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

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
Park Regis Kris Kin Unveils Level 19 Lounge & Bar – A bold New Chapter in Dubai’s Social and Culinary Scene

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai proudly announces the official opening of Level 19 Lounge & Bar. Located on the 19th floor of this 5-star hotel, the sophisticated yet unassuming venue is perfect for the city’s discerning tastemakers, offering an elegant fusion of modern global cuisine, artisan mixology, and elevated ambiance.
A seamless meld of bold flavors and stylish design, Level 19 Lounge & Bar is more than just a lounge—it is an immersive experience. With sleek and reflective interiors akin to Dubai’s skyline, this venue exudes Dubai’s multicultural essence. Rich maroon, grey, and black interiors complemented by elegant silver accents provide for a dramatic yet embracing atmosphere. The vertical “19” motif punctuates the space, symbolizing its sky-high ambition and location in the building.
The menu at Level 19 Lounge & Bar celebrates culinary artistry with selections crafted to intrigue and impress. From Golden-seared Scallops on Cauliflower Purée to the indulgent Tomahawk Steak, each offering is a masterclass in flavor and presentation. The culinary journey continues with globally inspired creations such as Teriyaki Beef Steak Kebabs and Herb Chicken with Rice Pilaf, each attesting to Dubai’s traditional yet cosmopolitan cultural vibrancy.
The cocktail selection is equally daring, with handcrafted concoctions like The L19 Knock Out and Pinky Butter On Top, drawing their origins from local inspiration and storytelling. These signature drinks, served with style and sophistication, embody the spirit of the lounge—a balance of understated flair and luxury, hence the venue’s tagline of Sultry Sophistication.
Michael Chan, General Manager of Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, shared his vision, “At Park Regis Kris Kin, we understand that today’s guests seek more than just luxury—they seek meaningful experiences. Level 19 Lounge & Bar is designed to be just that: a place where social moments become memories, and where culinary innovation meets cultural authenticity. It’s a celebration of Dubai’s dynamic rhythm—elegant, energetic, and ever-evolving.”
The official opening event was a glittering affair, drawing a distinguished guest list of media personalities, influencers, radio hosts, and representatives from some embassies. The evening highlighted Level 19 Lounge & Bar’s mission to becoming a part of Dubai’s hip cultural and culinary scene.
Hospitality
Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai becomes the first Hotel in the region to partner with Cryptocurrency juggernaut Bybit

Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai has officially signed a breakthrough partnership with Bybit. Held on 9th May at the hotel, the signing ceremony marks the beginning of the region’s first collaboration between a leading hospitality brand and a digital finance juggernaut, paving the way for the future of travel, payments, and lifestyle integration. It also makes Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai Bybit’s first-ever hotel partner.
The official signing ceremony was attended by Helen Liu, COO & Partner of Bybit, Sheikh Almualla bin Ahmed Almualla & Feras Al Sadek of Ghaf Group, and Giacomo Puntel, General Manager of Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai.
This strategic alliance enables Bybit cardholders to unlock up to 30 percent in savings across Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai’s standout offerings. Guests can now enjoy exclusive privileges at signature venues including Belgian Beer Café, Toshi Pan Asian Restaurant, Lucky Voice Dubai, Crystal Bar, and Juzz Bar. The benefits also extend to hotel room suites and serviced apartments, meeting and event spaces, and expert catering services, making everyday moments more rewarding for Bybit’s tech-savvy global community.
“This partnership is a signal of where the future of travel and lifestyle is headed,” said Giacomo Puntel, General Manager of Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai. “As the first hotel brand in the region to join forces with Bybit, we are proud to be part of a digital evolution that places accessibility, innovation, and guest experience at the heart of everything we do.”
The collaboration represents a major leap forward in integrating cryptocurrency into real-world travel, making everyday luxuries more attainable for Bybit’s tech-forward community. Whether booking a weekend staycation, planning a corporate gathering, or heading out for a night of exceptional dining and entertainment, Bybit users will find Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai more connected, convenient, and future-ready than ever before.
“Bybit is on a mission to integrate crypto payments into every spending and daily luxuries for our community. UAE Dubai is one of the most popular destinations for entrepreneurs and crypto fans, and this partnership reflects our commitment to supporting them throughout their crypto journeys around the world,” said Helen Liu, COO & Partner of Bybit.
The Bybit Card boasts year-round offers including exclusive travels, early access to premium events, and an expanding network of global partners. The digital-native crypto and fiat card is one of the fastest growing payment solutions of its kind with over 1.7 million cards issued worldwideworld wide.
The benefits are reserved for Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai guests who use their Bybit Card for eligible payments at the hotel only.

Hospitality
United Foods Company reports strong FY2024 performance

United Foods Company announced financial results for the full year ended 31 December 2024.
Against a backdrop of geopolitical volatility and rising costs, United Foods achieved significant growth in revenue and profitability and reinforced its strong financial and market position, delivering on its long-term strategy for development. Total gross revenue rose to a record AED 601.7 million, supported by a 5.9% increase in sales volumes.
Profitability strengthened as gross profit increased 8% to AED 99.6 million, supported by improved cost controls, procurement optimisation, and product mix enhancements. Net profit before tax increased 11% to AED 33.9 million. Net profit after tax remained stable at AED 30.8 million.
The Board of Directors proposed a cash dividend of 100% of the paid-up capital for 2024, equivalent to AED 1 per share or AED 30.25 million in total. This proposed dividend payout, subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming Annual General Meeting, reflects the Group’s strong financial position and its continued focus on delivering value to its shareholders. United Foods Company is one of only three companies in the UAE to propose 100% cash dividend.
Fethi Khiari, Chief Executive Officer at United Foods Company, commented, “In all, 2024 was a milestone year of achievement for United Foods. We increased sales volumes and revenue, protected margins, continued to deliver dynamic, high-quality products and diversified our product portfolio to better delight our customers. These key initiatives have enabled us to reinforce our robust position in the UAE and in all the markets we serve.
I am pleased to announce that under the recommendation of the Board, there will be 100% cash dividend of the paid-up capital for 2024 in line with our sustainable and progressive dividend policy, at our Annual General Meeting. We would like to thank our shareholders for their continued support and trust in us.
Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to our strategic path that will enhance value for our shareholders, as we continue to scale our operations and invest in automation and efficiency. Our commitment to Emiratization remains core to our corporate vision, and we are proud to be building a business that is both future-fit and locally rooted.”
Operational and strategic highlights:
- The Group invested AED 12.8 million in capital expenditure, primarily directed towards the installation of two new product lines: fractionation unit and PET blowing machine to produce bio-degradable bottles.
Operational performance and outlook
Throughout 2024, United Foods maintained a sharp focus on cost efficiency and working capital management. Total assets rose to AED 439.4 million, while equity increased to AED 344.5 million. The Group continued investing in manufacturing upgrades and digital tools to drive long-term competitiveness.
Strategic efforts to support national priorities of food security also gained traction, with new initiatives to advance Emiratization across departments. These efforts position the Group to contribute meaningfully to national development while attracting and retaining skilled local talent. United Foods remains focused on expanding regional distribution, enhancing product innovation, and deepening its ESG practices, ensuring long-term sustainable value creation for all stakeholders.
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