Hospitality

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

Published

1 year 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

THE COVE ROTANA RESORT RAS AL KHAIMAH APPOINTS AZMI SHALABY AS GENERAL MANAGER

Published

1 week ago

June 5, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

The Cove Rotana Resort Ras Al Khaimah is proud to announce the appointment of Mr Azmi Shalaby as the new General Manager of the five-star property.

Set along a private stretch of coastline between rolling hills, lagoons, and lush landscaped gardens, the resort continues to strengthen its position as one of the emirate’s leading leisure destinations with the appointment of Shalaby as General Manager. Under his leadership, the property will focus on further elevating the guest journey, refining the resort in line with Rotana brand standards, strengthening commercial growth, and introducing new activations across the destination.

In his new role, Shalaby will oversee all aspects of the resort’s operations, supporting the continued evolution of the property while reinforcing Rotana’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across the region.

Commenting on his appointment, Shalaby said: “I am pleased to join The Cove Rotana Resort Ras Al Khaimah at such an exciting stage in its journey. The resort already holds a distinctive position within the region’s hospitality landscape, and I look forward to working closely with the team to further enhance the guest experience, build on the property’s strong reputation, and continue creating memorable stays shaped by genuine hospitality and operational excellence.”

Bringing with him nearly 30 years of hospitality experience, Shalaby joins the resort following an accomplished career across internationally recognised hospitality brands. Having started his journey in the industry in 1996, he previously held leadership roles with InterContinental Hotels Group before joining Rotana in 2008 at Grand Rotana Resort & Spa.

Over the course of 18 successful years with Grand Rotana Resort & Spa, Shalaby played a key role in driving operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and commercial performance, while contributing to several notable industry achievements and awards. His extensive experience in resort operations, team leadership, and strategic planning positions him strongly to lead the next chapter of the resort’s journey.

Hospitality

GAULT&MILLAU SAUDI ARABIA LAUNCHES FIRST EDITION, HONORING ALMOST 250 RESTAURANTS ACROSS THE KINGDOM

Published

2 weeks ago

June 3, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

The first edition of the Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia Gala took place on June 2, 2026, at Radisson Manhal – Riyadh, marking a major milestone for the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving culinary and hospitality sectors. In the presence of ambassadors and official representatives, the gala and awards ceremony brought together chefs, restaurants, hospitality professionals, journalists, influencers and partners to highlight culinary excellence and honor the talents shaping the future of Saudi gastronomy.

Held in collaboration with the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, under the Ministry of Culture, with the support of HSME, the event marks the official launch of Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed the standing of the prestigious Yellow Guide as a trusted benchmark for culinary quality, creativity and excellence in the Kingdom.

A major highlight of the evening was the unveiling and distribution of the official Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia Guide. Featuring a carefully curated selection of almost 250 restaurants across five of the Kingdom’s major cities — Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, Abha and Dammam — the guide sets a new national benchmark for culinary quality and creativity, positioning Saudi Arabia firmly on the global gastronomic stage. Through this national selection, the guide aims to uncover hidden gems, showcase regional diversity and highlight Saudi Arabia’s distinctive flavors, traditions and innovations. The guide also shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of women restaurateurs and chefs, whose leadership continues to shape and elevate Saudi Arabia’s dining scene.

Each selected restaurant receives an official Gault&Millau plaque, reflecting its inclusion in the national guide and acknowledging its contribution to the growth and visibility of the Kingdom’s dynamic F&B industry.

The evening also honored exceptional culinary and hospitality talent through five special trophies, three of which were presented to brilliant women in the industry:

Chef of the Year: Wed Saleh
Pastry Chef of the Year: Hachem Taleb
General Manager of the Year: Sara Katanani
Emerging Chef of the Year: Elia Kaadi
Young Talent of the Year: Nihal Felemban

A special Inspiring Leadership Award was presented to Mayada Badr, CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission, for empowering the industry and for her valuable work and vision

Patrick Hayoun, CEO of Gault&Millau France and International, said: “The launch of Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia represents an important step in our international journey and reflects the remarkable momentum of the Kingdom’s culinary scene. Through this first edition, we are proud to highlight almost 250 restaurants and recognize the chefs, teams and talents shaping a distinctive Saudi gastronomic identity. Gault&Millau’s mission has always been to discover, support and promote culinary excellence, and Saudi Arabia offers an extraordinary landscape of creativity, ambition and authenticity.”

Mayada Badr, CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, added: “The launch of the first Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia Gala reflects the growing maturity, creativity and diversity of the Kingdom’s culinary sector. At the Culinary Arts Commission, we are committed to preserving Saudi culinary heritage while empowering chefs, restaurants and hospitality professionals to innovate and reach new levels of excellence. This platform contributes to strengthening the visibility of Saudi gastronomy locally and internationally while supporting the Kingdom’s broader cultural transformation.”

