ZāZEN Properties highlights Meydan as one of Dubai’s most rapidly emerging destinations for high-quality living and high-yield real estate investment. Backed by a surge in upscale developments, forward-thinking urban planning, and strong market performance, Meydan is drawing attention from discerning investors and homebuyers. Its growth aligns closely with the goals outlined in Dubai’s Urban Master Plan 2040 and Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which prioritises connected, sustainable and community-focused development.

Already recognised as one of Dubai’s most upscale localities, Meydan offers a mix of residential, commercial and family-focused experiences, characterised by premium retail outlets, luxury hotels, fine-dining establishments, and expansive green spaces. This strategy not only elevates residents’ quality of life but also attracts environmentally conscious investors seeking a more natural environment with long-term value.

Luxury real estate sales continue to soar, with properties priced above AED 15 million reaching AED 71 billion in sales value in 2024, a remarkable 688% increase since 2015. This trend is expected to persist as demand outpaces supply, with Meydan seeing a series of landmark developments reinforcing its potential. These include an AED 947 million ultra-luxury villa project, an AED 300 million residential project of 110 exclusive homes by an international developer, an AED 100 million community featuring eco-friendly residences with smart home technology, and other bespoke villas and apartment buildings.

Madhav Dhar, COO and Co-Founder of ZāZEN Properties, commented, “Meydan is emerging as an ideal micro market for high-end sustainable community living. Its combination of high-quality, luxury developments, strategic location, and focus on larger green community spaces aligns well with ZāZEN Properties’ vision of delivering thoughtful, future-ready living experiences.”

Headded, “Its accessibility from Downtown Dubai and Business Bay, coupled with proximity to Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and Dubai International Airport, makes Meydan an ideal choice for investors and residents alike.”

Residents of Meydan enjoy proximity to world-class amenities, including golf courses, cycling tracks, iconic Crystal Lagoon beaches, and the upcoming Meydan One Mall. This modern district is emerging as a forward-thinking urban centre—blending sustainable innovation with refined living. With projected annual rental yields between 6% and 8%, Meydan offers returns that exceed averages seen in other prime locations across Dubai and globally.

As the area continues to evolve, ZāZEN Properties remains committed to delivering high-quality, LEED-certified developments that support Dubai’s visionary urban future and add value to how its residents live.​

With the global travel technology market currently valued at $10.7 billion, leaders and innovators from around the world are preparing to steer the future of the tourism industry at the 32^nd edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 28 April to 1 May 2025.

ATM 2025’s extensive conference programme and exhibition reflect this year’s theme, ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’. With Travel Tech exhibitors experiencing year-on-year growth of 25% and the segment’s exhibition space expanding by 22%, this year’s event will explore how technology is transforming the tourism sector, presenting new growth opportunities for enterprising start-ups and established multinationals alike.

The Future Stage at ATM 2025 will host a range of expert speakers, who will explore how advances in fields such as analytics and machine learning, workplace collaboration, blockchain, next-gen mobility and augmented reality are driving our sector forward. This year’s event represents an unparalleled opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their innovations in front of an international audience of senior decision-makers and purchase influencers.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “ATM Travel Tech draws together the best and brightest from across our industry, creating an unrivalled forum for discovery, debate and deal-making. Now more than ever, opportunities related to connectivity and integration are at the forefront of our minds, and they will take centre stage at ATM 2025.”

According to IMARC Group, the global market for travel technology is on course to hit $18.6 billion in the next eight years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.05% predicted during the period 2025-33. ATM 2025’s Future Stage will host a range of presentations designed to highlight opportunities within this exciting and lucrative space. This year’s sessions will feature topics such as: ‘Generational Trends Influencing Hyper-personalisation in Luxury’; ‘Travel Technology: Get Ahead or Get Left Behind’; ‘AI: Everywhere All At Once’; and ‘Data-Driven Travel: The Next Frontier of Destination Transformations’, among others.

Tourism has consistently been an early adopter of emerging technologies, and digitalisation continues to drive seamless, frictionless travel. Looking ahead, the development of smart travel facilitation, smart destinations and new employment opportunities is set to contribute to economic, social and environmental sustainability across our sector.

While the Middle East and Africa’s (MEA) travel tech market is facing stiff competition from Asia-Pacific nations, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are responding effectively to increased demand from tech-savvy consumers, leveraging the latest innovations to enhance their appeal as global travel destinations.

“I can’t think of a better host city for ATM Travel Tech than Dubai, which continues to raise aspirations both regionally and globally with its commitment to the Smart Dubai strategy,” said Curtis. “Smart travel, transport, artificial intelligence (AI) and urban planning initiatives are driving increased innovation and connectivity across the emirate, making it the ideal meeting point for leaders and disruptors from other markets.”

