Hospitality
WHAT ‘HOME-LIKE HOSPITALITY’ REALLY MEANS IN 2026: THE BLURRING LINES BETWEEN RESIDENTIAL & HOTEL LIVING
By Noni Anand, Co-founder, LEVA Hotels
Hotels are no longer pit stops. They’re becoming places people actually live. By 2026, travel is no longer about short stays and quick checkouts. It’s about long-term living, hybrid work, and lifestyle-first experiences. Guests want hotels that feel like home—only better. Think functional kitchens, work-ready spaces, seamless Wi-Fi, and services that fit real daily routines.
The numbers back it up. The global extended-stay hotel market, currently valued at around USD 62 billion, is expected to grow rapidly over the next decade. This isn’t a passing trend. It’s a structural shift that’s redefining how hotels are designed, operated, and experienced.
Comfort has officially beaten formality. The line between residential living and hospitality is disappearing fast. Guests no longer see hotels as temporary stopovers. They see them as places to live, work, and settle into sometimes for weeks, sometimes for months.
Comfort matters more than ever. So does personalization. Today’s traveler isn’t impressed by square footage alone. They want spaces that feel intuitive, flexible, and genuinely livable. That means smarter layouts, better storage, adaptable furniture, and technology that supports everyday life rather than just overnight stays.
For operators, this changes everything. Hotels must now be designed for continuity, not turnover. Every design decision from lighting and furniture to connectivity and service flow,needs to support long-term comfort, not just short-term convenience.
Extended stays are no longer niche. They’re mainstream. Hybrid work, digital nomadism, and lifestyle-led travel have completely changed guest expectations. People are blending business with leisure and staying longer as a result. A desk and a chair won’t cut it anymore. Guests expect zoned workspaces, full kitchens, high-speed internet, and flexible living areas that transition effortlessly from work to downtime.
Industry data shows that in many markets, average stays are now measured in weeks rather than days. That shift demands a new approach to space planning and amenities, one that supports real living, not just sleeping. Hotels that get this right aren’t just meeting expectations. They’re building loyalty.
Privacy of a home. Services of a hotel. No compromise. Guests are drawn to the idea of having the privacy and permanence of a home, paired with the consistency and service standards of a trusted hospitality brand. For investors and operators, branded residences offer stable occupancy, diversified revenue streams, and long-term value.
But this model requires careful balance. Short-term guests and long-term residents must coexist seamlessly under one roof. That means thoughtful zoning, shared amenities that actually work, and service models flexible enough to support both lifestyles. When executed well, branded residences become a powerful extension of the hospitality ecosystem, not just an add-on.
Wellness and sustainability? Now must-haves! Today’s long-stay guests actively evaluate hotels based on air quality, natural light, energy efficiency, and overall environmental impact. They want spaces that support physical and mental well-being, not just look good on arrival.
Hotels are responding with smarter systems and more personalized experiences. In-room wellness kits, locally sourced provisions, and tech-enabled personalization are becoming standard. Smart controls, predictive maintenance, and intuitive room settings help reduce friction and make stays feel effortless. The goal is simple: make guests feel at home without them having to ask.
Operationally, hospitality teams are shifting from simple service roles to lifestyle support. This means flexible cleaning schedules and new success metrics focused on guest value rather than just daily rates.
The modern hotel suite now looks a lot like a micro-apartment. Kitchens are expected. Dedicated work zones matter. Storage, flexible furniture, and multi-use layouts are essential. Guests want spaces that adapt to their day, not the other way around. Hotels that embrace this approach are seeing real results. More stable occupancy. Higher repeat rates. Stronger ancillary revenue. The ROI is clear. Designing for home-like living isn’t just a good guest experience—it’s smart business.
Home-like hospitality is no longer a concept on the horizon. It’s already here. As hybrid work and lifestyle travel continue to grow, hotels must evolve beyond short-term comfort. Guests expect spaces that support real living, real routines, and real connection over longer stays.
The future of hospitality lies in blending the warmth and familiarity of home with the reliability and professionalism of hotels. Brands that invest early in design, operations, and technology, will build deeper loyalty, stronger occupancy, and long-term value.
Those who adapt now won’t just keep up. They’ll lead the next era of hospitality.
Hospitality
CELEBRATE TOGETHERNESS THIS RAMADAN WITH AL HALLAB’S IFTAR OFFERINGS
This Ramadan, Al Hallab invites families and loved ones to come together over a generous and comforting Iftar experience inspired by time-honoured Lebanese traditions. Available across all three Al Hallab outlets and for delivery, the Ramadan offering is thoughtfully designed to celebrate togetherness with the flavours that define the holy month.
Guests can enjoy a full dine-in experience at any of Al Hallab’s three outlets, where tables are set with warm hospitality and a feast of Lebanese favorites. From comforting soups like Lentil, Chicken, or Mushroom, to cold appetizers including Hummus, Moutabal, Labneh, Fattoush, and Vine Leaves, every dish is prepared with care to celebrate the flavors of Lebanon. Hot appetizers, grilled skewers, daily mains, and fresh bread complete the spread, followed by a selection of premium Arabic sweets like Kunafa, Shaibeat, Othamlieh, Kunafa rolls, and fruits for dessert.
