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Unveiling Dubai's Hottest Hotel Openings in 2025

Explore the Luxurious Innovations Transforming Dubai's Skyline
Published: Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Unveiling Dubai's Hottest Hotel Openings in 2025

Explore the latest additions to Dubai's hospitality scene with a focus on new and upcoming hotel launches for 2025. The city boasts a diverse array of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to lavish resorts, providing numerous options for travelers.

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Vida Dubai Mall

Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Vida Dubai Mall is the newest landmark in the skyline, providing direct access to one of the largest shopping and entertainment hubs in the world. The hotel features 195 elegantly designed rooms and suites, alongside 620 serviced apartments ranging from one to four bedrooms.

Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, international dining options, and co-working spaces. Families will appreciate the Qix Kids Club and the outdoor splash pad, while complimentary bikes are available for those wishing to explore the surrounding area at their leisure.

Location: Downtown Dubai

Facilities: Swimming pool, fitness center, kids club, co-working space.

Mama Shelter Dubai

Mama Shelter, celebrated as the new hub for Millennials and Gen Z, has opened its doors in Dubai. Originating from Paris, this vibrant hotel features a unique and playful design by renowned designer Thierry Gaugain.

Guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere across its 197 rooms, complemented by various social and recreational spaces, including lounges, pools, photo booths, DJ areas, and sports courts for basketball and volleyball.

Additionally, there are screening rooms and coworking hubs available for residents. The rooms are well-furnished and equipped with smart home technology and fully integrated kitchens, alongside a range of à la carte hotel services and amenities.

Location: Business Bay.

Facilities: 197 rooms, swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, coworking space.

Delano Dubai

Nestled on Bluewaters Island, Delano Dubai is part of the esteemed international hotel chain brought to life by Ennismore, which also manages Banyan Tree Dubai on the same island. This luxurious establishment features 251 rooms, including 84 suites—some equipped with private pools.

Guests can enjoy an oceanfront swimming pool, exquisite dining options, and a range of top-tier amenities that embody five-star service.

Location: Bluewaters Island.
Facilities: 251 rooms and suites, oceanfront pool, beach club, and dining options like Miami's The Rose Bar.

FIVE LUXE

FIVE LUXE, the latest addition to Jumeirah Beach Residence, blends relaxed sophistication with vibrant entertainment. As the third property from FIVE Hotels and Resorts in Dubai, it continues the brand's tradition of fun and excitement. Visitors can choose from 222 rooms and suites—some featuring a DJ booth and dancefloor—or opt for one of the 276 residential apartments.

Dining experiences here are top-notch, with options like the Japanese restaurant Ronin, Mediterranean Cielo, and the French Tête A Tête. For a lively atmosphere, Playa Pacha offers a private beach and pool club, hosting international DJs to enhance the festive vibe.

Location: Jumeirah Beach Residence
Facilities: 222 rooms and suites, 276 residential apartments, expansive pools, beach club, spa, and seven diverse dining venues.

Situated along the picturesque Dubai Creek, the Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences is the inaugural property in the upcoming 'Jewel of the Creek' development.

This hotel features 180 rooms and suites, including studio apartments and spacious duplex penthouses with one to three bedrooms, all providing stunning views of both the contemporary and traditional landscapes of Dubai. Guests can enjoy a fully-equipped fitness center, a steam room, sauna, an indoor jacuzzi, and separate swimming pools for adults and children, along with an all-day dining restaurant.

Location: Deira.

Facilities: 180 rooms and suites, panoramic views, fitness center, dedicated adult and children's pools.

The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai

The Lana, a striking addition to the skyline, overlooks Marasi Bay Marina and offers breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa. This architectural gem boasts high-end dining experiences crafted by acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs, alongside a rooftop pool and lounge perfect for sunset views. With 225 luxurious rooms and suites, The Lana will also host the first Dior Spa in the UAE, set to launch in April 2024.

