W Hotels heads for Ras Al Khaimah debut

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Dalands Holding in collaboration with Marjan, the master-developer of freehold properties in Ras Al Khaimah, to bring W Hotels to Al Marjan Island, UAE.

Slated to open in Q1 2027, W Al Marjan Island is anticipated to mark W Hotels first property in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah bringing bold design, outstanding service and always-on programming.

Beachfront location

Al Marjan Island is Marjan’s flagship archipelago island off the coast of the city set against the backdrop of the Arabian Peninsula and enclosed by the Yanas and Jais Mountains.

Situated on prime beachfront overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the hotel is anticipated to feature 300 rooms and suites with uninterrupted sea views. Design plans for the property include signature spaces such as the Living Room, Wet deck, W Lounge, Away Spa and Fit fitness centre. The property is also expected to offer three restaurants and retail space.

Sought-after destination

Saahil Lalit, vice president – development, Middle East, Marriott International, said: “We are excited to work with Dalands Holding to bring W’s invigorating energy and dynamic design to Al Marjan Island.

“Ras Al Khaimah continues to be a sought-after leisure destination attracting global travellers to its idyllic beaches and attractions. We look forward to continuing to support the growth of the tourism sector in the Emirate.”

One-of-a-kind development

Saurabh Gupta, CEO, Dalands Holding commented: “We believe this one-of-a-kind development will be immensely popular for its iconic design, luxurious accommodation and trendy culinary options.

“Like the other luxury hotels in our portfolio, we are developing W Al Marjan Island around the perceived needs of our future guests by curating exceptional offerings and unforgettable experiences. Through this project, we hope to further enhance the attractiveness of Al Marjan Island.”

Prestigious projects

Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO, Marjan, added: “As Ras Al Khaimah rightfully solidifies its position on the global tourism landscape, we take pride in our significant contribution to enhancing its credibility and attractiveness among international investors.

“This commitment has led to a myriad of prestigious projects, as exemplified by the launch of W Al Marjan Island. We are confident that this addition to our portfolio will not only raise the bar on regional hospitality but also set a new global benchmark, further reinforcing the northern emirate’s destination appeal.”

Regional growth

This latest announcement reaffirms the growth of W Hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with new openings planned across the region including W Hotel Cairo, a 300-key site set for the Egyptian capital in 2026; W Belgrade Hotel, delivering 216 rooms to Serbia’s capital city in Q4 2024; and the 77-key W Naples, heading to the southern Italian city in Q1 2025.

W Al Marjan Island will mark the brand’s fourth property in the UAE, following W Dubai The Palm, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi and W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island.

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