Madinah’s first Waldorf Astoria to open doors in 2028

Sultan Al-Otaibi, CEO, Taiba Investments, and Guy Hutchinson, president Middle East and Africa, Hilton, signed the agreement at the Future Hospitality Summit World in Dubai.
Short Url
Updated 06 October 2024
Follow

Madinah’s first Waldorf Astoria to open doors in 2028

Taiba Investments, a leader in Saudi hospitality and real estate, has unveiled a strategic partnership with Hilton to bring the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts brand to the holy city of Madinah. Signed during the Future Hospitality Summit World in Dubai, this agreement underscores Taiba Investments’ ongoing expansion into the high-end hospitality market and further reinforces the company’s commitment to elevating Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector by partnering with world-renowned hospitality companies such as Hilton.

Sultan Al-Otaibi, CEO, Taiba Investments, said: “This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our strategic growth, reflecting our unwavering commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s hospitality offering across diverse segments. Our collaboration with Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts will elevate tourism and hospitality by delivering an extraordinary guest experience in line with the ‘Pilgrim Experience Program.’ This project not only reaffirms our leadership in the sector but also highlights our dedication to Saudi Vision 2030 by providing world-class accommodation that honors the Kingdom’s rich heritage.”

Set to open in 2028, Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah will mark the debut of the award-winning brand in Madinah, introducing its luxury and signature service to the holy city. Uniquely situated on the northern side of the Prophet’s Mosque, the hotel boasts exclusive, direct views of the holy site and is only a few minutes’ walk away.

Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Taiba Investments through this remarkable project. Saudi Arabia remains one of our fastest-growing markets where we plan to grow our footprint to exceed 100 hotels in the coming years. Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah will bring the brand’s timeless hospitality and elegant service near one of the world’s most sacred sites. Together with Taiba, we look forward to expanding our network across the Kingdom and delivering unforgettable experiences to our guests.”

Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah will feature more than 300 guest rooms and suites, three world-class dining concepts including the celebrated Peacock Alley café and two thoughtfully curated restaurants including a signature venue. The hotel will house two multi-functional halls, a boardroom, private club lounge, a prayer room, as well as a fitness center.

By pioneering transformative projects, Taiba Investments aims to significantly contribute to local economic growth, generate valuable job opportunities, and support the tourism infrastructure development, all while delivering an experience deeply rooted in tradition.

As part of this strategy, Taiba Investments will renovate the existing Taiba Front Hotel, rebranding it as Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah. This transformation will merge the global brand’s timeless luxury with the cultural essence of the holy city, elevating the property’s sophistication and exclusivity while consolidating Taiba’s position as a key player in redefining Madinah’s hospitality landscape.


31st Dubai Shopping Festival kicks-off with star-studded concerts, unique experiences

Updated 12 December 2025
Follow

31st Dubai Shopping Festival kicks-off with star-studded concerts, unique experiences

The 31st edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival, the world’s longest-running annual retail celebration of its kind, launched with an unforgettable opening weekend, with dazzling live performances, shows and events. 

Running until Jan. 11, the DSF extravaganza is transforming Dubai into a vibrant hub of unbeatable shopping deals,  and immersive entertainment, drawing millions of visitors to experience the city’s unmatched blend of retail innovation, culture, and global flair.

Kicking off the festivities in spectacular style, the opening weekend saw high-energy concerts, captivating family entertainment, and cutting-edge visual displays, which set the tone for a 38-day season of wonder, excitement and family entertainment.

e& DSF Nights

Adding style and glamor to the weekend, international icon Nora Fatehi dazzled audiences at e& DSF Nights, the daily celebrations that will be held at Dubai Festival City Mall. Famed for her high-energy dance performances and infectious rhythms, Fatehi’s live show wowed fans on Dec. 6, at the mall’s scenic Festival Bay. The venue showcased stunning fireworks complementing an evening of cultural vibrancy and celebration. 

As part of the broader e& DSF Nights series, the event featured interactive zones, waterfront attractions, and free public installations, creating an inclusive and unforgettable experience for all ages.

Hatta mountain experiences

DSF will also feature an exciting and immersive mountain experience at Hatta Wadi Hub for the second year in a row, featuring Candlelight Concerts by Fever, Dinner in the Sky, and the Roxy Dome Cinema.

Candlelight Concerts by Fever

Experience a magical outdoor candlelight concert series for all to enjoy with incredible music from Vivaldi to Coldplay against the stunning backdrop of the Hatta mountains. Tickets are on sale for 70 dirhams ($28). Kids eight years and below are welcome to join the children’s concert taking place on Dec. 13 for free.

Dinner in the Sky

This elevated experience will debut at the Hatta mountains for a scenic meal in the clouds like no other. Perched 50 meters above ground, experience a stunning dinner for 300 dirhams.

Breathtaking shows 

Elevating the spectacle further, DSF will unveil its new Drone and Pyro Show, a mesmerizing technological marvel featuring more than 1,000 drones, including 100 pyro drones, across two nightly displays. Fusing art and innovation, these breathtaking shows will illuminate the city skyline with color and creativity, symbolizing Dubai’s visionary and future-forward spirit. A Dubai-inspired soundtrack by legendary composer Hans Zimmer will be used for the drone display, where thousands of synchronized drones will dance through the night sky, transforming the city skyline into a cinematic symphony of light and sound.

Tickets for e& DSF Nights are now available to purchase via Platinumlist.net. Fans are urged to secure their seats early before they sell out. Two additional A-list concerts at Coca-Cola Arena and e& DSF Nights will soon be announced, adding to the festival’s star-studded entertainment lineup.