Hospitality

THE FIRST SOFITEL IN THE CAPITAL OF THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA INTRODUCES FRENCH ZEST TO RIYADH’S EVOLVING HOSPITALITY LANDSCAPE

Published

4 months ago

February 4, 2026

Exterior view of Sofitel Riyadh showing a tall, angular hotel tower with patterned facade, glass podium and Saudi flags at the entrance under a clear blue sky.

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, February 2026 – Sofitel, the French luxury hospitality brand from Accor, recently announced the opening of Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre, marking the brand’s debut in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s capital. Strategically located in the prestigious Ar Rahmaniyyah neighbourhood, the hotel reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, contributing to the Kingdom’s transformation through world-class hospitality, international connectivity and the development of large-scale business and cultural events. The property features the largest luxury hotel convention centre in Riyadh, offering nearly 8,500 square metres of flexible event space, alongside 388 sophisticated rooms and suites.

The opening represents a significant milestone for Sofitel as it brings its signature blend of French elegance and local cultural inspiration to one of the Middle East’s most dynamic destinations. Only 35 minutes from King Khalid International Airport, with private transfers available, the property is also near iconic landmarks, including Kingdom Centre Tower, Kingdom Centre Mall, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Diriyah.

Where French Zest meets the spirit of a destination

Designed as a destination in its own right, Sofitel Riyadh offers an immersive luxury experience where French zest meets the heritage, creativity, and forward-looking spirit of Saudi Arabia. The launch comes at a time when Riyadh continues to expand its global presence, welcoming business leaders, international travellers, and cultural explorers alike.

The building’s architecture draws inspiration from the desert dunes and from the first Arabic letter of King Abdullah’s name, symbolizing continuity with the Kingdom’s heritage. With 388 sophisticated rooms and suites, the 5-star hotel provides the perfect combination of luxury and convenience.

Where ritual meets grandeur

Adding to the hotel’s sense of ritual and refinement is the Sofitel Candle Ritual, an evocative brand tradition inspired by the Parisian streets once illuminated daily by candlelight in the era of Louis XIV. Together with considered design details, the hotel creates a dialogue between cultures in which French elegance enhances, rather than overshadows, the local narrative.

In addition to establishing itself as a leading hub for business and events, Sofitel Riyadh is home to the largest luxury hotel Convention Centre in the city – the Princess Nouf International Convention Centre – offering nearly 8,500 square metres of flexible event space. With a grand ballroom, multiple breakout rooms, and state-of-the-art technology, the venue can welcome up to 4,000 guests, making it ideal for large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and prestigious social occasions.

Moving through the hotel, a hallmark of the Sofitel experience is its gastronomical artistry, and Sofitel Riyadh showcases a collection of distinct culinary venues that blend craftsmanship with cultural expression.

Thu-rya, the signature restaurant, presents a contemporary interpretation of Lebanese cuisine.
Zeline, the all-day dining venue, offers an elegant selection of international dishes.
La Matinée provides a refined tea lounge atmosphere with fine teas and delicate pastries.
Monsieur Boisé will soon open as a refined cigar lounge, offering an elevated experience with premium cigars expertly paired with curated beverages.
Toi et Moi is a French Mediterranean brasserie that celebrates the art of convivial dining, where the elegance of French culinary heritage meets the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean

Not to be missed is La Haute Croissanterie, Sofitel’s globally recognised signature experience, delighting guests with freshly baked artisanal pastries and iconic French viennoiseries, a luxurious start to the day or indulgence at any hour.

For wellness seekers, Sofitel Spa, in partnership with Clarins, will soon offer a serene sanctuary of calm. Designed with dedicated facilities for both men and women, the spa features two indoor pools, two vitality pools, a modern Hammam, thermal facilities, and 12 treatment rooms, creating a holistic wellness journey.

Proudly standing as the first Clarins Spa in Riyadh, Spa and Wellness Director Mohamed Mahdawi has curated an expert-led treatment menu, including a collection of Signature and Luxury Spa experiences. These encompass Face and Body treatments using the spa’s primary product partner Clarins, alongside Hammam and Body rituals featuring Charme d’Orient, introducing the renowned French skincare brand’s holistic and hedonistic approach to wellbeing to the destination.

A new chapter in Sofitel’s global growth story

The opening of Sofitel Riyadh comes at a time of strong global momentum for the brand. Sofitel is currently undergoing a significant rejuvenation, with 33% of its global portfolio having been renovated and close to 40 new hotels planned to open in the coming years, reinforcing its position as a modern, culturally attuned luxury brand. This dynamic expansion reflects Sofitel’s commitment to evolving luxury hospitality while staying true to its French DNA.

