Montage Hotels & Resorts | Unveiled the Development of a Resort and Branded Residences in Ras El Hekma, Egypt

Montage Hotels & Resorts, a luxury hotel and resort management company based in Irvine, California, U.S. and Modon Holding, a diversified, Abu Dhabi – based sovereign - backed developer that specializes in building large - scale, lifestyle - driven master communities, have unveiled the signing of an agreement to develop a new resort and branded residences in Ras El Hekma,  an ultra - luxury mega - project on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast.

Ras El Hekma features over 50 km of white - sand beaches, crystal lagoons, a natural sweeping bay, limestone cliffs, native Mediterranean flora and over 320 sunny days a year. Transformed by major international investments, Ras El Hekma is becoming a fully integrated, sustainable “smart city” offering high - end resorts, international airports, and expansive recreational amenities.

The launch of Montage Ras El Hekma marks the first Montage resort in Egypt. The project will introduce the first branded residences available for purchase at the Egyptian destination and is part of the broader $35 billion Ras Rl Hekma masterplan on Egypt’s Northern Coast with an overall development that is expected to attract $110 billion in investment by 2045.

The development covers 170.8 million square metres and will include cultural landmarks such as the Ras El Hekma Lighthouse and an amphitheatre with the capacity for up to 10.000 guests.

The resort is located within Wadi Yemm, an ultra - luxury coastal development located at approximately KM 212 on the Alexandria - Mathrou Road, roughly 200 km west of Alexandria and accessible from Cairo via the Fouka Road. Wadi Yemm is the first of 1/7 planned precincts within Ras El Hekma to move into active delivery and with the aim to establish itself as a charming coastal neighbourhood that hugs the Mediterranean.

The Ras El Hekma destination is planned for access by road, sea, and air, and will include a new international airport, high - speed rail networks, major highways, marinas, and a cruise terminal. The site spans several kilometres of Mediterranean coastline and is planned to include leisure, hospitality, and cultural offerings, as well as a central business and financial district, education, residential, and mixed - use districts.

Montage Ras El Hekma will feature 200 rooms and suites, along with 96 branded villas, known as Montage Residences Ras El Hekma and featuring three to six bedrooms. Select homes will offer views of both the Mediterranean Sea and a championship golf course. No future phases are planned for this collection of residences.

The resort will offer wellness and leisure amenities, including six dining venues, beachfront swimmable lagoons, and a Spa Montage with 13 treatment rooms. Additional features will include retail outlets, family - oriented experiences, event spaces, outdoor lawns and terraces, as well as a dedicated Owners’ Clubhouse.

Upon completion, Ras El Hekma is expected to contribute approximately $25 billion annually to Egypt’s GDP and create around 750.000 jobs, and Montage Ras El Hekma represents the first fully integrated coastal community within the broader masterplan.

The partnership between Modon and Montage Hotels & Resorts also includes potential for further collaboration across Modon’s destinations. Montage Hotels & Resorts currently operates six resorts and residences in the United States and Mexico, with additional properties planned in the Bahamas, and Punta Mita, and Valle de Guadalupe, both destinations located in Mexico.

Links

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141276.html

Radisson Hotel Group | Officially Opened a 208 - Room Blu Hotel in Shanghai, China

Radisson Hotel Group, a multinational hospitality company headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, has officially opened a 208 - room Radisson Blu hotel in Shanghai, sprawling city on China’s central coast, a vibrant metropolis highlighted by a mix of historic architecture and futuristic skyscrapers, a major hub for business, culture, finance and technology, as well as a world - class shopping destination,  often called the “Magic City” or “Paris of the East” for its dynamic international feel of old and new.

The Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai Stadium is located at 666 - 66 Tianyaoqiao Road in the Xujiiahui Sports Park within Xuhui District, one of Shanghai’s most dynamic, culturally rich, and upscale areas. It perfectly bridges historical charm and futuristic innovation, functioning as a core hub for historic tree - lined avenues, luxury retail, top - tier universities and cutting - edge tech.

