IRHM, Your Global Window into Real Estate and Hospitality

February 17, 2026

Hospitality

Global lifestyle operator Kerten Hospitality is expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia with the announcement of the Cloud 7 Al Murjan Island Resort - Dammam. Located on the Eastern Province waterfront, the resort is part of a visionary mixed-use development combining hospitality, leisure, entertainment, and wellness. The resort will introduce a distinctive coastal concept featuring 74 overwater chalets. It will also include Nyssa Beach, a ladies-only beach club offering extensive wellness, spa, and fitness facilities designed to support the Dammam women's community.
Travel technology company Amadeus is integrating SmartRyde, a leading Japanese provider of pre-booked airport transfers, into its platform. SmartRyde's service, which spans over 1000+ airports globally, will be available through Amadeus Transfers from next month. The initial launch will target travel sellers in Japan and South Korea. The partnership aims to simplify ground transportation, allowing travel agents to offer end-to-end itineraries.
UN Tourism has appointed influential digital creator Khaby Lame as its newest Ambassador during the General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This partnership is aimed at engaging digital-first audiences globally. In his new role, Mr. Lame will use his platform to promote responsible tourism, advocate for sustainable practices, and support cultural heritage. His work will focus on showcasing tourism as a powerful vehicle for development, job creation, and unity.
JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio, has announced a distinctive collaboration with Finnish design house Marimekko across Greater China as part of its "Stay in the Moment" campaign. The partnership integrates Marimekko’s joyful artistry with JW Marriott’s mindful luxury approach through a series of immersive guest experiences. These experiences include "Blissful Stay"-themed rooms and suites, pop-up installations, collaborative afternoon teas, and artisanal workshops across nine JW Marriott properties in cities including Shanghai and Hong Kong.
JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group has hired Louis Barruel as Senior Vice President in its Hotels’ Asset Management division. Mr. Barruel will work from the Montreal office, focusing on client service delivery and growing the firm's portfolio throughout Canada. Mr. Barruel reports to Executive Vice President Katie Krieger, who noted his comprehensive Canadian market knowledge and deep sector understanding make him an invaluable addition.
Dar Global, the London-listed luxury real estate developer, and The Trump Organization have announced a major joint venture for the Maldives. The partnership includes the debut of the Trump International Hotel Maldives and the launch of the world’s first tokenised hotel development tied to the project. Located 25 minutes from Malé, the hotel will feature 80 ultra-luxury beach and overwater villas and is expected to open by the end of 2028.

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