Hospitality
Who Says Luxury Can’t Care? The H Dubai Rewrites the Rulebook!
Integrator Media had an exclusive interview with Sophie Blondel, General Manager, The H Dubai Hotel
What personally motivated you to champion sustainability and accessibility at The H Dubai?
I’m deeply committed to social responsibility and ethical practices, which fuels my personal motivation to champion these crucial causes. Understanding the significance of businesses operating ethically and their positive impact on society and the environment is fundamental to me. This commitment is not just rooted in professional obligations but also reflects my core values, awareness of global challenges, and a sincere desire to create a meaningful difference through my work.
What drove you to pursue the Certified Autism Center designation for The H Dubai, and how did it reflect your personal values?
I pursued the Certified Autism Center designation as a testament to our commitment to honesty and transparency in our business practices. It’s an acknowledgment of the imperative to enhance our hotel’s services for autistic guests, showcasing a genuine concern for the well-being and comfort of all our guests. By prioritizing a welcoming and inclusive environment, we ensure that everyone feels valued and respected.
This designation not only elevates the reputation of The H Dubai and attracts a broader range of guests but also mirrors my personal values of honesty, care, and integrity. It’s a reflection of the values embraced by our entire team, underlining our dedication to providing exceptional experiences while staying true to our principles of inclusivity and compassion.
What inspired the idea of hosting iftar events for kids from the Dubai Autism Center and Georgetown Early Intervention Center?
The inspiration stemmed from various factors that naturally led us to this initiative. Last year as we were looking at partnering with an organisation to host an Iftar as part of our CSR initiatives, the altruistic spirit of a former employee who was actively involved in a biker association supporting autism awareness deeply influenced us. Additionally, my personal experiences during college, where I was also engaged in weekly activities supporting autism awareness, played a significant role.
Furthermore, the exceptional personality of Zahra Alijasmi from the Georgetown Early Intervention Center further solidified our decision. Zahra came to the hotel and provided a training and awareness session to all team members and seeing the number of colleagues who attended the training, we were certain that this is the right initiative that we as a team would like to support.
The timing was also crucial; when we were ready and equipped, the opportunity presented itself, aligning perfectly with our values and mission.
Combining these reasons, we organically decided to host an iftar event for children from Georgetown Early Intervention Centre as a testament to promote inclusivity and autism awareness. Building on this success, partnering with Dubai Autism Centre this year felt like a natural progression, allowing us to extend our support to children, their families, and the dedicated educational teams not just once, but twice. These events not only fostered a sense of togetherness but also provided a platform to celebrate Iftar joyfully and inclusively.
Based on your experiences, what key piece of advice would you give to leaders aiming to integrate CSR deeply into their business models?
The pivotal advice I would give is to ensure that CSR initiatives mirror the values and objectives of the organization. When CSR efforts align seamlessly with the company’s core beliefs and long-term aspirations, they gain depth and longevity. It’s crucial to integrate CSR into the overarching business strategy rather than treating it as a standalone entity. This involves ingraining CSR considerations into decision-making processes across all facets and departments of the organization.
Furthermore, engaging stakeholders is paramount. This includes employees, customers, suppliers, and local communities. Actively seek their input, involve them in decision-making processes, and maintain transparent communication regarding CSR initiatives to cultivate trust and garner support.
Collaboration is another key aspect. Partner with other organizations, NGOs, government bodies, and industry peers to amplify the impact of CSR endeavours. By pooling resources and expertise, companies can effectively address complex social and environmental challenges.
Lastly, recognize that meaningful change requires dedication and time. Be prepared to invest resources and effort into initiatives that hold the potential to create lasting positive impacts.
Among all the projects you’ve led at The H Dubai, which one resonates with you the most on a personal level?
