Published on September 13, 2025
This week, the hospitality and tourism sectors saw major advancements in both Dubai and Saudi Arabia. Ciel Dubai Marina, soon to become the tallest hotel in the world, is nearing its grand opening. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Global is positioning AMAALA as a premier yachting destination. Dubai’s tourism industry continues to thrive, marking strong growth and setting records in visitor arrivals. With these key developments, the future of tourism and hospitality in the region looks set for a remarkable transformation.
Ciel Dubai Marina: The World’s Tallest Hotel Set to Open in November
The eagerly awaited Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG, is set to open its doors in November 2025. Standing at a towering 377 meters, this hotel will redefine luxury hospitality, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Dubai skyline. Upon completion, it will surpass all current records to become the tallest hotel globally, offering guests an experience unlike any other.
The development will feature an expansive 82 floors and a spectacular infinity pool positioned at its highest point. Located in one of Dubai’s most sought-after areas, this property will cater to both business and leisure travelers, setting a new benchmark in the hospitality industry.
The project reflects the growing ambition of Dubai’s tourism industry, which continuously pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in hospitality. It also underscores Dubai’s reputation as a world leader in both business and tourism.
AMAALA: Saudi Arabia’s Push for a Year-Round Yachting Destination
AMAALA, located along Saudi Arabia’s picturesque northwestern coastline, is emerging as a major destination for luxury yachting and maritime tourism. Red Sea Global is working to transform the area into a year-round hub for international sailing enthusiasts, offering an alternative to Europe’s seasonal sailing spots. By 2027, AMAALA will host the Grand Finale of The Ocean Race, further cementing its position as a global sailing hotspot.
The centerpiece of the development is the Triple Bay Marina, a state-of-the-art facility with 116 berths designed for yachts of up to 140 meters in length. The marina will also serve as the home base for the AMAALA Yacht Club, which will offer exclusive events and regattas throughout the year. Additionally, a sailing academy is being developed to train the next generation of sailors, ensuring the continued growth of the sport in the region.
This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to diversify its economy and boost its tourism sector, showcasing the Red Sea as an attractive destination for luxury travel.
Dubai’s Hospitality Market: A Record-Breaking Performance in H1 2025
Dubai’s hospitality sector has seen an impressive performance in the first half of 2025, with a surge in international visitors and an increase in the city’s global appeal. In the first six months, Dubai attracted nearly 10 million visitors, marking a 6.1 percent year-on-year increase. This rise in tourism reflects the city’s continued efforts to enhance its reputation as a global tourism hub.
Dubai’s hospitality sector has also earned recognition for inclusivity and safety, with the city now recognized as the first Certified Autism Destination
in the Eastern Hemisphere. It also ranks as one of the safest cities globally, taking the third spot for city-level safety rankings. These achievements are helping to drive the city’s booming tourism industry.
As the city continues to expand its infrastructure, Dubai’s tourism sector remains well-positioned to attract a growing number of global travelers.
Julia Schamne’s Leadership: A Focus on Authenticity
Julia Schamne, recently appointed cluster general manager for Novotel Dubai Al Barsha and ApartHotel Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha, has shared her thoughts on leadership. With almost two decades of experience across several luxury hotel brands, she emphasizes the importance of authenticity and integrity in leadership. She stresses the value of leading with clarity, ensuring that hospitality services maintain a human touch while evolving with the times.
Dubai’s Future: Paving the Way for Global Hospitality and Tourism
As Dubai continues to innovate and redefine luxury, its developments, such as the opening of Ciel Dubai Marina, reinforce the city’s status as a global tourism powerhouse. Coupled with the initiatives in Saudi Arabia, like AMAALA’s transformation into a yachting destination, the Middle East is poised to dominate the global tourism landscape.
These developments represent a significant shift in the region’s hospitality scene. They not only focus on luxury and exclusivity but also incorporate sustainable tourism practices and inclusivity, providing a holistic approach to attracting travelers from all walks of life.
With an eye on both growth and sustainability, Dubai and its neighbors are creating experiences that cater to every type of traveler, ensuring the region remains at the forefront of the global tourism industry.