The new property occupies floors 6 to 12 of Shanghai Stadium in the heart of a sports and cultural hub, closer to key transportation centres, shopping and dining venues, Longhua Temple, and Wukang Road.

The hotel features 208 rooms and suites ranging from 38 to 200 square metres, some of them facing the stadium, providing direct views of sporting events and performances, as well as park - facing rooms overlooking Xujiahui Sports Park. Accommodation options are available for guests attending performances or events, or visiting for business or leisure.

Dining options at the hotel consist of three venues. 94 Kitchen serves international cuisine and a breakfast menu with Shanghai flavours. JIU - LI offers Huaiyang cuisine and Cantonese seafood, with nine private rooms for banquets and gatherings. JIU - BAR features a large LED screen and serves snacks, cocktails, and wines. The Lobby Lounge provides beverages and light refreshments, while the Executive Lounge offers a private meeting room for up to six people.

The property’s fitness centre is equipped with a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, multifunctional workout facilities, and a 25 - metre transparent temperature - controlled swimming pool.

The hotel features nearly 1.000 square metres of meeting and event space. Facilities include the 445 - square - metre Olympia Ballroom and six meeting rooms ranging from 35 to 114 square metre. The event spaces are designed for corporate meetings, product launches, and wedding celebrations.

The establishment joins the Radisson Blu brand rooted in Scandinavian design principles, blending an iconic, award - winning contemporary architecture with minimalist aesthetic.

The brand includes upper upscale accommodations and a focus on modern amenities, emphasizing a unique dining experience, multipurpose workspaces and wellness facilities where guests can expect stylish spaces with an emphasis on comfort and a sense of belonging. Radisson Blu is also known for a 100% Guest Satisfaction Guarantee in Africa, Europe, and in the Middle East.

 Radisson Hotel Group stated that the opening of Radisson Blu Hotel, Shanghai Stadium, is in cooperation with JUSS Sports, a witness and participant in the development of top international events in Shanghai. The company indicated plans to continue expanding in the Yangtze River Delta region.

Links

https://www.radissonhotels.com/zh-cn/hotels/radisson-blu-shanghai-stadium

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141378.html

Peloponnese, Greece | Approved a New Protection Framework for 19 Areas in the Region

The Greek Government has approved a new Protection Framework covering 19 Natura 2000 areas in the Peloponnese, a peninsula and geographic region in Southern Greece, and the southernmost region of the Balkans, connected to the Hellenic mainland by the Isthmus of Corinth where the Corinth Canal was constructed in 1893, a land of a unique beauty, highlighted by archaeological sites, picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, alluring castles amidst stunning natural beauty, mountains, large forests, rivers, caves and pristine beaches.

This initiative marks another step in the country’s broader effort to strengthen biodiversity protection and environmental planning. According to the Environment and Energy Ministry, the move forms part of a broader national strategy aimed at strengthening the preservation and management of terrestrial and marine ecosystems of high ecological value.

Approved by the Environment And Energy Ministry, the study Concern 19 protected areas located in the regional units of Arcadia, Argolida, Corinthia and part of Laconia, covering a particularly diverse ecological landscape that includes coastal zones, marine ecosystems, mountain ranges and wetlands.

The framework includes areas such as Mainalo, Mount PARnosas, Ziria, the Geraneia Mountains and Mount Oligyrtos, as well as ecosystems including the Evrotas estuary, Elafonisos, Monemvasia, the Mosustos wetland lagoon, Lake Stymfalia and the Corinthian Gulf. 

The approval marks the 16th Special Environmental Study approved by the ministry so far bringing the share of Natura 2000 areas covered by approved studies to 73.35% of the network’s total area nationwide. In total, 311 protected areas are now included under approved EPM frameworks.

the Environment And Energy Ministry said that the framework seeks to protect rare and endemic species of flora and fauna, along with habitats considered important for Mediterranean biodiversity, focusing on a study sets out protecting zones, permitted uses and management measures aimed at balancing protection with controlled development activity.

