Hot News
from Arabian Travel Market 2025
Packed aisles, a record-breaking 55,000+ visitors (up 16 percent from last year), and participants from 166 countries – there’s no doubt about it: Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is more influential than ever. LuxuryWise was on the ground and brought back the latest luxury travel highlights.
Ciel Dubai Marina opens in Q4
The world’s tallest hotel is set to open in the fourth quarter: Ciel Dubai Marina, rising 365 meters above the city in the striking Ciel Tower. Guests can look forward to jaw-dropping views – think Palm Jumeirah from 82 floors up. Inside, 1,000 rooms and suites are spread across the vertical marvel, with three separate lobbies for check-in: leisure travelers, groups, and VIPs each get their own entrance. On the culinary front, ten F&B outlets are in the works, including the Dubai debut of London’s Tattu, which will serve up multiple fine dining experiences high above the skyline.
Emirates debutes Premium Eco ex FRA
Emirates is rolling out brand-new cabins and its much-anticipated Premium Economy Class across all A-380 and B-777 aircraft as part of an extensive retrofit program. This elevated experience is now coming to even more routes and will launch on November 15 on the Frankfurt–Dubai route (EK043/EK044), operated by a Boeing 777. And that’s just the beginning: starting in July, passengers on selected flights to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Nice, Perth, Madrid, Kuala Lumpur, and Phuket can also look forward to more space, upgraded amenities, and a refined experience.
Four Seasons comes to Ajman
With Oberoi Hotels officially exiting the UAE, the path is now clear for Four Seasons to step in. The luxury brand is taking over the existing beachfront property and will relaunch it as the Four Seasons Resort Ajman at Al Zorah. Ahead of its grand debut in 2026, the resort will undergo an extensive revamp. All 23 villas and 74 rooms and suites will be completely refurbished, and the spa is getting a complete rebuild. Guests can continue to enjoy access to the exclusive Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury and leisure.
The Red Palace in Riad premieres 2026
Saudi Arabia’s Boutique Group is gearing up to open the first of its three planned ultra-luxury boutique hotels next year. The concept? Transforming historic, culturally rich landmarks into standout stays. First up: The Red Palace in Riyadh, set to debut in Q2 2026 with 26 rooms, 44 suites, and a show-stopping Royal Suite. Guests can expect five restaurants, a full spa, and elegant event spaces – all wrapped in royal heritage. Following close behind: Al Hamra Palace in Jeddah and Tuwaiq Palace in Riyadh, each bringing a fresh take on Saudi tradition and modern luxury to town.
Jumeirah announces more Dubai projects
Jumeirah Hotels used the spotlight of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) to unveil more big plans. Slated for 2029, the upcoming brand-new Jumeirah Asora Bay (pictured) will rise on the La Mer South peninsula, blending a luxury hotel with exclusive residences. The boutique-style property will feature 103 rooms and suites alongside 20 villas, all part of the brand’s bold Mission 2030 growth strategy, which focuses on expanding its boutique hotel portfolio. Also in the pipeline: the Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers, adding even more shine to the group’s growing real estate footprint.
Etihad adds First Class on Short Haul
The arrival of the Airbus A321LR is a game changer for Etihad Airways. For the first time, the airline is bringing its First Class experience – typically found only on wide-body aircraft – to short and medium-haul routes using a narrow-body jet. It’s a bold move that elevates regional travel. Each A321LR will feature a three-class configuration, including two luxurious First Class suites offering the same high-touch service found on long-haul flights, along with 14 fully flat Business Class seats. The A321LR is set to debut soon on key routes, including Düsseldorf to Abu Dhabi, delivering premium comfort.