For those considering long-term stays, the residences provide access to landscaped terraces, infinity pools, a yoga studio, and a marina featuring 20 berths, complemented by a dedicated podium for retail and dining.

Location: Business Bay.

Facilities: 225 rooms and suites, first Dior Spa in the UAE (opening April 2024), infinity pool, yoga studio, and rooftop dining.

The Biltmore Hotel Villas

Located near the Mall of the Emirates, The Biltmore Hotel Villas promises the same luxury and hospitality as its century-old Los Angeles counterpart. This property includes 18 opulent three- and four-bedroom villas, ideal for families and groups, along with two expansive five-bedroom villas featuring spacious rooftop lounges for social gatherings.

The villas combine Emirati elegance with modern European design, each offering private pools, jacuzzis, cinema rooms, and smart home technology among other high-end amenities.

Location: Al Barsha 1.

Facilities: 20 villas, private pools, cinema rooms, and jacuzzis.

One Za’abeel

One Za’abeel is a striking addition to Dubai's skyline, featuring the world’s longest cantilever, known as The Link, connecting its two sleek towers. This vertical resort not only provides sophisticated accommodations but also boasts ultra-chic retail, entertainment, and dining options. Guests can enjoy the UAE’s longest infinity pool on the rooftop, which offers breathtaking views of both the historic and modern parts of Dubai.

The rooms are elegantly designed with neutral tones and soothing sand motifs, reflecting the meaning of ‘Za’abeel’ (which translates to ‘white sand’ in the local dialect).

Location: Trade Centre.
Facilities: 229 rooms, eight restaurants in The Link, three restaurants at The Garden, and the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool.

Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, Vignette Collection

Nestled along the western shores of Palm Jumeirah, Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort marks the debut of the Vignette Collection in the region and is IHG's first luxury beach resort in the UAE. The resort features vibrant interiors and 132 elegantly designed rooms that blend Arabian elegance with Art Deco influences and a Miami vibe. Guests can enjoy private beach access, infinity pools, a kids club, and various watersports activities.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 132 rooms, private beach access, infinity pools, kids club, and watersports activities.

Banyan Tree Dubai

Banyan Tree Dubai offers a luxurious beachfront experience, providing a perfect urban escape. Located where Caesars Palace Dubai once stood, this resort features a pristine 500-meter private beach and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It is conveniently situated near the lively Jumeirah Beach Residence and Dubai Marina, as well as the iconic Ain Dubai .

Location: Bluewaters Island.
Facilities: 178 rooms, 500m private beach, fitness center, and spa.

Vida Creek Beach

Sands out as a new luxury hotel nestled in Dubai Creek Harbour, complete with a scenic lagoon and an advanced wave system. This oasis offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city while remaining conveniently close to downtown attractions.

Guests can indulge in stunning waterside views, boat excursions, lush green spaces, and elegant dining. The hotel's common areas and 99 rooms showcase a harmonious blend of Art Deco and Modernism, highlighted by sleek arches, warm bronze tones, rich wood accents, and neutral decor.

Location: Dubai Creek Harbour.
Facilities: 99 rooms, picturesque lagoon with a wave system, co-working space, 24/7 fitness center, infinity pool with canal views, waterside vistas, boat tours, and elegant dining options.

The First Collection Waterfront

Marks the arrival of a homegrown hospitality brand in Business Bay, placing visitors at the heart of Dubai's upscale scene. This four-star lifestyle hotel features 327 rooms and suites, all offering private balconies with captivating canal views.

Guests can savor exceptional dining experiences, enjoy the pool and spa, and take advantage of convenient transportation to the Soluna Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah for a perfect day at the beach.

Location: Business Bay.
Facilities: 327 rooms and suites, private balconies with canal views, onsite dining options, pool, spa, and private transportation to Soluna Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah.

SO/ Uptown Dubai

Adds a touch of avant-garde elegance to the city with its 188 rooms and suites, along with 227 residences in a striking 'diamond-cut' supertower. This urban resort seamlessly blends fashion and design, featuring luxurious wood and marble interiors adorned with gold accents and rich fabrics.

