Raffles’ debut Middle Eastern resort and spa on track for Q4 2021 opening
– Mark Willis
Raffles Hotels and Resorts is scheduled to open Raffles The Palm Dubai in the last quarter of 2021, after rebranding the former Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai.
Offering panoramic sea views and vistas of Dubai’s iconic skyline, the 389-room resort will be Raffles’ first Middle Eastern resort and be situated within 100,000sq m of landscape on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah – the world’s largest man-made island and archipelago.
To realise the destination, Raffles is partnering with Emerald Palace Group (EGP) which has been developing and constructing residential projects in Ukraine, UAE and Russia since 1996.
Wellness will take centre stage at the resort in the form of a 3,000sq m Cinq Mondes Spa with 23 treatment rooms and two private spa suites, as well as the city’s largest indoor swimming pool.
Raffles claims the spa will debut with an iconic design, never before seen in Dubai.
“This is a very exciting opportunity for us,” says Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey.
“There are very few beach resort plots left in Dubai and none on the Palm Jumeirah. The size of the property and its location perfectly lend itself to provide a prestigious address for the Raffles brand.”
Once open, the resort will offer a selection of luxurious rooms, suites and villas, each featuring a balcony and terrace showcasing unparalleled sea views.
The new property will uphold Raffles’ legendary hospitality reputation and debut with a Raffles Butler service alongside eight dynamic lifestyle food and beverage experiences.
Rising above the cobalt blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, the property is flanked by a 500-metre private beach.
Guests and residents will be introduced to a brand new concept beach club offering that will showcase Mediterranean cuisine, entertainment offerings and more.
Additional facilities will include an outdoor swimming pool, cinema, dedicated children’s swimming pool and kids’ and teens’ club.
Raffles The Palm Dubai will also cater to active travellers by hosting a wealth of water sports and recreational activities including paddle boarding and introductory diving courses.
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