Cristal Group unveils landmark Erbil hotel plan
Cristal Hospitality Group has signed an agreement with Qalhat Al Batra to develop the Grand Cristal Erbil Hotel, a landmark five-star property set to open in 2028 in Erbil, Iraq. Designed in collaboration with renowned consultancy Arif & Bintoak, the hotel will feature a striking, curved architectural form, poised to become a regional icon. Ideally located near the English and Italian Villages and Samî Abdulrahman Park, the hotel will offer 210 upscale rooms and suites, including a lavish Presidential Suite. Amenities will include two levels of indoor and outdoor dining, Iraq’s largest banqueting venues, and wellness facilities such as a luxury spa, gym, and pool. The project aims to set a new benchmark for opulent hospitality in Iraq, blending visionary design with refined service to attract both business and leisure travellers. Canopy by Hilton debuts in South Africa Hilton has launched Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, introducing the lifestyle brand to South Africa for the first time. Located in Cape Town’s vibrant Longkloof district, the 154-key hotel is surrounded by shopping, tech hubs, and cultural landmarks. Set in the historic City Bowl, it offers easy access to Table Mountain, Camps Bay, the V&A Waterfront, and the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Guests can explore the area on complimentary Canopy Bikes. The hotel features bold local design, artisan-crafted furnishings, and curated South African art. Its signature restaurant, Ongetem, by acclaimed chef Bertus Basson, delivers a modern take on local flavours with flame-grilled dishes, fresh pastries, and cocktails infused with native botanicals. Designed to connect travellers to the city’s creative energy, Canopy Cape Town blends community-focused hospitality with Hilton’s signature comfort and modern flair. Ikos Resorts expands to Crete with Ikos Kissamos Ikos Resorts will debut its first Crete property, Ikos Kissamos, in April 2026, marking a major milestone for the luxury all-inclusive brand. Located in the Chania region along Kissamos Bay, the €150 million (Dh64,39,65,000) eco-resort features 414 rooms and suites surrounded by sea views, lush gardens, or private pools. Designed with natural materials and inspired by Minoan heritage, the resort blends modern Mediterranean luxury with sustainability. Guests can explore nearby attractions like Balos Lagoon, Elafonisi Beach, and Samaria Gorge. The resort is targeting LEED Gold certification and aligns with Ikos Green goals including net-zero carbon by 2030 and zero waste to landfill. Ikos Kissamos offers immersive landscape design, from lavender gardens to sea-facing yoga decks, creating a serene retreat rooted in Crete’s culture, nature, and community-focused hospitality. Picture: Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti 50+ new Marriott Hotels coming to Africa Marriott International has announced plans to add over 50 new properties and 9,000+ rooms in Africa by the end of 2027, expanding its footprint to 25 countries. New markets include Cape Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, and Mauritania. The expansion focuses on strong demand for premium and select-service brands such as Protea Hotels, Four Points by Sheraton, and Courtyard by Marriott. Marriott also plans to launch branded residences and luxury safari lodges, including The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti (Autograph Collection). Over 60 per cent of the pipeline is concentrated in North and East Africa, especially Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, and Tanzania. Growth will also continue in Nigeria, South Africa, and other key hubs, reinforcing Marriott’s leadership in African hospitality.