Hospitality

Charting the Course for the Business Travel Industry in 2024

Published

2 years ago

January 8, 2024

The UAE’s triumphant narrative in the post-pandemic era reflects a strategic fusion of business and leisure, shaping the landscape for travel in 2024. Underpinning this trend are international companies, investors, and entrepreneurs, each playing a pivotal role in building the thriving landscape of the UAE. Beyond its geographical appeal and its central location, what distinguishes the UAE is its unwavering commitment to cultivating a diverse and inviting business environment, as evidenced by being ranked 16^th globally in ease of doing business by the World Bank in 2020.

Key to this success is the visionary Golden Visa program, a key driver attracting top-tier talent seeking more than just transient opportunities. The Golden Visa initiative has proven transformative, surpassing expectations with over 151,600 enrollments between 2019 and 2022, according to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the UAE. It stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to fostering a global talent pool that can thrive in a business-friendly environment.

Anticipating the Dynamics of Global Meetings

The country’s position as a leading business hub has resulted in an increasing trend of extended stays. Beyond boardrooms and business negotiations, visitors find themselves drawn to the cultural richness and recreational activities that the country offers. According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, the contribution of the travel and tourism sector to the UAE’s GDP was nearly AED 167 billion which is equivalent to 9% of total GDP, indicating a growing trend where business travel can transform into holistic experiences embracing the country’s diverse attractions.

As the UAE prepares to host COP28, a significant international event focused on climate change, there’s a notable synergy between this environmental platform and the world of business travel. The event, set to shine a global spotlight on the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, also presents a strategic opportunity for businesses to engage in meaningful face-to-face interactions. This makes it evident that true “sustainability” is not about restricting powerful face-to-face connections that foster partnerships, collaboration, and help forge connections beyond the confines of virtual meetings, but rather finding harmony between business imperatives and ecological impact. Because real sustainability is not just about less travel – it is about smarter, more conscious travel.

Evolving Immigration Landscape: Navigating the Path Ahead

In the face of an increasingly globalized economy and heightened global competition for top talent, the UAE’s proactive and ongoing adjustments to its immigration landscape usher in new visa categories and foster inclusivity that benefits both travellers and businesses. Other broader initiatives, such as the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, anchor these changes and help set the scene for Dubai to cement itself among the world’s top three cities and ultimately pave the way for the country to have an exceptionally open and inviting business landscape.

The attractiveness of the immigration landscape to diverse international talent will also fuel growth by allowing businesses access to a world-class talent pool that houses fresh perspectives, skillsets, and innovative ideas.

Adaptability of the UAE’s business environment

As the UAE continues to redefine itself on the global stage, the convergence of business, leisure, and global talent paints a compelling picture of a nation that has seamlessly adapted to the challenges of a post-pandemic world. The UAE stands testament to the power of innovation and strategic vision and offers a blueprint for other nations seeking to forge their own path of prosperity and inclusivity.

Hospitality

ROHINI Celebrates Holi with Colourful, Contemporary Thandai Creations

Published

2 days ago

March 2, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

The festival of Holi is all about colour, music and good vibes, and Rohini at Mövenpick JLT is bringing that energy straight to your glass. From 2 to 8 March, the restaurant is serving Rang, Ras aur Thandai Holi, a limited-time beverage special inspired by the playful spirit of the festival, giving Dubai diners a fun way to celebrate through flavour.

Drawing on nostalgic flavours, the traditional thandai is deconstructed with a fresh, contemporary edge that fits naturally into Dubai’s modern dining scene. The seasonal drinks keep the familiarity guests love while introducing lighter, more current flavour combinations, giving guests the green energy this season calls for

The menu features two flavour profiles. One leans into classic Kesar Pista and Badam notes, while the other takes a more experimental direction with a Matcha Moringa twist for a clean, modern flavour. Served as cocktail and mocktail options, the drinks balance tradition with a playful upgrade, capturing the celebratory mood Holi is known for.

