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How Resorts Are Balancing Business and Leisure Travellers
Attributed to Ahmed Abdraboh, Director of Sales & Marketing at Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa
In the highly competitive hospitality sector, resorts are facing the growing challenge of serving two distinct, yet frequently overlapping, types of guests: business and leisure travellers. The rise of the “bleisure” traveller; a blend of business and leisure; highlights a wider trend in today’s travel landscape. These travellers merge work obligations with their desire for relaxation and adventure, compelling resorts to adjust their offerings to meet the needs of both demographics. Striking this balance can be complex, but the benefits of effectively catering to both segments can be substantial.
Understanding the Unique Needs
Before delving into strategies, it’s crucial to recognize the differing needs of business and leisure travellers. Business travellers often seek efficiency, connectivity, and amenities that facilitate work. High-speed internet, dedicated meeting spaces, and convenient location are paramount. They value streamlined services, express check-ins, and an atmosphere conducive to productivity.
On the other hand, leisure travellers prioritize relaxation, exploration, and experiences. They are looking for leisure activities, spa services, fine dining, and cultural experiences that allow them to unwind and immerse themselves in the local environment. The challenge for resorts lies in creating an environment that simultaneously serves the quick paced demands of the business traveller while providing the dreamlike experiences that leisure travellers seek.
Designing Dual-Purpose Spaces
Resorts are increasingly designing their spaces to accommodate both types of travellers. Flexible meeting spaces that can be easily converted into event venues during weekends or evenings are a great example of this dual-purpose approach. By utilizing movable partitions and adaptable furniture, resorts can create environments that can host a corporate seminar one day and an intimate wedding or social gathering the next.
Besides, resorts can incorporate leisure and relaxation features into areas that business travellers frequent. For example, comfortable lounges equipped with charging stations for devices allow guests to work while enjoying the ambiance. Poolside cabanas that double as meeting points or casual brainstorming areas cater to those who need a break from the traditional boardroom setting. Integrating these elements can enhance the guest experience for both business and leisure travellers.
Enhancing Connectivity
Strong and reliable connectivity is a must-have for business travellers, but leisure guests also benefit from staying connected. Offering robust Wi-Fi throughout the resort is essential. Beyond connectivity, resorts can create work-friendly environments, such as business centres equipped with printers and meeting rooms, where guests can hold casual meetings or work off-site without compromising on comfort.
Additionally, the rise of remote work has blurred the lines between personal and professional life. As a response, resorts are finding ways to make remote work more enjoyable by providing inspiring locations, private workspaces, and even outdoor areas that combine work with leisure. Setting up dedicated “workcation” packages that include accommodations with office amenities lets resorts cater to guests seeking to blend productivity with relaxation without boundaries.
Curating Unique Experiences
For leisure travellers, resorts have traditionally focused on creating unforgettable experiences. Nowadays, these experiences matter to business travellers as well. With “bleisure” travel on the rise, their desire for unique, local activities can significantly enhance their stay. Resorts can curate experiences that appeal to both demographics, such as offering guided tours of local attractions, cooking classes with local chefs, or wellness retreats.
In addition to traditional leisure activities, resorts can design workshops and networking events that facilitate connections among business travellers. By organizing guest speaker sessions, skill building workshops, and panel discussions, resorts can nurture an environment where business professionals can network and learn while on holiday.
Wellness and Relaxation
Both business and leisure travellers share an increasingly common interest in wellness and self-care. For business professionals, long hours of traveling can lead to stress and fatigue. Therefore, wellness facilities; such as spas, fitness centres, and meditation rooms; become attractive perks for this segment. By promoting relaxation and holistic well-being, resorts can cater to business travellers who want to rejuvenate during their stay.
Implementing wellness programs that combine fitness classes, mindfulness retreats, and spa treatments allows resorts to appeal to guests looking for self-care options. Additionally, some resorts are developing wellness retreats specifically aimed at the corporate sector, offering programs that promote teamwork, creativity, and mindfulness training often directly aligned with business goals.

Tailoring Packages and Promotions
Another effective strategy for resorts is to develop tailored packages that target specific groups within the business and leisure traveller spectrum. For example, offering promotions such as weekend corporate retreats, where businesses can host strategy sessions while their employees enjoy leisure opportunities, effectively blends both worlds. Creating promotional deals that include meeting space for companies alongside discounts for leisure activities can greatly enhance the appeal for business travellers looking to unwind after hours.
For leisure travellers, resorts can offer exclusive weekend packages that provide special bonuses for their business counterparts, turning a business trip into an inviting long weekend for the whole family. Childcare services, family friendly activities, and adult only zones create an atmosphere where everyone can enjoy their vacation, regardless of the reason for their stay.
The Role of Technology
In the digital age, leveraging technology is instrumental in balancing the needs of business and leisure travellers. From mobile apps that allow for easy check-in and room service to smart room controls that enhance the guest experience, technology can streamline processes, making them more efficient for business travellers. Meanwhile, technology also allows for leisure focused experiences, such as custom virtual tours or interactive activities that engage guests.
