When it comes to travel trends, the times-they-are-a-changing — aren’t they always? — so why not embrace the latest and greatest in what the great wide world has to offer this year? We’ve compiled the hottest hotel openings from all across the globe, with the intent of not only broadening your horizons — why stay in a standard one-bedroom in Miami when you can book a private beach luxury hotel in Dubai? — but also to induce your wanderlust.
Some of these hotels opened only a few weeks ago, others are slated to debut later this year. Why not get a head start on crossing off your bucket list in the early months of 2023? New year, new you, new places to go, and people to see. Maybe you’ll discover a new country you love or a city you’d not yet considered — all from the comforts of a sleek, chic, hotel. (AirBnBs are so 2022). Room service, please!
The Middle East is one of the fastest-growing regions for tourism in the world — particularly high-end, luxury tourism catering to the world’s most discerning travelers. From the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Sea, an influx of luxury properties are arriving in the region, with offerings from brands such as Kempinski and the Four Seasons. Whether you’re looking for a chic cosmopolitan getaway or a pristine nature retreat, there’s something for every type of traveler heading to the Middle East in 2023. And whether it’s your first visit to the region or you’re a consummate traveler to the Middle East, you’re sure to be delighted and surprised by what’s newly available for visitors in the coming year. So read on for the hottest Middle Eastern hotel openings in 2023, and get ready to plan your next trip now.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar in Doha, Qatar - Spring 2023
(Image provided by Four Seasons)
This spring, a new seaside property in Pearl-Qatar will beckon travelers to Doha in all four seasons. The Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar heralds the arrival of yet another luxury property in the Middle East — this one on its own private beach. The secluded property feels miles away from the bustling city of Pearl-Qatar, though it's only steps away from town. Cabanas line the two outdoor pools, and — if you'd rather get your laps in without the beating rays of the Middle Eastern sun — an 82-foot indoor lap pool awaits. This expansive property is home to world-class amenities and boasts amazing dining options (be sure to check out La Méditerranée by Michelin-starred chef Joël Robuchon). We also recommend the on-site speakeasy and cigar bar. When it comes to opulence, no one does it better than the Four Seasons.
The Ned Doha in Doha, Qatar - January 2023
(Image provided by Ned Doha)
January saw the opening of the first private members club of its kind with the arrival of The Ned Doha in Qatar. The third property to join The Ned private members club and hotel group is also the brand's debut establishment in the Middle East. Located on the Al Corniche waterfront, the hotel is situated within the former site of the Ministry of Interior, one of the most historically significant buildings in Qatar, first designed in the 1970s. The hotel is home to a spectacular rooftop terrace, seven restaurants reflecting cuisine from around the world, a spa with panoramic city views, and an art collection curated by the co-founders of Mathqaf, the Arab Museum of Modern Art. The glamorous 1970s interior is an homage to the time period when the building was first established — expect terrazzo floors, silk drapery, and marble furniture to accompany the sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf from your private balcony.
Kempinski Hotel Makkah in Makkah, Saudi Arabia - 2023
(Image provided by Kempinski Hotel Makkah)
Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing destinations for tourism in the Middle East, and the lavish arrival of Kempinski Hotel Makkah is yet another sign of the country's influx of high-end tourism. The expansive hotel is set to open on King Abdul Aziz Road and is the perfect starting place to explore the historic Makkah site, which pilgrims have journeyed for thousands of years. The Kempinski outpost will combine the brand's celebrated European flair with decor that accentuates and celebrates the local Saudi culture in exquisite suites and stylish rooms for travelers from around the globe.
Atlantis The Royal Dubai in Dubai, United Arab Emirates - February 2023
(Image provided by Adobe Stock)
The opening of the ultra-luxurious, experiential resort Atlantis The Royal Dubai marks another expansive and decadent hotel debut in the uber-glamorous, cosmopolitan city. Fitting for a city that is home to the tallest building in the world, the Atlantis is unmissable thanks to its size — a six-tower structure boasting a 43-story tower and 795 guest rooms. The distinctive design of the exterior is the brainwork of Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, the architectural firm behind Covent Garden in London, and Hudson Yards, in New York City. The property boasts a private beach, the spectacular Skyblaze Fountain, and 17 restaurants (including Nobu Matsuhisa). When in Dubai, more is more.
Lux* Al Jabal and Al Bridi in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates - 2023
(Image provided by Lux* Resorts)
Dubai isn't the only destination to visit in the United Arab Emirates and the opening of two new Lux* resorts in Sharjah ushers in a new era of tourism throughout the nation. Both properties, Al Jabal and Al Bridi are slated to open later this year. Al Jabal is a luxurious beach resort set on the hilly terrain between Khorfakkan Beach and Luluya Beach, boasting panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman. The second property, Al Bridi, is located within the 1,690 hectares of the Sharjah safari project, which is entirely devoted to conservation and more than 50,000 animals. The African-inspired sanctuary is situated within the largest safari area on the planet outside of the African continent and offers luxury tents, pristine wilderness, and total immersion into nature.
