BTME November 2020

MIDDLE EAST

NOVEMBER 2020

ABU DHABI FIGHTS BACK

COMMUNITY SPIRIT

THE DUBAI COLLECTIVE

PLUS

A novel safe zone concept paves the way for tourism recovery

How the region's hotels are adapting to new lifestyle trends

A glance at upcoming properties set to change the city skyline

Tried and Tested • Workcations • Lisbon and the Maldives

BEST OF THE BEST

The winners of our 2020 virtual awards revealed UAE DHS12 OMAN RO1.30 BAHRAIN BD1.30 SAUDI ARABIA SR12 KUWAIT KD1

CONTENTS

NOVEMBER 2020

R E G UL A R S 06

UPFRONT

Airline and hotel news from around the world 14

POSTCARD

As flights to the Maldives resume a dhoni trip is well within sight 22

T HE R EP OR T TRIED & TESTED HOTELS 60 Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Abu Dhabi 61 Rove Dubai Marina

SPOTLIGHT ON... ALUL A

Unearthing conscious luxury at Saudi Arabia’s heritage hotspot

The winners of the hotly anticipated Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2020 revealed

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COMMUNIT Y SPIRIT

The region’s hotels are adapting to new global lifestyle trends 34

THE DUBAI COLLECTIVE

Upcoming ‘wow’ properties that will change the city skyline 48

E XCEPTIONAL ESCAPADES

A whistle-stop tour of four luxurious travel experiences 56

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REMOTE CONTROL

Destinations are gearing up to host work-from-home visitors 40

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THE BEST OF THE BEST

F E AT UR E S 24

ON TH E C OVER

4 HOURS IN... LISBON

Explore the Portuguese capital’s highlights by tram if you can

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62 Conrad London St. James 63 Sheraton Grand London Park Lane 64 AC by Marriott, Huntsville, AL 65 citizenM, Washington DC 66

SMART TRAVELLER

Tools to track travel

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56 NOVEMBER 2020

WELCOME

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s we enter November, we start to reflect on what has been a year like no other in modern history. Let’s be honest, the pandemic has decimated the global tourism industry. Many of us have put our travel plans on hold, or at least drastically reduced our overseas business and leisure trips, and despite some return to normality, until the virus either dies out, or more likely, we find an effective vaccine, we remain somewhat in limbo.

The good news is that we are all adapting to our new way of life – and so is the travel sector. In this issue we shed light on the ways in which we have all made lifestyle changes to incorporate work, leisure and even a change of scene.

With many of us working from home for the foreseeable future, we are seeking alternative spaces to plug in our laptops and set up our offices, from local hotels to new destinations.

The chance to more easily mix our personal and professional lives without the need to commute on a daily basis has also given rise to the ‘workcation’ trend, with some swapping city accommodation for country or beachside retreats – for a week, month or even a year.

The travel industry has responded. Hotels are evolving their offering to provide public and private work space, as well as semi-permanent residences, while destinations around the world, in regions ranging from Europe to the Caribbean, are offering one-year visas for those who want to up sticks and work

from ‘home’ in a new location. If you’re Middle East based and don’t fancy travelling quite as far for your 12-month ‘workcation’, Dubai has launched a similar initiative – the Virtual Working Programme. Spearheaded by Dubai Tourism, the one-year remote work offer costs US$287 plus medical insurance. Of course, certain conditions apply, including proof of employment, but if you pass all the criteria, it’s a chance to mix business with pleasure in one of the world’s best-connected and most dynamic cities.

It’s yet another example of the Middle East overcoming the obstacles that COVID-19 has thrown its way. The region’s travel sector, from airlines and hotels to airports and car rental companies, have been at the forefront of many industry-leading initiatives and innovations during the pandemic and for this and many other reasons, it was important to recognise their achievements at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2020, with the programme’s first ever virtual ceremony staged last month (see page 18). I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of our winners, as well as those shortlisted.

Thank you for your remarkable efforts to reignite the travel industry and to keep us safe during these unprecedented times.

Gemma Greenwood, Editor

THIS ISSUE’S PICKS

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Business Traveller Middle East is jointly published

by Motivate Media Group and Panacea Media Ltd M OT I VAT E M E D I A GRO UP

Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Managing Partner and Group Editor Ian Fairservice Editor Gemma Greenwood Art Director Clarkwin Cruz Editorial Co-ordinator Londresa Flores Contributors Tom Otley, Melanie Swan, Elise Kerr Alex McWhirter, Ramsey Qubein General Manager – Production S Sunil Kumar Assistant Production Manager Binu Purandaran Production Supervisor Venita Pinto Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne Group Sales Manager Dane Hills PAN ACE A M E D I A LT D

Managing Director Julian Gregory Associate Publisher Middle East Rania Apthorpe Global Editor-in-Chief Tom Otley

COMMUNITY SPIRIT Hotels are evolving into ‘bleisure’ hubs to suit new post-pandemic lifestyles (Page 24)

REMOTE CONTROL The WFH trend is empowering professionals to move office and home (Page 34)

THE DUBAI COLLECTIVE A glance at new hotel openings across the emirate (Page 40)

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© 2020 PANACEA MEDIA LTD AND MOTIVATE MEDIA GROUP

NOVEMBER 2020

WE MISSED YOU When was the last time you enjoyed an unforgettable getaway?

At Rotana, we believe time well spent, is a life well lived.

This enduring thought is at the heart of every experience we promise when you stay with us.

Transform moments into memorable experiences as we present a selection of diverse destinations, ideal for every journey.

To ďŹ nd out more, visit rotana.com Treasured time. Our promise to you.

UPFRONT

Dubai invites remote workers to stay for a year DUBAI HAS LAUNCHED a new programme enabling overseas professionals who are remote working

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to temporarily live in Dubai while continuing to serve their employer in their home country.

It means remote workers from all over the world – and their families – have the chance to re-locate to the city for up to a year, enjoying the famed Dubai lifestyle, as well as its zero income tax policy.

The programme, which gives professionals access to all Dubai services including telecoms, utilities and schooling costs US$287, plus medical insurance with valid UAE coverage and a processing fee per person. Criteria for eligibility includes proof of employment and a minimum monthly salary of $5,000.

“The global pandemic has changed how we live and work. As multinationals and leading startups across the world accelerate their rates of digital adoption, the need to be physically present to fulfil professional responsibilities has been redefined,” said His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing. “People continue to prioritise their health, wellbeing and ability to ensure a positive work-life balance. Dubai is uniquely positioned to offer a safe, dynamic lifestyle opportunity to these digitally savvy workers and their families while they continue to work remotely, whether it is for a couple of months or an entire year.”

To apply for the programme visit www.visitdubai.com

NEWS IN BRIEF

HOTELS

Hotel Indigo to debut in Oman

IHG Hotels & Resorts will debut its Hotel Indigo brand in Oman in early 2022. Hotel Indigo Jabal Al Akhdar (pictured), located 2,000 metres above sea level in Nizwa, will feature 176 rooms, three dining venues, outdoor and indoor pools, a spa, two meeting rooms and activities including biking, hiking, cave exploring and visits to the Fort and Souq of Nizwa.

New Staybridge for Dubai South

IHG has also opened its first Staybridge Suites property at Al Maktoum Airport in Dubai South catering to guests staying for extended periods of time.

The residential-style hotel is designed for multi-night business and leisure guests and features 262 contemporary NOVEMBER 2020

suites, a restaurant, outdoor pool and a health club. It’s just 20 minutes from the Expo 2020 Dubai site.

Swissôtel Living heads to Jeddah Accor will open Swissôtel Living Jeddah, a luxury property catering to long-stay guests, next year.

Conveniently located on Prince Saud Al Faisal Street and part of the city’s upcoming ( J View) mixed-use project, it will offer 150 serviced residences, three dining venues, nearly 400 sqm of meeting space, an outdoor/indoor games area, fitness centre and a rooftop swimming pool.

COVID TEST UPDATE

RAK OFFERS FREE PCR TESTS FOR INTERNATIONAL VISITORS RAS AL KHAIMAH has become the first destination globally to introduce complimentary COVID-19 PCR tests for international visitors staying one night or more in the emirate. It follows a partnership between Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and RAK Hospital and is applicable to overseas guests staying in and departing from RAK until December 31.

Subsidised by RAKTDA, the service is available at RAK Hospital or RAK Medical Centre in Al Hamra Mall.

NEW MARHABA HOME TEST SERVICE IN DUBAI dnata’s airport hospitality service provider, marhaba, has launched COVID-19 testing as part of its Premium Home Checkin Service.

It means Dubai-based travellers can take their test at home or at a location of their choice in the city, providing them with a medical certificate required for travel within 24 to 48 hours of being tested. It can be booked on www.marhabaservices.com and is priced from AED 714 (inclusive of VAT). The testing price of AED 209 (inclusive of VAT) per person is paid directly to Mediclinic upon sample collection.

THANK YOU We are delighted to be awarded the ‘Best Business Hotel in Dubai' and the 'Best Business Hotel in the Middle East’ by the renowned and respected Business Traveller ME Awards.

We would like to thank the readers of Business Traveller ME, our loyal guests and our wonderful team who all contributed to this amazing success.

Delve into Dubai fourseasons.com/DubaiDIFC FSDubaiDIFC

UPFRONT

NEWS IN BRIEF

AIRLINES

Qatar Airways almost COVID free

ETIHAD OPERATES FIRST COMMERCIAL PASSENGER FLIGHT TO ISRAEL ETIHAD AIRWAYS has made history as the first GCC carrier to operate a commercial passenger 8

flight to and from Israel. The service, operated by an Etihad Boeing 787 Dreamliner and flown in partnership with the Maman Group, brought Israel’s top travel and tourism leaders from Tel Aviv to the UAE on October 19.

Etihad Aviation Group Chairman His Excellency Mohamed Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei hailed the flight an “historic opportunity for the development of strong partnerships” between the UAE and Israel. Etihad is also the first non-Israeli airline in the Middle East to launch a dedicated website for the Israeli market in Hebrew.

Also available in English, the Israeli version of the airline’s official website contains digital content on Etihad’s operations, product, services and network, as well as an Abu Dhabi destination guide.

The site can be viewed in Hebrew at www.etihad.com/he-il and in English at www.etihad.com/en-il.

SINGAPORE POP-UP SELL OUT SINGAPORE AIRLINES’ NEW A380 POP-UP restaurant

sold out within 30 minutes of bookings opening, the carrier revealed last month. The Asian airline then released more seats to “accommodate those interested in this unique dining experience”. Two double-deckers parked at Singapore’s Changi Airport have been converted into temporary dining venues as the airline pursues new revenue streams amid the pandemic. Meals are being offered in all four cabin types with prices starting from S$53.50 in economy and S$96.30 in premium economy, rising to S$321 in business class and S$642 in a suite. Customers can also pay with frequent-flyer miles as well as earn miles when they purchase tickets.

NOVEMBER 2020

Qatar Airways has said its robust COVID-19 monitoring, detection and hygiene methods have resulted in 99.988 per cent of passengers travelling COVID-19-free on board its aircraft since February 2020. Less than one per cent of passengers have tested positive by local authorities following a Qatar Airways flight and less than one per cent (0.002 per cent) of cabin crew have been affected on board to date, with no new cases recorded since the airline introduced full PPE in-flight uniform in May, as well as passenger face coverings.

Etihad in Trip.com tie-up

Etihad Guest members can now earn three Guest Miles for every US$1 spent with online travel service provider Trip.com.

Members just add their Etihad Guest membership number when making a Trip.com booking and miles will be credited within 12 weeks after their stay is completed.

Air Arabia RAK flights resume

Air Arabia has resumed its full schedule of flights from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.

Arriving passengers must possess adequate health insurance, obtain a COVID-19 test result no longer than four days before travel, complete a health disclosure and download the ‘Al-Hosn’ app on arrival. They must also take a COVID-19 test at the airport and self-quarantine at their hotel or residence until receiving a negative result.

UPFRONT

AMBASSADORS CLUB DUBAI, a new lifestyle-led business networking

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platform recently founded by H.H. Count Oliver of Wumbrand-Stuppach, is organising its first delegation trip to Israel after receiving an official invitation from H.E. Ambassador Yitzhak Eldan, the founder and president of The Ambassadors’ Club in Israel. It follows the historic Abraham Accord agreement, signed by the UAE and Israel in Washington DC in September, which allows for normalisation of relations.

“The new diplomatic relations between the two countries will be very beneficial for both economies. For the UAE, the tourism and real estate sectors, as well as banks and financial services, will benefit enormously. We can already see several new companies incorporated by Israeli citizens, and this while the country is still under lockdown,” Count Oliver told BTME. “The members of the Ambassadors Club in the UAE are planning to travel to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem at the end of this year. The programme will include personal meetings with ministers and politicians, entrepreneurs, investors and diplomats from Israel. It is very exciting to be part of these historic developments.”

Ambassadors Club Dubai is now accepting membership registrations at www.ambassdorsclub.org

VIRTUAL TOURS WITH AMAZON ONLINE RETAIL GIANT AMAZON has launched a

new interactive live-streaming service that gives customers the chance to book virtual travel and lifestyle experiences led by local experts. Amazon Explore experiences range from tours of far-flung places, cultural landmarks and even boutique stores around the world to learning new skills, “from tie-dying to pan frying”. You can connect one-to-one with hosts around the world by video to ask questions, investigate new locales and in some sessions, make purchases through Amazon, all from the comfort of your home. Virtual experience examples include visiting the Old Town of Prague, taking a walking tour of Mexico City’s urban art scene, getting up-close with wild animals in Costa Rica, learning how to make mate tea in Argentina or customising a silk scarf with Australia’s best-known Shibori artists.

