Most anticipated hotel openings of 2025

CIEL

Opening: Q4, 2025
Developer: The First Group
Architect: NORR

Claim to fame: World’s tallest hotel

In a city where architectural ambition knows no bounds, Ciel literally rises above the pack. Towering 345 metres and 82 floors above Dubai Marina, this record-breaking development will claim the title of world’s tallest hotel when it opens later this year.

Designed by renowned architectural firm NORR and constructed by The First Group, Ciel is a bold statement that showcases cutting-edge design and world-class engineering.

The skyscraper’s curved metal and glass façade, sculpted to address the challenges of vertical living, gives the building an unmistakable presence as the centrepiece of Dubai Marina’s world-famous skyline.

Step inside, and you’ll find one of Ciel’s most remarkable design elements – a 300-metre-tall atrium with vertically stacked landscaped terraces, transforming the traditional concept of hotel communal spaces. Natural light floods the hotel’s interactive sky lounges, creating a sense of openness that is rare in high-rise structures.

Ciel will feature 1,004 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, two signature restaurants, a private club lounge, a world-class fitness centre, and a spa. The hotel’s unique rooftop infinity pool and observation deck – set to be the tallest in Dubai – will provide guests with breathtaking panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf.

As a member of the Vignette Collection, IHG’s luxury and lifestyle brand launched in 2021, Ciel is well placed to promote its status as the world’s tallest hotel to a global audience, leveraging IHG’s extensive marketing network and the IHG One Rewards loyalty programme. The First Group’s partnership with IHG also underscores the firm’s strategic push to expand its high-end portfolio in the region.

As The First Group’s flagship development, Ciel stands as a bold testament to the fast-growing developer’s visionary ambitions. Its status as the world’s tallest hotel also reinforces Dubai’s status as the most exciting leisure and business destination on the planet.

JUMEIRAH MARSA AL ARAB

Opening: Q1, 2025
Developer: Jumeirah Group
Architect: Shaun Killa

Overlooking Marsa Al Arab Marina and situated adjacent to Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab features a unique design conceived by Shaun Killa, the talented architect behind Dubai’s iconic Museum of the Future. The hotel features 300 guestrooms and 86 suites, inspired by Italy’s iconic Riva boats, while high-end suites feature private plunge pools. For relaxation, the hotel’s TALISE Spa offers bespoke treatments and holistic therapies.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL DOWNTOWN

Opening: Q2, 2025
Developer: Mandarin Oriental International

Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, is scheduled to open in June in Wasl Tower, Dubai’s iconic 303-metre high-rise building featuring the region’s tallest ceramic façade. The hotel will feature 259 guestrooms and suites, along with 224 residences, and will position itself as a luxury urban retreat.

Located 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and five minutes from City Walk, the property will include high-end dining, wellness facilities, and a helipad. The launch marks Mandarin Oriental’s latest expansion in the Middle East.

ZUHHA RESORT VILLAS

Opening: Q2, 2025
Developer: Zaya

Located on Zuha Island, part of The World Islands, this boutique resort will be accessible via a 12-minute boat ride from the Jumeirah beachfront on the Dubai mainland. The resort will feature 30 private residences and 70 luxury villas, ranging from one to eight bedrooms, each equipped with an infinity pool, private terraces, and beach access. Guest amenities will include four restaurants, a beach club and a kid’s club.