Fadeel G. Wehbe, Managing Director of Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome guests to our hotel . Riyadh is a vibrant metropolis at the forefront of cultural and economic transformation, and the hotel offers a front-row seat to this remarkable evolution. Combining Sofitel’s hallmark French zest with Riyadh’s rich traditions, we aim to provide guests with a space that is both inspiring and luxurious.”

Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems, added: “The Middle East is a strategic region for Sofitel, with Saudi Arabia at the heart of our development momentum. Sofitel Riyadh Convention Centre stands as a bold expression of our brand’s renewal and global vision, and as our first address in the capital, it perfectly embodies a culturally rooted, emotionally engaging luxury where French art de vivre meets the vibrant spirit of Riyadh. Today, Sofitel operates three hotels in the Kingdom – in Madinah, Al Khobar and Riyadh – with two additional properties in the pipeline, including Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah, set to become the largest Sofitel in the world. This growing footprint reflects our long-term confidence in Saudi Arabia and its role as a destination where culture, luxury, and international mobility converge.”

Aligned with the launch, Sofitel continues to strengthen its social and cultural engagement through the King Abdullah Humanitarian Foundation, supporting education, empowerment, and cultural initiatives in line with the brand’s philosophy of luxury with positive impact.

With its prime location, exceptional connectivity, and seamless blend of business, leisure, and culture, Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre sets a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Saudi Arabia, welcoming travellers from around the world to experience Riyadh through a refined French lens.

Hospitality

AT.MOSPHERE AT BURJ KHALIFA: FOUR MOMENTS, ABOVE THE ORDINARY

Published

15 hours ago

May 22, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

At At.mosphere, guests are welcomed to one of the city’s most coveted tables. High within the Burj Khalifa, dining takes on a rare stillness, with Dubai unfolding far below and the horizon dissolving into sky, creating a sense of scale that feels almost otherworldly.

At AED 155, the day moves through four distinct moments from morning to evening. No matter the hour, there’s a moment that fits.

Sunrise in the Sky – Breakfast
A slow start above the city with two organic eggs your style or fluffy pancakes with raspberry jam and vanilla Chantilly, alongside coffee as Dubai wakes beneath you.
Time: 8:00 am to 11:30 am

Business Lunch
A midday selection featuring roasted sea bream with black Venere rice or slow-cooked beef cheek with potato purée, finishing on something light.
Time: 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm

Afternoon Tea
Delicate sandwiches, warm English scones with jam and artisanal cream, and classic pastries served as the light shifts across the skyline.
Time: 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm

Golden Hour – Cocktails and Bites
Golden hour takes over with signature cocktails, curated bites, and a skyline that naturally draws you in.
Time: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Hospitality

BAVARIAN-ARAB SOCIETY OPENS OFFICE AT MUNICH AIRPORT

Published

15 hours ago

May 22, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

With the opening of its office at Munich Airport, the Bavarian-Arab Society is creating a one-of-a-kind contact point for Arab travelers right at the airport. The initiative aims to build a lasting bridge between Bavaria and the Arab world, as well as enhance the passenger experience for guests from this region by making it more personalized, comfortable, and culturally sensitive.

The society sees itself as a point of contact and an active mediator among passengers, airlines, the airport operator, the region, and business and tourism partners. Its approach is holistically aligned with the entire travel chain – from the moment passengers arrive at the airport through their stay in Munich and Bavaria.

Its services include, among other things, personal assistance for Arab guests at the airport, the promotion of cultural understanding, and the development of tailored service offerings such as “Meet & Assist.” The Bavarian-Arab Society works closely with Arab airline representatives and consulates to identify their needs and wishes, translating them into concrete improvements or further optimizing existing offerings.

The close connection between the society and Munich Airport, as well as the strategic importance of the Arab market, is also evident in the leadership structure at the highest level. Dr. Jan-Henrik Andersson, Munich Airport’s Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Security Officer, is also the Bavarian-Arab Society’s president. Andersson and the society’s Vice President, Youssef El Aobaidi, will work together to ensure the continued success of the Bavarian-Arab Association.

Dr. Jan-Henrik Andersson said, “The opening of our new office sends a clear message: Arab guests are warmly welcomed at Munich Airport. This spirit of hospitality should be experienced throughout the entire customer journey, not just in isolated instances.”