Joumana Dammous Salame, managing director of HSME, commented: “We are proud to support the launch of Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia in collaboration with Gault&Millau and the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission. This first edition is an important moment for the Kingdom’s culinary scene, bringing together restaurants, chefs, journalists, influencers and partners around one shared ambition: to celebrate excellence, encourage innovation and give Saudi gastronomy the recognition it deserves on both the regional and international stage.”

Beyond recognition, the gala provided a platform for connection and collaboration, fostering dialogue, visibility and new opportunities for Saudi culinary talent within the region and beyond.

The Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia platform is built around three primary components:

Printed Guide: The Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia Guide will serve as a key resource for exploring the Kingdom’s culinary scene. The edition includes expert reviews of top restaurants, chef profiles and signature recipes. It also features city- and region-based highlights, along with toque ratings from 1 to 5, covering a wide range of price points and making the guide accessible and inclusive for all readers.

Digital Platform: The Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia website, part of the international platform, will offer an engaging digital experience with updated restaurant reviews, practical details and direct links, providing greater visibility for local establishments.

Annual Gala: The Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia Gala is designed as an annual cornerstone gathering, offering networking opportunities for chefs, journalists, influencers and partners while showcasing Saudi culinary excellence to both national and international guests. Honoring the country’s top culinary talents, the event will feature an awards ceremony with Gault&Millau plaques and trophies.Through this collaboration, Gault&Millau and the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission aim to elevate local culinary talent, create new industry standards and promote international connections that will help shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s culinary landscape. Further editions are planned, with new cities set to join the prestigious listing

Editor’ note: Attached list of

restaurants with 3 toques – REMARQABLE RESTAURANTS
restaurants with 2 toques- CHEF’S RESTAURANTS
restaurants with 1 toque- GOURMET RESTAURANTS
Selected restaurants

ABOUT GAULT&MILLAU

Founded in 1969 by journalists Henri Gault and Christian Millau, the Yellow Guide has dedicated over 50 years to identifying and listing the finest restaurants, artisans and specialty shops across various regions. Today, Gault&Millau continues its mission to support chefs and emerging talents worldwide by discovering and promoting local gastronomy on a global scale.

As a recognized authority in gastronomy and hospitality across 20 countries, Gault&Millau has become a benchmark for culinary excellence, building a prestigious network of over 14,000 restaurants and attracting millions of followers. With the expertise of more than 400 professional inspectors, Gault&Millau aims to discover, celebrate and elevate both established and emerging culinary talents. The brand’s mission is to showcase local culinary traditions globally, offering a trusted standard of quality and fostering growth within the industry.

ABOUT THE SAUDI CULINARY ARTS COMMISSION

Founded in 2020, the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission is leading the further development of the Kingdom’s culinary arts sector. By driving investment and building robust regulatory frameworks, the Commission is supporting the next generation of Saudi chefs and hospitality professionals as they aspire to reach their full potential.

Together with the Ministry of Culture, the Commission is working to unlock a thriving cultural sector to preserve and elevate the culinary traditions that make the Kingdom unique.

To learn more about the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, please visit https://culinary.moc.gov.sa/en and the Commission’s pages on Instagram @mocculinary and X @MOCCulinary.

ABOUT HOSPITALITY SERVICES MIDDLE EAST (HSME)

Founded over 30 years ago, Hospitality Services specializes in organizing hospitality and foodservice exhibitions and events across the region, including HORECA Lebanon, HORECA Jordan, HORECA Kuwait, HORECA Riyadh, HORECA Oman, Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai, Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh and Whisky Live Beirut. The firm’s events extend to publications and platforms that serve the hospitality, foodservice and tourism industries, namely Hospitality News Middle East, Lebanon Traveler and Taste & Flavors.

Hospitality

YOUR OFFICE JUST GOT AN UPGRADE: VOCO BONNINGTON DUBAI LAUNCHES ITS WORKATION EXPERIENCE

Published

2 weeks ago

June 3, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

As Dubai’s professionals redefine what a productive workday looks like, voco Bonnington Dubai is introducing its Workation offer, a 24-hour stay package for those who believe where you work is just as important as how you work

There is something to be said for a change of scenery. Positioned in the heart of Jumeirah Lake Towers and moments from the DMCC Metro, voco Bonnington brings together the comfort of a luxury stay with the infrastructure of a fully equipped workplace. The result is a seamless experience where productivity and indulgence don’t just coexist, they quietly elevate each other.

The Workation package starts from AED 275 and includes a 24-hour stay with a complimentary upgrade to a deluxe room, access to the pool and gym, two hours of meeting room access for up to five guests, complimentary coffee or tea in the meeting room or Author’s Lounge, and a 20% discount across all food and beverage outlets. Terms and conditions apply.

For anyone who has ever wondered what their workday could look like with a little more breathing room, the answer might be closer than expected. Built around the idea that productivity thrives when the environment does too, the Workation moves away from the tired “work from the beach” fantasy and toward something far more useful: a city-based experience shaped around real schedules and real results.

In a city that rarely slows down, this is something quietly radical. An intentional pause that doesn’t require leaving Dubai or clearing your calendar. Just a better version of the workday, right in the middle of it.