Moreover, resorts can utilize data and analytics to better understand and segment their guests. By analysing preferences, resorts can tailor their offerings and services to meet the expectations of both business and leisure travellers, ensuring no one feels overlooked.
Resorts are navigating the delicate balance between business and leisure travellers in an ever evolving landscape. By understanding the unique needs of each segment and adapting their offerings creatively, resorts can successfully cater to both groups. With strategic planning, innovative space design, and a focus on creating meaningful experiences, resorts not only enhance profitability but also enrich the overall guest experience.
The market for dual purpose travel continues to grow, presenting exciting possibilities for resorts willing to embrace change. As business and leisure become increasingly intertwined, the path ahead is one of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to exceptional hospitality that meets the needs of all travellers.
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SUHOOR AT AL HALLAB: MIDNIGHT BITES AND GAME NIGHTS
Ramadan nights are meant to be unhurried, a time to gather, reconnect, and create memories. This holy month, Al Hallab invites guests to spend their suhoor doing just that, bringing together traditional games, shisha, and comforting Lebanese food in a setting designed for friends and family to linger long into the night.
From 8 pm onwards throughout Ramadan, guests can head to Al Hallab Garhoud, where backgammon boards, jakaru, and cards set the scene for friendly competition, laughter, and shared moments. Whether it’s a close-knit family gathering or a late-night catch-up with friends, the experience encourages guests to slow down, play together, and enjoy Ramadan nights the traditional way.
Food plays a central role in the suhoor experience, with a menu rooted in Lebanese classics and freshly baked favourites. Guests can share plates of hummus, foul, labneh, halloumi, and eggs, alongside beloved dishes such as Lahme Baajine Traboulsi and Mfaraket Batata with eggs. Freshly prepared manakeesh are perfect for sharing around the table, while Al Hallab’s iconic Kunafa adds a sweet ending to the night.
Game Nights are available exclusively at Al Hallab Garhoud, while the suhoor menu can be enjoyed across all Al Hallab locations throughout Ramadan.
More than just a meal, Al Hallab’s suhoor is about spending meaningful time together playing, eating, talking, and making Ramadan memories that last beyond the month.
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A NEW YEAR OF INDULGENCE: ME BY MELIÁ DUBAI INTRODUCES JANUARY’S MUST-EXPERIENCE MOMENTS
The New Year marks a time to reconnect, explore new experiences, and enjoy the region at its best during the winter season. This year, ME by Meliá Dubai invites guests to ease into the months ahead with a thoughtfully curated collection of seasonal experiences designed to be enjoyed at any pace.
Whether it’s discovering a brand-new daytime brunch, enjoying relaxed dining under the stars, stepping away from the workday for a leisurely business lunch, unwinding with indulgent spa rituals, or beginning to plan Iftar gatherings ahead of the holy month, there is something to suit every mood and moment as the year begins.
BRUNCH:ED
Just launched, BRUNCH:ED is ME by Meliá Dubai’s newest Saturday experience, an elevated daytime brunch set on the hotel’s terrace. Guests are invited to enjoy a carefully curated international buffet featuring hot and cold selections, interactive live cooking stations, and vibrant live entertainment, all set against stunning panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline.
The experience includes a generous spread of freshly prepared dishes, from vibrant seasonal salads and handmade pasta crafted at live stations to perfectly grilled favourites hot off the flame, all finished with an irresistible selection of decadent desserts designed to satisfy every sweet craving.
For those looking to extend the experience, the afternoon continues with an after-party, allowing guests to soak up the atmosphere and keep the energy going well beyond brunch.
Availability: Every Saturday (during the winter months) | Times: 12:30pm to 4:00pm | After Party: 4:00pm to 6:00pm
After Dusk Ramadan Edition
Experience the spirit of Ramadan at ME by Meliá Dubai’s Level 1 terrace, where guests are invited to gather for a heartwarming Iftar served at sunset. Set within an elegant and refined setting, the experience features a thoughtfully curated selection of traditional and contemporary flavours, creating a calm, reflective atmosphere that makes each evening of the holy month truly special.
Time: Sunset – 10:30 PM
Wellness by ME – AWAKEN
After the busy festive period, it’s time to slow down, unwind, and truly rejuvenate. Wellness by ME, the hotel’s spa, invites guests to fully restore with a 60-minute Tailor-Made Royal Massage, a therapeutic treatment combining dry techniques and deep oil stretching to release muscular tension, improve flexibility, and respond to each body’s individual needs.
To elevate the experience further, guests may enjoy a complimentary add-on of either a 30-minute body scrub or an additional 30-minute massage. The wellness journey also includes full access to the pool and sauna, along with a refreshing beverage to complete this moment of relaxation.