NOVEMBER 2020

MASKS THAT MAKE A STATEMENT LEBANESE DESIGNER

Joumana Dagher, known for her striking prints, unique patterns and commitment to conscious and responsible manufacturing, has launched a limited-edition mask series, each with its own unique identity. Made from leftover wax patchwork fabric the three-layer masks pay homage to the environment and sustainable fashion while helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19. To make a purchase and a statement, purchase one of Joumana’s unique masks at boomandmellow.com andlebanesedesigners.com with a twin-pack priced just US$27.

Touch-free hotel entertainment at your fingertips WITH THE PANDEMIC

accelerating the contactless travel trend, MediaPad has launched a new touchless digital entertainment platform that gives hotel guests instant access to the latest newspapers and magazines in 25 languages, including Arabic, plus e-books, games, audio, and video content.

There is no need to download an app – guests just use their mobile device to scan a QR code or tap in a URL, with no passwords required. MediaPad is already part of the guest experience at iconic UK hotels including Claridge’s, The Ritz, Gleneagles, The Berkeley, The Dorchester, The Corinthia and Marriott Grosvenor Square.

LEBANESE DESIGNERS: NATHALIE ZEIDAN PHOTOGRAPHY

New Ambassadors Club Dubai heads to Israel

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UPFRONT

LEADERS IN THE LIMELIGHT

SWISSÔTEL EARMARKS DOHA FOR ITS MIDDLE EAST FLAGSHIP PROPERTY 12

ACCOR WILL DEBUT the Middle East’s first Swissôtel combined hotel and residential project in Qatar in 2022.

The five-star Swissôtel Doha Corniche Park Towers Hotel and Residences will occupy two iconic mixed-use towers in the city’s prestigious West Bay area, close to major commercial, government, corporate and leisure districts and within walking distance of West Bay QIC Metro Station.

It will feature 200 guest rooms, including more than 60 suites, 150 serviced apartments, four dining venues, 750 sqm

of meeting space, a large spa, health and fitness centre, swimming pool and a kids’ club, while branded residences guests will have their own residential lounge, private swimming pool and gym.

With the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre, World Trade Centre and leading cultural, historical and retail attractions in proximity and the Lusail City mega-development that will host the FIFA World Cup 2022 also nearby, the property will cater to corporate, leisure and long-stay guests.

CORINTHIA TO OPEN FIRST HOTEL IN QATAR GLOBAL LUXURY HOTEL BRAND, Corinthia Hotels, has signed a deal with Qatari development giant, United Development Company (UDC), to operate its first property in Doha.

Corinthia Doha will be part of UDC’s newest flagship real estate development, Gewan Island, adjacent to sister project, The Pearl-Qatar, and set to feature residential areas, retail spaces and multiple attractions including a beach club, golf course, an air-conditioned ‘crystal walkway’ outdoor promenade, parks and green areas, entertainment facilities, a sports club and a mosque.

Corinthia Doha will feature 110 guestrooms, a banquet hall and outdoor patio with a 1,000-guest capacity, all-day dining and speciality restaurants, plus a luxury spa. The development will also include luxury branded villas, a golf course and a beach club, all managed by the Corinthia Hotel.

NOVEMBER 2020

Mark Willis, CEO Middle East and Africa, Accor BTME: As a business leader, what

has the pandemic taught you about adapting to change?

MARK: “For many years I’ve taken the same approach – ensuring that I’m not the smartest person in the room – and it has served me wonderfully well. I try to surround myself with super people and during the last five to six months, that hasn’t changed at all. I trust my guys absolutely, whether they are at hotel level or working with me at a regional level. I am transparent and always have been and with that you get two-way communication and buy-in from the team. You are able to generate that positive vibe even in the face of absolute adversity.

Transparency and honesty are key; they are two pretty basic qualities and if something is terrible I am a great believer in making people aware of how bad things are. But I also make them aware that we have the skills to make an impact to that terrible situation if we work together in an aligned way and I think that’s what we have been doing.

You can hide in the corner and it’s an old adage, but it just isn’t going to help. If you want to make a change you have to get up by the scruff of your neck and again, you can’t do that alone; you need the right people. So, I haven’t really made any changes, apart from doing all that stuff from my bedroom!”

POSTCARD

MALDIVES

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Do t he d hon i The traditional dhoni (pronounce it so it rhymes with ‘pony’), is one of the oldest sea vessels in the Maldives and was originally made from coconut palm timber. Although many modern dhoni are motor-powered, Maldivian fishermen still rely on them to catch tuna and other local fish. They are also a great way for visitors to explore the destination’s magical azure waters and to atoll hop for hours or even days. With airlines including Emirates now resuming flights to the Maldives, a dhoni boat trip is well within reach. It’s just one experience on offer at The

NOVEMBER 2020

Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi or The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah, both located in the southern Maldives in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll and joined by the longest bridge in the country. At these properties, operated by Cenizaro, you can stay connected to the water throughout your stay. Beachfront and overwater accommodation, sunrise and sunset yoga on the beach and diving courses are all on the agenda. If you want to beat the midpandemic blues, you could do worse than a re-boot at these desert-island retreats. www.cenizaro.com

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DOORS TO MANUAL

WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD

The end of an era

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British Airways reached an “emotional milestone” last month, retiring its two remaining Heathrow-based Boeing 747 aircraft

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e all remember our first time on a Boeing 747, which until it was superseded by the A380 double decker in 2007, was the largest commercial passenger aircraft and ‘the’ long-haul travel workhorse of the skies.

My first flight on the so-called ‘Jumbo Jet’ was in 1985, travelling on Pan Am from London Heathrow to New York’s JFK. It was our first family holiday to the US and I think I found the experience both petrifying and exhilarating in equal measures.

But the 747 soon became my favourite aircraft – big, powerful, but at the same time, graceful. I will never forget the roar and surge of the engines on take-off – something you don’t experience on the sometimes eerily quiet new-generation aircraft.

I was therefore sad to see British Airways retire its two remaining Heathrow-based B747s last month in a true sign of the times.

To mark the occasion, the aircraft took to the skies one after the other NOVEMBER 2020

from the airport’s runway 27R, making their way through the clouds to their final place of rest, Kemble in Gloucestershire and St Athan in Wales.

BA said the two aircraft flew an impressive 104 million miles during their 47 years of service, carrying millions of passengers to destinations around the globe.

British Airways Chairman Alex Cruz, who made an abrupt departure from his role just four days after the B747 farewell, described the event as an “emotional milestone” given this aircraft type was the “backbone” of the airline’s fleet for some 50 years of BA’s more than 100-year history.

“I know I speak for our customers and the many thousands of colleagues who have spent much of their careers alongside them when I say we will miss seeing them grace our skies,” he said.

BA’s 747s flew their last commercial passenger services in July, replaced by quieter and more fuel-efficient aircraft as part of the airline’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Of course, it’s great news for the environment, but I reserve my right to remain nostalgic.

“It’s great news for the environment, but I reserve my right to remain nostalgic”

B747 FAST FACTS

TOP: One of BA’s last two B747s departs Heathrow ABOVE: BOAC operated its first 747 flight on April 14, 1971

■ Boeing has manufactured 747s for more than 50 years ■ BOAC (pre-BA) operated its first 747 flight on April 14, 1971 ■ BA was the world’s largest operator of B747-400 aircraft ■ The B747-400 has 16 main wheels and two landing nose wheels. It is 231ft long and its tail is 64ft high

POST-COVID RECOVERY

ABU DHABI FIGHTS BACK everybody adhered to the safety protocols to ensure delivery of a world-class event.”

Demonstrating “Abu Dhabi’s ability to host major international events with the highest standards of health and safety”, a follow-up event, the Return to Fight Island™, was hosted in the zone last month (October). Second time around the aim was “not to simply repeat the process, but to amplify our offering and make it even better”, explains Saeed.

“Starting with the safety measures, by the end of the event we conducted more than 20,000 COVID-19 tests.”

He believes the safe zone ‘bubble’ has become the new benchmark in global sport safety and it has already garnered interest from international sporting bodies and event organisations, with several proposals for future events already under review.

“With the foundations in place, our innovative bubble concept can be adapted to suit a diverse range of events,” he adds.

A new ‘safe zone’ concept trialled at the inaugural UFC Fight Island in It also paves the way for the revival of July is paving the way for the emirate’s tourism and events sector recovery Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector when commercial flights to Abu Dhabi International Airport resume. bu Dhabi has earned a “In preparation for this, DCT Abu A period of quarantine and negative reputation as a sporting events Dhabi led the development of the ‘Go Safe COVID-19 tests were required before a capital, with the Formula 1 Certification’, enforcing global safety and person was allowed entry and everyone Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi hygiene standards across the emirate’s hotels, in the safe zone was required to wear face Grand Prix hosted at the Yas attractions, malls, hospitality facilities and masks, except for fighters while in the Marina Circuit its most famous annual fixture. octagon during their bouts. In addition, public venues,” stresses Saeed.

With Yas Island the destination’s “This supports the emirate’s broader all safe zone occupants were tested for undisputed entertainment hub, not only efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19, COVID-19 every three days. home to the circuit, but multiple attractions “UFC Fight Island™ was a resounding success which includes widespread testing, city-wide and hotels, the Department of Culture sanitisation, social distancing and enhanced from start to finish,” says Saeed Al Saeed, and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu healthcare services.

Destination Marketing Director at DCT Abu Dhabi), has been trialling this district as “Health and safety remains our number Dhabi. “We had zero COVID-19 cases, and an innovative ‘safe zone’ that has already one priority; we have hosted two major UFC (Ultimate Fighting proven the safe zone BELOW: Yas Beach is part of the safe zone Championship) events. concept can be adapted and ABOVE: Jan Blachowicz The inaugural UFC Fight Island™ in July are constantly innovating claimed the light saw the creation of a 6km² area of Yas Island our offerings.” heavyweight title at UFC Fight Island™ cordoned off for five weeks, incorporating In the meantime, Abu the arena, hotels, training facilities and Yas Dhabi is gearing up to host Beach, as well as dining and entertainment the 2020 Formula 1 race venues, and accommodating around weekend from December 2,500 people including personnel from 11-13, once again adopting government entities, maintenance teams, its ‘bubble’ concept to the operations staff, Yas Island employees and delight of motorsport fans UFC delegates for the entire period. around the world.

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NOVEMBER 2020

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THE BEST OF THE BEST

The results of the hotly anticipated Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2020 are in

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he winners of Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2020, one of the region’s most prestigious travel industry awards programmes, have finally been revealed. More than 250 industry professionals logged onto Zoom and Facebook Live on October 20 to find out who had been crowned the best of the best, with the awards ceremony staged online for the first time in the event’s 18-year history.

Showcasing companies at the forefront of business travel and services, the popular awards programme, which was NOVEMBER 2020

ABOVE: Tom Urquhart presented the awards programme’s first virtual ceremony RIGHT: Ian Fairservice hands over the trophy to Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths TOP RIGHT: It’s a juggling act as Ian presents multiple awards to delighted Emirates President Sir Tim Clark

Many of you have played a pivotal role in adapting to the ‘new normal’ in spectacular ways

launched in 2002, recognises top-level industry executives for their hard work and commitment and acknowledges organisations that are leaders in delivering products and services for the frequent travelling executive.

Results are based on reader votes only, with voting for this year’s awards conducted online between February and September, supported by vote processing partner Jacobsons Direct Marketing.

The 2020 programme acknowledged the achievements of industry-leading airports, hotels, airlines and other travel services across 36 categories, with trophies presented to winners after the online event took place.

Ian Fairservice, Managing Partner at Motivate Media Group, who delivered and presented many of trophies in person, said: “It’s been an incredibly challenging year for the travel and hospitality sector so it is

more important than ever that we recognise companies that have gone above and beyond in business travel during this period.”

The industry had proven remarkably robust, embracing change and pursuing innovation, with the GCC a “trailblazer” in this respect, he said.

“Many of you have played a pivotal role in adapting to the ‘new normal’ in spectacular ways,” he said in reference to winning and shortlisted companies emphasising that “post-COVID, the region had proven a global tourism leader in terms of health and safety innovation and best practice”.

Fairservice stressed that despite current travel restrictionsn globally and the popularity of meeting technology, “people want to travel to conduct business face to face and form relationships in person”.

“This desire for human interaction and connection does not falter

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Award-winning smiles from (l-r) Etihad’s Kim Hardaker, Abdulrahman Al-Hadhrami and Linda Celestino; Singapore Airlines’ Fawad Khan and Christian Stenkewitz, presented by BTME’s Dane Hills (middle); IHG’s Pascal Gauvin; Marriott’s Neal Jones, presented

by Motivate’s David Fairservice (right); and Hans Schiller at Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences NOVEMBER 2020

AND THE TROPHIES GO TO… The Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2020 recognised industry achievements across 36 categories based on reader votes – here’s the full list of winners Airline with the Best Cabin Crew Emirates Airline with the Best Economy Class Etihad Airways Airline with the Best Premium Economy Class Singapore Airlines Airline with the Best Business Class Qatar Airways 20

Airline with the Best First Class Emirates Airline with the Best FrequentFlyer Programme Etihad Airways (Etihad Guest) Best Regional Airline serving the Middle East Turkish Airlines Best Asian Airline serving the Middle East Singapore Airlines Best European Airline serving the Middle East Lufthansa Best Low-Cost Airline serving the Middle East flydubai Best Airline Worldwide Emirates Best Airport in the Middle East Dubai International Airport Best Airport for Duty Free Shopping Dubai International Airport Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport Best Airport in the World Singapore Changi Airport Best Car Rental Company in the Middle East Avis

NOVEMBER 2020

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: Motivate’s Ian Fairservice and BTME’s Dane Hills embarked on a grand tour to give out the gongs to award winners including Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa’s Dany Dagher; Paul Bridger and Naveen Advani at Rove Hotels; Sinead El Sibai, Salah Tahlak, Colm McLoughlin and Ramesh Cidambi at Dubai Duty Free; and the jubilant team at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

and the Gulf, with its outstanding tourism and business infrastructure, aviation hub status, admired service culture, commitment to excellence and innovation and perhaps most important, its warm Arabian hospitality, famous the world over, is well placed to lead the recovery of the travel sector,” he said.