The new office opened almost simultaneously with the recently inaugurated Terminal 1 Pier, which is specifically tailored to the needs of Arab travelers with high-quality retail and dining options – including halal-friendly choices and prayer rooms.

“The vision of the Bavarian-Arab Society is to create a vibrant platform for intercultural dialogue and economic exchange, and to strengthen Munich and Bavaria’s appeal as destinations for Arab travelers,” explains Metin Ülker, General Manager of the Bavarian-Arab Society.

With this opening, Munich Airport is signaling its commitment to internationalism, genuine hospitality, and its position as a cosmopolitan, service-oriented hub.

Hospitality

VAPIANO INTRODUCES BREAKFAST FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ITS HISTORY ACROSS UAE OUTLETS

Published

2 days ago

May 21, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

Vapiano is set to introduce breakfast for the first time in its history across its UAE outlets, marking an exciting new chapter for the international dining brand. The new Vapiano Breakfast Menu has been created to bring a fresh, social, and relaxed international lifestyle experience to the morning dining scene, offering guests a new way to begin their day with freshly prepared dishes, premium ingredients, and world-class Illy coffee.

Owned and operated in the UAE by Al Ahlia Group, Al Ahlia General Trading Company PVT LTD, which was conceived and established in 1979 by a group of prominent UAE Nationals, Vapiano continues to strengthen its presence in the country’s evolving food and beverage landscape.

Known for its fresh ingredients, casual dining atmosphere, and made-to-order culinary experience, Vapiano is now extending its offering into breakfast with a menu designed to appeal to today’s evolving dining preferences. The new breakfast selection has been created to bring together comfort, freshness, convenience, and flavour, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed breakfast experience whether they are starting their workday, meeting friends, taking a slow morning break, or enjoying a weekend gathering.

The launch is especially significant as it represents the first Vapiano Breakfast Menu to be introduced anywhere in the world, with the UAE selected as the pioneering market for this new chapter in the brand’s journey. This global first reflects the UAE’s dynamic dining culture, its appetite for fresh culinary experiences, and its position as a leading market for innovation in the food and beverage sector.

The new breakfast menu features a wide variety of dishes created for different tastes and morning moods. Guests can enjoy wholesome bowls, warm croissant-based favourites, egg dishes, sourdough options, fresh juices, smoothies, coffee, and tea.

The menu also includes comforting favourites such as Classic Omelette and Shakshuka, served on Vapiano’s baked sourdough pizza base. For guests looking for lighter and refreshing options, the menu offers the House Granola Acai Bowl, Mango Chia Pot, and Feel-Good Bowl, alongside freshly squeezed juices and a selection of coffee and tea options.

With the introduction of breakfast, Vapiano aims to become a new morning destination for guests seeking quality, freshness, and a warm social setting. The menu has been designed not only as a food offering, but as a complete morning experience – one that encourages guests to gather, connect, share, and enjoy a different side of Vapiano.

“Breakfast is one of the most important moments of the day, and we are excited to bring the Vapiano experience into this occasion for the very first time,” said Ilenia Alba, Head of Operation. “Launching the first Vapiano Breakfast Menu worldwide in the UAE is a proud milestone for us. This market has always embraced fresh ideas and new dining experiences, making it the perfect place to introduce our breakfast concept. We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy good mornings, fresh flavours, and memorable moments at Vapiano.”

The introduction of Vapiano Breakfast also responds to a growing demand for morning dining experiences that are casual, social, and high quality. With more guests looking for places that offer both convenience and atmosphere, Vapiano’s breakfast menu creates a new opportunity for people to enjoy the brand earlier in the day.

The Vapiano Breakfast Menu will be available from May 20 across Vapiano UAE outlets at Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall Abu Dhabi, Yas Mall, Bawadi Mall Al Ain, Palm Jumeirah Mall, City Centre Al Zahia, City Centre Deira, and Al Jimi Mall.

For more information, guests can follow @VapianoUAE on social media.

About Vapiano

Vapiano is an international restaurant brand known for its relaxed atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and made-to-order dining experience. With a menu inspired by Italian flavours and a casual social setting, Vapiano brings people together over fresh food, warm hospitality, and memorable dining moments.

In the UAE, Vapiano is owned and operated by Al Ahlia Group, Al Ahlia General Trading Company PVT LTD, which was conceived and established in 1979 by a group of prominent UAE Nationals.