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

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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.

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Hospitality

ME BY MELIÁ DUBAI LAUNCHES AFTER DUSK RAMADAN EDITION: A REFINED OPEN-AIR IFTAR EXPERIENCEME BY MELIÁ DUBAI LAUNCHES AFTER DUSK RAMADAN EDITION: A REFINED OPEN-AIR IFTAR EXPERIENCE

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4 minutes ago

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February 4, 2026

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Open-air iftar buffet setup on the Pool Terrace at ME by Meliá Dubai, featuring illuminated food stations beneath sculptural canopy structures at night with the city skyline in the background.

This Holy Month, ME by Meliá Dubai sets the scene for a standout Iftar experience, bringing guests together for an elevated evening of exceptional flavours and refined Ramadan hospitality.

Hosted on the hotel’s Pool Terrace, the experience blends timeless favourites with contemporary touches in a setting designed for relaxed, memorable gatherings, a stylish way to break fast in the heart of the city.

Guests will begin their evening with a generous spread of hot and cold mezze, featuring beloved classics such as Muhammara, Hummus, and Moutabel, alongside crowd favourites including Kibbeh, Cheese Rakakat, Spinach Fatayer, and Falafel, as well as fresh, vibrant favourites like Tabbouleh, Fattoush, and Warak Enab. The spread is complemented by a charcuterie and cheese station, offering Beef Cecina, Beef Chorizo, Chicken Pistachio Mortadella, and Salmon Gravlax, accompanied by a curated selection of local and international cheeses.

The experience continues with comforting staples including Lentil Soup and a colourful Salad Bar, before moving into standout highlights from the live carvery and grill stations. Here, guests can indulge in expertly prepared cuts including Roasted Lamb Leg, Slow-Roasted Beef Cheeks, andWhole Farm Chicken, alongside flame-grilled favourites such as Chicken Shish Tawook and Shrimp Skewers, served with a variety of sauces and accompaniments.

For the main course, ME by Meliá Dubai will showcase a collection of signature Ramadan dishes that bring comfort and tradition to the table. Expect rich and satisfying plates such as Ouzi with Braised Lamb and Oriental Rice, the bold flavours of Samkeh Harra, comforting Dawood Basha, and warming sides including Freekeh and Vermicelli Rice, before ending the evening on a sweet note with Mahalabiya, Umm Ali, Date Pudding, assorted Arabic sweets, and fruits of the day.

  • Where: Pool Terrace, Level 1
  • Price: AED 249 per person
  • Time: Sunset – 10:30 PM

Blending tradition with ME by Meliá Dubai’s signature contemporary style, the Ramadan Iftar experience offers the perfect setting to gather with loved ones, friends, or colleagues, unwind, and enjoy an evening of exceptional flavours in a refined open-air atmosphere.

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Hospitality

A REFINED ITALIAN IFTAR EXPERIENCE AT LUNAROSSA

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25 minutes ago

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February 4, 2026

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Chefs presenting freshly prepared Italian dishes at LUNAROSSA, featuring a long truffle pizza on a marble counter, a plated pasta dish served at a dining table, and a close-up of a seafood dish with prawns and garnish.

This Ramadan, Lunarossa presents a thoughtfully curated Italian-inspired Iftar experience, blending traditional comfort with refined Italian flavours and a modern twist. From 18 February to 19 March, guests are invited to break their fast at sunset, right with the Athan at 6:20 PM, in an elegant and welcoming setting.

The specially designed set menu begins with a selection of appetisers that showcase Lunarossa’s creative take on Italian cuisine, including an excellently crafted hummus, chicken salad, parmigiana zucchini, truffle pizza, and a classic frittata with onion and potatoes.

For the main course, guests will enjoy Pappardelle Genovese di Carne, slow-cooked pappardelle served with a rich Genovese meat ragù, offering depth, warmth and comfort.

The Iftar experience concludes with Crema Nonna Italia, a custard-style dessert with an Italian twist, finished with fresh fruit toppings for a light yet satisfying sweet ending.

Designed for sharing moments after sunset, Lunarossa’s Ramadan Iftar offers a unique fusion of Italian heritage and Ramadan tradition.