“The Business Traveller Middle East awards acknowledge these attributes. They honour the achievements of the people and businesses that continue to put the Gulf on the world tourism map.”

THE CREAM OF THE CROP

When it came to giving out the gongs, Emirates Airline was once again a major winner, scooping four awards in total including another consecutive win for Best Airline Worldwide.

The Dubai carrier was also awarded Airline with the Best Cabin Crew, Best First Class and Best Airport Lounge, while Qatar Airways picked up the Best Business Class award this year.

Singapore Airlines won Best Premium Economy Class and also Best Asian Airline Serving the Middle East and UAE flag carrier Etihad Airways picked up the prize for Best Economy Class and Best Frequent-Flyer Programme.

This year, German airline Lufthansa won the award for Best European Airline Serving the Middle East.

Best Regional Airline went to Turkish Airlines, while flydubai won Best Low-Cost Airline.

Dubai International Airport was crowned Best Airport in the Middle East and Best Airport For Duty Free Shopping, while Singapore Changi Airport was once again voted Best Airport in the World.

Avis also retained its Best Car Rental Company in the region title with another win in this category for 2020.

The honour of Best Business Hotel Brand in the World went

The awards honour those who continue to put the Gulf on the world tourism map

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: BTME’s Dane Hills presented trophies in person to several award winners while others received their awards by courier, with recipients pictured here including Turkish Airlines’ Emre Ismailoglu; the team at InterContinental Jeddah; Leonardo Baiocchi at Four Seasons Dubai International Financial Centre hotel; The Ascott Limited’s Vincent Miccolis; and Rotana’s Guy Hutchinson, who added the trophy to the group’s impressive display of accolades

to InterContinental, marking its third consecutive year at the top, while Rotana held on to the title of Best Business Hotel Brand In The Middle East. Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre took home the overall award for Best Business Hotel in the Region, its second award of the proceedings having also collected Best Business Hotel in Dubai. The award for Best New Business Hotel in the Middle East this year was taken by Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, which also picked up Best Business Hotel in Riyadh.

Best Budget Hotel Brand was awarded to Rove Hotels and The Ascott Limited remained undefeated in the category of Best Serviced Apartments Brand in the Middle East, having held the title since 2018.

Meanwhile, the Best Hotel Loyalty Programme in the Middle East went again to Marriott Bonvoy.

Best New Business Hotel in the Middle East Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences Best Business Hotel in Dubai Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre Best Business Hotel in Abu Dhabi Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Best Hotel in Sharjah and the Northern Emirates Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa Best Business Hotel in Amman InterContinental Amman (Jordan) Best Business Hotel in Beirut InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut Best Business Hotel in Cairo InterContinental Cairo CityStars Best Business Hotel in Doha The St. Regis Doha Best Business Hotel in Kuwait Hyatt Regency Al Kout Mall Best Business Hotel in Bahrain Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain Best Business Hotel in Muscat InterContinental Muscat Best Business Hotel in Riyadh Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences Best Business Hotel in Jeddah InterContinental Jeddah Best Business Hotel in Istanbul Radisson Blu Hotel Vadistanbul Overall Best Business Hotel in the Middle East Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre Best Budget Hotel Brand in the Middle East Rove Hotels

We’d like to take this opportunity to thank our readers and partners for supporting the Business Traveller Middle East Awards in what has been one of the most challenging years in modern history and to congratulate our winners, as well as those shortlisted, for their hard work and dedication to the travel and tourism sector. BT

Best Serviced Apartments Brand in the Middle East The Ascott Limited Best Hotel Loyalty Programme in the Middle East Marriott Bonvoy Best Hotel Brand in the Middle East Rotana Best Hotel Brand Worldwide InterContinental

Join the conversation > btme.ae > @btmideast > #BTMEAwards

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NOVEMBER 2020

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SPOTLIGHT ON…

ALULA 22

A new community focused eco-luxe resort aims to put Saudi Arabia’s “living museum” on the experiential tourism map

T

he people, heritage, culture and natural beauty of AlUla in north-western Saudi Arabia make it truly unique. Referred to as a living museum, this up-and-coming destination, untouched by tourists until now, promises to take visitors on “a journey through time.”

“Home to Hegra, a UNESCO world heritage site and an archaeological site of the ancient Nabataean civilisation, dating back to the 4th century BC, it formed part of an old incense trade route, which also included Petra in Jordan. Combine this with the beautiful desert landscape, adventure, culture and people and it makes a visit to AlUla an unforgettable experience,” explains Oliver Ripley, the CEO and co-founder of Habitas, a global hospitality group with a community-centric conscience.

With Habitas properties much more than a place to stay, but “homes” that aim to change people’s lives by creating deeper human connections and positively impacting local communities through education, employment and establishing sustainable micro-economies, AlUla is the perfect location for its first Middle East property – a community focused eco-friendly resort that will redefine modern luxury with its experiential hospitality concept.

NOVEMBER 2020

D E S T I N AT I O N S

We aim to attract conscious travellers seeking authentic experiences, not traditional cookiecutter luxury

Currently under construction in the desert canyons of Ashar Valley and with a mooted phase one opening date of early 2021, Habitas AlUla will offer 100 “experiential rooms” and Habitas’ signature “immersive programme”, which will “celebrate AlUla’s heritage and local culture”.

“Our immersive programming ties into our six pillars: wellness, adventure, music, food, culture and learning, where we’ll blend Habitas rituals and local customs,” explains Ripley. “For example, at all of our homes we have a ‘Welcome Ceremony’ where we ask guests to set their intention for their stay, while burning local incense.

In Mexico we burn copal, whereas in AlUla, we’ll burn oud. We’ll also offer our sound meditation, blending local instruments. Our experience is designed to authentically celebrate local traditions.”

With this in mind, the Habitas AlUla guest profile will be the global community of people who “don’t identify themselves by the jobs they do, or with material possessions or labels, but rather a shared set of values, seeking a life of purpose and inspiration”.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Reception, Pool Deck, Desert Suite, Oliver Ripley

“We aim to attract conscious travellers seeking authentic experiences, not traditional cookie-cutter luxury. We want people to have experiences that will remain with them long after they leave AlUla,” adds Ripley.

That includes business travellers, he says, revealing plans to host corporate retreats encompassing “gathering spaces” set against AlUla’s “breathtaking backdrop”. It’s the “perfect setting for groups to come together”, he adds.

Habitas AlUla has been made possible by Habitas partnering with The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), which has a clear strategy to expand local economic opportunities through light-touch tourism and sustainable development.

Sustainability is “at the core” of the Habitas brand, notes Ripley, with all properties run on solar power and recycled water and the supply chain “almost entirely single-use plastic free”.

“Our food is sourced locally and seasonally and food waste is properly managed and disposed of,” he adds.

Habitas minimises environmental impact by using sustainable materials that are manufactured off-site and then assembled on-site and the AlUla property has been designed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape.

Habitas will also spearhead multiple community empowerment projects that include training schools for local staff, sourcing local handicrafts and food supplies, showcasing Saudi artists, promoting conservation and establishing tourism experiences with local chefs, residents, farmers and schools.

“Our goal is to empower local communities in every location that we go into,” explains Ripley. For that reason, the brand is keen to explore expansion opportunities in Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East – “a region with rich culture, history and incredibly warm and friendly people, which aligns to the Habitas ethos”, he says.

The ultimate goal, Ripley stresses, is to roll out Habitas homes worldwide deepen human connections on a “true global scale”.

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COMMUNITY Much more than a bed for the night, hotels have emerged from the pandemic as places to work, rest and play for residents and visitors alike, and it’s a trend that’s here to stay

WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD

SPIRIT

HOTELS

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A

s hotels in the Middle East come to terms with the challenges posed by the pandemic they are rapidly evolving their role in society, transforming from places to stay to community hubs.

It’s what José Silva, CEO of Dubaibased Jumeirah Group recently described as “the great re-set” for the hospitality industry, with “life after COVID” forcing hotels to adapt to the new lifestyle trends of local residents and visitors from overseas.

“We are seeing the merger of private and professional lives – with moments of family, business and social throughout the day,” he told live and virtual attendees at the recent Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) ‘On the Road’ event.

Guests are travelling with their children and looking for leisure during their business trip

LEFT: Studio One’s multi-purpose common area ABOVE: Wojo Corners are popping up at Accor hotels

“Guests are travelling with their children and looking for leisure during their business trip and vice versa. These worlds are blurred into a permanent melting pot and we will gear our facilities to that.”

Guests now expect to walk into a hotel and find a space to “take a quick Zoom call”, says Silva, stressing properties must become hubs for “community engagement”.

Mark Willis, CEO Middle East and Africa at Accor, could not agree more: “We (hoteliers) need to reinvent some areas of the business; it’s an absolute must. We need to rethink hotel spaces that are not being used at the moment.”

Even before the pandemic Accor was introducing flexible communitybased spaces at many of its lifestyle hotels recognising the growing preference to work from home or a hotel space such as a café, lobby or restaurant. COVID-19 has accelerated this remote work trend and Willis says the group is looking to roll out more co-working concepts and meeting solutions to meet new guest demands.

At head office in Paris, the group is leveraging its dedicated co-working brand Wojo, which promises customers quality workspaces less than 10 minutes from their homes.

With a view to becoming the “leading player in ‘workspitality” by growing its network of work experiences across the globe, Accor has already set up Wojo Corners at many of its French hotels, NOVEMBER 2020

combing living spaces such as bars and lounges with areas reserved for work.

While Wojo is yet to make its way to the Middle East, Accor’s upcoming hotels including 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central (see pages 40-47) and Mama Shelter Dubai in Business Bay will tap into the needs of modern working travellers with their multi-purpose community spaces and co-working areas.

Dubai’s new remote work programme launched last month, giving professionals around the world the chance to live and work in the emirate for up to a year, will also generate demand for more lifestyleand community-driven hospitality experiences, according to Willis.

NOVEMBER 2020

Community care While some hotels have had to evolve into community and coworking hubs, others such as Dubai’s Media One were already set up to enable guests to blend their “work, leisure and family lives”.

“The ground floor venues are set up in such a way that people can meet, work and eat in a relaxed environment and the 8th floor is for after-work relaxation, as well as a party floor for the weekends,” explains General Manager Mark Lee. “We believe in working closely with the local community – those who work with us or live close by – to cater to their needs.”

Since the pandemic, the property in Dubai Media City has created

ABOVE: The screening room at Dubai’s Studio One RIGHT: Lobbies are the new co-working spaces

new co-working spaces and ensured there are multiple working stations throughout the hotel.

Lee acknowledges that all brands are “working harder than ever to bring in new communities and reconnect with their existing ones” so “the service and how well you take care of your community will set you apart from the rest”.

“We are the home to a number of different communities at Media One and pride ourselves on meeting their personal requirements,” he says. “We offer solid workplaces, specifically designed and laid out to attract SMEs and others to work remotely in a relaxed environment with free highspeed WIFI.”

HOTELS

Another community focused property, Studio One in Dubai Studio City, is garnering interest from local residents seeking a wide range of services, from exclusive spaces to host special occasions in a safe environment to private screenings for kids’ parties and corporate events in its dedicated movie room.

“Our Private Cinema is the ideal space for families to spend a day while not having to encounter anyone else,” says Hotel Manager Srbana Gavriolovic. “We are also

transforming meeting rooms into fun spaces such as games or karaoke rooms and one has even been leased out as a classroom for students. We definitely needed to diversify our meeting room portfolio and we did just that, by converting them into unique experiential spaces.”

She says Studio One will build on its reputation for “extraordinary staycations” by forging “valuable partnerships with community groups” and offering more individualised events and stays.

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Hotels are providing a necessary haven to many displaced people during these difficult times

NOVEMBER 2020

HOTELS

LEFT: CafeM at Dubai’s Media One is a popular work/ leisure hangout BELOW: The Andaz Lounge at Andaz Dubai

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NOVEMBER 2020

“We’re known as the communal hub and meeting point for everyone around us and we will keep on pushing boundaries in terms of staycations, offers and events,” adds Gavriolovic.

On The Palm Jumeirah, Andaz Dubai, which opened in 2019 as a “community inclusive space”, is offering an arty workspace for remote workers seeking inspiration.

Described as an “anti-office space”, the Andaz Lounge features an an impressive collection of bespoke artworks created by renowned Emirati artist Mahmood Alabadi.

“Paying homage to Dubai’s young and dynamic Emirati design culture, the art pieces represent local themes with Arabic inscriptions along with stimulating colour combinations to

inspire creativity,” explains General Manager Kifah Bin Hussein.

“We also offer a bespoke coffee selection and select bites for our guests throughout the day without disrupting their workflow. The space acts as an extension to their own living room, with an addition of all the amenities, comfort and ambiance to enable productivity. Our aim is to provide a safe environment for residents to escape to without leaving the city.”

Reiterating the sentiments of Media One’s Mark Lee, he believes hotels are providing a “necessary haven to many displaced people during these difficult times” and those that maintain “high standards of customer service” will make the difference.

ASCOTT INVITES GUESTS TO ‘WORK IN RESIDENCE’ Luxury long-stay apartment specialist, The Ascott Limited (Ascott), has launched a ‘Work in Residence’ initiative at more than 60 properties worldwide, having transformed selected apartments into luxurious work spaces.

Offering guests, corporates and students an alternative location to work from home or study, the self-contained work suites, available at all 11 of Ascott’s properties in Middle East and Turkey, are now bookable online.

All suites are fully furnished and well equipped, offering essentials such as high-speed WiFi, while wide-screen monitors, a webcam for videoconferencing and Bluetooth speakers with microphones are available on demand.

To enhance the work-stay experience, task lights, a wireless charging stand for tablets and mobile phones, adequate power plugs and USB charging ports, as well as a stationery kit, are provided. Guests can also choose from a range of additional services such as food delivery, grocery shopping, printing, a concierge and even book a chef for in-room dining.

Larger apartments featuring separate living and dining areas, a kitchen and individual bedrooms, area also available and ideal for hosting project groups.

Daily, weekly or monthly packages are available and depending on the length of use and location, the work suites come with a dedicated workstation, regular housekeeping, complimentary coffee and tea and complimentary parking at selected serviced residences.

Nespresso coffee machines are also available in selected apartments.

Guests can access a special rate when they book the ‘Work in Residence’ package and use the promotional code ‘WORKSPACE’. Visit www.the-ascott.com/work-in-residence.

Other Ascott initiatives include ‘Space-as-a-Service’, offering multinational corporations (MNCs), entrepreneurs and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) the chance to use its properties for a range of functions, from hosting cloud kitchens and Starbucks coffee kiosks, to organising live streaming or fitness activities in its apartments, as well as serving as parcel collection hubs for convenient pick-up of online orders.

At its Middle East & Turkey properties, the company has introduced a ‘Long Stay Residential’ promotion to support expatriates and those looking to shift from hotels to serviced apartments.

Participating properties include: Ascott Tahlia Jeddah, Ascott Sari Jeddah, Citadines Al Salamah Jeddah, Spectrums Residence Jeddah, Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh and Ascott Corniche Al Khobar in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA); Ascott Park Place Dubai and Citadines Metro Central Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE); Somerset Panorama Muscat in Oman; Somerset Al Fateh Bahrain; and Somerset Maslak Istanbul in Turkey.

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HOTELS

For your ‘bleisure’ For Kerten Hospitality, a specialist mixed-use project operator established five years ago, creating immersive lifestyle destinations was the goal from the very outset. The company, which manages hotels, serviced apartments and workspaces, recognises the need for hospitality concepts to become an integral to their neighbourhoods, creating community-centric venues

for all types of residents, visitors and purposes.

This model is more relevant than ever post-pandemic, but in the short term, rather than host social and corporate groups, from yoga classes to finance seminars, properties will meet the needs of “the gig worker, the resident, the digital nomad and the remote worker who has taken their family to a different location,”

RIGHT: Cloud7 Residence Ayla Aqaba

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IHG REACHES OUT TO WORKING PARENTS Share the teaching at Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina: To support parents whose children study from home or can’t go back to school due to pandemic restrictions, the hotel has launched a ‘Share the Teaching’ offer. Fellow parents can gather at the property’s meeting rooms and access all they need for uninterrupted children teaching: high-speed WiFi, unlimited coffee/tea/water and free parking for only AED 200. The price includes three hours of meeting room use for a maximum of six people, plus a 30 per cent discount on food orders at hotel outlets. Guests can also remote work in the hotel’s guest rooms with prices starting from AED 225 per day (8am to 6pm) including unlimited coffee/tea/water in the room, AED 50 per person redeemable on F&B within the hotel and free high-speed WiFi and parking.

Iwork at DFC: InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) properties at Dubai Festival City are the first in the Middle East to launch a total inclusive working-from-a-hotel concept that’s fit for all types of occupations, from working mums with childcare supervision needs to independent start-ups seeking flexible work locations. Under the Iwork concept set-ups include ‘Family Office’, enabling the tenant to enjoy the comfort of a personalised home office while their children are entertained at a supervised kids’ club. Other set-ups available include a private office, desk space, coffee shop or even green room studio rent for the artistic community.

NOVEMBER 2020

Purposeful travel will grow and replace luxury and business travel

according to Kerten Hospitality CEO Marloes Knippenberg.

In the near future, those lifestyle spaces will “cater to all and foster a better understanding of each destination”, she says. “Purposeful travel will grow and replace luxury and business travel and hotels will need to adapt to this shift with carefully tailored experiences.”

She cites “fluid offices, retail on the meeting room floor and pop-up small-scale cinemas” as just some of the innovations that will occupy reimagined hotel spaces.

“All these are the plug-in components in mixed-use projects similar to the one we are opening in Jeddah by the end of the year,” she adds.

Kerten Hospitality will be operating a boutique hotel (The House Hotel Jeddah) and coworking space (Ouspace) in Jeddah’s new City Yard project – a dynamic creative mixed-use lifestyle destination in the upmarket Al Rawdah district.

The group already operates an Ouspace on Jeddah’s Madinah Road, providing tailormade office spaces for short- and long-term let and enabling entrepreneurs and businesses to work flexibly and collaboratively.

“Our second Ouspace (at City Yard) will be dedicated to mixing business and leisure (‘bleisure’), offering a convenient work and social hub for guests of The House Hotel Jeddah and the local community, as well as relaxed spaces for Pilates, dedicated music studios and more,” explains Knippenberg.

Kerten Hospitality has also made its mark in Jordan with a new Cloud7 Residence in Ayla Oasis, a waterfront development that promises “seaside living” on the Red Sea coast. Another ‘bleisure’ destination, residents and guests can “work, relax, socialise and exercise” in a secluded environment with “modern architecture, state-of-the-art facilities and multiple options for entertainment and dining”. The Cloud7 Residence Ayla Aqaba features a range of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, some with marina views.

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HOTELS

WFHOTEL WITH HILTON If you’re heading to the UK and need a convenient and distraction-free ‘home office’, one of the new WorkSpaces

by Hilton, available across multiple brands, could be just the answer. Guestroom workspaces not only offer a quiet room with comfortable desk and chair, complimentary WiFi, tea/ coffee-making facilities and access to fitness centres, pools and business centres where available, but several additional tailormade perks: For the vegan: Book into Hilton London Bankside’s vegan suite, complete with plant-based check-in desk and keycard and vegan-friendly upholstery. During your lunchbreak, take one of the hotel’s sustainable bamboo bikes for a spin or enjoy a dish from the specially-curated vegan room service menu. Celebrate the end of a productive day with a low-waste cocktail.

For the sports fanatic: If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Hampshire Cricket team heading out to train or perhaps the groundsman tending to the grass if you book a pitch-side room at Hilton at the Ageas Bowl (pictured).

For an impressive Zoom backdrop: Got an important meeting and need a better backdrop than your kitchen table allows? Book into a suite at DoubleTree by Hilton Tower of London and impress your clients or colleagues with a beautiful view of Tower Bridge. At the end of the day, wind down with a drink at the rooftop bar Savage Garden. www.workspacesbyhilton.com

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The recalibration of the work-life balance, accelerated by the pandemic, will now “define new spaces in hotels”, with lobbies doubling up as “venues for retail, art exhibits, forums, collaborative events and pop-up F&B concepts”, says Knippenberg.

“Brand collaborations (like these) will deliver hybrid hospitality models” and “hotels will strive to leverage every square NOVEMBER 2020

metre and increase capacity through genuine disruption”, she predicts.

Hotels and residences will become a home from home for visitors, a primary home for some residents and given the escalating ‘work from anywhere trend’, a second home for the growing number of digital nomads seeking a new remote work destination, she adds.

ABOVE: The House Hotel Jeddah

While the pandemic might have decimated the hotel sector in the short term, it could be a force for positive long-term change.

In their new role as multi-purpose hubs, they will bring people together for work, leisure or both, creating a sense of community spirit accessible to all, from those staying one night to long-termers settling in for the year.

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TRENDS

Introducing the ‘Workcation’ 35

With remote work now a reality for full-time employees, many are seeking a change of scene and swapping their home offices for more aspirational locations

WORDS MEL ANIE SWAN

NOVEMBER 2020

TRENDS

T 36

he way we work has changed dramatically in 2020, and perhaps, forever. With working-fromhome a reality for many companies for the remainder of the year and well into 2021 and corporate giants such as Twitter making that move permanently, many people are seeking a more conducive space to live and work. It is no longer just freelancers looking for a new home working experience, but across industries from media to finance and psychology to fitness, huge numbers of people now realise they can take their ‘office’ to more exotic climes.

In Dubai, Airbnb management specialist, Frank Porter, has seen accommodation normally favoured for holiday purposes now booked for work-related stays.

“As more people work from home, we are seeing an increase in business travel bookings,” confirms the company’s founder and CEO, Anna Skigin.

“Apartments win over hotels in this case as you can work in your own space, cook yourself a meal in your own kitchen and do your own laundry. It’s an easy and safe option.

We are also receiving many enquiries about the availability of high-speed internet connections so people can Zoom easily.”

Another trend, she continues, is for extended stays with people “travelling for holidays with the mindset they can also work”.

NOVEMBER 2020

“We are receiving a lot of enquiries from individual corporate travellers who want to visit Dubai” “So, for example, a one-week holiday is being extended to a twoweek holiday – people are enjoying a new destination and working at the same time,” Skigin explains.

Not to be outdone by peer-to-peer concepts like Airbnb, a host of serviced apartments and hotels are now offering deals to entice people to work in a more glamorous or appealing environment – or at least in a destination that offers a change of scene.

With the work-life balance disrupted or rather blurred for the considerable future, the ‘workcation’ trend has emerged and it looks like it’s here to stay.

STAYING LOCAL Recent Global Business Travel Association surveys found that 92 per cent of companies continue to restrict international travel and around 70 per cent have suspended domestic travel.

As a result, hotels, resorts and entire destinations are re-thinking how they generate revenue.

“It’s time to pivot,” acknowledges Accor CEO Sebastien Bazin, which is offering rooms as offices to locals who can “work for anywhere” within walking or biking distance.

TOP: Dubai apartments are popular for business rentals ABOVE: Bermuda has launched a visitor work-from-home certificate PREVIOUS PAGE: The Beach House at Nautilus, Maldives

Speaking at a recent Skift trends forum he says the hotel group is “replacing business travel” by “catering to locals” instead.

It’s not alone; hotel operators big and small are enticing local workers with concepts to get them working at their properties.

In Dubai, Studio One Hotel has been offering the ‘Box Office’ where renting rooms by the day promises a quiet environment without the home distractions of pets, children or partners.

Converting guest rooms into homey office spaces, prices start from AED 99 (US$27) per day, plus 25 per cent off in-room dining, in addition to perks such as screenings at the hotel’s cinema and in-room coffeemaking facilities.

This service hit a peak in July, with two or three bookings per day. Four months on and regulars are returning at least once a week to use the rooms for online training, conference calls or just to have a quiet space in which to work. Although some customers are returning to their offices, the pandemic has made hotels such as Studio One think outside of the box and introduce new business models to claw back revenue.

MAKING THE MOVE Long-stay packages at chains including Rove, priced from as little as AED 3,000 ($804) per month, have also offered short-term housing solutions for those worried about job security; they can shift into luxury accommodation to live and work,

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stepping away from the commitment of long-term housing rental.

Helen Palmer works as a university lecturer in Al Ain, the UAE’s oasis city.

As classes went online and the fear of lockdown loomed, she quickly left her apartment in the quiet city to move to one of the Rove hotels in Dubai.

“I wanted to be nearer to my friends and more amenities, which has proved really important during the past few months,” she explains.

“Following the extended lockdown of Abu Dhabi’s borders, life would have been pretty tough for me staying alone. Being in Dubai has given me a sense of freedom; I can continue work online without feeling too isolated.”

With tourism grinding to a halt in many destinations, offering longer term safe solutions to attract visitors could be the alternative and ‘work from hotels’ packages are being rolled at properties around the world in a bid to fill rooms.

Accor offers these at 300 of its properties globally, which range from a $400-a-day package at The Stafford in London to cheaper $60 rates at midscale brands including ibis and Novotel.

In August, “COVID-free” Bermuda launched a work-fromhome certificate meaning visitors can stay for up to one year, open to those working and studying remotely.

Applications cost just $263 and depend on proof of employment or enrolment at an academic institution.

It is not a cheap escape, but its soft sandy beaches and year-round sunshine could prove appealing to

NOVEMBER 2020

“Estonia is blessed with stunning natural scenery, from mountains to forests, and is a safe place to live and work” many. The 21-square-mile island is a tropical paradise for anyone looking to detract from the winter woes.

Applications can be made via the government portal (forms.gov.bm).

Getting there from the Gulf isn’t the easiest of journeys right now, but from March 28, 2021, British Airways will resume its daily service to the destination, flying directly from London Heathrow Terminal 5.

The route will be operated by a Boeing 777-200, which will soon feature the airline’s new Club Suite, should you wish to travel there in style.

FROM BYRON TO BARBADOS If money is no object you might consider a trip to the Maldives where the Nautilus resort has launched a decadent ‘workcation’ package. Prices start from $23,250 for seven nights at one of its beach houses, including luxuries such as a desk with an ocean view, printer, projector, scanner and a range of other office amenities.

Workcation guests at the Maldivian resort tend to hail predominantly

CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT: Tallinn, Estonia; The Nautilus resort has launched a decadent ‘workcation’ package; You can now work remotely in Barbados for up to a year; One couple is swapping Sydney for Byron Bay

from Europe, the US, Russia and the Middle East, working in a multitude of high-earning industries including the arts and technology, as well as numerous entrepreneurs.

But it’s not just High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) looking to make the most of their time out of the office. Families are also leveraging more flexible work arrangements and making lifestyle choices to suit their current circumstances. For many, rural retreats, as an alternative to crowded city accommodation, beckon.

Eloise May is an editor in Paris. Her cosy city apartment, which she shares with her husband and two small children, was fine before lockdown – it was the place for family meals and

rest time. However, in the wake of the pandemic, with home schooling and two parents working from home, things became tight and the family is now looking to move out into the French countryside.

“We’ve both been told we won’t be going back to the office until at least the end of 2021, so for us, this is a great opportunity to spread out.

We can move to a quiet place where the kids can play outside and we have more space to work without disturbing one another,” she says.

“It’s just not practical for us to stay where we are so we thought we would take advantage of this situation to go and live somewhere we wouldn’t have been able to if COVID wasn’t a factor.”

“If money is no object you might consider a trip to the Maldives” Couples are also cashing in. Rachel Newman and her husband live in a two-bedroom apartment in the innercity suburbs of Sydney, Australia. Both public service workers, they have been told they will be working from home for at least 12 months, maybe more.

“So, we’re moving to a beautiful house near the beach in Byron Bay on the north New South Wales coast for a year and renting out our apartment here in Sydney,” she says.

“It’s one of the most stunning and inspirational destinations in Australia; it’s our happy place. I can’t think of anywhere in the world I’d rather live and work for the next 12 months. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime.”

Other destinations around the world luring visitors for longer stays include Barbados in the Caribbean and Estonia in Europe, both deemed ‘low risk’ due to their handling of the pandemic.

Barbados is offsetting tourism losses with a government initiative that offers visitors the chance to work remotely on the island for up to a year.

The Barbados Welcome Stamp is priced $2,000 per person or $3,000 per family. Criteria includes valid health insurance, much like the Gulf region, and a minimum salary of around $45,000. The Caribbean island offers the ultimate dream escape for anyone able to make a temporary move.

With a temperate climate and plenty of outdoor activities on offer, it’s a great place for Gulf-based families to re-locate to, particularly during the summer. Visitors can apply online at barbadoswelcomestamp.bb.

If the heart of Europe with its dramatic winters and lush green summers is more your thing, Estonia’s digital nomad package could be the answer.

With life very much back to normal there the government is offering visitors visas for up to a year. Conditions require proof of employment with a non-Estonian company and a minimum salary of around $3,500 per month.

While working on the go, the historic city of Tallinn is a maze of cobbled streets and UNESCO-listed heritage sites. Outside the town, Estonia is blessed with stunning natural scenery, from mountains to forests, and is a safe place to live and work. Applicants can apply via e-resident.gov.ee.

NOVEMBER 2020

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T HE D U B AI HOTELS

From the super-luxurious to the colourful and creative, we round up some of the city ’s most hotly anticipated hotel openings over the next 18 months

COLLECTIVE

WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD AND ELISE KERR

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NOVEMBER 2020

HOTELS

I

n what has been a rollercoaster year, only one hotel due to open in Dubai in 2020 made it to planned launch day (ME Dubai), but in a city known for pushing the boundaries, more new properties will fling open their doors before the 12 months are up. Heading into 2021 and early 2022, several more will follow suit and among them are a seriously wow-worthy array of hotels brandishing exciting dining concepts, outstanding modern design, lavish pool facilities and panoramic city views.

2020 Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown Opening: Now

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Hotel Indigo properties are the gateway to some of the world’s most inspiring locations. They bring the outside in, with every area of the hotel inspired by its locale, reflected in its intriguing design. Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown, which opened last month (October), is no exception, taking inspiration from the story of its surrounding neighbourhoods to ensure guests feel part of the destination. All 269 rooms and suites take their design cues from Dubai Creek.

Interiors tell its story through wallpaper created by local artists, bespoke shisha lamps and wardrobes with carved wooden doors, hand-crafted in Mashrabiya style, but with a modern twist. The hotel also boasts more than 200 pieces of art created by local designers, while the spa’s design pays homage to the country’s pearl-diving heritage.

Highlights also include a 25-metre infinity pool, yoga studio and the Orange Feels cocktail bar with Instafriendly hanging woven water pods. If your dog is in tow, this property is pet-friendly as an added perk.

NOVEMBER 2020

Address Jumeirah Resort Opening: December 2020 ABOVE: Address Jumeirah Resort BELOW AND PREVIOUS PAGE: Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown

If you live in Dubai or have visited recently, you might have noticed the unique architecture of this bespoke property being built on the edge of Jumeirah Beach Residence ( JBR), next to Doubletree by Hilton. This exclusive beachfront development, featuring a luxury hotel and fully serviced apartments and residences, all operated

by Address Hotels + Resorts, spans two 75-storey towers that are connected at the top and bottom to create an iconic frame-like structure. When it opens next month, the hotel will offer 217 rooms and suites and private access to 100 metres of pristine sandy beach. Prime views of the soon-to-open Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel will also be part of its lure, as well as five restaurants and four pools – including a lavish infinity pool on the rooftop where the two towers meet.

HOTELS

LEFT: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah BELOW: Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah

Opening: November 2020

The first Marriott resort in Dubai, located on Palm Jumeirah, will be a gastronomic destination in its own right with eight restaurants offering a wide range of global cuisine from Korean and Italian to Japanese and Mexican. Adding to the growing Peruvian restaurant scene, ‘Above Eleven’ will entice guests with a garden maze at its entrance. All rooms and suites will feature a private balcony with Arabian Gulf views and complimentary Wi-Fi will be standard. If you’re visiting for business, the large event space will comprise 11 flexible venues, including an outdoor terrace, plus a business centre and concierge level with lounges will be an added bonus.

An M Club executive lounge, open 24 hours a day, promises uninterrupted Gulf views and for relaxation, a fitness centre and spa will do the job.

Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk Opening: Q4 2020

This architecturally striking property merges the brand’s renowned modern French art de vivre with ancient Egyptian heritage, reflecting its location at the pyramidshaped Wafi Mall development. Its architecture is inspired by the Luxor Obelisk, currently in Paris, and the façade is adorned with a striking gold pyramidion. With 595 rooms, including 97 luxury apartments, it will also make its mark as the largest Sofitel in the Middle East. When they arrive, guests will walk through the magnificent doors of a grand Pylon – the colossal gateway of an Egyptian temple – only to be greeted by a nine-metre-wide, fourmetre-tall golden falcon, the UAE’s national bird. Inside, the five dining venues will include Brasserie Boulud, designed by celebrity chef Daniel Boulud, best known for Daniel, his two-star Michelin restaurant in New York, serving simple seasonal dishes, and the first international outpost of Taiko, the award-winning restaurant of the Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam, created by executive chef and founder Schilo van Coevorden, offering Far East flavours. Modern rooms and suites with Art Deco lines will feature the custom-made Sofitel MyBed™ and some will offer access to Club Millésime with a dedicated lounge and butler service among the many benefits. Facilities also include a gym, spa, 10 meeting venues including two ‘green rooms’ with eco-friendly materials, plus the impressive L’Obelisque ballroom.

Also opening in 2020...

Riu Deira Islands

Langham Place by Omniyat

Legoland Hotel

Part of Nakheel’s offshore Deira Islands development, this beachfront all-inclusive resort

by Spanish hotel chain Riu will house some 750 rooms and offer direct access to the soonto-open Deira Mall and Deira Islands Night Souk.

Master developer Omniyat was due to open its first luxury city hotel in Q3 2020, but it has now been put on hold. When it does finally open its doors, Langham Place will offer 167 guest rooms, serviced residential apartments and views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal.

Dubai Parks and Resorts will soon add the Middle East’s first Legoland Hotel to its portfolio of fun destinations. With 250 Lego-themed rooms, a castle play area and a disco elevator, this resort with a candycoloured exterior will take you back to your youth.

NOVEMBER 2020

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HOTELS

2021

Rixos Dubai Hotel & Suites Jewel of the Creek Opening: TBC 2021

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The latest addition to what will now be a three-hotel complex at the upcoming Jewel of the Creek development in the Port Saeed area of Deira, Rixos Dubai Hotel & Suites will sit alongside sister Accor portfolio properties Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan and Swissôtel and Swissôtel Living Al Murooj. The fully integrated urban Rixos resort with some 770 rooms and suites will focus on leisure, entertainment, sports and gastronomy. Highlights will include a large conference centre (3,000 sqm), a commercial zone, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a fitness centre, wellness centre, an infinity pool, entertainment and show arena, beach promenade, plus kids and teens facilities.

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences Opening: March 2021

The five-star SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences will be one of the tallest hotels in the city when it opens in the first quarter of 2021 and will boast 254 expertly designed hotel rooms, 371 residential units and 321 hotel apartments.

For dining, guests will be able to choose between Italian cuisine at all-day dining restaurant Fi’lia on level 70 and Carna, a steakhouse by award-winning Italian butcher Dario Cecchoni on the 74th floor. For relaxation, Ciel Spa, located on the 69th floor, will feature seven treatment rooms, steam rooms, experience showers, plunge pools, a salon and gym. In addition, the property’s nightlife venue, Privilege, will be located on the rooftop featuring expansive interior lounge space opening directly onto the roof terraces and infinity pools.

NOVEMBER 2020

HOTELS

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Rixos Dubai Hotel & Suites Jewel of the Creek; The Royal Atlantis; SLS Dubai Hotel & Residence

Also opening in 2021...

The Royal Atlantis Opening: TBC 2021

Another icon in the making on the apex of The Palm Jumeirah, sitting side by side with its already famous pink sister, is the AED 5.15 billion Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences, offering 231 luxury apartments, 693 hotel rooms and 102 suites. The 43-storey hotel will feature some 90 swimming pools, including a stunning rooftop infinity pool suspended 96 metres above the manmade island on level 22. The hotel will offer 17 restaurants and bars, with some of the world’s leading international celebrity chefs at the helm including Gasón Acurio, Costas Spiliadis, Ariana Bundy, Heston Blumenthal and Jose Andres. The water theme will continue in the lobby bar area, which will be home to one of the largest jellyfish tanks in the world, housing approximately 2,000 jellyfish. A 1,000 sqm ballroom seating 660 guests, plus six meeting rooms, a VIP majlis and a private bridal suite will ensure the property becomes a meetings and events favourite and for added ‘wow’ factor, a dramatic fire and water attraction is being created by Californian outfit W.E.T – think water cascading into pools where flames erupt like fountains and a water performance installation in the lobby where dramatic use of lights will make for a grand entrance.

Corinthia Hotel Meydan Beach Dubai Making its presence felt on the popular shores of Jumeirah Beach Residence, Corinthia Hotel Meydan Beach (pictured) is set to be the tallest building in the JBR district. Located next door to Rixos Premium, the new property will be home to 360 rooms and suites and feature a multi-level cascading pool area in the centre court, which will lead down onto the beach.

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Mandarin Oriental Wasl Tower Dubai’s second Mandarin Oriental property will be located on Sheikh Zayed Road in a striking 63-storey building featuring 257 rooms, suites and serviced apartments. Designed to “reflect local culture, with features inspired by Mandarin Oriental’s Asian heritage”, the luxury hotel will offer plenty of foodie experiences including a “lively rooftop sky bar with citywide views, a signature dining experience, an all-day dining venue, a poolside bar and restaurant, a lobby lounge, a club lounge, a cigar room and a Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop”.

Portofino Hotel Portofino Hotel will be a deluxe five-star family-only hotel located on ‘Main Europe island’, part of The World Islands offshore development. Ideal for a ‘workcation’ with the family in tow, it will be the first property in region to cater exclusively to families when it opens in February. Due to its location, the hotel will ooze traditional European style, with every room offering a sea view.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Currently under construction close to the famous Jumeirah Beach Hotel, this five-star luxury property will add another 280 rooms to Jumeirah’s mega complex when it opens at the end of 2021. It will also be home to nine luxury on-water villas, which have all already been sold.

Paramount Tower Hotel & Residences Dubai The 63-storey Paramount Tower is currently under construction near the Business Bay Metro Station and the hotel will span levels 15 to 25, with the remainder reserved for residents. Guests will appreciate the rooftop infinity pool with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa/Downtown Dubai area, restaurants and lounges, fitness and wellness centre and a luxury spa.

Dubai EDITION Following the success of Abu Dhabi EDITION, the stylish boutique concept by Marriott is making its debut in Dubai. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai EDITION will have 258 guest rooms, 15 suites and four restaurants set to be managed by a ‘prestigious chain’. When it opens you’ll find it in Downtown Dubai, close to Fountain Street and The Dubai Mall.

NOVEMBER 2020

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St Regis The Palm

25Hours Hotel Dubai One Central

The Palm Jumeirah St Regis will feature 289 rooms spanning the first 18 floors of The Palm Tower, while the upper floors of this building will be occupied by 504 luxury apartments.

Originally pipelined to open in Q4 this year, the hotel has postponed this to a March 2021 soft launch. However, amenities including the pool and restaurants are not expected to open until Q4 next year. AURA Skypool will also open as part of a three-floor luxe dining and entertainment destination atop Palm Tower. One floor above on level 51 will house the famed SUSHISAMBA restaurant, serving up a mix of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine, while the 52nd floor will play host to the Palm Tower’s much-awaited viewing deck, aptly called The View.

Tradition meets modern day – that’s the theme at the Middle East’s first 25Hours Hotel, which through novel narrative-led design, will weave the tales of nomadic life into every room and public space. In what is set to be an interior design triumph, sandy tones will dominate the four diverse room styles encompassing ‘Bedouin’, ‘Glamping’, ‘Farmstay’ (pictured) and ‘Artist Village’, plus the Hakawati Suite on the eighth floor with the best views of Dubai. All 434 rooms will feature 25Hours essentials including high quality beds “for an excellent night’s sleep”, free high-speed Wi-Fi and a UE Boom Bluetooth speaker. The hotel will be steps from Dubai World Trade Centre, just off Sheikh Zayed Road in the Dubai Future District and next to the new Museum of the Future. A metro station is close by and just two stations away from Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and three stations away from Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.

With the modern traveller in mind, facilities will include breakout areas with co-working spaces, a coffee area and a vinyl player and Walkman area, while guests can rent MINI Electric cars and Schindelhauer bikes. Highlights will also include the Moonlight Cinema in cooperation with MINI, the world’s first STOP THE WATER Spa and the 25hours things concept store on the ground floor. Four restaurants and bars are where “urban nomads meet desert flowers” and “local heroes meet the well-travelled” and include an all-day dining grill restaurant and a Bavarian beer garden and tavern. On the top floor guests will find a Greek restaurant and an urban rooftop bar with an outdoor terrace and pool.

Opening: March 2021

NOVEMBER 2020

Opening: TBC 2021

BELOW: St Regis The Palm

HOTELS

Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah Opening: September 2021

Beachside property Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah was due to open in September 2020, but this has now been pushed back a year to September 2021. Conveniently located on the main trunk of The Palm Jumeirah, apart from its stunning ocean-view rooms, the hotel’s exciting selling point is its food and beverage offering. Many of the city’s popular haunts will be setting up shop in the property including a Trader Vic’s (and Trader Vic’s Beach Bar), a new concept by McGettigan’s, CLAW (American BBQ), Jones the Grocer, club-venue favourite, Barfly and for live bands, sports and DJs, guests, Factory. For meetings and events, venues will include a divisible ballroom and a terrace with panoramic ocean views.

47 ABOVE: 25Hours Hotel Dubai One Central RIGHT: Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah

And in 2022…

Dorchester’s debut

Address Harbour Point

Developer Omniyat is developing a magnificent futuristic property on Marasi Drive in the Burj Khalifa district and on completion, it will play host to the Dorchester Collection’s first hotel in Dubai (pictured). Housed in a structure that resembles two interlocking Tetris-style towers, it will be the most modern Dorchester property in the famed uber-luxurious hotel chain’s portfolio when it opens at the end of 2022.

Address Harbour Point will be a twin-tower hotel and serviced apartment property located in the new Dubai Creek Harbour area. One tower will climb 66 storeys and the other, at 55 storeys tall, will dedicate 14 floors to the hotel, including 202 rooms and suites. The structure will be close to Dubai Creek Tower, which on completion in 2021, will be the tallest structure in the world, surpassing the Burj Khalifa.

NOVEMBER 2020

TR AVEL E XPERIENCE S

EXCEPTIONAL ESCAPADES

A whistle-stop tour of four luxurious travel experiences that offer something for everyone, from culture and adventure to wellness and royal-like living

W

hen in Rome, go vintage electric

Explore the ‘Eternal City’ in the comfort of a zero-emission electric Fiat Spiaggina vintage car, knowing that you’re doing your bit to observe social distancing measures and protect the environment. The ‘Spiaggina Experience’ is new to the portfolio of bespoke adventures on offer at Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, a luxury urban resort located on the fringes of the city. The car is parked next to the hotel entrance and from here you embark on a self-drive exploration, taking in Rome’s millennial treasures while comfortably seated in your very own Spiaggina (meaning “little beach” in Italian).

The hotel concierge is on hand to give you valuable insider tips for a truly customised discovery of the city, with highlights ranging from the Coliseum, the Baths of Caracalla and the Castel Sant’Angelo, to the Roman hills for an amazing sunset experience. Alternatively, check out more modern attractions such as the MAXXI Museum, Eataly or the Auditorium and don’t forget pit stops to savour local delicacies.

Prices start from AED 655 ($176) for four hours and AED 1,092 ($293) for a full day. The car seats four people including a driver. waldorfastoria3.hilton.com

NOVEMBER 2020

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TR AVEL E XPERIENCE S

Rebalance and recharge in Spain

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If you’re frazzled after a stressful year dominated by the pandemic, take yourself off to the SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante on the east coast of Spain where you’ll be encouraged to disconnect from the outside world and focus on your wellbeing. SHA’s team of professionals will map out your own personal health plan focusing on diet, natural therapies, technological treatments and activities that empower you to adopt positive lifestyle habits. The seven-day ‘Rebalance’ programme includes medical services such as a general health examination and laboratory testing; a consultation with nutrition experts and a personalised health plan; natural therapies such as acupuncture, traditional massages, a cryotherapy session and an aquatic therapy session; a tailormade mind and body session involving yoga, meditation and fitness; plus an introductory fitness evaluation with a personal trainer.

The clinic’s Dr. Oscar Mayorga is also administering regeneration treatments for patients with secondary lung damage caused by COVID-19. Stem cells help modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation to improve lung function and Dr. Mayorga uses a stem cell nebulisation treatment to regenerate damaged lung tissue.

You’ll stay in one of the clinic’s ultra-luxurious residences, designed according to the ancient philosophy of Feng Shui.

Prices for the seven-day Rebalance programme start from €3,000 ($ 3,485) per person. shawellnessclinic.com

Make memories in the Maldives

Experience the Maldives from the air or under the sea – or both – courtesy of Crossroads Maldives, the destination’s first multi-island resort, located just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport and offering entertainment and leisure activities galore. Top picks include parasailing where you’ll glide high in the sky, taking in 360-degree views of the turquoise lagoon and emerald-coloured as a speedboat guides you and your parachute, or the new semi-submarine adventure, giving you the chance to go on a dive without even getting wet. When you jump on board the semi-sub, the upper body of the vessel remains above the sea surface at all times, but the bottom part is 1.3 metres below sea level and the large windows of this underwater hull reveal breathtaking views of marine ecosystem. These experiences are available to guests staying at Crossroads’ two stylish resorts or at nearby properties including SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and the iconic Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. Multiple watersports, yachting and excursions such as big game fishing, snorkelling and dolphin watching are also available at Crossroads, located in the exotic South Malé Atoll and Emboodhoo Lagoon.

A 15-minute parasail is priced from $95 for one person and $180 for two, while 45-minute semi-sub trips cost $95 during the day and $110 at night. crossroadsmaldives.com NOVEMBER 2020

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Live like royalty on the French Riviera

If you have the budget and the time, go all out and check into one of the most exclusive suites on the French Riviera. The new 525 sqm Suite Prince Rainier III at Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo is pure decadence, featuring two bedrooms, a large main lounge with a bar area, a smaller lounge and a library, a dining room and an office space – so you can make it a workcation retreat if you really have to open that laptop. If you bring the family, it can be extended to 600 sqm with a third connecting room. Each bedroom has a private bathroom with a steam room shower and the suite also contains a glass-walled sauna that opens out underneath the Mediterranean sky. For views of the Place du Casino, take a seat on the lower level of the 135 sqm split-level terrace, or go up one level and hop into the heated infinity edge swimming pool. A dedicated team of private Clefs d’Or concierges are on hand to assist you and you’ll be personally welcomed on arrival at the airport or heliport. All suite guests have access to bespoke treatments at the Thermes Marins MonteCarlo in winter and to a beachfront tent on Monte-Carlo Beach in summer.

The story behind the suite? Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo held a special place in the life of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. In 1956, their wedding breakfast was served at the hotel; 20 years later, they celebrated their wedding anniversary there; and in 1974, Prince Rainier celebrated the 25th year of his reign at the hotel with great pomp. Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is now paying tribute Prince Rainier, giving his name to this new, exceptional Suite.

Prices are available on request, at a rate of €35,000/€45,000 ($40,765/ 52,414) per night depending on the season. montecarlosbm.com

NOVEMBER 2020

RAIL

WORDS ALEX MCWHIRTER

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BRUNO VAN DER KRAAN/UNSPLASH; PIERRE JULIEN

LIGHT IN SIGHT

European rail is starting to recover from the pandemic and should pick up passengers who may previously have flown for short journeys

NOVEMBER 2020

N

ever before during peacetime has rail experienced such a steep decline in passenger traffic. Networks both in the UK and mainland Europe have been devastated during the pandemic, with travellers unable to travel either by rail or air.

The good news, at the time of writing in early August, is that mainland rail is recovering, although in the UK, the continuing level of infection is perhaps leading to a slower return. When rail does finally get back on its feet, things will not be quite the same as preCovid-19. And, across the Channel, one can expect the changes to be noticeable with the implementation of the European Green Deal, which will aid the rail industry by encouraging more travellers to take the train. It will lead to a transfer from air to rail for shorter journeys.

Some readers might think they have heard it all before.

But this time the EU governments are serious. In recent months, we have seen examples from France and Austria.

These countries have led Europe, if not the world, by ABOVE: Franco-Swiss making their national airlines abandon some domestic rail operator TGV routes as a condition of receiving state aid.

Lyria boosted its Take France, for instance. For Air France to receive services last year €7 billion in aid, the French government specified it must LEFT: Amsterdam Centraal station not compete with the high-speed TGV on solely domestic point-to-point trips taking up to two and a half hours (by TGV). Austrian Airlines had to sacrifice its SalzburgVienna flights for OEBB’s rail service. The latter now runs direct from Salzburg to Vienna airport, with its trains carrying the carrier’s flight codes. As a result, Austria’s national airline received its €600 million in aid.

Elsewhere, some national airlines were already providing rail-air initiatives well before COVID-19. These will be strengthened in the years ahead. Lufthansa has long operated rail-air links in conjunction with Deutsche Bahn.

These have been extended to offer more cities and will include Basel in Switzerland.

Swiss is cutting some domestic flights, The European with passengers transferred to SBB rail. The Green Deal will Netherlands’ KLM had started this process aid the rail industry on short-haul routes before COVID-19 as a means of reducing flight movements at by encouraging Amsterdam Schiphol. It seems there will be more travellers to no going back, even though Schiphol now take the train has room as a result of the pandemic.

Still, this situation may not be a perfect one. Austrian Airlines and Vienna will worry that it will lose some Salzburg customers to Munich, which is closer by rail and road. Lufthansa can offer rail-air at Frankfurt (with its mainline station) but not at Munich (because it lacks a mainline station), yet the latter has become an increasingly important hub to Germany’s national airline.

KLM is taking a diplomatic approach with Brussels-Amsterdam, which it cut slightly in terms of frequency pre-COVID but is

continuing to run. It’s a very short flight and one that environmentalists say the airline ought to abandon, but KLM wants to cater for the many corporate travellers located in and around Brussels. Swiss is taking a risk by axing Lugano-Zurich because rival Milan Malpensa is a short distance from Lugano by road.

FROM DUSK UNTIL DAWN

A few years ago, the future for night trains looked bleak.

Germany’s Deutsche Bahn axed all of its sleeper trains while France’s SNCF stopped all but a few. But today it’s expected that night trains will make a comeback. They are considered a greener alternative to flying, with the bonus of saving on accommodation.

Currently, OEBB is the only serious operator of these trains, running services from Vienna across mainland Europe every night. OEBB has commissioned a new fleet of night trains, to enter service in a few years’ time.

In August it was reported that the Austrian government would provide the operator with about €500 million to acquire 20 new Nightjet trains plus locomotives.

Still, operating such trains is a challenge. Rolling stock is expensive, utilisation is low, servicing costs are high, more staff are required, and there may be higher network charges as night trains might be operating at less convenient times for the rail networks. These facts were brought home to me by Youtube user doc7austin, who in July made a video of a recent Vienna-Berlin trip (view by searching for doc7austin on youtube.com). Taking OEBB’s Nightjet, what would have been a simple trip by air becomes an 11hour marathon involving travel through several countries and even requiring en route shunting manoeuvres to attach and detach coaches. One would imagine Nightjet taking the more logical route from Austria and into Germany, but to save money on infrastructure costs it routes from Austria to Germany via Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Poland.

NOVEMBER 2020

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RAIL

SIEBE WARMOESKERKEN/UNSPLASH

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ABOVE: The French Infrastructure costs are a barrier to night trains and new government is market entrants. Germany’s Flixtrain wanted to expand prioritising rail over air for short into France and to compete with SNCF, but the cost domestic routes of using France’s rail network has dissuaded it. For that reason, OEBB wants to extend Nightjet to Paris, which its chief executive, Andreas Mattha, referred to as “a dream” in a recent interview with Austrian public broadcaster ORF. One development we are likely to see is a new night train linking Stockholm We are likely to see and Malmo with Hamburg and Brussels. a new night train Sweden’s government wants the new train to launch in 2022, although I believe that linking Stockholm is overly optimistic given the conservative and Malmo with rail industry, unless second-hand rolling Hamburg and stock can be located. Look, for example, at the time taken by Caledonian Sleeper to Brussels introduce its new rolling stock, or OEBB’s delay in acquiring new Nightjet stock.

Such a service would mean travellers could take a night train from Sweden to much of mainland Europe with a change in Hamburg or Brussels. London could be reached with a simple change to Eurostar at Brussels.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS

What about developments for daytime rail?

Particularly noteworthy is the launch by NOVEMBER 2020

Italy’s Trenitalia and Italo of possibly Europe’s longest high-speed train ride – an 11-hour journey from Turin to Reggio Calabria. Then there’s the Franco-Swiss TGV Lyria, which capitalised on last year’s wave of “flight shame” by increasing capacity by 30 per cent. Although schedules were cut back during lockdown, most have now been restored, along with onboard catering.

Trenitalia had planned to operate high-speed MilanParis services from June this year. It is still planned but Trenitalia cannot proceed until Arafer – France’s rail regulator – gives the green light.

The EU wants to encourage rail competition, and nowhere will this be more evident than in Spain. From December, France’s SNCF will be competing against Spain’s Renfe over selected high-speed domestic routes.

SNCF plans to offer a Ouigo-style product (Ouigo being its low-cost subsidiary).

Renfe’s existing AVE trains receive criticism for being pricey. SNCF’s arrival has prompted Renfe to introduce a budget high-speed alternative called Avlo. These two will face further competition a year or so later when Trenitalia enters the Spanish domestic market with highspeed services.

Despite possible setbacks caused by COVID-19, all of these developments should be able to proceed, although timescales are subject to change. BT

A NEW AGENCY CONNECTING WORLD-CLASS TALENT WITH BRANDS

Lisbon WORDS TOM OTLEY

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2 The Portuguese capital is off-limits to some nationalities, but essential travellers can still hop on a tram to take in the city’s charms

NOVEMBER 2020

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MOSTEIRO SAO VICENTE DE FORA

At time of press, Lisbon and all of Portugal were under what the government calls “a state of contingency.” Arrivals are permitted from a number of countries, but will be subject to temperature screening at airports and ports. Those from outside those designated countries are only permitted to travel to Portugal for essential purposes and require proof of a negative COVID-19 test carried out 72 hours prior to departure. Further information is available at pt.usembassy.gov.

Lisbon isn’t large – counting suburbs, the population is only 600,000 – but the city’s centre is hilly, and with crowds of visitors, social distancing gets harder.

Use public transport to save your feet – the metro is excellent but the

trams are best, taking you to Belem (your third stop), or from Baixa all the way to Campo de Ourique, passing through the historic districts of Graca and Alfama and making light of the hills (tram 28). If you are staying longer, the 24 hour Lisbon card offers discounts on attractions as well as covering your travels around the city for €19 ($22.50).

You can catch the 28 tram after your first stop, the Mosteiro Sao Vicente de Fora. Founded in 1147, this monastery houses the remains of several Portuguese kings, as well as beautiful frescoed rooms, chapels and galleries. It also has a rooftop with a stunning view over the Tagus River and the city. Largo de Sao Vicente; admission €5 ($6).

2

PRACO DO COMERCIO

Every visitor to Lisbon heads for the Praco do Comercio (Commerce

Square). Built after the earthquake and flood of 1755 that devastated the city, it has been renovated over the past decade so that the yellow stucco buildings and heroic statues can stand proud against the onslaught of tourists and selfie sticks. Running north is the pedestrianized Rua Augusta with its sidewalk cafes, old world shops and luxury stores.

You can pick up the metro here, but for a more scenic route take the 15E tram west to Belem – a 15-minute ride with good views to the Tagus and along the waterfront.

Before you do, stop for a drink under the arcade at Martinho da Arcada (Praca do Comercio 3), dating from 1782 and once the favorite haunt of Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa.

Depending on the time of day, or your constitution, have a coffee or a Ginjinha – the local cherry brandy, served chilled.

4 HOURS

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BELEM

You could spend four hours in Belem alone, taking in attractions such as the 16th-century Belem Tower, the outstanding UNESCO site of the Jeronimos Monastery, and the Discoveries Monument, built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, promoter of the Discoveries. Take time to check out the art in the Museu Colecao Berardo (open 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM, but COVID hours may vary; free entry; en.museuberardo.pt). Exhibitions change regularly, but the permanent collection includes works by Bacon, Duchamp, Miro, Mondrian, Picasso and Warhol.

Lisbon has more than 50 museums,

5 MERCADO DA RIBEIRA VELHA

Time to eat – and while Lisbon has thousands of great restaurants, you will be spoiled for choice at your final stop. Built in 1882, this market reopened as a foodie destination in 2014 with 24 restaurants, eight bars, shops and a music venue in the evening. The options go way beyond Portuguese cuisine, but be sure to make a point to try some local specialties – pasteis de bacalhau (salt cod fishcakes), Portuguese wines, and delicious desserts such as Fios de Ovos (angel hair).

There are also stores for buying gifts, including Arcadia for artisanal chocolates and Conserveira de Lisboa for colorful tins of sardines. Open 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (2:00 AM Thurs-Sat). timeoutmarket.com visitlisboa.com BT

GETTY IMAGES

4 MUSEU NACIONAL DE ARTE ANTIGA

and most have earned the Clean & Safe seal from Tourismo de Portugal.

But one of the best of them is the Nacional Museum, easily reached by hopping off one of the trams that run between Belem and the city center.

Housed in a 17th-century palace overlooking the modern container harbour, its paintings, sculptures, gold and jewellery span the 12th to 19th centuries and include Portuguese, European, African and Oriental works.

Highlights are the Panels of Saint Vincent by Nuno Goncalves, and the Belem Monstrance, which dates to the early 16th century. Fashioned for King Manuel I, it is made from the gold brought by explorer Vasco da Gama from India. There is also a beautiful garden with a restaurant.

Open Tues-Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; €6 ($7) or free with Lisbon card. museudearteantiga.pt

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B u s i n e s s Tr a v e l l e r M i d d l e E a s t m a g a z i n e i s a v a i l a b l e i n a l l o f t h e s e e x c l u s i v e h o t e l s

HOTELS COLLECTION

GRAND MILLENNIUM DUBAI HOTEL

MIRFA HOTEL

WALDORF ASTORIA RAS AL KHAIMAH

DUBAI The 340-room five star hotel features awardwinning restaurants and bars, spa and health club, stateof-the-art meeting rooms, a magnificent ballroom and exceptional banquet facilities. +971 4 429 9999 reservations@grandmill-dubai.com grandmillenniumdubai.com

AL MARFA Away from the bustle of city life, overlooking the azure blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, the Mirfa Hotel offers 114 newly renovated rooms. The hotel provides excellent accommodation for the business and leisure traveller, state-of-the-art conference facilities, a fully equipped gym and ample parking. +971 2 8953009 rsvn@mirfahotel.com

RAS AL KHAIMAH Cradled by the Hajar Mountains, a championship golf course, sandy beaches and the azure waters of the Arabian Sea, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is 50 minutes from Dubai Airport and brings true Waldorf service to the most alluring beachfront location in the UAE. +971 7 2035555 rasalkhaimah.info@waldorfastoria.com waldorfastoria.com/rasalkhaimah

CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT OMAN CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

CROWNE PLAZA DEIRA, DUBAI

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, DUBAI

OMAN Adjacent to the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, this 295-room hotel is an integral part of Madinat Al Irfan, a product of an exciting ambition to establish a new urban centre within Muscat. Situated 10 minutes from the new Muscat International Airport, Al Mouj and Muscat Hills Golf courses and overlooking a Wadi - a natural reserve and home to about 260 variety of Oman’s exotic birdlife during the season. +968 2425 2000 rooms.cpmuscatocec@ihg.com crowneplaza.com/muscatocec

DUBAI Located in the cultural heart of Dubai, Crowne Plaza Dubai – Deira lies at the convenient gateway between the old and new districts of the city. Featuring 300 guest rooms and suites, and an array of meeting rooms, 6 restaurants and bars, a dedicated and fully equipped fitness centre with outdoor swimming pool, the hotel is the perfect place for both leisure and business guests. +971 4 262 5555 cpdeira.info@ihg.com crowneplaza.com/deira

DUBAI The award-winning Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining and gracious hospitality in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The hotel’s 302 superbly appointed rooms and suites offer a combination of traditional luxury and modern functionality. Spatial elegance, awesome views and thoughtfully selected furnishings create an experience of unparalleled style and comfort. +971 4 3438888 shangri-la.com/dubai

the

eport Tried, Tested, Tasted.

TRIED AND TESTED

TRIED AND TESTED

TRIED AND TESTED

SMART TRAVELLER

∙ Saadiyat Rotana Resort

∙ Conrad London St. James

∙ AC by Marriott,

∙ Tools to track travel

& Villas, Abu Dhabi

60 ∙ Rove Dubai Marina

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62 ∙ Sheraton Grand London

Park Lane

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Huntsville, AL

64 ∙ citizenM, Washington DC

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TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Abu Dhabi B A C K G R O U N D Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas opened in March 2018. Located on Abu Dhabi’s naturally blessed Saadiyat Island, it is a flagship property for Rotana, the largest UAE-based hospitality group.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? It’s much more than a resort; it’s a destination in its own right, with everything you need for a relaxing business or leisure stay in one idyllic location. As soon as you step into the expansive lobby where light is in abundance and the contemporary beachinspired design is easy on the eye, you feel at total ease.

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W H E R E I S I T ? Set on a spectacular 9km stretch of white-sand beach on an island that is home to indigenous Hawksbill

It’s much more than a resort; it’s a destination in its own right turtles and cultural icon, Louvre Abu Dhabi.

It’s such a beauty spot with uninterrupted Gulf views that you forget how close you are to the UAE capital’s major business districts, as well as entertainment hub, Yas Island. Abu Dhabi International is around 30 minutes by road.

R O O M S There are several room and suite categories, including Club Rotana rooms

with extra privileges including lounge access, as well as 13 beach villas, which can be hired for small group events. We stayed in a Premium Seaview Room, which was decorated in light and neutral colours and felt like a spacious beach apartment.

The balcony, work desk, sofa, walk-in shower and bath and complimentary WIFI were all appreciated.

F O O D A N D D R I N K There are seven dining venues and we tried five of them.

There’s something for everyone, from satisfying gastropub classics at Hamilton’s and authentic Italian dishes, including pizzas, at Si Ristorante Italiano to delicious surf, turf and grills at Turtle Bay Bar & Grill by the pool. If you fancy a bite late afternoon, I recommend you grab a comfy sofa, order some snacks and watch the sun set at Nasma Beachfront Bar; you won’t regret or forget it. Breakfast is served at all-day dining venue Sim Sim – the choice is huge and the outdoor terrace is a great spot for a laid-back meeting.

B U S I N E S S Choose from three banquet rooms, ideal for meetings and conferences,

or the Almas Ballroom, which can seat up to 450 guests. There’s also The Lawn – a 510 sqm outdoor events venue.

L E I S U R E A decent gym with cardio and strength training equipment, massive outdoor pool, two tennis courts, mini golf and beach sports including kayaking. If you tag a family break onto your business trip, the kids will love Aladdin’s Cave – a club where highlights include a water slide, lazy river, cinema and teen zone.

V E R D I C T Although we were working during our stay, we really made the most of our downtime, thanks to the comprehensive leisure facilities, exceptional dining experiences and the stunning beach location. It made a business trip relaxing and fun, enhanced by the soothing ambience and breathtaking sunsets.

Gemma Greenwood

BEST FOR A ‘bleisure’ trip – when your business is done, why not invite the family for the weekend?

DON’T MISS Sunset drinks at Nasma Beachfront Bar

PRICE From AED 808 (US$216) per night in December when booking direct

CONTACT Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi; tel +971 2 697 0000; rotana.com

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TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Rove Dubai Marina

BEST FOR Value for money

DON’T MISS Friday brunch – with limited seating, so get in early

PRICE Rooms from AED 169 ($45); co-working spaces from AED 39 ($10.40) per day, AED 499 ($$133) per month

CONTACT B A C K G R O U N D Rove, part of Emaar Hospitality Group, is a hotel chain with six boutique concepts around Dubai, each offering excellent working spaces, as well as long-term stay rates that work out cheaper than renting an apartment. It’s not for the luxury traveller – there are no services like valet parking or a concierge – but Roves are bright and airy and offer many features geared to business travellers.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? Cool, artsy and colourful, Rove Dubai Marina is definitely not your run-of-the-mill business property.

Artwork reflects the Arabic setting, but with bold primary colours and quirky design, it is as hip as the crowd who visit.

W H E R E I S I T ? Located on the edge of Dubai Marina, the hotel is 10 minutes by road from many of the city’s business districts and tourist spots, including JLT, Palm Jumeirah and Jebel Ali. It’s also a short walk away from Dubai Marina Mall, The Beach at JBR and the JLT metro station.

R O O M S The surprisingly spacious 26 sqm rooms offer plenty of storage, including a hanging area shelves and drawers, so it’s easy to see how this could be a convenient place for a longer stay. Amenities include tea- and coffee-making facilities, a fridge, WIFI, a 48-inch smart TV, sofa bed and safe.

Rove Dubai Marina is definitely not your run-ofthe-mill business property

F O O D A N D D R I N K The Daily is a large, open-plan space divided into separately themed areas offering everything from burgers to Indian cuisine. Its Friday brunch, priced just AED 99 (US$26.40), is always packed and certainly great value for money. The menu is creative with breakfast offering a long list of healthier and vegan options in addition to the more standard fare. Somewhat casual, residents at the hotel clearly feel at home in this venue that blends living room vibes with casual working space.

Al Seba Street, Dubai Marina; WhatsApp: +971 50 517 6833; tel +971 4 561 9999; rovehotels.com

L E I S U R E With a fairly large gym, pool and recreational activities such as table tennis, there’s plenty to keep long- and short-stay guests occupied.

V E R D I C T Rove has created a really quirky and creative space that suits business travellers or those looking for a more affordable stay. With all the practicalities on hand, it’s most definitely a fun business destination and positioned in a convenient location. Bright and colourful, it has really moved away from the stuff y decor of business hotels and created something modern, young and inspiring. Melanie Swan

B U S I N E S S Thanks to a partnership with co-working app Letswork, the hotel has become a hub for digital nomads and is particularly popular with a young crowd.

Facilities include meeting rooms for up to 80 guests with six set-ups from which to choose including theatre, boardroom and classroom. The fully customisable venues are rentable for 24 hours with the package including complimentary WIFI and refreshments. Guests signed up to Letswork can book spaces at any Rove hotel.

NOVEMBER 2020

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BEST FOR The luxury traveller who appreciates personal service

DON’T MISS The best posh-pub grub in town at the Blue Boar Bar

PRICE From £165 ($212) for a week night in November

CONTACT 22-28 Broadway; tel +44 (0)20 3301 8080; hilton.com

F O O D A N D D R I N K Suite guests have

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Conrad London St. James B A C K G R O U N D Located in the former Queen Anne’s Chambers, a 19th-century building less than a mile from Westminster, it’s a contemporary hotel with historical and political references reflecting its location.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? If you appreciate

a personalised service and attention to detail, this is the hotel for you. Guests are made to feel welcome and looked after, with staff attentive at all times. Tailored to the sophisticated traveller, there are contemporary spaces where you can dine, work or relax and striking artwork that intrigues around every corner.

W H E R E I S I T ? Westminster Village,

near a roster of famous attractions including Buckingham Palace, St. James’ Park, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and 10 Downing Street.