The recent Art Exhibition and workshop with the Dubai Autism Center kids, orchestrated by the exceptionally talented Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, and hosted at The H Dubai hotel to mark the World Autism Awareness Month, struck a chord with me on a profoundly personal level. It brought back memories of my own past experiences assisting autistic children with their studies in Normandy. Witnessing the transformative influence of creativity and human connection firsthand during this event left a lasting impact on me.
You recently held a World Tourism Day panel on inclusive tourism, so what was the purpose behind this discussion?
Since receiving the “First Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation” in Dubai, we have been actively looking for opportunities and ways to raise awareness and World Tourism Day was a perfect opportunity to cast a light on the topic. The panel aimed to raise awareness and foster understanding regarding the crucial integration of autism-friendly practices into the hospitality industry, with a specific emphasis on luxury 5-star hotels and beyond. The esteemed panel members comprised of thought leaders and mom’s who not only shared views on the future of industry but shared what is needed to achieve complete inclusive environment with first-hand experiences. It sought to underscore the advantages of offering inclusive services for individuals with autism and their families. Furthermore, the discussion aimed to provide actionable advice and insights for those interested in pursuing certification as autism-friendly destinations within the travel and entertainment sectors.
Looking ahead, what new CSR initiative are you most passionate about introducing at The H Dubai?
I’m excited about the prospect of introducing baking classes as a new CSR initiative, especially when tailored to include individuals on the autism spectrum. Our ongoing organization of both adult and children’s baking classes throughout the year, including private sessions, has been well-received. Given our highly experienced pastry team, I am confident that baking classes offer numerous benefits that align seamlessly with our values : such as skill enhancement, therapeutic value and social interaction.
I am also looking forward to the upcoming Vocational Training Programe that is currently being developed together with Dubai Autism Centre for the children at the centre. Under this program the hotel team will first provide vocational training to select students at DAC, following which the final aim is to then provide them with industry internship at the hotel grounds.
Quote: The hospitality industry is dynamic and ever-changing. Leaders must be adaptable and flexible, ready to pivot strategies, embrace new technologies, and respond swiftly to market trends and guest preferences.
Hospitality
MENA Hospitality Market Value Set to Top US$487 Billion by 2032 Amid Unprecedented Tourism Expansion
The value of MENA’s hospitality market is set to grow from US$310 billion in 2025 to more than US$487 billion by 2032, according to data released ahead of the Future Hospitality Summit – FHS World, Madinat Jumeirah Dubai, 27-29 October.
The travel and tourism sector is projected to contribute US$367 billion to the Middle East economy and support 7.7 million jobs this year, says the World Travel and Tourism Council. International visitor spending is expected to reach nearly US$194 billion, up nearly a quarter from 2019, pre-pandemic levels, with domestic spending forecast to hit US$113 billion.
As of Q2 2025, the Middle East’s hotel construction pipeline reached an all-time high of 650 projects with 161,574 rooms. At the end of June, 337 projects, with almost 86,500 rooms, were under construction, with 147 projects due to start by Q2 2026.
Saudi Arabia tops the Middle Eastern hotel construction chart, with more than 92,000 rooms across 342 projects. Next is Egypt with 127 projects and a record-high room count of over 28,000, followed by the UAE with 100 projects (25,470 rooms); Oman with 27 projects (4,709 keys) and Qatar with 16 projects (nearly 3,500 rooms).
The unprecedented hospitality, tourism and infrastructure expansion reinforces the region’s position as a global magnet for investment, say experts.
Amr El Nady, Head of Hotels & Hospitality MEA and Managing Director, Global Hotel Desk at Jones Lang Lasalle, said: “Saudi Arabia is targeting 150 million tourist arrivals annually by 2030, while Egypt aims for 30 million international visitors by 2028. Both nations are seeking to significantly increase tourism’s contribution to their GDP, with KSA targeting 10% and Egypt 15%. This strategic focus is driving substantial hospitality investment, with mega-projects like NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and AlUla in KSA, alongside Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, Ras Al Hekma, South Med and Red Sea developments.