Rohini continues to stand out as a go-to destination for contemporary Indian dining in Dubai, with its Holi special bringing together familiar flavours and a nostalgic festive touch for guests to enjoy throughout the week.

Hospitality

EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF RAMADAN AT AL HABTOOR GRAND RESORT, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

Published

5 days ago

February 27, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

As the Holy Month of Ramadan begins, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection invites guests to experience the Grand Starlit Iftar at the picturesque Grand Garden Lawn. This refined journey of flavor and reflection offers a beautiful setting to gather with loved ones beneath a starlit sky and twinkling lights.

As the sun sets and the city’s pace slows, guests are invited to escape into a serene, open-air sanctuary. Surrounded by lush greenery and the soft, golden glow of lanterns, the evening begins with the soulful, rhythmic hum of live Oud tunes, setting a peaceful stage for reflection and connection.

The journey starts with the traditional breaking of the fast, featuring refreshing glasses of Jallab, Kamar Al Dein, Tamer Hindi, and Laban. This leads into a lavish Iftar buffet that celebrates both local heritage and global flair. Guests can explore an abundant spread of mezze and salads from creamy Hummus and Tabbouleh to crisp Cheese Sambousek, Meat Kibbeh, and Spinach Fatayer.

The heart of the feast offers a rich tapestry of flavors, featuring aromatic classics like Lamb Kofta, Chicken Shish Taouk, and succulent Ouzi. For those seeking a more international palate, the menu transitions seamlessly into dishes such as Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce and a live pasta station serving fresh Penne Arrabbiata. The air is further filled with the scent of tradition at the live cooking stations, where freshly prepared Saj (Cheese and Zaatar) and expert carvings are made to order.

The experience reaches a sweet crescendo with a decadent dessert selection. Whether it’s the warmth of Cheese Kunafa and Umm Ali, the crunch of Baklawa, or the modern indulgence of Chocolate Fudge and Passion Fruit Delight, there is a flavor for every craving.

As the night matures, the energy shifts into a relaxed Suhoor. In a setting designed for late-night conversations, guests can enjoy a curated à la carte menu of local delights. To round out the evening, a nearby shisha area offers a quiet space to unwind and soak in the calm of the night under the stars.

Event Details

Iftar
Time: Sunset to 9:00 pm

Suhoor
Price: À la carte
Time: 9:00 pm to 1:00 am

Dates: Daily throughout Ramadan
Location: Grand Garden Lawn, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection, JBR

Hospitality

RAMADAN AT MARRIOTT AL FORSAN, ABU DHABI

Published

5 days ago

February 27, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

Flavors of Ramadan: A Sensory Iftar to Remember

Step into the spirit of Ramadan with an unforgettable Iftar experience at Khayal, where tradition, passion, and togetherness come alive. Indulge in a lavish Iftar buffet featuring a carefully curated selection of traditional and international dishes, served in a warm and inviting ambiance inspired by the essence of the holy month.

Iftar Buffet:

Timing: From Sunset until 9:30 PM
Venue: Khayal, Marriott Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi

Early Bird Offer:

40% off for bookings made before 12th February 2026

Special Discounts:

30% off Iftar for in-house hotel guests
30% off for FAZAA cardholders
MoreCravings App: Buy One Get One Free

Serenity at Dawn: Suhoor & Group Ramadan Celebrations
A Peaceful Suhoor Indulgence & Memorable Group Gatherings

Enjoy a calm and comforting Suhoor experience at the Lobby Lounge, designed for those seeking nourishment and tranquility before dawn. Featuring a thoughtfully curated set menu, this Suhoor offering ensures a balanced and fulfilling start to your day.

Suhoor Set Menu:
Timing: 11:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Venue: Lobby Lounge, Marriott Al Forsan

For larger gatherings, celebrate the holy month together with Group Ramadan Packages, ideal for corporate Iftars and family reunions. Enjoy a delightful culinary journey paired with exceptional service in a festive atmosphere.

Group Ramadan Packages: