The United Nations Specialised Agency for tourism has confirmed Ms. Al Nowais as its next Secretary-General following the 26th General Assembly in Riyadh. Her appointment, confirmed by the 160 Member States, is a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to lead the organisation in its 50-year history. Ms. Al Nowais will commence her five-year term at the start of 2026. She brings considerable private sector experience to the role, including her recent position as Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels. She also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group. She outlined five core priorities for her mandate. These include responsible tourism, capacity building, technology for good, innovative financing, and smart governance.
Modern hospitality is moving beyond luxury to embrace culture, authenticity and a true sense of place. Travellers now seek experiences rooted in local identity, from architecture inspired by regional craft to culinary immersion such as olive harvests or sake brewing. Staff act as cultural ambassadors, while partnerships with artisans preserve heritage and support local communities. As wellness and travel intersect with tradition and craft, hospitality is shifting towards meaningful connection and belonging.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement with Lumbini Heritage Limited to develop Crowne Plaza Lumbini, scheduled to open in 2026. The 147-key hotel will strengthen IHG’s premium presence in Nepal, catering to spiritual and MICE travellers. Located near Lumbini’s pilgrimage site and Gautam Buddha Airport, the hotel aims to set a benchmark for world-class hospitality.
Meliá Hotels International has announced its debut in Bahrain, launching a luxury hotel and branded residences on Amwaj Island. Opening in 2027, the property will feature 256 units, including 150 hotel rooms and 106 branded residences. The development reflects Meliá’s growing Middle East footprint and commitment to hybrid hospitality-residential models, catering to the region’s demand for premium lifestyle and experiential travel.
Aleph Hospitality has expanded its footprint in Saudi Arabia with new hotel management agreements and projects, bringing its national portfolio to 11 properties totalling 2,354 keys. Announced at the Future Hospitality Summit in Dubai, the growth spans major cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, the Eastern Province and Abha, with the group targeting 20 hotels in the Kingdom by 2030.
Banyan Group is celebrating its 100th resort milestone with the grand opening of Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree and the launch of its first Rainforest Festival in Singapore. Running from 27 November to 3 December 2025, the festival will raise funds for the President’s Challenge, featuring a week of sustainable experiences, music, and community-led activities.
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