Guests can expect all the five-star amenities, including exquisite dining options, a rejuvenating spa, a pool, and a fitness center. For a memorable experience, an elevated dining and entertainment venue, Celeste, is set to open soon.

Location: Near Jumeirah Islands.
Facilities: 188 rooms and suites, 227 residences, spa, pool, fitness center, and upscale dining options, with an upcoming entertainment venue called Celeste.

Atlantis The Royal Dubai

The latest gem on Palm Jumeirah, made a grand debut in early 2023. Known as Dubai’s largest hotel, it rises 185 meters above sea level and boasts 800 guest rooms, 250 luxury residences, and an impressive 90 swimming pools.

With 11 exquisite restaurants led by renowned chefs, guests can enjoy extraordinary culinary experiences. A highlight is the Sky Bridge, which connects the rooms and features a breathtaking rooftop infinity pool suspended high above the island.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 800 guest rooms, 250 luxury residences, 90 swimming pools, 11 restaurants led by renowned chefs, and a Sky Bridge featuring a rooftop infinity pool 96 meters above the ground.

NH Dubai The Palm

The first NH Hotels property in the Middle East has opened its doors on the main trunk of Palm Jumeirah. Boasting 227 rooms and suites, as well as 306 serviced apartments, the hotel offers an array of amenities, including a sports bar, rooftop lounge, and a dedicated kids club.

Situated just a stone's throw from top attractions like Palm West Beach, NH Dubai The Palm provides an ideal base for tourists.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 227 rooms and suites, 306 serviced apartments, sports bar, rooftop lounge, kids club. Close to attractions like Palm West Beach.

Address Grand Creek Harbour

Adding to Dubai's growing hospitality offerings, Address Grand Creek Harbour is the first five-star hotel in Dubai Creek Harbour. With 223 rooms and suites featuring tasteful design and unparalleled comfort, the hotel also offers stunning skyline panoramas, including views of the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Guests can take advantage of the property's infinity pool, which provides a serene respite from the city's bustle.

Location: Dubai Creek Harbour.
Facilities: 223 rooms and suites, infinity pool with views of Burj Khalifa and skyline, elegant design and comfort.

Voco Dubai The Palm

Opened in early 2023 on Palm West Beach, Voco Dubai The Palm features 143 rooms and suites, a fully-equipped gym, and a luxury spa. The hotel's dining options include Maison Mathis and Frenia, serving modern European cuisine, as well as a poolside rooftop lounge offering Mediterranean favorites.

Voco Dubai The Palm is the latest addition to IHG Hotel group's portfolio in the city, complementing the flourishing dining and entertainment options along Palm West Beach.

Location: Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 143 rooms and suites, fully-equipped gym, luxury spa, dining options including Maison Mathis and Frenia, poolside rooftop lounge. Close to popular dining spots like Koko Bay and February 30.

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah

Stands out as the Marriott group’s inaugural UAE resort, offering breathtaking beachfront views on the iconic Palm Jumeirah island. This expansive property features over 600 rooms, each equipped with balconies, and many interconnected to cater to families.

While children can engage in a variety of activities designed just for them, adults can indulge in the vibrant dining scene along Palm West Beach, which includes the Italian restaurant Cucina, Mediterranean-inspired Levantera, and the lively Mexican venue Señor Pico.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: Over 600 rooms and suites, all with balconies (many interconnected), dedicated kids' activities, and proximity to beachfront dining options along Palm West Beach. The resort features several dining venues, including the Italian restaurant Cucina, Mediterranean-inspired Levantera, and the lively Mexican venue Señor Pico.

Côte d’Azur

Is another exciting addition, located on The Heart of Europe development within The World Islands. Accessible via a 20-minute boat ride from Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, this resort captures the essence of the French Riviera.

Comprising four distinct properties—Monaco, Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez—each featuring vibrant exteriors painted in 60 hues, Côte d’Azur offers a total of 880 rooms and suites, alongside a unique raining street and a 24-hour pool with music.