According to the ministry, the approval of the studies establishes a clearer regulatory framework for local communities and investment activity, helping reduce the planning uncertainty that has long affected many Natura areas across Greece.

The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to promote more sustainable development models and alternative tourism activities in environmentally sensitive destinations, including nature - based, hiking and eco - tourism experiences in areas with very significant natural assets.

Link

https://news.gtp.gr/2026/05/15/new-natura-protection-framework-approved-for-peloponnese-areas/

Puerto Barú, Panama | Proposed as Destination to Host Royal Caribbean's Mega Park

Mexico officially rejected Royal Caribbean's proposed "Perfect Day Mexico" project in Quintana Roo due to severe ecological concerns regarding mangroves and the adjacent barrier reef. Taking advantage of this, Panama is actively pitching its own Puerto Barú mega - development to capture the company's massive cruise investment.

Puerto Barú is a controversial, private multipurpose “green” port development located 20 km from the city of David on the Pacific coast in the Chiriquí province of Panama. The estimated $250 million megaproject is designed to boost regional logistics, large - scale tourism infrastructure and create around 2.000 jobs, but has faced strong oppositions due to its location near critical mangrove habitats.

Mayer Mizrachi Matalon, politician, businessman and mayor of Panama City since 2024, wrote a message to Royal Caribbean, in which proposed to build the “Perfect Day” park in his country, after the rejection of the Mexican environmental authorities to this project in Mahahual, south of Quintana Roo, where Cancun is also located.

Through the social network X the Panamanian businessman also linked to cryptocurrencies, wrote: “Come and build your water park in Panama. We will expedite permitting, save millions and your guests will enjoy two oceans, the Canal, the ancient city, the most diverse jungle and the best connectivity hub in the Americas.”

The politician cited a report on the rejection by Mexico’s Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) of this water park development in Mahahual, which had a project investment of $1.5 billion and was expected to generate about 4.000 jobs, which led him to be defended by Quintana Roo’s Governor Mara Lezama, against the criteria of the federal government presided over by Claudia Sheinbaum.

Environmentalists and Greenpeace heavily protested the site, citing severe threats to jaguar and manatee habitats as well as the Mesoamerican Reef. SEMARNAT announced the project will not be approved and Royal Caribbean subsequently pulled its plans, through the company noted it remains committed for future investments in the country.

It is unknown if Royal Caribbean already has a home port in Panama, from where cruise ships depart to tour canal or visit nearby countries, will be dissatisfied with this resolution, if they will modify their project or desist from it, as REPORTUR.mx has been revealing. 

In the responses to this proposal for the establishment of this mega park in the Central American country, several Panamanian citizens point out that there are already water problems and that they would not allow the construction of a water park that consumes this resource and puts their mangroves at risk.

Link

https://www.reportur.com/estados-unidos/2026/05/22/panama-busca-quitar-a-qroo-el-mega-parque-de-royal-caribbean/

Matanzas, Cuba | Planning to Rescue its Electric Train to Attract Tourists

Matanzas, city and capital of the province of the same name located on the northern coast of Cuba facing an ample bay, 90 kilometres east of the capital of the country Havana and 32 kilometres west of the famed resort town of Varadero surrounded by three rivers such as Yumurí, San Juan and Canimar, above which a series of bridges have been built from which this centre is also known as "the city of the bridges", a centre also very famous for its notable culture with prominent poets, writers and for its Afro - Cuban folklore is planning to rescue its electric train to attract tourists.

Despite the fall in the tourism sector, a report by official television announced that the Cuban government will rescue this train, pointing out that the Hershey electric railway restoration project, the only one of its kind in Cuba will be executed and alongside the train recovery, work also includes the restoration of the station in Matanzas.

The Tren “Eléctrico de Matanzas”, famously known as the Hershey Train is a historic, 136 - km electrified standard - gauge railway linking Matanzas and Havana. It is unique as the only non - oil - burning railway in Cuba, carrying passengers through scenic landscapes since 1922.