For those who prefer to break their fast at home, Al Hallab also offers Iftar meal boxes for delivery, making it easy to enjoy a complete Ramadan meal in the comfort of your own space. Available for one, two, or four people, each Iftar includes dates to break the fast, comforting soups, traditional juices like Kamaredine and Jallab, a selection of cold and hot appetizers, daily main dishes, and a taste of Ramadan’s sweetest delights, including Kataef Walnut and Shaibeyat Ashta.
Al Hallab’s Iftar is more than a meal; it is an invitation to gather, share, and celebrate the blessings of Ramadan with loved ones. Whether enjoying the cozy ambiance of the restaurant or the comfort of home, every Iftar is a moment of joy, flavor, and heritage.
Hospitality
LA VILLE HOTEL & SUITES ANNOUNCES THE REOPENING OF LOOKUP ROOFTOP BAR WITH A REFINED MEDITERRANEAN IDENTITY
La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK Dubai, Autograph Collection announces the reopening of its rooftop destination, LookUp Rooftop Bar,on 22nd January 2026. Reintroduced with a refined Mediterranean identity and a fully refreshed look, LookUp now offers a complete day-to-night experience that feels genuinely new, even for long- standing guests of the hotel.
Overlooking City Walk with uninterrupted views of the Burj Khalifa and the downtown skyline, LookUp has been reshaped into a rooftop destination with greater depth and purpose. By day, the space centres around its infinity pool and open terraces, offering a relaxed setting for guests to unwind, swim and spend time outdoors. A strengthened food offering now plays a central role in the experience, with a full Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring wood fired pizzas and fresh sharable dishes, designed for casual dining and longer stays.
As the day moves into evening, LookUp naturally shifts in energy. Guests can enjoy crafted cocktails, a considered music programme and live DJs, alongside a calendar of curated experiences including fashion showcases, brand collaborations and pop ups. Morning wellness sessions such as yoga and pilates further extend the rooftop’s use beyond traditional bar hours, creating a space that works across different moments of the day.
The refreshed LookUp is designed as more than a rooftop bar. It is a lifestyle destination that brings together leisure, dining and social connection in one setting. With its updated design, stronger menu focus and varied programming, LookUp offers returning guests a new way to experience a familiar space, while welcoming new visitors into the heart of City Walk.
The reopening will welcome hotel owners, Marriott leaders, media, partners and influencers, marking the next chapter for one of City Walk’s most recognisable rooftops. With ongoing collaborations across wellness, fashion and lifestyle, LookUp Rooftop Bar is positioned as a key social destination within City Walk, offering experiences from sunrise through to late night.
Michel Nader, Regional Vice President, UAE & Levant – Premium & Select, Marriott International commented: “The return of LookUp is both timely and emblematic of Dubai’s ever-evolving social landscape. With its revitalised Mediterranean-inspired concept, the destination seamlessly combines refined charm with enhanced hospitality, embodying the city’s affinity for sophisticated and vibrant nightlife. We are confident the relaunch of this popular venue will be appreciated by local residents and international visitors.”
Roudi Soubra, Vice President – Asset Management, Dubai Holding, added: “LookUp has always been more than just a rooftop, it’s part of La Ville’s story and spirit. This reimagining represents our commitment to continuous evolution and to creating spaces that inspire connection, creativity, and joy. With its Mediterranean charm and breathtaking views, LookUp once again reflects the essence of Dubai: dynamic, sophisticated, and full of life.”
Hospitality
RAMADAN IFTAR AT OASIS TERRACE & GARDEN, MÖVENPICK DOWNTOWN
This Ramadan, Oasis Terrace & Garden at Mövenpick Hotel Apartments, Downtown Dubai invites guests to break their fast in a relaxed outdoor setting with a garden-style Iftar buffet designed for families, friends, and group gatherings.
The experience features authentic Arabian and regional favourites, complemented by interactive live cooking stations. Guests are welcomed with dates and water on arrival, followed by unlimited access to mezze, salads, hot mains, and signature Oasis desserts. Live stations include Shawarma, slow-cooked Ouzi, and BBQ specialities, alongside a dedicated dessert counter and mocktails with laban.
Set across the venue’s open-air terrace and garden, the Iftar offers a laid-back yet festive atmosphere ideal for both casual and corporate celebrations throughout the holy month.
With its combination of open-air seating, warm hospitality and thoughtfully curated buffet, Oasis Terrace & Garden offers a welcoming space to slow down and reconnect after sunset. The experience reflects the spirit of Ramadan, bringing together comforting flavours, shared plates and a setting designed for togetherness. Available throughout Ramadan 2026 (subject to official moon sighting, expected from 19 February 2026).
-
Tech News2 years agoDenodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
VAR9 months agoMicrosoft Launches New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
-
Tech Interviews2 years agoNavigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News6 months agoNothing Launches flagship Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) in theme with the Iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai
-
News10 years ago
SENDQUICK (TALARIAX) INTRODUCES SQOOPE – THE BREAKTHROUGH IN MOBILE MESSAGING
-
Tech News2 years agoBrighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
VAR1 year agoSamsung Galaxy Z Fold6 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Clash Of The Folding Phenoms
-
Editorial1 year agoCelebrating UAE National Day: A Legacy of Leadership and Technological Innovation