Location: Heart of Europe, The World Islands.
Facilities: A total of 880 rooms across four properties (Monaco, Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez), each showcasing vibrant paintwork in 60 hues. Amenities include a unique raining street and a 24-hour pool with music, providing a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of the French Riviera.

Radisson Beach Resort Palm Jumeirah

Which opened late in 2022, offers 389 rooms with spectacular views of Dubai Marina. This four-star resort includes a stunning swimming pool with panoramic city vistas, a comprehensive all-day dining restaurant, and options for light snacks by the pool or in the lobby. Additionally, guests can take advantage of a modern fitness center and a luxurious spa.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 389 rooms and suites with stunning views of Dubai Marina, a swimming pool offering panoramic city vistas, an all-day dining restaurant, light snack options by the pool, and a lobby snack bar. Guests can also access a state-of-the-art fitness center and a luxurious spa.

With these incredible options, Dubai is set to welcome a new era of hospitality in 2025, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and luxury.

Pakistan Reopens Airspace to All Flights Following Ceasefire with India

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025
Pakistan Reopens Airspace to All Flights Following Ceasefire with India

Pakistan has officially reopened its airspace to all commercial, cargo, and military flights after a period of heightened conflict with India, marking a significant move toward regional stability. The closure, which lasted several days, was implemented in response to a sharp escalation in hostilities that saw both nations exchange missile strikes and conduct military operations along their shared border.

The airspace shutdown caused widespread disruption, with hundreds of flights canceled or rerouted, affecting not only travelers between Pakistan and India but also international airlines whose routes traverse South Asian airspace.

The breakthrough came after a ceasefire agreement was reached on May 10, 2025, following intense diplomatic mediation involving the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations. The ceasefire called for an immediate halt to all military activities and the reactivation of communication hotlines between the two countries’ militaries.

Officials in Islamabad stated that the decision to reopen the airspace was made in coordination with civil aviation authorities and after ensuring that security risks had subsided.

Airlines have welcomed the announcement, as the closure had forced many to take costly and time-consuming detours, leading to increased fuel consumption and operational expenses. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and other regional carriers have begun restoring their regular flight schedules, though authorities caution that it may take several days for operations to return to normal as aircraft and crews are repositioned.

The airspace reopening is expected to have a positive impact on the economies of both countries, restoring vital trade and travel links and allowing for the resumption of business and tourism activities. Analysts note that while the ceasefire and reopening are encouraging developments, the underlying issues-particularly the dispute over Kashmir-remain unresolved.

Nevertheless, the move is being seen as a hopeful sign that both nations are willing to take steps toward de-escalation and dialogue, with the international community urging continued engagement to build on this progress and prevent future crises.

Emirates Handles Record Number of Bags in Its Busiest Year Ever

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025
Emirates Handles Record Number of Bags in Its Busiest Year Ever

Emirates has reached a new milestone in global aviation by recording its busiest year ever for baggage handling between April 2024 and March 2025, processing over 2.8 million bags each month-an average of 100,000 bags daily-across flights to 140 destinations worldwide. This surge represents a 3.7% year-on-year increase, reflecting the continued rebound and growth in international travel demand.

Despite the increased volume and complexity of international operations, Emirates maintained an industry-leading 99.9% baggage handling accuracy rate at its Dubai hub, one of the world’s busiest airports. The airline’s mishandling rate-covering delayed, lost, or misplaced baggage-remained exceptionally low at just 1.4 per 1,000 bags, which is nearly 30 times lower than some other major international carriers.

When baggage delays did occur, Emirates reunited 91% of affected bags with their owners within 72 hours, a notable achievement given the long and complex journeys typical of international and transfer baggage. In addition, Emirates’ Lost and Found team at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3 returned 94% of valuable lost items, such as passports and wallets, within 60 minutes, highlighting the airline’s commitment to customer service.