“The surge in development creates opportunities for both major international hotel operators and boutique brands to diversify their portfolios by introducing new concepts ranging from ultra-luxury desert resorts to culturally immersive heritage properties. The diversification strategy allows operators to cater to evolving traveller preferences while supporting the countries’ objectives of transforming their economies through sustainable tourism growth and positioning themselves as premier global destinations.”
JLL added that liquidity in the hotel investment landscape remains remarkably robust, underpinned by resilient hotel trading performance and increasing tourist arrivals. Performance data shows year on year growth in terms occupancy and ADR metrics, reflecting the sector’s operational strength and market confidence.
Amr El Nady added: “This strong performance has significantly enhanced appetite from regional and international investors – from high-net-worth individuals to institutional players – all seeking high-yielding, income-generating hotel assets and mixed-use developments, particularly across the UAE market. The region’s investment appeal continues to attract diverse capital sources drawn to its strategic positioning and growth potential.
“Last year, JLL forecasted US$1.2 billion in Dubai hotel transactions, and current market activity indicates we are on track to exceed this milestone, further demonstrating sustained investor confidence.”
In the UAE, Dubai’s hospitality sector – which has around 10,000 new rooms on the way between now and 2027 – continues to deliver an outstanding performance, according to the hospitality division at leading real estate advisory group and property consultant, Cavendish Maxwell.
“Occupancy levels rose to 81% in H1 2025, an increase of 2.5% year-on-year,” said Vidhi Shah, Director, Head of Commercial Valuation at Cavendish Maxwell. “Meanwhile ADR across Dubai’s hotels and resorts reached US$159, up 4.7%. With its hospitality sector continuing to lead the way in setting new benchmarks in safety, inclusivity and connectivity, Dubai remains a premium, global destination for leisure and business travellers, in turn opening up a plethora of new investment opportunities.”
Oman is also increasingly becoming a hot spot for hospitality investment, with tourism expected to contribute 5% to GDP by 2030 and 10% by 2040 – and overtake transport and logistics to become the country’s second most important industry after hydrocarbons.
Oman is set to boost hotel room inventory by 25% by 2030, with 9,600 new keys on the way in the next five years, and 2,600 by the end of 2025, recent insight from Cavendish Maxwell shows. In H1 this year, more than 1.1 million guests checked in to 3-5 hotels, where revenues rose more than 18% to US$367 million. The strong performance led to almost 5% growth in hospitality employment, with 10,800 people now working in the industry.
The Middle East’s continued growth in tourism and hospitality is being further boosted by various government campaigns and initiatives across the region to encourage investment, international visits and business set up.
In KSA, upcoming global events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034 are boosting already strong demand for real estate, including project in the hospitality sector. In addition, from January 2026, foreigners will be able to purchase real estate assets in designated zones – a landmark development set to further deepen investor appetite.
Investment and real estate is a key track at FHS World, with more than 30 presentations, panel debates, workshops and one-to-one conversations covering everything from smart capital to sustainability and investment, cross border strategies to building global partnerships, investing in mixed-use projects and much more. Visit futurehospitality.com/world/agenda for subjects and speakers across the three-day programme.
Hospitality
Viva Italia! Future Hospitality Summit World showcases Italy’s new golden age of tourism with exclusive Country Pavilion
The Future Hospitality Summit – FHS World is unveiling a wealth of investment opportunities in Italy’s hospitality sector, with an exclusive pavilion showcasing the country’s new golden age of tourism.
The Italy Pavilion, on show at FHS World, Madinat Jumeirah Dubai, 27-29 October, will highlight the growth, evolution and future goals of the country’s hospitality and tourism sector, which is gearing up for a surge in lifestyle and boutique developments, heritage renovations, wellness retreats and sustainability-focussed offerings over the next 3-5 years.
Investor confidence in Italy has been boosted by a robust rebound of international tourism, with record arrivals over the last two years. Overnight stays reached 458.4 million in 2024, with overseas visitors accounting for more than half of them, making Italy the second most popular tourism destination in Europe, after Spain. Italy is seeing the fastest growth among major European destinations.
