The Best New Luxury Hotels In The GCC In 2024

Emma Hodgson   |   18-10-2024

Welcome to our pick of the latest luxury properties to open across the region.

The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, Morocco

The Ritz-Carlton has opened its latest property in the heart of Morocco’s capital. The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam is nestled within 440 hectares of forest and lush gardens, just steps away from the popular Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in the city. Situated on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the vibrant capital of Morocco, Rabat, reflects the rich tapestry of the country’s influences. Upon arrival at the property, the high ceilings are beautifully embellished with “muqarnas”, an iconic Arab-Andalusian architectural element from the Almoravid era. The richly decorated dome, with geometric and floral patterns, dominates the ceiling with colors of green, gold, and touches of red. At the heart of the lobby, majestic bonsai trees bring a unique freshness to the palace while elegant chandeliers grace the ceiling. In total, there are 100 guestrooms and 17 suites at the new property, all with a private terrace facing the pool and the gardens, including a 180 square-metre Royal Suite.

Embodying a marriage between Baroque opulence and Moroccan touches, all guestrooms and suites feature grand headboards adorned with large mirrors, Baroque-styled furniture, and sumptuous marble in the bathrooms. The gilded frescoes and opulent fabrics infuse a sense of timeless elegance, while the vibrant colour palette introduces sophisticated freshness. The breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery from all the rooms allow guests to recharge in a peaceful natural setting. The hotel is also home to four different restaurants and bars, and a sumptuous spa, with saunas, hammams, ten massage rooms and two couples suites where expert therapists use the finest products from marocMaroc.

ritzcarlton.com/rabat

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain, Manama, Bahrain

This spectacular new resort oasis is situated in Zallaq, a modern village on the west coast of Bahrain, 45 minutes from the capital, Manama. In an area known for its rich ecosystems and biodiversity, Al Areen Wildlife Park is on our doorstep, a vibrant home for rare animals, birds and desert plants. The property is within easy reach of many of the regions top attractions. The property includes 78 villas offering one, two, and three-bedroom options, each with its own private pool and garden.

The most sought-after at the new property is the 8,000 square-foot Royal Three-Bedroom Villa, which comes with a spectacular lounge and dining area, a a sumptuous large tub, and a private pool and Jacuzzi. The hotel is Bahrain’s first and only all-villa property. Offering a private sanctuary set on the ‘island of a million palm trees’. Each villa is cocooned by lush tropical gardens, and are both spacious and intimate, designed with subtle Arabesque detailing and enhanced by private pools and all the convenience of modern technology. The hotel also features five restaurant and bar options and an award-winning spa.

raffles.com/bahrain

The Jeddah EDITION, Saudi Arabia

EDITION Hotels opened the groups first property in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia this year. Amid an oasis of landscaped gardens interspersed with eight-metre-tall palm trees, the property is creatively designed by the hotel group and unfolds like a four-story theatrical piece. Designed in partnership between EDITION and international design studio Yabu Pushelberg, the property remains firmly rooted in the brands strong sense of refined simplicity and style. The hotel includes 52 rooms and 11 suites including two Penthouses, a rooftop terrace with a pool, spa and gym, as well as two lounges and a signature restaurant with meticulously curated culinary concepts by acclaimed New York chef, Cédric Vongerichten. As with all EDITION properties, the Lobby areas serve as the hotels lively beating heart, enveloping guests with the propertys signature scent upon entry into the open-flow lobby. Beneath soaring 12-metre-high ceilings, a large orange acrylic sphere by artist Vincent Leroy takes centre stage.

Inspired by Jeddahs famous sunrises and sunsets, the morning light radiates through the installation, dispersing a warm spherical glow onto clean-lined, custom-brushed white oak walls and travertine floors. The reception area – anchored by a walnut panelled niche and sculptural solid walnut desk – is met with upholstered wingback chairs intimately grouped with a prized Iranian silk Persian rug as well as Christian Liaigre console and lighting. The ground floor elevator lobby creates a picturesque moment of its own, boasting a moulded and oxidised tinted glass mirror by artist Christopher Gaignon. The jewel in the hotels crown is its dreamy Mediterranean beach club-inspired escape, called The Roof”. Perfect for locals and travellers alike, it features a series of private nooks and lounges ensconced by greenery against panoramic views of the vibrant Marina, Jeddah Yacht Club and F1 track.

editionhotels.com/jeddah 

Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, Oman

An oasis of luxury has opened in the heart of Shatti Al-Qurum with the launch of the Mandarin Oriental, Muscat. The distinctive architectural design of this urban resort and branded residences takes full advantage of the views over the Arabian Sea, while its location is in a prestigious neighbourhood in the city and it is also perfectly positioned to explore Muscats intriguing ancient architectural treasures and vibrant culture. Enhancing its heartfelt charm is the breathtaking backdrop of the majestic Hajar Mountains. Mandarin Orientals legendary service, combined with distinctive dining concepts, a world-class spa and authentic Omani-inspired experiences, will ensure that the much-anticipated resort will bring a new level of exceptional hospitality to the country. Envisioned by renowned French interior designer Xavier Cartron, the hotels architecture draws inspiration from the richness and diversity of Oman’s culture, inviting guests to embark on a journey of discovery.

Entering the hotel lobby through grand Omani wooden doors, guests experience a seamless blend of influences from various regions and civilizations, honouring the culture and craftsmanship of Oman. At the heart of the lobby, three fountains stand as a tribute to the countrys rich legacy, reflecting the cultural tapestry woven from the threads of the Middle East, Africa and Asia. The hotel’s stunning chandelier beams with colourful crystal lanterns and illuminates the lobby from all angles. Finally, the captivating sea views, framed by exotic coconut and palm trees, evoke a sense of wonder for guests to further explore the allure and mystique of Muscat.

mandarinoriental.com