Established in the 1920s by US chocolate tycoon Milton S. Hershey to connect his sugar mills and export hubs, the train runs for about 92 km between the Casablanca station in Havana and the city of Matanzas, passing through modest stations in towns like Guanabo, Jibacoa, Camilo Cienfuegos (Hershey) and San Mateo offering beautiful views of the Cuban countryside, most notably a spectacular panorama of the Yumurí Valley.

According to El Nuevo Herald, the Minister of Transport of Cuba, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, indicated that the project will be financed by the Fund of the Development of Public Transport, and it has been working since 2025 for the rescue of the electric train, when the Deputy Director of the Cuban Railroad Union in Matanzas René Peña Garcia declared the utility of the train recovery for its use in the transportation of people, in addition to tourist and cultural purposes.

However, the tourism crisis continues on the island, because according to data from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), Cuba received 328.608 international tourists between January and April, which represents a drop of 55.8% compared to the same period last year, and in April, the Caribbean island received only 30.551 visitors, the rescue of the electric train is considered a priority, as it connects some 46 rural communities in Matanzas and represeting a resource to attract tourists.

Link

https://www.reportur.com/agencias/2026/05/25/cuba-rescataran-tren-electrico-en-matanzas-pese-a-caida-del-turismo/

Pristina, Kosovo | Tourism & Sport Fair - 03. - 04. June 2026

Pristina, the vibrant, culturally rich capital and largest city of Kosovo, the administrative centre of the eponymous municipality and district, located in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe, famous for its youthful energy, thriving café culture, and historic landmarks, blending ancient Ottoman heritage with modern European influence will host from 03rd to 04th June 2026 the Tourism & Sport Fair,  the most important industry event for tourism and sports in the country.

This premier international trade event in the Balkans connecting tour operators, travel agencies, sports federations and wellness businesses serves as a dynamic platform for both industry professionals and the general public to explore market trends.

Organized by CEO shpk Congress & Event Organization, a renowned company headquartered in Pristina with extensive experience in planning and hosting fairs, congresses and events across the region, as a combined trade and public fair, the event caters to both industry professionals and a wide audience interested in travel, sports, and leisure.

The event will take places at Pallati I Rinisë dhe Sporteve, a modern and architecturally impressive venue in the heart of the city and revolves around two key themes: tourism and sports.

Visitors gain exciting insights into the world of travel, from international tour operators and hotel chains to sustainable tourism and medical travel, with also the presence of cultural institutions, and culinary sector.

One of the fair’s highlights is the Sports Pavillion, where leading brands showcase their latest products in sports and fitness. Several exhibitors present the latest developments in sports equipment, outdoor and adventure sports such as climbing and hiking, as well as trends in fitness, wellness, and sports medicine. Manufacturers of ski equipment, ski lifts, sportswear, hiking gear and fitness accessories are also on - site, providing a comprehensive look at innovation in the industry.

Exhibition pavilions displays from municipalities, specialized tour operators, ski resort operators to  wellness spas, as well as exhibitors highlighting the diverse traditions, crafts and culinary offerings of Kosovo and the wider Balkan region.

A defining feature of the Tourism & Sport Fair is its wide range of interactive experiences and exclusive programs. Visitors can discover new attractive travel destinations, from Albania’s coastal regions to hidden gems of the Balkans and beyond,

Impressive are also the regional food tastings, allowing visitors to experience the culinary richness of the Balkans, with a focus on organic and artisanal products.

Further highlights at the fair are educational sessions addressing sustainable tourism strategies. Sustainability plays a key role in the event. Initiatives such as International Earth Day promote awareness of eco - friendly tourism, while International Day of Sport for Development and Peace highlights the role of sport in the society.

