Hospitality
US$90 BILLION HOTEL PIPELINE SET TO EXPAND GCC AND NORTH AFRICA ROOM SUPPLY BY 27 PERCENT
The GCC and North Africa has US$90 billion worth of hotels and resorts in the pipeline, with 200,000 upcoming new rooms set to boost the region’s existing supply by 27 percent, according to HVS data released ahead of the 2026 edition of Future Hospitality Summit – FHS World, taking place at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai from 29 September – 1 October.
With around 88,000 rooms currently under construction and another 25,000 in the final planning stages, over 55% of upcoming hotels in the region are set to be delivered between now and 2030, experts say.
Research from global hospitality consultancy, HVS, shows that Saudi Arabia is the dominant force in the Middle East’s hotel expansion, with 110,000 rooms – around 50% of the regional pipeline – under development in Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Diriyah, NEOM, the Red Sea and AMAALA. The scale of development is unprecedented, but equally significant is the increasing diversification of products, from large pilgrimage-focused hotels to luxury resorts, branded residences and upper midscale accommodation, the company added.
With 42,000 rooms in the pipeline, Egypt is the second most active country, with projects in Cairo, the North Coast, the Red Sea and emerging mixed-use destinations. Third is the UAE which, as a comparatively mature market, continues to evolve through destination-led developments, particularly in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, where projects such as Wynn Al Marjan Island are further expanding the country’s international appeal.
Hala Matar Choufany, President, Middle East, Africa and South Asia at HVS, said: “The hotel development pipeline across the GCC and North Africa remains one of the most significant globally, reflecting continued investor confidence in the long-term fundamentals of the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors. The region’s investment in hotel expansion underscores not only the scale of development, but also the depth of capital that continues to back the region’s tourism ambitions.”
HVS insight shows that capital is being deployed with greater discipline than before, increasingly favouring mixed-use developments, branded residences and phased delivery models that improve project economics and manage risk more effectively. Funding models have also evolved, with increasingly diverse capital structures.
“The region’s hotel pipeline is no longer just a story of scale, it’s one of discipline, with capital deployed with far greater intention. But what’s changed the most is how projects are financed. The sector has moved well beyond the traditional mix of developer equity and bank debt. In Saudi Arabia especially, large-scale destination developments are being underpinned by government-backed investment vehicles and strategic public-private partnerships, while developers across the wider region are diversifying revenue streams through branded residences and mixed-use components,” said Hala Matar Choufany.
The 200,000 new rooms will be delivered in phases, hitting the market progressively rather than all at once. Around 44% are currently being built, with much of the remaining supply expected to be handed over in stages through to 2030 and beyond.
Delivery will also vary between markets, with some operating on long-term timelines and others more immediate, according to HVS. In Saudi Arabia, major destination projects are being delivered in phases extending well into the next decade, while the UAE’s delivery pipeline is shorter term, with a significant proportion expected by 2028-2030. In Egypt, the development cycle is spread across several years, particularly in the North Coast, Cairo and Red Sea destinations.
The high-end hotel segment – luxury and upper-upscale properties – continue to represent the biggest share of hotel supply, reflecting strong investor appetite for premium experiences, branded products and integrated resort destinations. At the same time, there is growing activity in the upper midscale segment, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where brands such as Hampton by Hilton, Holiday Inn Express, Fairfield by Marriott and ibis are expanding to support broader tourism objectives and offer more accessible accommodation options.
Hala Matar Choufany added: “The next phase of the region’s hospitality industry will not be defined solely by the number of hotels delivered. Success will increasingly depend on the fundamentals that support long-term performance. Connectivity remains critical, whether through expanded airlift, transport infrastructure or seamless digital access. Equally important is service delivery: as new destinations emerge, investing in talent, operational excellence and guest experience will be essential to ensuring that new supply translates into sustainable demand and attractive investor returns.
“The outlook for the region remains positive, but, as capital becomes more selective and markets more competitive, future winners will be those destinations that combine ambitious development plans with strong execution, connectivity and service excellence. Ultimately, the focus is shifting from simply building hotels to creating sustainable, globally competitive hospitality ecosystems.”
Ali Shahid, CEO of The Bench, organisersof FHS World, said “This data reflects the extraordinary scale of opportunity across the region, and the increasing sophistication of the region’s hospitality investment landscape. At FHS World, investment and real estate will be at the core of the conference agenda, with industry leaders examining where global capital sees opportunity and how investors are recalibrating for returns.”
FHS World 2026 takes place at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, 29 September to 1 October, under the theme ‘Reinvest in our Future’. See the full agenda here, and discover the growing list of industry-leading speakers here.
-ENDS-
Note to Editors:
About The Bench
The Bench has built a legacy as a global curator of opportunity, designing transformative forums and summits that empower the hospitality and travel industries to connect, innovate, and thrive.