Emirates attributes its operational excellence to several factors:

  • Advanced Technology and Innovation: The airline has invested millions in bespoke software and surveillance systems that provide real-time visibility over each bag’s journey, from check-in to final destination. In 2024, Emirates launched the Emirates Bag Connect digital tool, allowing passengers to track their luggage in real time via the Emirates app and website. This feature is now available at 80 international stations, enhancing transparency and customer confidence.
  • Integrated Baggage Management Systems: Emirates leverages a combination of Dubai Airport’s Baggage Handling System, dnata’s Baggage Reconciliation System, and its own tracking platforms to monitor and manage baggage at every stage. These systems automatically assign delayed baggage to the next available flight, ensuring swift resolution.
  • Highly Trained Workforce: Emirates’ ground handlers and operational staff undergo regular, rigorous training in both virtual and hands-on settings to stay updated on the latest systems, protocols, and best practices. This ensures consistent service standards and rapid adaptation to new technologies.
  • Proactive Handling of Untagged Bags: At Dubai’s hub, around 2,300 bags per month are found without baggage tags. Emirates and dnata manage to recover and load 80% of these untagged bags onto their respective flights before departure, minimizing passenger disruption.
  • Collaboration and Process Optimization: Seamless cooperation between Emirates, dnata, and Dubai Airports is essential for maintaining smooth baggage flow and high service levels, particularly given the scale and international nature of Emirates’ network.

The airline’s end-to-end baggage management workflow, robust digital infrastructure, and continuous innovation have set a new global benchmark for operational excellence and customer satisfaction in baggage handling. Emirates’ performance not only underscores its leadership in the aviation industry but also demonstrates how strategic investment in technology and people can deliver tangible benefits to millions of travelers each year.

Delhi Airport Disrupted as Security Shutdown of 32 Airports Sparks Mass Flight Cancellations and Delays

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025
Delhi Airport Disrupted as Security Shutdown of 32 Airports Sparks Mass Flight Cancellations and Delays

On Sunday, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport experienced significant operational disruptions with at least 97 flights cancelled and over 150 delayed, as the fallout from the closure of 32 airports in northern and western India continued. These closures, implemented due to heightened security concerns amid tensions with Pakistan, remain in effect from May 9 to May 14, 2025, despite a ceasefire agreement reached on Saturday to halt all military action.

Of the cancelled flights, 96 were domestic-comprising 44 arrivals and 52 departures-while the sole international cancellation was Air India flight AI-139 to Tel Aviv. Flight delays averaged 15 minutes, affecting more than 150 flights on Sunday, following a day when 60 flights were cancelled and over 200 delayed.

The 32 airports closed are primarily located near the India-Pakistan border in the north, northwest, and western regions, severely restricting air traffic and reducing operations at Delhi Airport to about 60 percent of normal levels. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) cited operational reasons for the closures, which are part of ongoing security measures following the launch of Operation Sindoor earlier in the week.

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has issued travel advisories urging passengers to anticipate schedule changes and longer security wait times due to enhanced screening protocols mandated by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security. Passengers have been advised to arrive at least three hours before departure and to stay updated via airline and airport websites for real-time flight information.

Despite the ceasefire, the security situation has kept airports on high alert, with continued disruptions expected until the closures lift on May 14. Airlines including Air India, IndiGo, and others have offered flexible rescheduling and refunds to affected passengers. The ongoing situation underscores the complex challenges in maintaining civil aviation operations amid geopolitical tensions and security imperatives.

Korean Air Slashes 45% of International Flights from Regional Airports, Sparking Regional Outcry

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025
Korean Air Slashes 45% of International Flights from Regional Airports, Sparking Regional Outcry

 Korean Air, South Korea’s flagship carrier, has dramatically cut its international flights from regional airports by 45% betweeinternational n 2019 and 2024, igniting controversy and concern across the country’s regional hubs. The airline operated 6,199 international flights from regional airports in 2024, down sharply from 11,408 in 2019, excluding Seoul’s Gimpo and Incheon airports.