R O O M S There are 256 rooms and luxury

suites of various shapes and sizes. We stayed in a one-bedroom suite with a large king bedroom; comfortable lounge with sofa and chairs, dining table, work desk, coffee table and tea- and coffee-making

NOVEMBER 2020

If you appreciate a personalised service and attention to detail, this is the hotel for you facilities; a marble bathroom with walk-in rainforest shower, large bath, double vanity and fluff y robes and slippers; and a guest toilet. Despite the pandemic, there was a turndown service and when we ordered hot drinks to the room, they arrived super quick. The view wasn’t great, but this is a business hotel and with fast WiFi and room service, it offers the comfort and convenience you crave.

access to the spacious executive lounge, which was open for drinks, but evening cocktails and delicious canapés were served at Emmeline’s – the elegant lounge with a partial-glass ceiling at the heart of the hotel, which is also popular for limitededition afternoon teas. Food is a hotel strong point. We dined at the Blue Boar Bar, a sophisticated British pub venue with a real sense of the Westminster scene. From succulent steaks to inventive takes on classic gastropub favourites, there was something for everyone in this cosy venue with rich dark furnishings and bold caricature-type art portraying political figureheads. Next door, the Blue Boar Restaurant serves contemporary British cuisine, as well as a hearty breakfast. There’s a private dining area here too for client meetings.

B U S I N E S S Eight flexible meeting spaces for up to 300 guests and a business centre with printing facilities. The hotel recently launched a ‘working from hotel’ concept – think socially distanced work spaces meet luxury hotel services.

L E I S U R E A small fitness centre is open 24 hours a day.

V E R D I C T A sophisticated hotel where your needs are anticipated. It’s also one of Westminster’s most sought-after dining destinations, which elevates the experience. Gemma Greenwood

TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Sheraton Grand London Park Lane B A C K G R O U N D This celebrated Art Deco hotel first opened its doors in the 1920s and during WWII was pitched as a safe haven in the heart of London, with the property’s now famed ballroom designated the replacement Houses of Parliament should nearby Westminster be bombed. Today, the glamour of the roaring twenties is more alive than ever, preserved in the architecture, interior design and hospitality experience.

It’s elegant and refined and the service is effortlessly professional, but relaxed.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? The Art Deco

heritage of this hotel defines your stay.

There’s a sense of history and place, but with all the modern amenities and services you expect of a five-star property. It’s an impressive arrival experience as you take a moment to enjoy the grandeur of the architecture and the lobby, yet the hotel is cosy and inviting. The staff are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and do not let wearing a face mask get in the way of good service.

W H E R E I S I T ? On Piccadilly, in the heart of Mayfair, overlooking Green Park and a short walk from Bond Street, Regent Street and Buckingham Palace.

BEST FOR Business trips with colleagues or clients

DON’T MISS Afternoon tea at The Palm Court

PRICE Advance Purchase Member Rates start from £219 (US$278)

CONTACT Piccadilly, Mayfair; tel +44 (0)207 499 6321; marriott.com

R O O M S There are 305 guestrooms.

We tried one of the 17 Grand Park View Suites with Green Park views; a sizeable lounge with desk, sofa, coffee table and tea- and coffee-making facilities; plus a large bedroom and bathroom, all in a subtle colour palette with little Art Deco touches here and there. It was lavish for an overnighter and an ample size for a longer stay with its apartment-style layout. Fresh hummus and veggie sticks plus dates on arrival were appreciated and gave a nod to the hotel’s regular Gulf visitors. The Sheraton Signature Sleep experience – the bed – was blissful.

F O O D A N D D R I N K Afternoon tea at The Palm Court is a must. The new Nineteen Twen-Tea experience serves up sandwiches, scones and intricate pastries inspired by the 1920s, washed down with

The Art Deco heritage of this hotel defines your stay your favourite blends of tea and coffee and a few bubbles too. Staff explain the inspiration behind every sweet treat while Art Deco themes from marble floors and tapestries to a stunning ceiling design top off the experience. We also ate breakfast at this relaxed venue, choosing from a wide range of continental, health-conscious and cooked options. Other dining venues include Smith & Whistle, serving modern British classics, from burgers to hearty curries. It’s pet-friendly too offering London’s first drinks list for dogs!

B U S I N E S S For Club Room guests there’s a large Club Lounge, which despite the pandemic, is open and serves soft drinks and snacks. For meetings and events there’s a grand Art Deco ballroom plus flexible venues including the Tudor Rose Room, Oak Room, the Drawing Room and balcony and terrace areas.

L E I S U R E A small gym is kitted out

with ample cardio and strength-training equipment. Alternatively, you can take a walk or jog around Green Park across the road.

V E R D I C T Convenient and classy, this hotel offers great food, facilities and hospitality in one of London’s most prestigious districts. Gemma Greenwood NOVEMBER 2020

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BEST FOR

AC by Marriott, Huntsville, AL

Picture-perfect views of downtown Huntsville and Big Spring International Park

DON’T MISS A walk around the Twickenham Historic District with its abundance of Federal and Greek Revival architecture

B A C K G R O U N D AC by Marriott has Spanish roots and its European influence is notable throughout the Huntsville property.

Its breakfast and gift shop offer Spanish products and strong Italian coffee can be sipped each morning at reception.

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PRICE Internet rates for a traditional room start at $119.

W H E R E I S I T ? Across from Big Spring International Park, the AC by Marriott Hotel is one of the city’s newest hotels benefitting from proximity to the alwayshappening Von Braun Center. The hotel is just minutes on foot from the Huntsville Museum of Art, the Twickenham Historic District and Alabama Constitution Hall Historic Park & Museum. It’s just a short drive to the world-famous US Space and Rocket Center, which is the “Rocket City’s” most visited attraction. Huntsville is known as the birthplace of the US space program since scientists and engineers living here developed the rockets that took America to the moon.

CONTACT 435 Williams Avenue SW, Huntsville, AL, 35801, Tel: (256) 836-7776. marriott.com

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? Enormous glass windows face all of downtown Huntsville’s growing skyline. The hotel has modern and contemporary public areas ideal for gathering over a cocktail or co-working space (power outlets are everywhere).

R O O M S Modern and bright, the rooms feature leather sofas, plush duvets over soft bedding, easy-access power outlets by the bed and desk, twistable bedside reading lamps and full-length mirrors. Open-plan closets have ample storage space and refrigerators come with free bottled water.

Coffeemakers are stocked with the same strong Italian coffee that is available at reception and the bathroom is kitted out with Greek Korres brand toiletries. Its four suites add extra living space.

F O O D A N D D R I N K Breakfast is a hallmark of AC by Marriott hotels with a signature Spanish ham slicer and other Spanish delicacies, as well as local cuisine.

During my visit, none of this was available NOVEMBER 2020

due to local COVID-19 restrictions. Instead, the hotel was offering a complimentary continental breakfast of cereal, croissants and granola bars at reception. That’s a generous and appreciated addition that is not always found at an AC by Marriott.

There’s also a third-party restaurant on the second-floor with an open terrace overlooking the park.

L E I S U R E F A C I L I T I E S The secondfloor fitness centre has modern equipment, and each floor has a hydration station where guests can refill water bottles. I was impressed with the extra cleaning that everything was getting all throughout the hotel including the fitness centre and lobby. Huntsville’s downtown is especially

convenient for jogging through the park for an al fresco exercise alternative.

BUSINESS AND MEETING F A C I L I T I E S Meeting rooms have plentiful

natural light and range from small boardroom spaces to larger conference areas. Being so close to the Von Braun Center, the property can easily complement larger events, which is important given Huntsville’s role as a hub for defense contractor group functions. Its conference business has been strong across other sectors too.

V E R D I C T Being close to meeting and

entertainment venues in the heart of downtown Huntsville, this hotel is ideal for business travellers. Ramsey Qubein

TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

BEST FOR

citizenM Washington, DC

Playful art and design pieces and a panoramic rooftop bar and patio

DON’T MISS The eclectic wall collections in the meeting rooms – even if you’re not having a meeting

B A C K G R O U N D This Dutch brand is expanding across the US with hotels designed for both business and leisure travellers. All of its rooms are similar in size and share the same price and staff are trained to do a variety of jobs.

PRICE Internet rates for a traditional room start at $99.

W H E R E I S I T ? It’s within easy walking distance to the National Mall, Smithsonian museums and Washington Monument. A metro station is also conveniently close.

W H A T ' S I T L I K E ? Instead of a traditional front desk, guests use touchscreen kiosks to check in and receive their key. Especially clever is the space to write your name and address plus the hole in the key card that allows you to use it as a souvenir luggage tag after your stay.

For those preferring contactless check-in, an app can unlock your room using your smartphone’s Bluetooth capability.

The hotel’s living room has locally commissioned art (including hipster adaptations of past president portraits), hundreds of art and design books that guests can borrow and decorative pieces that range from eccentric to clever making the lobby’s playful social spaces unlike any other hotel. An enormous photo mural representing Coney Island surrounds the elevators; this is a signature photo found in all citizenM properties. There’s also an iconic red spiral staircase in the living room plus the brand’s fragrance in public spaces dispensed via diffusers. The hotel’s design motto is that an empty wall is a wasted opportunity, and that is readily apparent in this colorful and modern hotel.

CONTACT 550 School Street SW, Washington, DC, Tel: (202) 747 2145. citizenm.com

feature ample power outlets and everything in the room is controlled via iPad. A large TV screen is mounted on the wall for cinema-style entertainment. All-white vanities within the room have high-end toiletries and the water closet and powerful shower are concealed behind translucent glass as well as a white curtain.

F O O D A N D D R I N K The cloudM rooftop bar and patio will prepare delectable cocktails with beautiful views of the city’s skyline. During the day, it’s a great co-working space. On the street level is canteenM, which serves 24-7 drinks and light meals.

L E I S U R E F A C I L I T I E S The fitness

centre features the latest equipment. It is shared with the residential development

in the adjoining building, which means the gym is better than your average hotel facility.

BUSINESS AND MEETINGS F A C I L I T I E S Seven meeting rooms,

known as societyM, feature eclectic design with quirky art meant to spur creativity and conversation. All have natural light, espresso machines, and long boardroomstyle or circular tables. Free wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel, and the lobby’s conversation seating areas are ideal for co-working.

V E R D I C T The local art and design theme is inspiring and energetic giving the hotel the trendiness of a W hotel, but at half the price. It’s definitely affordable luxury.

Ramsey Qubein

R O O M S Like other citizenM properties, the carpeting in the guest room hallways features a map of the surrounding area. All the 252 rooms have enormous windows with great views and extra-large king beds covered with inviting Plush duvets and pillows. Designers maximised the compact room size by installing drawers large enough for a suitcase under the bed. Desks NOVEMBER 2020

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SMART TR AVELLER

Tools to Track Travel

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For hapless travellers tired of dealing with “openings” that are not really open, there are some new information sources to turn to

ith the wellordered world of travel totally disrupted by COVID-19 restrictions, new adaptive solutions have quickly developed to track what’s open, what’s not, and what determined travellers must do to thread the needle from Point A to B. The need to keep up with all the wellintentioned but constantly changing – and frequently confusing – restrictions, quarantines, testing protocols and individual requirements is putting a premium on accurate travel information, prompting more travel organisations to offer easy ways for travellers to stay up to date. Here are just a few of them.

GLOBAL

The International Air Transport Association is providing a free online interactive world map showing the latest COVID-19 entry regulations by country.

The map uses the organisation’s Timatic database to show information on documentation needed for international travel.

The system updates more than 200 times a day showing accurate travel restrictions to specific areas based on citizenship and country of residence. Visit go. updates.iata.org.

AIRLINES

American Airlines has launched a new online solution that allows customers to see the current Coronavirus travel guidelines and restrictions for the airline’s domestic and international destinations. The travel guide NOVEMBER 2020

can be accessed at aa.com on the travel updates page, under the Travel Restrictions section.

When a destination is entered, results will show up-to-date guideline information, as well as travel requirements such as face coverings, health documentation and quarantine rules.

United Airlines has introduced a new interactive map tool both on united.com and the United mobile app that allows customers to filter and view COVID-19 related travel restrictions for destinations in the airline’s network. The Destination Travel Guide provides an interactive, colour-coded map to highlight if a destination is closed, partially open or fully open for travel, and will also note if any tests or self-quarantining is required.

RAIL

Amtrak customers can now see how full their reserved train will be on the rail line’s website and mobile app. Since bookings are limited on most trains to allow for physical distancing, the number indicates how full the train

Restrictions, quarantines, testing protocols and individual requirements are putting a premium on accurate travel information

is as a percentage based on the reduced number of seats available. The results are displayed in real time.

CORPORATE TRAVEL

Travelport, a global travel technology provider, has launched the Travelport Airline Health & Safety Tracker. The tool is free and available to both Travelport customers and the wider industry, and reports what measures are being taken by more than 80 of the world’s largest airlines, broken down by region. The tool also highlights information from global hotel chains and car providers.

It’s available to the general traveling public at travelport. com/covid-19-recovery-safetymeasures. American Express Global Business Travel has

launched Travel Vitals, a travel briefing platform that allows users to search travel guidelines by destination, airline, airport, hotel chain, train operator and ground transportation provider.

The journey assistant is free and available to all travel managers, travel management companies and travelers at travelvitals. amexgbt.com.

DINING

Dinova, the business dining platform with a network of more than 20,000 restaurants, has a free mobile app and guide aimed at helping diners make safe decisions when dining out during the pandemic. The new Business Dining 2.0 focuses on four factors: restaurant responsibility, such as safe food handling and complying with government rules; diner responsibility for planning ahead and complying with restaurant rules; shared responsibility of hand hygiene and social distancing; and diner screening.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

InsureMyTrip, a travel insurance comparison site, launched a COVID-19 Recommendation Tool to guide travellers searching for COVID-19 related coverage issues. Popular coverage includes benefits like Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason), Quarantine Coverage, Emergency Medical Coverage or Financial Default Coverage.

Travellers can review the expanding list of highlighted plans after completing a quote.

FLY SAFE FEEL SECURE

Have a healthy journey with all precautions taken to the finest detail for your in-flight safety.

Please visit turkishairlines.com to learn more about our travel standards and other details.