Hospitality

Designing destinations – How STORY Hospitality Weaves Culture, Comfort, and Convenience into its Sublime Spaces

Published

10 months ago

April 18, 2025

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.

Hospitality

JOE’S CAFÉ DUBAI ELEVATES THE RAMADAN EXPERIENCE WITH ICONIC BURJ KHALIFA VIEWS

Published

17 hours ago

February 13, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

A table at JOE’S CAFÉ DUBAI set for Iftar, featuring assorted dishes including lentil soup, avocado quinoa salad, grilled skewers, a beetroot and greens starter, slow‑cooked lamb shank with rice, bread slices, and a mint drink, all arranged on a patterned red tablecloth with small lanterns and warm natural lighting.

This Ramadan, Joe’s Café Dubai invites guests to gather for a moment of togetherness in one of the city’s most elegant dining settings. Nestled within Fashion Avenue at Dubai Mall and overlooking the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, Joe’s Café presents a luxury Iftar experience that blends British heritage with the warmth and spirit of Ramadan.

Built around the theme of “A Moment of Togetherness”, the Ramadan experience at Joe’s Café is thoughtfully designed for families, friends, and corporate groups to break their fast at sunset. The specially curated Iftar menu reimagines British classics with Ramadan warmth, featuring a selection of premium and balanced flavours.

Joe’s Café’s specially curated Ramadan Iftar menu is priced at AED 320 per person and showcases a refined selection of signature dishes designed for both comfort and indulgence.

Guests can begin with warming lentil soup, followed by starters such as Calamari Fritti or a fresh Avocado Quinoa Salad. The main course highlights include the slow-baked Lamb Shank served with aromatic lamb rice and yoghurt, perfectly grilled salmon with pea purée and ratatouille, garlic-flavoured grilled chicken with steak fries, and the much-loved Risotto Al Mare featuring calamari, prawns, and hammour in Joe’s signature pink sauce. Traditional Ramadan beverages including Jallab, tamarind, mixed dates and dry apricot drinks complement the experience.

As the call to prayer marks the end of the day, guests are welcomed into an atmosphere of refined comfort, attentive service, and understated luxury, where Iftar feels both elevated and familiar. With its fashion-heritage roots, skyline views, and lifestyle-led dining philosophy, Joe’s Café Dubai stands out as a must-visit Ramadan destination for those seeking an Iftar that is both culturally resonant and luxuriously composed.

Hospitality

Love Is on the Menu at Luciano’s

Published

17 hours ago

February 13, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

This Valentine’s Day, be transported to the heart of the Mediterranean at Luciano’s, where romance meets vibrant coastal flavors in an atmosphere brimming with charm and warmth. Celebrate love with an unforgettable dining experience that captures the true essence of Mediterranean cuisine, thoughtfully crafted to delight the senses and set the mood for a magical evening.

Guests will enjoy a specially curated sharing-style Valentine’s menu, starting with an amuse-bouche of Pescado Rojo salsa with tuna, spicy salsa, and avocado purée, followed by ricotta ravioli with pumpkin, feta, hazelnut, and crispy leek. The main course features slow-cooked ribs with beetroot, parsnip, and wild mushroom jus, while dessert showcases Valrhona raspberry chocolate with hazelnut cake, fleur de sel, feuillantine, and mignardises.

Adding a romantic touch to the evening, each lady will be presented with a rose and chocolate, making the occasion even more special. Whether raising a glass of bubbly or soaking in the lively ambiance, Luciano’s offers the perfect setting to celebrate love in style.

The Valentine’s Day experience is priced at AED 595 per couple, inclusive of soft beverages, or AED 695 per couple, including a glass of bubbly upon arrival.

Date: Valentine’s Day
Location: Luciano’s, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection.

Hospitality

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON – VALENTINE’S DAY

Published

19 hours ago

February 13, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

Skyline Symphony: A Love Story in 360° at Level 43

Celebrate Valentine’s Day high above the city at Level 43, where romance unfolds against breathtaking 360° panoramic skyline views. Designed for romance and exclusivity, the evening pairs elevated cuisine with premium sparkling selections, offering couples a choice of three thoughtfully curated packages, each crafted to create unforgettable moments as the city lights come alive.

Valentine’s Night Dining | Skyline Symphony Packages

The Horizon Classic: Four-course fusion menu with a bottle of house sparkling wine | AED 1,100 per couple

Venue: Level 43 Sky Lounge, Dubai

For more information, please contact +971 56 414 2213

Candlelight & Strings: Valentine’s Day at Publiq

Set the mood this Valentine’s Day with Candlelight & Strings at Publiq. Enjoy an intimate evening featuring a specially curated three-course Valentine’s set menu, complemented by live string music and a bottle of sparkling wine. A perfect setting for couples to celebrate love in a warm, romantic ambiance.

Details:

Date: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Venue: Publiq European Bistro, Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

A Playful Valentine’s Night at Purani Dilli, SZR

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a vibrant and quirky twist at Purani Dilli, SZR. Known for its lively atmosphere and gimmicky, Instagrammable food and beverage experiences, the venue sets the stage for a fun-filled evening that’s perfect for couples who love bold flavours and share-worthy moments. The special Valentine’s dinner features a four-course set menu, complemented by a glass of bubbly, served in an energetic and colourful setting that blends nostalgia with modern flair.

Details:

Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price: AED 279 per couple (including a glass of bubbly)
Venue: Purani Dilli, SZR

Valentine’s Night with 90s Romance at Purani Dilli, Bur Dubai

Step back in time this Valentine’s Day with a nostalgic twist at Purani Dilli, Bur Dubai. Enjoy a live 90s romantic song performance while indulging in a specially curated Valentine’s buffet made with premium ingredients. Each couple will also receive two glasses of bubbly, making it the perfect way to celebrate love in a lively yet intimate setting.

Details:

Time: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Venue: Purani Dilli, Bur Dubai

DJ Valentine Bash at Tipsy Tikka

Turn up the energy this Valentine’s Day at Tipsy Tikka with a high-octane DJ Valentine Bash. DJ Pepz will spin a mix of romantic, Bollywood, and commercial hits, creating the perfect soundtrack for couples and friends alike. Open to singles and groups, the night comes with unlimited alcoholic beverages and cocktails, promising a fun-filled, lively celebration.

Details: