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In a strategic move to enhance its hospitality portfolio, RAK Properties PJSC, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange as RAKPROP, has expanded its partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts. The result of this collaboration is the splendid Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab, situated on the picturesque Hayat Island. This 156-key establishment promises to offer guests a blend of modern design and spacious living spaces, along with a host of amenities and a taste of authentic Arabic hospitality. Let’s delve deeper into this exciting development and its significance.
A New Gem on Hayat Island
RAK Properties and IHG Hotels & Resorts unite to introduce Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab, an exquisite addition to Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality landscape. This 14-storey tower will offer various accommodation options, including studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments, all thoughtfully designed with contemporary aesthetics and spacious layouts in mind.
The Perfect Blend of Luxury and Convenience
Guests at Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab can look forward to more than just comfortable accommodation. The establishment will feature a fully equipped fitness centre, ensuring visitors can maintain their workout routines while enjoying their stay. The breakfast and restaurant areas will also provide a delightful culinary experience, and the location offers direct access to the beach—a true luxury. Moreover, the proximity to the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa, within walking distance, adds to the allure.
The New Appointed Lead Advisor
Tatiana Veller, the newly appointed Lead Advisor at Stirling Hospitality Advisors, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. With a proven track record in the hospitality industry, she possesses a keen insight into the nuances of operator selection and the intricacies of upscale accommodations. Her leadership is instrumental in navigating complex decisions and ensuring that Stirling Hospitality Advisors continues to excel in delivering tailored solutions to its clients. Tatiana’s dedication to excellence and her ability to work closely with key stakeholders make her an invaluable asset to the team, contributing significantly to the success of projects like the Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab HMA.
A History of Excellence
The partnership between RAK Properties and IHG Hotels & Resorts isn’t new. It began with the signing and opening of the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah in 2022. This hotel quickly gained recognition for its luxurious accommodations, outstanding dining options, and exceptional spa experiences, making it a sought-after destination for travellers.
A Testimonial to Collaborative Excellence
The InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah’s success is a testament to these two entities’ collaborative excellence. Their shared commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests has led to this latest expansion. But what makes this new development truly noteworthy?
The Visionaries Behind the Project
Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties, shares his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are delighted to partner with one of the world’s leading hotel companies, IHG Hotels & Resorts, to open our first Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab in Ras Al Khaimah.” This move aligns with the emerging trend of blended stays, where guests arrive for business but often extend their stay for personal reasons. Staybridge Suites caters to this demand for long-term serviced stays in the emirate.
Ras Al Khaimah: A City of Opportunities
Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal isn’t just limited to this new venture. According to a report by global network InterNations, Ras Al Khaimah has been ranked the world’s fourth-best city for expatriates to live and work. This ranking is based on the high quality of life it offers and the numerous job opportunities available. The emirate excels in the expat essentials index, making it easy for newcomers to find housing and settle in.
The Impact of the Pandemic
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the way we work. Hybrid work arrangements have increased demand for extended hotel stays, fueling the growth of cost-effective extended-stay hotels. This shift has made them one of the fastest-growing segments in the hospitality industry.
A Breath of Fresh Air for Tourists
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts India, Middle East, and Africa, extols the virtues of Ras Al Khaimah as a tourist destination: “Ras Al Khaimah is a breath of fresh air for domestic and international tourists alike, with its unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure.” The emirate is known for its remarkable landscapes. It is home to the UAE’s highest mountain range, making it the perfect location for an extended stay filled with relaxation, hiking, exploration, and more.
A Commitment to Exceptional Experiences
Recognizing the potential of Ras Al Khaimah as a leading extended-stay destination, IHG Hotels & Resorts introduces Staybridge Suites Hotel Mina Al Arab. This reaffirms their commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests, showcasing the unparalleled beauty of Ras Al Khaimah.
A Glimpse into the Master Plan
Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab is not just a standalone project; it’s an integral part of RAK Properties’ broader master plan for Hayat Island. This plan encompasses many stay options and luxurious shopping, dining, and entertainment facilities for residents and guests alike. The hotel aims to offer a genuine holiday lifestyle experience while providing the conveniences of everyday life.
Mina Al Arab’s Transformation
This endeavor further solidifies Mina Al Arab‘s position as a people-centric lifestyle destination in alignment with RAK Vision 2030. The development is set to breathe new life into the area, creating a vibrant and thriving community.
A Continuing Partnership
Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab marks the second collaborative project between RAK Properties and IHG Hotels & Resorts. The first, the award-winning Intercontinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa, opened its doors in 2022, garnering praise for its exceptional offerings.
The Rise of Staybridge Suites®
Since its inception in 2014, Staybridge Suites® has become IHG’s go-to extended-stay hotel brand. Catering to business and leisure travellers, it assures branded long-term accommodations in the region. With the growing demand for extended stays among business travelers and families, the brand has steadily expanded its footprint in the Middle East.
Comfort and Connectivity
Staybridge Suites prioritizes comfort and connectivity. Its residential-style studios and suites come with complimentary daily breakfast buffets, light bites, and a thrice-weekly happy hour, ensuring guests enjoy a seamless and enjoyable stay.
Meeting the Demand
The demand for extended stays continues to rise, with business travelers and families seeking the convenience and comfort that Staybridge Suites provides. Currently, the brand boasts nine hotels with 1,648 rooms in the Middle East, with four more properties comprising 558 rooms in the pipeline.
Conclusion
The expansion of RAK Properties’ partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts brings forth an exciting addition to Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality scene. Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab promises luxury, convenience, and comfort for business and leisure travellers. With Ras Al Khaimah gaining popularity among expatriates and the changing landscape of hotel stays, this development aligns perfectly with the region’s growing demand for extended-stay accommodations. As we look forward to the opening of Staybridge Suites Mina Al Arab, it’s clear that Ras Al Khaimah’s charm continues to captivate travelers, and this new offering is set to elevate the emirate’s appeal even further.
