035, has identified the cruise industry as a vital element of its Vision 2030 framework. This aligns with Vision 2030’s goals of diversifying the economy and promoting tourism. The increasing popularity of cruises among the under-20 demographic, showing the fastest growth, highlights the demand for innovative onboard experiences.
As younger generations embrace cruise vacations, industry leaders like WhiteWater, the leading designer and manufacturer of aquatic amenities, are becoming essential. Their expertise not only aids the expansion of the cruise industry but also aligns with Vision 2030’s objectives to enhance tourism and position Saudi Arabia as a premier cruise destination. This collaboration between WhiteWater and the cruise industry caters to the evolving expectations of adventure-seeking young travelers, thereby ensuring the industry’s continued success in Saudi Arabia.
Cruise Industry Takes Sail in Saudi Arabia
To bolster the cruise sector, Cruise Saudi is developing world-class cruise facilities in key Saudi ports, facilitating larger cruise ship arrivals. For instance, MSC Cruises reported a 40% increase in Saudi Arabia sailings over a 24-month period. Continuing to build on this success, MSC has plans to run over 20 separate sailings spanning from seven to fifteen nights from Jeddah to Aqaba between November 2023 and April 2024.
Meeting the challenge of keeping guests entertained for extended sailings, WhiteWater collaborates with MSC Cruises to create dynamic mix of attractions for different age groups on over 10 ships, enabling families to equally all be entertained within a small space. The two AquaTube water slides on the MSC Seascape, for example, provide thrilling experiences as they spiral above the deck. These slides, crafted from translucent fiberglass, create alternating light and dark sensations, amplifying the excitement and offering stunning views of the water below. The AquaTubes are ideal for guests over 102 cm tall, while the AquaPlay 150 caters to younger passengers—an immersive pirate ship-themed playground experience without long lines
“There’s enormous potential for the cruise industry within Saudi Arabia, especially with AROYA Cruises on the horizon,” said WhiteWater’s GM & RVP, Middle East & India, Mike Rigby. “As more people come to embrace the cruise industry as a way of travel, there will continue to be a need for these venues to keep people entertained over long spans of time, and water parks are one of the best ways to accommodate large volumes of people all at the same time.”
Addressing Unique Design Challenges
Cruise ships, akin to floating cities, require efficient space utilization while providing various amenities. WhiteWater, with a team of over 100 skilled engineers, tackles the challenge of crafting attractions that can withstand UV exposure, corrosive seawater, and constant ship motion. Their innovative solutions include locating mechanical equipment below water slides with a restaurant in between.
“Space is a precious commodity on cruise ships, and we’re tasked with a delicate balancing act—fitting in water slides and attractions while ensuring safety, functionality, and aesthetics,” said Burcu Karaca, Park Designer. “In designing for cruise ships, creativity is key. Sometimes, we must think outside the box, or in this case, over the edges of the decks, to maximize space while providing thrilling experiences.”
It’s a delicate balance, designing for both space and appearance, as passengers seek an escape in a beautiful setting. Aquatic attractions must look pristine, visually engaging, and tell a cohesive story to immerse guests. Aligned with one of MSC Seascape’s goals, WhiteWater, for instance, brought the Kraken to life, tying the water park to the ship’s strong sea theme.
Fostering Repeatable Activities
To keep passengers engaged on extended sailings with limited onboard exploration, offering repeatable activities is vital. The FlowRider®, a surf simulator attraction, is a compelling solution. Placed on the back of the ship, it creates a continuous sheet wave. It accommodates various skill levels, making it appealing for families and groups. The gentle learning curve encourages riders to keep trying new tricks, ensuring they queue up for more, providing lasting entertainment throughout the cruise
Hospitality
voco Bonnington Dubai Targets UAE Staycation Seekers with Flexible 36-Hour Hotel Experience

No Plans, No Problem: voco Bonnington Dubai Makes the Last-Minute Escape Easy
Voco Bonnington Dubai is proving that a proper break doesn’t need weeks of planning, a packed itinerary or even a flight. Tucked into Jumeirah Lake Towers, the hotel is positioning itself as the escape that’s ready whenever guests are, whether that’s a spur-of-the-moment staycation or an easy Friday night out.
At the centre of the offer is a new 36-hour staycation, designed for anyone who wants more than a rushed overnight stay without the effort of organising one. Guests check in from 9am and check out at 9pm the following day, unlocking a full day and a half at the hotel for the price of one night, with breakfast included on both mornings and children staying free with complimentary kids’ menu meals throughout. It’s a format built for whatever the moment calls for: a long lie-in, an afternoon by the pool, or simply a comfortable space to work from before heading back into the city. The offer is bookable for stays until 6 September 2026, part of a wider IHG Hotels & Resorts initiative across more than 190 properties in the Middle East, Africa, India and South Asia.