Smart technologies, mobile applications, contactless solutions and similar cutting-edge innovations will be on show at ATM 2025’s Travel Tech exhibition, which will showcase a dynamic lineup of new and returning exhibitors including Amadeus, Huawei, Sabre, Expedia, Travelport, Dida Travel, Hotelbeds, WebBeds and Moonline Travel, among others.

ATM 2025 will bring together professionals and industry leaders from the leisure, luxury, travel tech, corporate, and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) travel sectors, providing a platform for networking, knowledge sharing and business opportunities. In addition to the exhibition, international and regional experts will take to ATM’s Global, Future and brand-new Business Events stages throughout the event to deliver an extensive conference programme.

Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025’s strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.

By Victor Abou-Ghanem, CEO, STORY Hospitality

More than just places to stay, STORY Hospitality’s hotels are immersive experiences. By blending cultural authenticity with contemporary luxury, the brand creates spaces that inspire, delight, and stand the test of time.

Great hospitality design transcends aesthetics. It’s about creating spaces that shape experiences. Whether it’s an awe-inspiring lobby, a room that tells a story with every detail, or a restaurant that transports guests, the best hotels masterfully blend beauty with belonging.

A challenging balance to strike, yet STORY Hospitality does it exquisitely.

With a luxury hotel portfolio that spans the Middle East, North Africa, and the Indian Ocean, the Abu Dhabi-based brand (the hospitality arm of Abu Dhabi Capital Group) takes a deeply considered approach to design. Each property is a poetic reflection of its surroundings and heritage, making way for cultural authenticity to flow throughout the guest experience.

And while the vision is robust, the challenge lies in execution, often bringing larger-than-life concepts to realisation while ensuring it all remains functional, timeless, and sustainable.

Striking the right balance between form and function

Luxury and comfort are central to STORY Hospitality’s approach, but designing a hotel is never just about looks. Each design decision must also serve the overall guest journey.

“Functionality is critical,” says CEO Victor Abou-Ghanem.

“Guests should feel at ease in our spaces. But we also understand the impact of aesthetics – sometimes, bending practical rules to captivate the eyes and heart is worth it.”

That means prioritising practicality where it matters most – ergonomic seating, intuitive room layouts, and seamless workspace integration – while allowing for creative expression to tell a broader story. Statement pieces that become social media moments are encouraged, while high-touch surfaces, like corridor walls, are designed with durability in mind.

A story in every space

What sets STORY Hospitality apart is its ability to craft a distinct narrative for each property. Instead of rolling out a standardised design template, the brand takes inspiration from the local culture and history of each destination.

One standout example is STORY Rabat, designed by the renowned Studio MHNA. The hotel pays tribute to Zyriab, the 9th-century visionary who redefined art, music, and culture.

The design blends Moroccan soul with European sophistication, featuring intricate hand-carved details, majestic courtyards, and the warm and inviting glow of traditional lanterns. In the guest rooms, Sabra (vegetable silk derived from aloe vera cacti), a shimmering fibre used in Moroccan garments, adds a rich textural layer to the décor.

This is just one of several examples, where STORY Hospitality delves into the details of local culture and proudly shines a spotlight on them through each property’s design.

Turning concept into creation

A strong concept is only the beginning. Turning a design vision into a functioning hotel, on time and within budget, is one of the loftiest challenges in the industry.

“Execution is always the hardest part,” CEO Victor admits.

“Hospitality projects involve multiple stakeholders, and time is always a factor. Delays cost money, so we have to deliver quality without compromising deadlines.”

Sustainability is another indispensable consideration. All STORY properties hold Green Key certification, an internationally recognised mark of eco-conscious hospitality. From energy-efficient lighting and smart building systems to low-flow water fixtures and locally sourced materials, sustainability is woven into each property’s design philosophy.

Balancing trends with timeless design

Hotels must remain relevant for years, even decades, after they open.

STORY Hospitality approaches this challenge by ensuring that core design elements are timeless, while allowing for flexibility in how spaces are activated. “Sometimes, it’s not about changing the physical space but about how you curate it,” Victor notes. “A conference corridor can feel entirely different depending on how a coffee break is set up. Lighting can completely transform a spa – or any space’s – ambience. These details keep a space feeling fresh.”

Going beyond a place to stay

STORY Hospitality believes that hotels go beyond just places to stay, they’re part of a journey. Whether a guest is travelling for business, relaxation, or adventure, the hotel experience should complement and enhance their trip, shaping their memories along the way.

“We’re in the business of crafting experiences. Travellers don’t just want a bed for the night, they want a connection to the destination. Our role is to be part of that story.”, Victor concludes.

What does the future of hospitality design look like?

As the industry evolves, STORY Hospitality is keeping an eye on emerging trends that align with its brand values. Smart and contactless technology, AI-enabled personalisation, and carbon-neutral hotel initiatives are all on the horizon.

By embracing innovation while staying true to its commitment to cultural authenticity, guest comfort, and sustainability, STORY Hospitality is proving that great design isn’t just about how a hotel looks – it’s about how it makes people feel.