Banyan Tree to open first property in Dubai

Banyan Tree is to open a high-end wellness resort on Bluewaters Island in Dubai, marking the luxury hotel brand’s first property in the city.

Banyan Tree Dubai will replace the existing Caesars Palace Dubai and, following a phased stage of brand-related upscaling improvements, will feature 179 rooms, including 30 suites and a new four-bedroom villa with a private entrance, pool and beach.

A statement from the brand said the repositioned resort would reopen as Banyan Tree “in late 2023”.

Banyan Tree Dubai will also offer 96 one and four-bedroom private residences. Residents will benefit from a dedicated outdoor swimming pool, private beach, resort facilities and exclusive privileges as part of the Banyan Tree Group.

As part of a long-term strategic partnership agreement between Accor and Banyan Tree Group signed in 2016, Banyan Tree Dubai will be co-managed by Banyan Tree Group and Ennismore, following a similar operational model applied in Banyan Tree La Cigale Doha, Qatar and Banyan Tree AlUla, Saudi Arabia.

Bluewaters by Dubai Holding boasts a range of hospitality, lifestyle, residential, leisure and entertainment opportunities, with more than 150 retail and dining concepts.

"Ennismore and Banyan Tree Group have been working tirelessly with Dubai Holdings to ensure the rebrand is a seamless transition for all parties, from guests to employees,” said Eddy See, chief executive and president of Banyan Tree Group.

“We are truly excited about this next stage of our growth journey in a region that is home to some of Banyan Tree’s most iconic properties. Our fruitful partnership with ACCOR continues to be a driving force for us in the Middle East, enabling us to bring Banyan Tree to new horizons and new opportunities."

Amit Kaushal, group chief executive of Dubai Holding, added: "Bluewaters has always been a destination for major projects that redefine luxury and cement Dubai as a global beacon of the tourism industry. Our collaboration with market leaders like Accor, Ennismore and Banyan Tree Group marks an important milestone in our ongoing journey of elevating the rich hospitality landscape in Dubai."