With an extensive program of seminars, workshops, and competitions, the Tourism & Sport Fair serves as a platform for innovation and emerging trends in tourism and sports. A particularly groundbreaking initiative is the “Explore Your Region” campaign, which uses VR technology to present undiscovered travel destinations in an entirely new dimension.

Networking opportunities with travel agencies, hotels, resorts, and industry experts offer valuable business connections. Additionally, attendees benefit from exclusive discounts, prize draws, and special offers from numerous exhibitors.

The fair also offers a variety of experiences for families. In the “Sports & Fun” kids’ zone, young visitors can try different sports, including basketball, chess, and football. Cultural performances featuring traditional dances and music provide an opportunity to explore regional arts and customs. Guided tours offer insights into major attractions, such as the Archaeological Park of Upiana and the breathtaking natural parks in the region.

Thanks to its diversity and comprehensive offerings, the Tourism & Sport Fair provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the latest industry trends firsthand. The fair seamlessly combines business opportunities, cultural exchange, and unforgettable experiences, making it a must - attend event for travel and sports enthusiasts, as well as industry professionals.

Links

https://www.tradefairdates.com/Tourism-Sport-Fair-M12001/Pristina.html

https://www.tradefairdates.com/Tourism-Sport-Fair-M12001/Pristina.html

 

Hilton | Signed an Agreement to Open a 96 - Room Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Hyderabad, India

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc., American multinational hospitality company based in Tysons, Virginia has signed an agreement to open a Hilton Garden Inn hotel in Hyderabad, the capital of southern India Telangana state located on the Deccan Plateau along the banks of the Musi River.

Hyderabad is famous for its historical landmarks like the Charminar, a 16th century mosque whose 4 arches support towering minarets, an old city landmark near the long - standing Laad Bazaar, Golconda Fort, a dormer diamond trading - centre that was once the Quib Shahi dynastic capital, its status as the “City of Pearls", and its distinctive cuisine, particularly highlighted by the Hyderabadi Biryani. The city is also a major hub for technology, pharmaceuticals, and traditional handicrafts like Pochampally sarees and Bidri work.

The city is a leading hub for IT, life sciences, and Global Capability Centres (GCCs), accounting for nearly half of all new GCC establishments in India between 2025 and early 2026.

The future opening of Hilton Garden Hyderabad Kompally marks the first Hilton Garden Inn in Hyderabad and third Hilton hotel in the city and will join the recently opened Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa and the upcoming Hilton Hyderabad Gachibowli as part of the company’s portfolio in the Indian city.             

Expected to open in 2028 the property will be developed by Fairmount and Friends LLP, part of the Fairmount Group, an active development and investment firm operating in India, known for large - estate and hospitality expansions.

The hotel will be located within a mixed - use development in  Kompally, a rapidly developing residential suburb in North Hyderabad located along NH - 44 highway and near the Outer Ring Road (ORR) offering smooth, signal - free commutes to major IT hubs, commercial centres and connectivity to business districts and proximity to office and retail spaces

Kompally is renowned for its tranquil environment, open spaces, and premium gated communities, dominated by luxury independent villas and modern apartments, it balances peaceful living with excellent urban connectivity, making it a highly sought - after location for families and retirees.

The hotel will feature 96 comfortable rooms, an all - day dining restaurant with a bar and over 10.000 feet of meeting and event space.

The property will join Hilton Garden Inn, an award - winning, upscale - midscale hotel brand by Hilton tailored for both business and leisure travellers. With over 1.120 properties globally, the brand sits in Hilton’s focused - service category, balancing affordable luxury with reliable amenities and services.

The brand targets frequent professionals and travellers who want modern, functional rooms and convenient social spaces without the price tag of fully luxury brands.

The new hotel is part of Hilton’s strategy to expand in high - growth business hubs. Hilton is on track to grow from 40 trading hotels in India to over 400 in the coming years, with a South Asia portfolio that includes 107 trading and pipeline hotels.

Links

https://stories.hilton.com/apac/releases/hilton-strengthens-hyderabad-presence-hilton-garden-inn-kompally-signing

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141347.html