Accor says it is protecting margins and staying on track for 2026 even as Middle East disruption weighs on luxury demand and raises new questions about hotel pricing power.
Dubai’s Burj Al Arab will close for 18 months as Jumeirah begins the first major restoration in the hotel’s history. The project is designed to preserve one of the city’s most recognizable luxury landmarks while updating it for the next generation of high-end travel.
A new UAE restriction barring Iranian nationals from entering or transiting through Dubai adds another layer of disruption to Gulf travel. The move affects not only direct movement between Iran and the Emirates, but also a major regional hub used for onward international connections.
Moon World Resorts is advancing plans to build a giant lunar-themed destination in up to 10 countries, combining hospitality, real estate and immersive entertainment.
Dubai has officially launched the Dubai Gold District, positioning the emirate as the world’s leading destination for gold, jewellery trade, and luxury shopping, anchored by the future debut of the world’s first Gold Street.
Disney has confirmed Yas Island as the future home of Disneyland Abu Dhabi, marking the company’s first theme park resort in the Middle East and a major milestone for global expansion.
Global Hotel Alliance delivered a standout year in 2025, with record revenue, rising loyalty engagement, and strong international travel demand reshaping the independent hotel landscape.
Dubai’s proposed 93km “The Loop” would create a climate-controlled corridor for walking, running, and cycling, aiming to connect millions of residents to daily services without relying on cars.
India has expanded its Visa-on-Arrival access for UAE nationals, adding three more airports and simplifying entry for short-term travel.
Dar Global and The Trump Organization are launching the first Trump hotel in the Maldives and the world’s first tokenized hotel development project, marking a major shift in luxury travel investment.