Availability: Entire month of January
Central Restaurant – Business Lunch
This January, Central Restaurant welcomes guests to step away from the hustle and enjoy a well-deserved pause with its Business Lunch, a thoughtfully crafted experience designed to inspire warmth, connection, and culinary delight. Curated by the Executive Chef, the seasonal menu highlights comforting flavours and refined touches, celebrating the very best of the season in every dish.
Guests can savour standout creations such as the Charming Broccoli, featuring smoky charred broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and crispy bacon; the luxuriously smooth Golden Velvet Soup; the refreshing Papaya Mist, with delicate smoked salmon and vibrant edamame; the Coral Catch, a warm, succulent grilled prawn and nutty bulgur salad; the aromatic Sun Souvlaki, with tender chicken, soft pita, and creamy tatziki; and the decadent Ricotta Fold, silky spinach and ricotta ravioli finished with butter and parmesan.
For a comforting finish, an assortment of desserts provides the perfect sweet ending. This midday experience is the ideal retreat from a busy day, offering both flavour and relaxation.
Whether dining solo, taking a well-earned break from the day or gathering colleagues for a networking lunch, this midday experience offers a deliciously memorable way to savour the season.
Availability: Monday to Friday – 12:00pm to 6:00pm

Grill by ME
January is the perfect season for al-fresco dining! Guests are encouraged to enjoy a relaxed yet elegant evening at ME by Meliá Dubai’s striking Pool Terrace with Grill by ME. Set inside the architectural icon that redefined the city’s skyline, this new open-air dining experience pairs contemporary style with effortless comfort – the kind of place where chilled beats, live grill stations, and ME Dubai’s signature modern energy come together seamlessly. Guests can explore a thoughtfully curated buffet featuring fresh salads, handmade pasta crafted at interactive stations, sizzling grilled favourites, and decadent desserts, all designed to elevate simple flavours with finesse.
Perfect for intimate evenings or vibrant gatherings with family and friends, Grill by ME offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of Dubai after dark.
Availability: Daily from 7:30pm – 10:30pm
The Cabana Experience
Soak up the winter sunshine in ultimate style with the Cabana Experience. Perfect for sunbathing, splashing in the pool, or simply lounging in comfort, each cabana is designed to be a private oasis. Standard room guests can enjoy a cabana for AED 250 (for two people), complete with two refreshing beverages of choice, mineral water, cooling towels and a hand fan, plus sun protection by Deeper Beauty to keep everyone perfectly pampered under the sun. Suite guests receive a complimentary cabana with the same indulgent inclusions. Whether it’s sipping a chilled drink poolside, cooling off in the pool, or simply basking in the rays, the Cabana Experience transforms an ordinary day into a sun-soaked escape full of relaxation, fun, and effortless luxury.
Availability: Ongoing
Deeper Beauty – Sun Care Elevated
ME by Meliá Dubai proudly continues it’s collaboration with Deeper Beauty, a UAE-born SPF brand that seamlessly blends inclusivity, sustainability, and high-performance skincare. Crafted to protect and celebrate every skin tone, Deeper Beauty’s lightweight, non-white cast formula delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without compromise, making it especially suited for darker complexions. Perfect for sun-soaked days by the pool or outdoor adventures, it ensures skin stays nourished, protected, and radiant.
Available at the pool retail shop, guests can choose from: Blocked and Busy SPF50 Sunscreen – 100ml | AED 120 or Blocked and Busy SPF50 Sunscreen – 50ml | AED 55
Whether applied before a relaxing cabana day or on-the-go, Deeper Beauty makes sun protection effortless, effective, and suitable for every skin tone.
Whatever the experience, ME by Meliá Dubai is the perfect place to spend January – a destination to indulge, unwind, relax, and reconnect.
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RIVA BEACH CLUB SETS THE SCENE FOR A ROMANTIC VALENTINE’S GETAWAY
Love takes centre stage at Riva Beach Club this Valentine’s Day, as the Palm Jumeirah shoreline sets the mood for a relaxed, sun-soaked celebration by the sea. Across 14 and 15 February 2026, Riva invites couples to slow down and spend the day together with a Valentine’s experience available from 10:00 AM until sunset. With gorgeous beach views, easygoing dining, and an atmosphere that feels warm and effortless, Riva turns Valentine’s into the perfect romantic getaway this season.
The Valentine’s experience includes full access to Riva’s private beach and pool, giving couples the freedom to enjoy the day at their own pace. Guests can enjoy a choice of four dishes per couple from a specially created Valentine’s Day menu, along with still water throughout the day and a glass of sparkling rosé on arrival to toast the occasion.
Known for its laid-back Mediterranean spirit and welcoming beachfront atmosphere, Riva has long been a favourite for relaxed days by the sea. This Valentine’s weekend, it stands out as one of the city’s best places to celebrate, offering couples the chance to spend the entire day together, from late morning swims to sunset moments, all in one easy, seaside setting.
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