Date: 18 February – 19 March
Time: 6:20 PM (at Athan)
Location: Lunarossa, Business Bay, Dubai

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Hospitality

DAMAC HOSPITALITY CAPS A MILESTONE YEAR WITH MORE THAN 30 INDUSTRY AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

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1 hour ago

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February 4, 2026

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DAMAC Hospitality earns over 30 awards recognising excellence in luxury hospitality, leadership and guest experience. Group of DAMAC Hospitality team members standing together in a marble-floored atrium, holding multiple industry awards and trophies while posing for a celebratory group photo.

DAMAC Hospitality continues to strengthen its position as leaders in luxury, lifestyle and experience-led hospitality, driven by consistent industry recognition across their growing portfolio.

DAMAC Hospitality, which includes DAMAC Hotels & Resorts, secured over 30 prestigious accolades across some of the region’s most respected hospitality platforms, reflecting excellence in hotel performance, brand innovation, wellness, leadership, sustainability, dining and nightlife. These recognitions underscore the group’s commitment to creating immersive, design-led and emotionally engaging hospitality experiences.

The portfolio has been recognised across leading industry platforms including the Hotel & Catering Big Nightlife Awards, Leaders in Hospitality Awards, Hotelier Middle East, Arabia Travel Awards, Zenith Awards, DET and the Hozpitality Excellence Awards. The accolades celebrate achievements spanning guest experience, operational excellence, innovation, team performance and sustainability.

Paramount Hotel Dubai, Paramount Hotel Midtown, DAMAC Maison Aykon City, alongside the brand’s legacy DAMAC Maison properties, have all been honoured, reinforcing their growing influence within Dubai’s lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality landscape. Each recognition reflects not only operational success, but the emotional connection these hotels create through storytelling, design and elevated guest engagement.

Leadership recognition has been a defining pillar across the portfolio, with senior executives acknowledged at platforms such as the Fluxx Awards ME for excellence in leadership, culture and innovation. Members of the DAMAC Hospitality leadership team continue to feature among the industry’s most influential figures, shaping the future direction of hospitality in the region and beyond.

“These recognitions are a powerful reflection of the people behind the brand their creativity, resilience and unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Dean Rossilli, Senior Vice President of DAMAC Hospitality. “Each award reinforces our belief in building hospitality experiences that are not only commercially successful but culturally relevant and emotionally engaging for our guests.”

With continued investment in leadership, lifestyle concepts and immersive storytelling, DAMAC Hospitality remain focused on redefining modern hospitality, setting new benchmarks across the region and expanding their influence within the global hospitality narrative.

Notable recognitions and awards received in 2025 include:

  • DET Sustainability Awards 2025 – Winner – Dubai Sustainable Tourism Gold Stamp, Paramount Hotel Midtown
  • Professional Beauty Awards 2025 – Winner – City Spa of the Year & Marketing Campaign of the Year  , PAUSE Spa, Paramount Hotel Midtown
  • Leaders in Hospitality Awards 2025 – Winner – Rising Star of the Industry, Owen Mbabvu, Paramount Hotel Dubai
  • Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2025 – Top 10% Worldwide, Paramount Hotel Dubai
  • Big Nightlife Awards 2025 – Winner – Best Off-Beat Nightlife Venue, Flashback Speakeasy
  • Middle East Awards 2025 – Nicholas Chalmers, GM of the Year (City Hotel), Finalist, Paramount Hotel Dubai
  • Hozpitality Chef Excellence Awards 2025 – Commended Female Chef of the Year  – Aye Ngon Phu,
  • Hozpitality Chef Excellence Awards 2025 – Head Chef of the Year,  Htet Naing Aung
  • Hotel & Catering Big Nightlife Awards 2025 – Bar Team of the Year, Malibu Sky Lounge
  • Hotelier Middle East Awards 2025 – Best Security Person of the Year, Amgad Youssef
  • Fluxx Awards ME 2025 – Strategic Growth Leader of the Year, Dean Rossilli, SVP DAMAC Hospitality
  • Hotel & Catering | Leaders in Hospitality Awards 2025 – Hospitality Real Estate Pioneers, DAMAC Hotels and Resorts
  • DET Digital Reputation Awards 2025 – Top Performer in Digital Reputation, DAMAC MAISON Cour Jardin
  • Hozpitality Middle East Excellence Awards 2025 – Best 5-Star Hotel Apartments of the Year, DAMAC Maison Aykon City
  • Hozpitality Excellence Awards 2025 – Best Boutique Hotel, DAMAC Maison Mall Street
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