Marco G. Malacrida, Italia Hospitality founder, said: “Italy’s incredible – and historic – hospitality sector performance last year has created a virtuous circle, with increased demand fueling more investment, which in turn enables Italy to offer increasingly sophisticated hospitality products. The country is seen as a safe haven for capital and a dynamic, growing market that delivers long-term returns, particularly in projects that focus on sustainability, innovation, and premium, experience-led tourism. At FHS World, we will showcase how strong tourism demand, high-spending visitors and year-round appeal – backed by a government and tourist board commitment to facilitate investment, promote sustainability and enhance infrastructure – make Italy a solid choice for investors looking to create financial returns and a cultural impact.”

While luxury remains a cornerstone of Italy’s hospitality and tourism sector, lifestyle hotels, resorts and unique offerings in emerging Italian destinations and lesser-known regions are seeing the most dynamic growth. Investors are discovering the potential of places beyond traditional destinations such Rome, Florence and Milan, and shifting their focus to regions from Abruzzo to Sicily, Puglia to Piedmont, and Umbria to the Dolomites. There is also huge potential in turning Italy’s historical villas, monasteries and palaces into hospitality icons, while adventure, sports, arts, music and gastronomy tourism are also expanding rapidly.
With investors and travellers increasingly favouring destinations that respect the environment, support local communities and create long term value, Italy is also spotlighting sustainability as a key pillar of its future tourism strategy.
Jonathan Worsley, Chairman of the Bench, organiser of FHS World, said: “Italy is open and ready for investment, and we are delighted to help facilitate that investment with our exclusive Italy Pavilion at FHS World. Demand, diversification and discovery in Italy’s hospitality and tourism sector are creating exciting opportunities to become part of the country’s future – and to play a role in realising the country’s economic, tourism and sustainability goals. Viva Italia!”
The FHS World Italy Pavilion is one of four country-focused stands at the event, with the Maldives, Albania and the Philippines also featured.
Visit futurehospitality.com/world/country-pavilions for more details, and Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) | Homepage for all things FHS World.
Hospitality
NANDO’S UAE JUST GOT SAUCIER WITH NEW WINGS AND BOTTOMLESS TUESDAYS!
There’s something new on the grill at Nando’s UAE, and it’s set to turn up the flavour. The brand has unveiled its all-new Saucy Wings, available in two bold flavours, Honey & Soy and Spicy Brown Sugar, bringing a fresh twist and a little extra fun to Nando’s flame-grilled classics. Launching alongside is Bottomless Wing Tuesdays, a new midweek ritual that invites guests to add unlimited wings, and unlimited flavour, to their week.
The new Saucy Wings take a familiar favourite and turn it up a notch. Honey & Soy glazes each wing in smooth, savoury sweetness, while Spicy Brown Sugar delivers deeper caramelised heat with a gentle kick. Both are flame-grilled to perfection, coated generously, and made for sharing, comfort food that’s simple, bold, and unmistakably Nando’s.
Every Tuesday from 11 AM to 6 PM, diners can dig into Bottomless Wing Tuesdays and enjoy unlimited wings for one hour at AED 80. Running for a limited time from October 21st to November 18th, it’s perfect for flavourful catch-ups and easy midweek gatherings – turning an ordinary lunch or early dinner into something worth talking about.
“We wanted to bring something new, but in a way that still feels unmistakably Nando’s,” says George Kunnapally, Managing Director at Nando’s UAE. “Saucy Wings take something everyone already loves and give it a fresh twist – familiar, but more expressive. And with Bottomless Tuesdays, we’re creating an experience that’s all about sharing good food, good flavour, and a bit of fun.”
With its flame-grilled roots and unmistakable PERi-PERi spirit, Nando’s continues to evolve its menu while staying true to what it does best, food that’s honest, flavourful, and made to share.
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