Hospitality

INSIDE MODERN HOSPITALITY LEADERSHIP AT EDGE RIYADH AL RABIE, ROTANA

Published

3 months ago

April 16, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

Exclusive interview with Kozhaya Tannous, Cluster General Manager, Edge by Rotana

In a market like Riyadh where expectations are evolving rapidly, what does ‘modern hospitality’ actually look like in practice, not conceptually, but in how guests experience your properties day-to-day?

Modern hospitality in Riyadh is about delivering effortless, intuitive experiences that feel personal at every touchpoint. It is no longer only about facilities or design; it is about how naturally a guest feels understood throughout their journey.

For us, it means combining technology-enabled efficiency with genuine human warmth. Guests expect speed, simplicity, and consistency but they also value authenticity and cultural understanding.

On a day-to-day level, this translates into smooth arrivals, responsive teams, and a service culture that anticipates needs rather than reacts to them. Modern hospitality here is about being present, attentive, and consistently reliable.

Managing a cluster means managing complexity at scale, what has been the hardest leadership adjustment moving from single property to cluster oversight?

The biggest shift has been moving from hands-on operational leadership to empowering leaders across multiple properties.

In a single hotel, you are close to every detail. In a cluster, success depends on building strong teams, clear alignment, and trust in execution.

The challenge is not stepping away; it is stepping back without losing standards. You learn to lead through structure, clarity, and empowerment, ensuring every property reflects the same brand promise while adapting to its own market reality.

Ultimately, you move from managing operations to enabling performance at scale.

Riyadh operates at a unique intersection of rapid growth and cultural depth, what specific shifts have you made in your leadership style to stay effective in this environment?

Riyadh is a dynamic and fast-moving market, but it is also deeply rooted in culture and expectations. That combination requires a leadership style that is both agile and grounded. I have become more intentional in listening whether to guests, teams, or stakeholders. Decisions are made faster, but they are also made with greater awareness of context. I also place strong emphasis on visibility and presence on the ground. In this market, leadership is felt most when it is close to the operation and engaged with people directly. It is about balancing speed with respect, and growth with cultural understanding.

In a market dominated by luxury narratives, how does Edge by Rotana carve out a distinct value proposition without being perceived as just another midscale offering?

Edge by Rotana represents a smart, modern, and efficient approach to hospitality, designed to align with the evolving needs of today’s travellers. Rather than competing in the traditional luxury space, the brand offers a distinct value proposition that reflects how people live, work, and travel today. It focuses on delivering practical comfort with consistency, ensuring guests experience a seamless and reliable stay every time. Service is intentionally efficient and streamlined, removing unnecessary complexity while maintaining high standards of quality and care. At the same time, Edge embraces contemporary, lifestyle-driven experiences that resonate with a new generation of travellers seeking flexibility, convenience, and authenticity. This approach creates a hospitality offering that is both relevant and accessible, without compromising on the details that matter most. By combining thoughtful design, intuitive service, and a clear understanding of modern expectations, Edge by Rotana delivers a well-balanced experience that prioritises comfort, functionality, and ease, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travellers alike.

With Vision 2030 accelerating inbound tourism, how is demand in Riyadh evolving beyond corporate travel?

Riyadh is rapidly evolving into a multi-dimensional destination, moving beyond its traditional positioning as a primarily corporate hub. While business travel continues to play a significant role, there is a clear and growing shift in demand across several segments, including leisure and cultural travel, weekend regional tourism, and family-focused domestic stays. The rise of “bleisure” travel is also becoming increasingly evident, with guests blending business commitments with personal time and seeking more flexible, extended stays. This shift is contributing to a more diverse and dynamic hospitality landscape, where expectations go beyond just accommodation. Today’s travellers are staying longer and looking for more immersive, experience-driven offerings that allow them to connect with the destination, whether through cultural exploration, lifestyle amenities, or curated social experiences. As a result, hotels are adapting to meet these evolving needs, focusing on creating well-rounded stays that cater to both business and leisure, while delivering greater value and relevance to a broader audience.

With shifting geopolitical dynamics across the region, have you observed any tangible changes in travel corridors or source markets into Riyadh, and how does that influence your commercial strategy?

We are seeing a broader and more diverse mix of source markets into Riyadh.

Regional GCC travel remains strong, while international corporate and project-related travel from Europe and Asia continues to grow.

This has led us to adopt a more segmented commercial approach, tailoring our engagement strategies to different guest profiles and travel purposes. At the same time, partnerships and strategic alignment with stakeholders have become even more important in capturing new demand flows.