With over two decades of expertise, The Bench creates platforms that go beyond transactions to inspire collaboration and drive meaningful change.
Each event brings together government leaders, tourism ministries, global travel associations, leading hospitality brands, hotel owners and investors, airlines, destination developers, and more. From flagship gatherings like FHS World (formerly AHIC) and FHS Saudi Arabia, to FHS Africa (formerly AHIF) and AviaDev, The Bench creates events where ideas spark, relationships deepen, and investments take flight.
The Bench thrives on fostering dynamic and forward-looking dialogues, uniting industry pioneers to address challenges, seize opportunities, and co-create the future. Each event is crafted to deliver more than just connections – it’s about transforming ideas into action and building a better tomorrow. Discover more at thebench.com.
Hospitality
Keeta Kicks Off the First Keeta Karnival Across All Seven Emirates
Keeta, the international on-demand food delivery platform, is kicking off Keeta Karnival, marking the first edition of its signature food celebration in the UAE. Running from 15 October to 31 October 2026, the campaign will connect customers with thousands of restaurants across all seven emirates through special offers, limited-time deals, competitions and on-ground experiences.
True to its promise of “Epic Deals, Endless Cravings”, Keeta Karnival invites customers to explore more of the UAE’s food scene, from neighbourhood favourites to restaurants they have yet to try. During the peak promotional period from 15 to 31 October, customers can enjoy discounts of up to 50% at participating restaurants, while restaurant partners gain more ways to reach new customers.

“Food brings people together in the UAE, and the variety of restaurants here is remarkable,” said Lucas Xie, General Manager of Keeta UAE. “Keeta Karnival is our way of celebrating that variety, giving customers more reasons to try something new while helping participating restaurants reach new audiences. As we enter our second year in the UAE, the campaign reflects our long-term commitment to the customers and restaurant partners we serve across the country.”
More ways to discover and enjoy
The campaign’s offers are brought together in the Keeta Karnival hub within the Keeta app. Keeta Around You will spotlight curated restaurant picks across UAE cities, with up to 50% off at participating restaurants. Flash Deals will offer selected deals at AED 19 with free delivery, Monday to Friday between 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm.
From 18 to 31 October, Keeta Week – The Karnival Edition will offer 50% off the full menu, including promotional items, plus free delivery at participating restaurants. The celebration also takes to the skies with Keeta Drone, extending the Karnival promotion to its service areas in Dubai Silicon Oasis. Customers at Dubai Land, Rochester Institute of Technology, Dubai and Dubai Silicon Oasis Headquarters can enjoy the campaign’s offers through drone delivery, bringing together food discovery, value and delivery innovation.
Every eligible order above AED 100 placed between 15 October and 14 November will also be automatically entered into a draw to have the chance to win a Jetour T2, with the winner to be announced on 16 November. Customers paying with eligible Emirates Islamic Visa cards can also save up to AED 20 on their orders until 1 November.
Bringing Keeta Karnival into the community
Alongside the in-app campaign, Keeta Karnival is coming to life across the UAE. At Global Village in Dubai, the Keeta booth at Happiness Plaza 2 will host games, voucher giveaways and restaurant sampling over two weekends, 16–18 and 23–25 October. Over the opening weekend, visitors to Al Forsan Mall in Abu Dhabi can also join interactive games and win vouchers.
By combining restaurant discovery with experiences beyond the app, Keeta Karnival gives participating restaurants more ways to connect with customers, building on Keeta’s presence across all seven emirates and its long-term commitment to the UAE’s food scene.
Keeta Karnival runs from 15 October to 31 October 2026. Customers can explore participating restaurants, offers and activities in the Keeta Karnival hub in the Keeta app, available on the App Store and Play Store.
Hospitality
AL RAHA BEACH RESORT & SPA ABU DHABI INTRODUCES FOUR NEW EXPERIENCES TO ENJOY THIS SEASON



As the cooler months arrive, Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi is giving residents and visitors four new reasons to step out and enjoy the season. With a line-up of experiences across Black Pearl, La Piscine and Azur Restaurant, guests can look forward to everything from lively ladies’ nights and golden-hour gatherings to relaxed al fresco evenings and sophisticated jazz nights, with packages starting from just AED 85 per person.
Black Pearl Ladies’ Night – Every Tuesday, Starting 20 October
Tuesday evenings are getting a little more exciting at Black Pearl with the introduction of its new Ladies’ Night. Perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a midweek evening out, the experience brings together good company, a lively atmosphere and a little midweek indulgence. For AED 85 per person, ladies can enjoy free-flowing house beverages accompanied by a bar bites platter, making it an ideal excuse to gather the girls and enjoy the evening. The offer is available every Tuesday from 7 PM to 10 PM.
