IHG inks Vignette in Dubai’s World Islands

IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a franchise agreement for its second Vignette Collection hotel in Dubai, UAE.

In partnership with The Heart of Europe, the flagship project under Kleindienst Group, the new Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai is scheduled to open in Q1 2026.

Exclusivity and community

Once completed, the hotel will feature 150 rooms overlooking the Arabian Gulf in a prime beachside location. True to the Vignette Collection brand, the property will merge exclusivity with community and locality and feature a unique Andalusian-inspired design with contemporary architecture. The property is currently under construction.

The Vignette Collection allows owners of independent hotels to retain their distinctive identity while benefiting from IHG’s global scale and luxury and lifestyle expertise.

Man-made milestone

The hotel will mark a significant milestone for The Heart of Europe, solidifying IHG’s presence within The World Islands – an archipelago of man-made islands located in the Arabian Gulf, off the coast of Dubai.

The Heart of Europe is a self-sustaining holiday destination spanning across six islands, each blending European architecture with top-tier hospitality, embracing luxury and innovation on tranquil beach shores. It encompasses a variety of opulent properties, including beachfront villas, premium hotels, an underwater living experience, and an array of amenities such as climate-controlled streets and the coral institute dedicated to preserving and revitalising the marine ecosystem.

Luxury benchmark

Haitham Mattar, MD – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are excited to partner with The Heart of Europe to bring the second Vignette Collection resort to Dubai, a testament to IHG’s commitment to delivering exceptional stays and experiences for our guests.

“Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai will significantly reimagine luxury and set future regional hospitality benchmarks. We look forward to welcoming travellers worldwide upon the hotel’s opening in 2026.”

Unique destination

Josef Kleindienst, founder and chairman of Kleindienst Group and The Heart of Europe, said: “It is an honour to partner with one of the world’s leading hotel groups to bring the Vignette Collection brand to The World Islands Dubai.

“This collaboration aligns with our vision of creating a unique destination in one of the world’s most iconic cities, and true to our commitment to excellence, Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai promises to offer guests a remarkable and distinctive stay, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Dubai and presenting a perfect blend of luxury, innovation, and the beauty of the UAE.”

Dubai additions

IHG currently operates 108 hotels across eight brands in the Middle East, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, Hotel Indigo, voco and Six Senses.

Other group projects underway in Dubai include the 170-key Holiday Inn Dubai Islands; Crowne Plaza Dubai Business Bay, bringing 290 rooms online in Q3 2024; and Six Senses The Palm Dubai, featuring 60 hotel keys due for delivery in Q4 2024.

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