George Sell

🏨 Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai opened at Wasl Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road. This 303-meter tower, designed by UNStudio and engineered by Werner Sobek, features 259 rooms and suites, and 224 residences launching in 2026. The hotel offers 10 dining venues, a rooftop helipad, and a two-floor wellness center. With over 2,000 square meters of event space, the opening marks the brand's second Dubai location and expands its portfolio to 44 hotels in 27 countries.

🏠 Since 2023, Marriott's branded residences portfolio expanded by 23% in Europe and 59% in the Middle East and Africa. As of 2025, Marriott signed nearly 20 new agreements in EMEA, half being standalone projects. The portfolio spans 18 countries with 33 locations and over 50 projects in the pipeline. Key 2025 developments include locations in Budapest, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, and Dubai, with six more openings expected by year-end.