La Piscine Sundowners – Every Friday, Starting 16 October
Friday evenings are all about golden-hour moments at La Piscine. As the sun begins to set, guests can unwind by the pool, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and ease into the weekend with refreshing drinks and delicious bites. Priced at AED 99 per person, the Sundowners package includes two selected drinks and a bar bites platter, offering a laid-back way to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s cooler evenings. The offer is available every Friday from 5 PM to 7 PM.
Jazz Nights at Black Pearl – Every Thursday, Starting 22 October
For those who enjoy a more sophisticated evening, Black Pearl introduces Jazz Nights, bringing together smooth jazz, whiskey and cigars in an intimate setting. Whether it’s an after-work gathering or a relaxed night out, the experience offers a refined way to unwind as the week draws to a close. Priced at AED 99 per person, the package includes two selected drinks and one selected cigar. Jazz Nights take place every Thursday from 7 PM to 10 PM.
Azur Al Fresco Aperitivo – Every Saturday, Starting 17 October
With the return of outdoor dining season, Azur Restaurant invites guests to embrace the Italian tradition of aperitivo with its new Al Fresco Aperitivo experience. Designed for leisurely early evenings, the offering is perfect for catching up with friends, enjoying the pleasant weather and unwinding over drinks and light bites. For AED 99 per person, guests can enjoy two selected drinks accompanied by an antipasti platter. The experience is available every Saturday from 5 PM to 7 PM.
With these four new offerings, Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa Abu Dhabi brings together a variety of experiences to suit every occasion. Whether it’s a midweek ladies’ night, a relaxed Friday sundowner, an evening of jazz or a Saturday aperitivo, the resort offers plenty of ways to make the most of the season.
Hospitality
From the MICHELIN Stage to Delhi Street Food: Chef Pradeep Khullar and Saubhagi Veer Launch One Dish Venture – Bhaturewala in Dubai


After years of building restaurant experiences and working in Dubai’s fine-dining hospitality industry, Chef Pradeep Khullar and Saubhagi Veer have partnered up to turn their attention to their own passion venture, Bhaturewala — a focused One-Dish food concept dedicated to the flavours of Delhi.
Following Chef Pradeep Khullar and Saubhagi Veer work at Nazaara, which was selected for the MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2026, the duo are embracing something deliberately simpler: bringing Delhi-style chole bhature and mutton bhature to Dubai through a takeaway and car-dining concept built around a love for the food, rather than an expansive restaurant format. Opening on Friday, October 16, at Shop 7, Lamcy A Building in Oud Metha, Bhaturewala will serve a tightly focused menu featuring Bhature in two signature flavours – Chole & Mutton accompanied by lassi. There will be no sprawling menu, conventional dining room or full-service restaurant setup. Instead, the focus will remain firmly on the food, with customers able to collect their orders or enjoy them in their cars.


The concept will operate on Friday evenings and on Saturday and Sunday mornings and evenings, with a limit of just 200 plates per day.
For Khullar, the venture is a personal tribute to the city where his culinary journey and love for food took shape.
“Delhi is not just where I grew up; it is a part of who I am as a chef. Some of my strongest food memories are rooted in the streets, neighbourhoods and flavours of that city. Having spent years cooking in fine dining, I wanted to bring something much more personal to Dubai — a little piece of the Delhi I know and love, right here in the neighbourhood I call home. Bhaturewala is my way of sharing those memories through food that is honest, familiar and full of character. It’s not about reinventing Delhi street food; it’s about doing justice to it,” said Chef Pradeep Khullar, Co-founder of Bhaturewala.
For Veer, whose experience spans restaurant leadership and brand building, the opportunity lay in creating something distinctive in a city where chole bhature is already widely available.
“Dubai already has plenty of places serving chole bhature, and we never set out to be just another one. We wanted to build a concept around a simple belief: you don’t need a hundred things on a menu if you can do two things exceptionally well. Specialisation is at the heart of Bhaturewala — getting the food right, staying true to what we set out to serve, and making every plate count. The limited menu and 200-plate-a-day approach are deliberate. We want people to come to us because they know exactly what they’re coming for, and they know we care about getting it right. For us, this is about choosing focus over scale, and quality over quantity from day one,” added Saubhagi Veer, Co-founder of Bhaturewala.
The idea for Bhaturewala took shape after years of conversations, planning and the familiar refrain of kabhi toh karenge — someday, we will do it. The founders have now decided to take that step, building a business of their own on their own terms, alongside their established careers in hospitality.
The approach is intentionally uncomplicated: a focused menu, a limited number of plates, and a casual, neighbourhood-friendly way for customers to enjoy Delhi-inspired food without the ceremony of a traditional restaurant experience.
At its heart, Bhaturewala is guided by one simple thought: Dilli Se Direct, bringing a taste of Delhi to Dubai, straight from the city’s food traditions to the neighbourhood they call home.
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