Organisations & Operators News Page 298
Hilton on Track to Double Portfolio in China Following 888 Hotel Milestone
Hilton announced the grand opening of Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan and celebrated its milestone of 888 trading hotels across Greater China and Mongolia. This achievement reinforces Hilton’s position as the largest and fastest-growing international hospitality company in the region with the company on track to double its presence in the region in the coming years. After opening its first hotel in Chinese Mainland in 1988, Hilton has grown its room inventory nearly tenfold in the past 12 years.
IATA Statement on UK Government’s Heathrow Expansion Announcement
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) welcomes the UK Government’s renewed commitment to unlocking economic growth, enhancing global connectivity, and supporting trade and tourism by expanding Heathrow Airport, the country’s primary hub. “The government’s long-term goal to stimulate the economy by expanding global connectivity with a Heathrow expansion is spot on. However, the political haste to move quickly to capture the economic benefit of construction will seriously handicap the UK in the long term if it fails to build something that is affordable.
A Sky-High Celebration: Middle East Winners Reception 2025
This afternoon, Dubai once again takes flight as the Middle East Winners Reception 2025 of the World Travel Awards unfolds high above the city at the stunning Tattu Sky Lounge, perched on Level 81 of Ciel Dubai Marina — the tallest hotel in the world. The mood is refined yet celebratory, with Dubai’s afternoon light cascading across the Marina skyline, setting a golden tone for a gathering that honors the finest in Middle Eastern travel and hospitality. From the moment guests step into Tattu Sky Lounge, the experience feels ethereal. The venue’s signature modern Asian design — a symphony of polished marble, dark woods, and glowing cherry blossom installations — creates an atmosphere both contemporary and timeless. Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal panoramic views stretching to the horizon, making every conversation feel as if it’s happening among the clouds.
Conrad Corfu to Open in 2026 in Secluded Seafront Setting
Hilton has announced the signing of Conrad Corfu following a franchise agreement with the Troulis family. Slated to open its doors ahead of the 2026 summer season, the luxury hotel will feature 136 rooms, suites and villas, a 200-metre beachfront and indoor and outdoor heated pools. Managed by Numo Hotels and Resorts, the property will also include a signature Aqua Piazza lagoon, lush, landscaped gardens, three restaurants, two bars, an extensive wellness centre, and open-air cinema and a kids club in collaboration with Worldwide Kids, with a treehouse-like micro village among olive trees and eucalyptus.
Hilton Named No. 1 Best Workplace for Women in the U.S. for Seventh Consecutive Year
Hilton has been named the No. 1 Best Workplace for Women in the United States by Fortune and Great Place to Work for the seventh consecutive year, recognizing Hilton’s commitment to building a workplace where women thrive, lead and contribute to the company’s success at every level.
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan Redefines Modern Luxury on the New Bund
Hilton has announced the opening of Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, a landmark addition to the brand’s luxury portfolio in China. The property’s debut marks a significant chapter for Waldorf Astoria in Shanghai, as the third city worldwide to have two Waldorf Astoria properties. Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan sits on the southern stretch of Shanghai’s new Bund, in the vibrant Qiantan District of Pudong and on the opposite side of the Huangpu River from Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund. Together, the properties underscore the brand’s long-term vision and growing presence in China.
Hilton Set to Double Its Presence in Oman with Trio Signing
Hilton has announced the signing of an agreement with The Zubair Corporation to open three hotels in Muscat under the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and DoubleTree by Hilton brands – doubling its footprint in the Sultanate. The signings mark the debut of the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand in Oman and underscore Hilton’s plans to diversify its portfolio and deliver trusted hospitality to emerging and established destinations across the region.
IHG expands Kimpton portfolio with first Austrian signing in partnership with tristar Hotels
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces the signing of Kimpton Salzburg, in partnership with tristar Austria GmbH. The hotel marks the luxury lifestyle brand’s entry into the Austrian market. Expected to open in mid-2028, Kimpton Salzburg will further enhance IHG’s expanding portfolio of 12* open Kimpton hotels in Europe, and a further six* in development.
Accor strengthens Dubai portfolio with signing of iconic Creekside Hotel
Accor, a global hospitality leader with a portfolio of more than 5,700 properties across 110+ countries, is pleased to announce the signing of the Creekside Hotel in Dubai, one of the city's most iconic hospitality and sporting landmarks. Owned by Dubai Duty Free and operated by United Hospitality Management, the hotel will join the Accor network under a white-label franchise agreement before being fully repositioned and added to the MGallery Collection following a detailed renovation plan.
Kempinski Hotels Welcomes Barbara Biffi as Chief Brand Officer
Kempinski Hotels is pleased to announce the appointment of Barbara Biffi as Chief Brand Officer, a role created to drive the next stage of the group’s transformation. Biffi will lead the strategic overhaul of Kempinski’s brand and marketing ecosystem, guiding the company through a significant evolution that builds on its enduring heritage while redefining its future in luxury hospitality.
Tapestry Collection by Hilton to Make Stylish Debut in Sub‑Saharan Africa
Hilton has announced the debut of its lifestyle brand Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Sub-Saharan Africa, following the signing of agreements for three properties – The Sterling Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in South Africa; Ava Hotel Nairobi, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Kenya; and Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Rwanda. These additions reinforce Hilton’s continued growth across Africa, with plans to open more than 100 hotels on the continent in the coming years.
New Marriott Bonvoy Research Reveals Importance of AI for Holiday Planning
Four in five (79%) travellers in EMEA intend to go on more or the same amount of holidays in 2026 compared to 2025, including 39% who plan to go on an increased number, according to new industry research conducted by Mortar, of more than 22,000 adults across 11 key travel markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Figures from the research, included in Marriott Bonvoy’s 2026 EMEA Ticket to Travel Report, suggest continued overall momentum for the region’s travel sector next year. The average traveller in EMEA is planning five holidays in 2026, with two domestic holidays within their own country, two short-haul breaks (a four-hour flight or less), and one long-haul trip.