With global economic fluctuations and geopolitical shifts, how resilient is the Riyadh hospitality market?

Riyadh remains one of the most resilient hospitality markets globally. This resilience is driven by long-term structural growth under Vision 2030, ongoing mega-project development, and strong inbound investment. While global economic fluctuations influence travel patterns, Riyadh’s demand base is supported by diverse and long-term drivers that continue to expand the market sustainably.

What’s one guest behaviour trend in Riyadh that has forced you to rethink traditional hospitality assumptions?

One of the most significant changes is the rise of the highly informed, highly connected guest.

Today’s guests expect control, transparency, and instant responsiveness. They want to shape their experience in real time rather than follow a fixed service structure.

This has encouraged us to rethink traditional service flows and move toward a model that is more flexible, responsive, and guest-led while still maintaining the warmth and consistency Rotana is known for. Hospitality today is about adapting to the guest without losing the human touch.

Hospitality

Make Saturdays a Family Affair with a Weekend Family Lunch and Redeemable Pool & Beach Access at Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa

Published

2 hours ago

July 9, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

Saturdays just got even more exciting at Sevilla, the elegant all-day dining destination overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Families are invited to indulge in a vibrant Weekend Family Lunch every Saturday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, combining an exceptional international dining experience with redeemable access to the hotel’s pool and private beach.

Designed to bring families together while enjoying the best of dining and leisure, the experience is priced at AED 210 per adult, with 50% savings for children aged 5–12 years, while children under 5 dine free.

Guests can indulge in an extensive family lunch buffet featuring an exceptional selection of fresh salads, chilled seafood, international cheeses, Arabic specialties, and globally inspired main courses. Highlights include a live sushi counter, succulent carving stations, a made-to-order pasta station, authentic Arabic mixed grill, Asian noodle station, traditional Lamb Ouzi, and an irresistible array of handcrafted desserts, complemented by fresh juices and infused water.

Following lunch, guests can continue their day by relaxing at the pool or unwinding on the private beach with redeemable pool and beach access, making it the perfect weekend escape for families.

For those looking to enjoy the facilities without lunch, the property also offers redeemable pool and beach access:

Weekdays: AED 125 per person
Weekends: AED 175 per person

The offer is designed to enhance the guest experience by combining exceptional dining with leisure, providing outstanding value while creating memorable family weekends.

With breathtaking Gulf views, elegant interiors, and a beautiful outdoor terrace, Sevilla offers the perfect setting for a relaxed afternoon of international cuisine, live culinary theatre, and quality family time.

Weekend Family Lunch

When: Every Saturday
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Price: AED 210 per adult
Children (5–12 years): 50% off
Children below 5 years: Complimentary
Includes: International family lunch with live cooking stations and redeemable pool & beach access.

Whether it’s a leisurely family lunch, a weekend celebration, or a day by the water, Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa offers an ideal destination where exceptional hospitality meets beachfront tranquillity.

For bookings, please direct them to F&B Reservations at +971 56 545 0274 or email fbsecretary.alraha@danathotels.com

Hospitality

DISCOVER THE PERFECT SUMMER ESCAPE AT ME BY MELIÁ DUBAI

Published

3 hours ago

July 9, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

Summer is officially here, and for those staying in the city, ME by Meliá Dubai invites guests to discover a new season of curated summer experiences launching this July. From exclusive residential long-stay offers and luxurious daycations to rejuvenating spa rituals, the hotel has curated a collection of experiences designed to help guests relax, recharge and make the most of the season.

Stay with ME – Exclusive Long Stay Offer
For those planning a longer stay in Dubai, Stay with ME offers a sophisticated way to experience the city with all the comforts of a beautifully designed home. Starting from AED 13,500 per month, guests can enjoy a seamless extended stay complemented by exclusive perks and signature ME by Meliá Dubai touches.

The offer includes complimentary Wi-Fi and daily housekeeping, ensuring a stress free and connected stay. Guests can also benefit from 30% off spa treatments, Central Restaurant, in room dining, and laundry services. With access to the gym, pool, and sauna, alongside complimentary valet parking, this long stay experience is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in ME by Meliá Dubai’s distinctive lifestyle.

Availability: Extended until end of August 2026
Reservations & inquiries: 04 525 2500 | reservations.me.dubai@melia.com
Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

Daycation at ME
Looking to escape for the day? ME by Meliá Dubai is the perfect place for it. Priced at AED 400 per person, guests can relax poolside and completely switch off from the daily hustle and bustle. For those looking to stay active, the experience also includes full gym access, perfect for a morning workout before taking a dip in the pool.

