Hospitality

Individually, we are a drop, but together, we are an ocean

Published

1 year ago

August 30, 2024

Integrator Web-Editor

Interview with Amit Arora, Chief Operating Officer, Arada

What’s your vision for the newly formed Hospitality and Entertainment division?

Connected Life is Arada’s ethos, and collectively we believe that when people and spaces connect, great things happen. We think that the spaces between the homes we build are just as important as the homes themselves, and our goal is to ensure that our communities help people to lead happier, healthier and more meaningful lives. That’s the guiding light behind Arada’s new Hospitality and Entertainment division, which closely complements our other activities by providing a holistic experience that encompasses Lodging, Fitness, Wellness, Food & Beverage, and Entertainment.

Assets include the 10-building Nest student housing complex in Aljada – Sharjah’s largest ever mixed-used megaproject located next to University City – which has over 3,000 keys, as well as exciting new F&B brands like Boost Juice and Hungry Wolves, both of which offer healthy and enriching menus.

We also have an incredible array of family-friendly attractions and other assets including the region’s biggest skate park in Aljada; the 6.6km professional woodland cycling track in our Masaar forested megaproject in Sharjah; our nursery in Aljada which incorporates educational tours around the 130,000 trees based there and Yalla, our e-bike and scooter rental solution in our communities.

Upcoming assets include the Il Teatro performing arts complex in Aljada, and a whole range of new F&B concepts that will enhance our portfolio. Despite launching just seven years ago, Arada has evolved rapidly from being a developer, into a master developer and now into a destination developer, and this new division fully complements that approach.

What motivated Arada to expand into the hospitality sector, and what unique strengths does the company bring to this new venture?

As Arada matures, there’s been a shift from building and selling to building and operating, driving recurring revenue and diversification. This has led to the creation of this new division and the consolidation of leisure assets under a single leadership. With Arada’s hotel projects progressing well and nearing completion, the timing is ideal to initiate in-house hotel operations capabilities.

How is Arada’s existing partnerships with hospitality brands like Armani, The Address, Vida, and Rove?

Arada partners with world-class hospitality brands with long-term agreements. Strategic partnerships add value to real estate launches while offering premium lifestyle experiences to guests and homeowners. Our hospitality and branded residences partnerships include brands as diverse as Anantara, Armani, Rove, The Address and Vida, with more new names in the pipeline. Given the impressive surge in interest in the hospitality industry in the UAE, thanks to the business-friendly regulatory environment and welcoming policies put in place by the local government, we are also considering the launch of our own hotel brand.

How do Arada’s wellness and F&B operations, such as Wellfit and Boost Juice, complement the overall hospitality strategy?

One of Arada’s overall goals is to provide all stakeholders – whether residents, visitors or even its own staff – with the opportunity to enjoy an active healthy lifestyle. Brands like Wellfit and Boost Juice integrate with our assets, such as promoting Boost to Wellfit’s 15,000 active members. Similarly, Manbat sources fresh, locally grown produce straight from Emirati farms for Hungry Wolves, which serves nutritious meals. This cross-promotion drives a sustainable and circular economy.

What innovative concepts and strategies do you plan to implement to differentiate Arada’s hospitality offerings in a competitive market?

Innovation is central to Arada’s culture, and this is immediately obvious from a visit to one of our communities, from the uniqueness of the landscaping to the smart technology that is incorporated at both a house and city level. That level of innovation is also already evident in many of the assets in this division; if we take Wellfit as an example, the brand is testing state-of-the-art technology that very few operators around the world are using. We’re now seeing industry insiders travelling from the UK and US to see how we run our operations at Wellfit, whereas previously it was the other way around.

Our goal is continue this track record of innovation and implement it across all our assets, including our hospitality offerings. We live in a world where technology is changing the way we live on an almost daily basis; our willingness to embrace these technologies, combined with a lack of legacy processes and equipment means that Arada is best placed to capitalise on these new trends.

How does Arada aim to create spaces and experiences that promote happiness and well-being for guests and residents?

Care is one of three core principle at Arada, reflecting our genuine concern for customers and employees. Providing a happy, rewarding experience is core to our vision, and all our communities are carefully planned to allow all residents and visitors the chance to enjoy a huge range of activities – dining, sports, entertainment, shopping and relaxation – just a few yards from their front door. At Aljada for example, you can access the biggest family entertainment complex in the northern Emirates, a bustling business park, a next-generation mall, a beautifully designed performing arts centre and plenty of sports, retail and dining options, as well as three international schools and our hotels – all set within impressive green landscaping. You can access all of this within walking distance from your home. Internally, we’ve launched the Arada Cycling Team (ACT) to promote health and happiness and cultivate a work-life balance. And in August, we’re organizing group cycling at Masaar Track to encourage activity and camaraderie, while Wellfit’s ‘Summer Of’ camp will offer a program of activities centered around happiness and well-being for its members, guests, and resident.

Hospitality

Orange Hub Unveils Flagship Family Entertainment Center at WTC Mall, Abu Dhabi

Published

13 hours ago

November 7, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Orange Hub, the high-energy entertainment concept by IdeaCrate, proudly announces the grand opening of its fifth UAE center—and third in Abu Dhabi—at WTC Mall. This flagship venue cements Orange Hub’s position as a rising leader in the UAE’s family entertainment sector, bringing a new era of immersive fun, adrenaline-filled games, and elevated dining to the heart of downtown Abu Dhabi.