For guests looking for something shorter and closer to home, Author’s Lounge offers its own no-planning-required escape with Friday Plot Twist, a weekly evening offer running every Friday from 6pm to 10pm. For AED 99, guests can enjoy three drinks and their choice of bites in the lounge’s stylish surroundings, an easy way to unwind after the week without needing to book ahead or go far.
Location adds to the ease. voco Bonnington Dubai sits minutes from DMCC Metro, Dubai Marina and JBR, giving guests quick access to the beach, marina walk and the city’s business districts, while the hotel itself, complete with pool, gym and food and beverage outlets, offers enough to make staying in just as tempting. Whether it’s a full staycation or a Friday evening out, the hotel is there to be dropped into, no advance planning necessary.
Hospitality
Bobi Bowl Celebrates Hari Kemerdekaan Indonesia with Free Dessert on August 17
Dubai-based Indonesian restaurant Bobi Bowl is marking Hari Kemerdekaan Republik Indonesia, or Indonesian Independence Day, on August 17 with a sweet thank-you to the UAE community that has supported its journey.

Guests dining in at Bobi Bowl on August 17 will receive a complimentary serving of Klepon Merah Putih, a special edition of the traditional Indonesian dessert created for the occasion. The chewy glutinous rice balls are filled with palm sugar and coated in freshly grated coconut. While klepon is traditionally green, Bobi Bowl has coloured this special version red to reflect the colours of the Indonesian flag.
The celebration comes as Bobi Bowl reflects on the past few months, which have not always been easy, but were made possible by the incredible support of the UAE community. As part of the occasion, Bobi Bowl also hopes to continue sharing the flavours of Indonesia with more people across the country.
Among its Indonesian best sellers are Beef Rendang, tender beef slow-cooked in a rich blend of spices and coconut; Beef Empal Gepuk, a sweet and savoury Indonesian beef dish cooked for 18 hours until exceptionally tender; and Nasi Ayam Geprek, crispy fried chicken served with fiery sambal.

This August 17, Bobi Bowl invites the community to celebrate Indonesia’s independence, one bowl and one sweet ending at a time. Bobi Bowl is located at Ground Floor, Shop No. 12, Wasl Port Views Building 5, Al Mina Street, opposite the Port Police HQ, Dubai.
Hospitality
Address Jabal Omar Makkah Enhances Summer Pilgrimage Experiences with Night Umrah Stays
As the summer evenings bring cooler temperatures to the Holy City, Address Jabal Omar Makkah invites pilgrims to experience the tranquility of Night Umrah, where worship, reflection, and comfort come together in one of Makkah’s most sought-after locations.
Located just steps from Al Masjid Al Haram, the spiritually centered luxury hotel offers guests the opportunity to perform Umrah during the peaceful evening hours before returning to refined hospitality, panoramic Haram-view accommodation, and thoughtfully designed experiences that place spirituality at the heart of every stay. Drawing on its exceptional location and guest-focused hospitality, the hotel continues to offer an experience centered on ease, comfort, and meaningful spiritual connection.
A Peaceful Time for Night Umrah
As temperatures become more comfortable after sunset, many pilgrims choose to perform Umrah during the evening, when the atmosphere around Al Masjid Al Haram becomes calmer and more serene. With its unrivalled proximity to Al Masjid Al Haram, Address Jabal Omar Makkah allows guests to move effortlessly between worship and rest, making the Night Umrah experience both convenient and deeply meaningful.
Whether preparing for evening prayers, returning after Tawaf and Sa’i, or embracing quiet moments of reflection, guests are welcomed into an environment thoughtfully designed around the rhythm of pilgrimage, allowing more time to focus on what matters most.
Moments Above the Holy City
Among the hotel’s most remarkable experiences is the iconic Sky Musallah, an elevated prayer hall set on a skybridge between the 36th and 38th floors. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s highest suspended prayer hall overlooking the Holy Kaaba, the Sky Musallah offers panoramic views of Al Masjid Al Haram, providing an extraordinary setting for prayer and quiet contemplation above the city.
As evening falls and Al Masjid Al Haram is illuminated, guests can experience moments of serenity in one of Makkah’s most distinctive spiritual landmarks, creating memories that remain long after their pilgrimage has ended.
An Experience Rooted in Comfort and Spiritual Connection
Following moments of worship at Al Masjid Al Haram, guests can retreat to elegantly appointed Haram-view rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed to offer comfort, tranquility, and uninterrupted views of the Holy Kaaba and the city skyline. Dining experiences at The Restaurant and the Lobby Lounge celebrate Saudi and Hejazi flavors, with menus thoughtfully structured around prayer and fasting schedules.
Combining exceptional proximity to Al Masjid Al Haram, refined hospitality, and experiences inspired by the spiritual rhythm of Makkah, Address Jabal Omar Makkah provides an ideal setting for pilgrims seeking a meaningful Night Umrah experience this summer. The hotel’s recent international recognition at the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards further reflects its commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality and memorable guest experiences.
-
News11 years ago
SENDQUICK (TALARIAX) INTRODUCES SQOOPE – THE BREAKTHROUGH IN MOBILE MESSAGING
-
Trending10 months agoOPPO A6 Pro 5G Review: Reliable Daily Driver
-
Tech News2 years agoDenodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
VAR1 year agoMicrosoft Launches New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
-
Automotive2 years agoAGMC Launches the RIDDARA RD6 High Performance Fully Electric 4×4 Pickup
-
Tech Interviews2 years ago
Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News1 year agoNothing Launches flagship Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) in theme with the Iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai
-
VAR2 years agoSamsung Galaxy Z Fold6 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Clash Of The Folding Phenoms