At Busan’s Gimhae Airport, a critical economic and tourism center, international flights plunged 42%, from 9,675 in 2019 to 5,567 in 2024. The decline continued into early 2025, with a 36% year-on-year drop in the first quarter. Korean Air attributes these reductions primarily to delays in aircraft deliveries from manufacturers, which have constrained its capacity and forced temporary route suspensions.

Critics, however, argue that Korean Air is disproportionately favoring Seoul’s Incheon Airport, where flight reductions were minimal at just 5.7%. This Seoul-centric approach has sparked backlash from civic groups and local politicians, who warn that the cuts could undermine regional economies by reducing connectivity, tourism, and trade opportunities.

Aviation experts explain that Korean Air is strategically reallocating resources toward long-haul, more profitable international routes amid uneven demand recovery, especially as regional routes like Busan to China have yet to fully rebound post-pandemic. By consolidating operations at major hubs like Incheon, the airline aims to optimize fleet utilization and reduce costs amid global supply chain disruptions and shifting travel patterns.

The regional flight cuts have raised alarms about South Korea’s aviation future. While Korean Air’s long-haul focus positions it to compete globally, regional airports such as Gimhae face challenges without diversified services. The recovery of regional routes depends on resolving aircraft delivery delays and stabilizing demand, but for now, Korean Air’s cautious strategy reflects the uncertain landscape of the aviation sector.

Local stakeholders urge government intervention to ensure more equitable flight service distribution, emphasizing the importance of balanced regional development in South Korea’s evolving air travel market.

This significant restructuring highlights the broader challenges facing the aviation industry as it adapts to post-pandemic realities and supply chain hurdles, with Korean Air at the forefront of navigating these turbulent skies.

White House in Talks to Use Qatar’s 747 Jumbo Jet as Temporary Air Force One

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025
White House in Talks to Use Qatar’s 747 Jumbo Jet as Temporary Air Force One

The White House is in active talks with Qatar’s royal family about acquiring a luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet, potentially to serve as Air Force One during President Donald Trump’s second term. While Qatar denies the plane is a gift, it confirms discussions are underway for the “temporary use” of the aircraft by the U.S. government.

The plane, described by some as a "flying palace," would be retrofitted by the U.S. Department of Defense to meet presidential security and communication requirements before entering service. Sources indicate it will not be ready immediately and will require thorough security clearance.

President Trump is expected to announce the arrangement during his upcoming Middle East trip, which includes a visit to Qatar. After his presidency, the jet is reportedly planned to be donated to Trump’s yet-to-be-built presidential library, a move that could sidestep constitutional restrictions on foreign gifts to government officials.

Qatar’s media attaché to the U.S., Ali Al-Ansari, emphasized that no final decision has been made and that the proposal remains under legal review by both countries’ defense departments. He also refuted reports that the jet would be gifted during Trump’s visit as inaccurate.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt assured that any gift from a foreign government would comply fully with U.S. laws and that the administration is committed to transparency. Trump himself defended the deal on his Truth Social platform, calling the plane a “GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE” and criticizing opponents who question the arrangement.

Currently, the presidential fleet includes two Boeing 747-200B aircraft, in service since the early 1990s. The proposed 747-8 model from Qatar is a newer, more luxurious plane, which Trump had previously sought from Boeing but found delayed until 2027 or 2028.

This unprecedented potential gift raises significant legal and ethical questions, as the U.S. Constitution’s Emoluments Clause restricts officials from accepting gifts from foreign states. However, the plan to transfer ownership to Trump’s presidential library after his term may provide a legal workaround.

The negotiations underscore the continuing close diplomatic ties between Trump and Qatar, which in 2019 committed to large purchases of American aircraft. Qatar has a history of gifting luxury jets to other countries, including Turkey in 2018.

As Trump prepares for his first major foreign trip of his second term, the world watches closely how this high-profile aircraft deal unfolds, blending diplomacy, politics, and presidential legacy in the skies.