PULLMAN RESORT DEBUTS IN THE U.A.E.: Pullman, part of Accor, has opened its latest project in Ras Al Khaimah in the U.A.E. with the rebranding of Marjan Island Resort & Spa into Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island. This marks the first Pullman Resort in the U.A.E. The resort underwent extensive renovations to its 300 rooms and suites before opening as a Pullman property on Monday. Additional enhancements are planned through the year, with reimagined dining concepts expected to open in the fourth quarter and a room renovation program to follow in 2025. The resort has five existing dining venues, a pool, wellness amenities and retail outlets.
ROCCO FORTE EXPANDS TO NAPLES: Rocco Forte Hotels is expanding to Naples and has signed a management agreement with fashion company, Capri Group. Scheduled to open in 2027 the luxury hotel will be located in Palazzo Caravita di Sirignano, adjacent to the Villa Pignatelli museum. The hotel will have 46 suites, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, two restaurants, a bar, spa and private gardens. The property was acquired in 2018 by the Colella family, owners of fashion brands Gutteridge and Alcott. Built in 1535, the building was a former noble residence and home to noble dynasties, such as the Bourbons and the Princes of Sirignano. Architect Michele Bönan will lead the building’s restoration. Rocco Forte’s portfolio currently consists of 14 hotels, resorts, residences and villas.
IHG, RAKUTEN TRAVEL COLLABORATE: IHG Hotels & Resorts has inked a Memorandum of Understanding with Japanese online travel agency Rakuten Travel. The travel agency is Rakuten Group Inc.’s travel reservation service. The collaboration will build a seamless travel booking experience connecting both the companies’ loyalty programs — IHG One Rewards and Rakuten Points. This is IHG’s first MoU with a Japanese reservation service.
MARRIOTT HOTELS TO PENANG: Marriott Hotels has marked entry into Penang, Malaysia with the opening of Penang Marriott Hotel. Offering views of the Andaman Sea and city along with the central location of George Town, the hotel features 223 rooms, a fitness center, steam room and an outdoor infinity pool. The hotel includes a lounge, kid’s club, multiple dining options, a ballroom and five flexible function rooms.