Located in a central, high-traffic hub, Orange Hub WTC Mall introduces next-generation attractions not seen in other branches, including a four-lane interactive bowling alley, a state-of-the-art Laser Tag Avenue, a motion-sensitive Pixel Floor Game, and a giant volcano slide in the expanded soft play area. Families, teens, and young adults can also enjoy an expansive arcade and carnival games with high-value redemption rewards.

For the first time, Orange Hub debuts a fully reimagined Orange Café, offering an elevated dining experience with a robust menu designed for comfort, variety, and style—perfect for families and youth looking for the ultimate hangout.

Signature weekly promotions return, including:

Hi5 Tuesday: AED 5 games (select games, excluding bowling and laser tag)
Half Price Thursday: 50% off blue reader games
Double Dirham Friday: Double credit on spend

Shifa Yusuffali, CEO of IdeaCrate said: “Our mission is to create a next-generation family entertainment center where thrill meets play and every visit feels like a win. With cutting-edge attractions, immersive games, and our signature ‘Play. Win. Feast. Repeat.’ experience, Orange Hub is designed for kids, teens, and families to come together, have fun, and make lasting memories—all under one vibrant roof.”

Orange Hub at WTC Mall is now open and ready to welcome families, youth, and anyone seeking the best in urban leisure culture. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a casual outing, or a new spot to feast and play, Orange Hub promises a rewarding experience for all.

Hospitality

RIVA BEACH CLUB WELCOMES THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH UNFORGETTABLE BEACHFRONT EVENTS AND EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Published

13 hours ago

November 7, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Infinity pool overlooking beach and Dubai skyline with palm trees and sun loungers at beachfront resort

The festive season in Dubai is here, and there’s no better place to embrace the celebrations than Riva Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah. Blending golden sands, turquoise waters, and a relaxed spirit, Riva is turning up the fun with a sparkling lineup of events, from weekly experiences to Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Early bird offers are available until 10 November 2025 – because who doesn’t love a good discount?

Christmas Day Brunch – Celebrate in True Riva Style

Gather your loved ones for a spectacular Christmas feast that blends beachside charm with festive cheer. Indulge in an unlimited buffet of holiday classics and sweet treats, all paired with free-flowing drinks and live entertainment. Little ones will be thrilled with the dedicated kids’ fun zone and crafts, while adults can toast the day with complimentary wine on arrival.

For those looking to welcome 2026 in style, the New Year’s Eve Celebration promises a vibrant beachfront evening with panoramic skyline views, live music, festive décor, and free-flowing drinks under the stars. It’s the ultimate way to ring in the New Year with friends and family right on the sand!

In addition to its festive offerings, Riva Beach Club continues to host a variety of weekly experiences designed for every guest.

UAE Resident Offer (Every Monday): Start the week with sunshine and flavour. Residents enjoy 50% off the à la carte menu, perfect for a midweek pause with Mediterranean favourites and waterfront vibes.

Mankind Tuesdays (Every Tuesday): Turn a regular Tuesday into an adventure. Men get full beach and pool access, curated dining, up to 50% off water sports rentals with Ignite Water Sports, and 30% off at Kalm Grooming Salon – all for AED 99 per person. Paddleboards, kayaks, and e-foils bring adrenaline and fun, making it the ultimate weekday escape.

The Great Family Weekend (Saturday & Sunday): Weekends just got better. Families can enjoy pool and beach access, curated dining, and kids’ entertainment. The package is AED 399 for two adults and AED 99 per child, with night swim access until 10 PM, because the fun shouldn’t stop when the sun goes down.

Located along Palm Jumeirah’s scenic coastline, Riva Beach Club continues to define the city’s beach lifestyle. With Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, relaxed energy, and stunning views, it remains a favourite destination to celebrate, dine, and unwind for all ages.

Hospitality

CELEBRATE THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON AT VOCO BONNINGTON DUBAI

Published

13 hours ago

November 7, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Chef cooking marinated meat and vegetables on a flat-top grill at a teppanyaki restaurant

‘Tis the season to sparkle and voco Bonnington Dubai is wrapping up the year with a line-up of festive feasts and celebrations that promise to make this holiday season your most memorable yet. From lavish brunches and glittering gala dinners to gourmet takeaways that bring the magic home, every moment at voco Bonnington is designed to be merry, bright and full of flavour!

Festive Takeaways – A Feast to Remember (with a 20% Early Bird Offer!)

Why cook when you can celebrate? This year, voco Bonnington Dubai is serving up the ultimate festive feast to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Choose between a succulent roast turkey with all the trimmings (AED 849) or a perfectly cooked roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and rich gravy (AED 549) – both crafted by the hotel’s culinary team to perfection.
Make it extra jolly with the Early Bird 20% discount on all takeaway orders placed before 10th December – the perfect excuse to start celebrating early!

Christmas Day Brunch at The Cavendish Restaurant

Unwrap joy this Christmas Day with a spectacular international buffet spread, live entertainment, and a festive atmosphere that feels like home – only better. Whether you’re toasting with bubbles or keeping it family-style, The Cavendish sets the scene for a day of good food, great company and endless cheer.

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner – Countdown in Style

Say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026 with an evening to remember at The Cavendish. Enjoy a decadent international buffet, live entertainment, and the perfect setting to toast to new beginnings as the clock strikes midnight.

Festive Group Bookings – Gather, Feast, and Celebrate Together

Whether it’s an office party or a year-end get-together with friends, The Cavendish Restaurant is the perfect spot for festive group celebrations. Enjoy a specially curated menu starting from AED 149 per person (minimum 20 guests) and raise a glass to togetherness in true voco style.

This season, let voco Bonnington Dubai take care of the details so you can focus on what really matters — celebrating with the people you love, in a place where every moment feels special.