Hospitality

THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY CONSUMPTION IN THE UAE

Published

2 months ago

April 29, 2026

Exclusive interview with Lucas Xie, General Manager Keeta UAE

The UAE’s food and hospitality ecosystem is evolving rapidly; how would you define Keeta’s role in shaping this transformation today?

The UAE’s hospitality ecosystem is entering a more mature and nuanced phase; where growth is increasingly defined by quality, consistency, and the ability to meet evolving consumer expectations.

At Keeta, our role is to support this evolution in a practical and sustainable way. We focus on enabling better everyday experiences, helping customers access trusted choices while ensuring that convenience is paired with reliability and value.

At the same time, we see ourselves as part of a broader ecosystem. The UAE is home to a diverse mix of long-standing institutions and emerging concepts, and our role is to support their continued growth by providing the infrastructure, visibility, and operational support needed in a digital-first environment.

Our role is to strengthen both sides of the experience, enhancing how people engage with food while supporting the resilience of the restaurant sector.

Your career spans major platforms like Baidu Waimai and Ele.me. What core lessons from scaling in China are most relevant to the UAE market today?

A key lesson I have learnt from scaling in China is that long-term success is built on consistency and trust, rather than short-term drivers alone.

While speed and convenience are essential, what ultimately matters is delivering a reliable experience that customers can depend on over time. This is what builds lasting engagement.

Another key takeaway is the importance of using data in a meaningful way. Data is most valuable when it enables better decisions; helping platforms and restaurant partners understand behavior, improve operations, and adapt to changing needs.

At the same time, each market has its own unique characteristics. The UAE stands out for its diversity, strong regulatory environment, and high expectations for service quality. What translates best is a disciplined approach to execution, combined with the ability to adapt to local dynamics with precision and respect.

How do you see the relationship between delivery platforms and restaurants evolving—from transactional to strategic partnerships?

The relationship is naturally evolving into a more integrated and collaborative model. Restaurants today are looking for partners who can contribute to their long-term growth, beyond simply facilitating orders. This includes supporting areas such as demand planning, menu optimization, and understanding customer behavior.

At Keeta, we approach this as a partnership built on shared success. Our focus is on enabling restaurants to operate more efficiently, reach the right audiences, and maintain the quality and identity that define their brand.

This is particularly relevant in the UAE, where many businesses are deeply rooted in the community, and where sustainability is closely linked to maintaining authenticity and consistency.

Keeta operates at the intersection of logistics and technology; how is data shaping decision-making for restaurant partners?

Data plays an increasingly important role in how decisions are made across the ecosystem. For restaurant partners, it offers clear visibility into customer preferences, ordering patterns, and evolving trends. This allows them to make more informed decisions around menu design, pricing, and operations.

From a logistics perspective, data enables greater efficiency; helping optimize delivery times, improve reliability, and enhance the overall customer experience. Our focus is on ensuring that these insights are practical and actionable. The objective is not to provide more data, but the right insights that can support tangible improvements in day-to-day operations.

Keeta has been rapidly strengthening its presence in the UAE, what have been the key drivers behind this growth? And could you share any recent milestones or initiatives that signal Keeta’s long-term commitment to the region?

Our progress in the UAE has been driven by a clear focus on building a strong foundation aligned with the country’s economic vision.

Since launching in September 2025, Keeta has expanded to cover all seven emirates, with an approach centered on operational excellence, local partnerships, and long-term ecosystem contribution.

A key part of this has been supporting SMEs. Today, we have integrated over 5,000 UAE-based SMEs onto our platform, supporting the UAE’s transition toward a diversified, innovation-led economy.

Looking ahead, our strategy is focused on two priorities: technology investment and SME empowerment.

This is reflected in our recent partnerships with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED), where we are working to accelerate the digital transformation of SMEs and strengthen the broader food delivery and logistics ecosystem.

Our commitment to the UAE is long-term, focused on building a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-driven hospitality landscape.

Given the UAE’s position as a global trade and logistics hub, how are ongoing supply chain dynamics and regional developments shaping the way food delivery platforms operate and scale locally?

Operating in a global hub like the UAE requires both agility and resilience.

The strength of the country’s infrastructure provides a solid foundation, and comes with high expectations for consistency and reliability.

For platforms, this means working closely with partners to navigate changes in supply, demand, and operational conditions. It also reinforces the importance of strong systems and real-time insights to maintain stability.

It also reinforces the role of delivery platforms in maintaing continuity, ensuring that customers have dependable access to food, while enabling restaurants to adapt to changing conditions.

What strategic priorities are guiding Keeta’s long-term roadmap in the UAE, particularly as the market matures and competition intensifies?

As the market evolves, our focus remains on building long-term value across the ecosystem.

This includes enhancing everyday value for customers through consistency and reliability. It also involves deepening our partnerships with restaurants, supporting their growth while preserving what makes them unique. Finally, we continue to invest in operational excellence and technology to meet evolving expectations and ensure a high-quality experience across all touchpoints.

Our approach is grounded in contributing meaningfully to the ecosystem, supporting its growth in a way that is balanced and aligned with the UAE’s broader vision.

Hospitality

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

Published

1 hour 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

1 hour 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

1 hour 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.