Guests can then retreat from the midday heat with a 45-minute spa treatment of their choice before enjoying a specially curated set-menu lunch at the hotel’s Central Restaurant.

Availability: July – August 2026

Time: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm | 6:00 pm -10:30 pm

Rate: AED 400 per person (fully redeemable)

Reservations & inquiries: +971 549917489 | aura.medubai@melia.com

The Cabana Experience

Soak up the 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

Rate: AED 250 (for two people) – Standard room guests | complimentary for Suite guests.

Included: x2 beverages, mineral water, cooling towels, hand fan and SPF protection.

For reservations and inquiries: +971 54 991 7481

Offer subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

Fee is non-redeemable

Cabana access is limited to a maximum of 2 guests.

Children below 6 years old enjoy complimentary access.

90 Minute Summer Reset – Wellness by ME Spa

Summer has arrived, making it the perfect time to recharge with a bespoke 90-minute spa journey at Wellness by ME Spa. Escape the heat and indulge in a 60-minute aromatherapy massage, followed by a 30-minute body scrub for AED 450. Complete the experience with a complimentary refreshing tea and access to the hotel’s pool, sauna and gym for the ultimate summer wellness retreat.

Availability: The month of July

Rate: AED 450

Reservations & inquiries: spa.me.dubai@melia.com | 04 52 52 500 | 04 52 52 589
Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

With a collection of experiences designed to suit every summer itinerary, ME by Meliá Dubai continues to offer guests a contemporary escape in the heart of the city.

Hospitality

MARRIOTT EXECUTIVE APARTMENTS AL JADDAF REWARDS LONG SUMMER STAYS WITH 15,000 BONUS MARRIOTT BONVOY POINTS

Published

3 hours ago

July 9, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

This summer, Marriott Executive Apartments Al Jaddaf is rewarding its longest-staying guests with something worth settling in for. Guests who stay 30 nights or more, completed before 7 September 2026, will earn a bonus of 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

The offer lands as Dubai’s hospitality market leans further into longer-stay demand and within that expansion, hotel apartments have carved out a distinct niche: business travellers on extended assignments, relocating executives and families settling in for months at a time are increasingly choosing the flexibility of a private residence over a traditional hotel room, a shift that is prompting operators across the city to compete harder for the long-staying guest.

The timing is no accident as Al Jaddaf has recently completed a refurbishment across its residences, refreshing interiors while preserving the warm, residential character the property is known for. Every apartment now also features an in-unit water filtration system for premium drinking water, removing the need for single-use plastic bottles across the building, part of a broader push to make longer stays not just more rewarding, but more comfortable and more sustainable. Beyond the apartment door, residents find a fully equipped gym, two outdoor swimming pools, a Balinese spa, a beauty salon, an ATM and an on-site convenience store, along with five restaurants and lounges that carry them from a business dinner to a relaxed family meal to a quiet evening drink.

The bonus builds on rewards that already come with every stay. Across the Marriott Executive Apartments brand, guests now earn 5 Marriott Bonvoy points for every US dollar spent, while every night counts as one Elite Night Credit towards Marriott Bonvoy status. For those settling in for a month or a full season, a long stay in Dubai becomes a fast track to elite recognition across Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 10,000 hotels worldwide.

“Many of our guests choose to stay with us for months rather than nights, and this summer’s offer is a way of recognising that,” said Saad Al-Ghamdi, General Manager. “The longer a guest makes Al Jaddaf their home in Dubai, the more rewarding the stay becomes, both during their time here and across the wider Marriott Bonvoy programme.”

With monthly and yearly residency arrangements available, guests enjoy the flexibility of a private lease without the setup costs, the paperwork or the compromise on service that usually accompany it.

Set in the heart of Dubai with views over Dubai Creek and the city skyline, Marriott Executive Apartments Al Jaddaf sits less than 10 minutes from Downtown Dubai, Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai International Airport. Its fully serviced one, two and three-bedroom apartments come with full kitchens, generous living and dining areas and dedicated workspaces, alongside twice-weekly housekeeping, 24-hour concierge and security, and in-room dining around the clock.

Reservations

To book the offer, guests can apply promotional code S2449 at marriott.com/DXBHC or through the Marriott Bonvoy app. To explore longer stays at Marriott Executive Apartments Al Jaddaf more broadly, please visit marriott.com/DXBHC or contact the hotel at reservations.jaddaf@marriott.com.