logo
6 sensational new hotel openings to plan trips around this summer

6 sensational new hotel openings to plan trips around this summer

What's Ona day ago

Summer is just getting started, but if you're still unsure of where to go, make plans around some of the world's most exciting new hotel openings for summer 2025. From sun-drenched spots on the Aegean to a hotly anticipated safari lodge, these 6 hotels are the rooms to book this season. OKU Bodrum, Turkey
Bringing OKU's rustic-luxe aesthetic from Ibiza and Kos to the Turkish Riviera this summer is OKU Bodrum. Open from mid-July, this sophisticated adults-only hideaway is a boutique retreat of 58 rooms and suites overlooking the shimmering Aegean sea. The suites with private pools promise elevated exclusivity, with walk-in wardrobes, freestanding tubs and stretching views across the cove. Gourmands can enjoy sundowners on a bar on the jetty, elevated Japanese dishes at open-air Teyo restaurant, and graze on Mediterranean sharing plates by the pool. The spa promises curated wellness rituals, a yoga shala atop the cliffs and cabanas for alfresco treatments.
Rates: From Dhs1,815 per night
okuhotels.com/oku-bodrum SIRO Boka Place, Montenegro
Dubai-born SIRO Hotels has expanded to Europe with the opening of SIRO Boka Place. Bringing its unique approach to fitness and recovery to the shores of the Adriatic, the hotel is all about active living. While the Dubai hotel is an urban inner-city escape, the Porto Montenegro iteration is a haven of nature and adventure, with an extensive offering of 'destination fitness' activities that make the most of the local landscape. Think hiking, sailing, mountain biking and exhilarating watersports. Back on property, a locally inspired restaurant and rooftop bar are all about balance, where guests can refuel on nourishing dishes in social settings.
Rates: From Dhs1,350 per night
sirohotels.com The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara, Kenya
Luxurious Ritz-Carlton will debut its first luxury safari camp in mid-August, bringing the brand's legendary service and refined style to the heart of Kenya's Masai Mara. A secluded camp of 20 spacious tented suites, it promises front row seats to the Great Migration (June to October) from its enviable perch on the banks of the Sand River. But beyond the migration season, it's a prime spot for seeing the Big Five up close. Sustainably designed, materials have been sourced from local artisans, and partnerships with local guides and storytellers support the local community and culture while providing an immersive and authentic experience for guests.
Rates: From Dhs22,677 per night
marriott.com Tella Thera, Crete, Greece
A new eco-retreat with a rustic-luxe feel, Tella Thera will welcome guests from July 14 to explore the untamed beauty of Crete's Bay of Kissamos. Built into a hill encased by olive trees, the nature-inspired rooms and suites all come with earthy tones, private terraces and sweeping Aegean vistas. Designed as a haven of wellness, the spa will be a standout experience, going far beyond the traditional to offer rejuvenating soaks in a magnesium pool, relaxing stretches with guided yoga sessions at the outdoor pavilion, and mood-balancing chromotherapy showers. Guests can enjoy the usual spoils of a seaside resort – Mediterranean dining, dips in the pool, but also engage in workshops and activities that connect with the locale: think bread baking, cooking classes and making ceramics.
Rates: From Dhs1,775 per night
tellathera.com Orient Express La Minerva, Rome, Italy
Having been a timeless icon of luxury rail travel for over 140 years, new life is being breathed into Orient Express with the debut of Orient Express La Minerva, the brand's first hotel. The property is anchored in as much history as you'd expect from the first Orient Express hotel, having transformed a 17th-century palazzo in Rome's Piazza della Minerva into a refined and revived luxury stay. Immaculate attention to detail has been paid by artist-architect Hugo Toro, and the resulting property features rich and retro patterns, striking sculptures, and Art Deco touches. Dubai dwellers will likely recognise rooftop restaurant Gigi Rigolatto – a partnership with Paris Society and Rikas Hospitality; and the soon-to-open Mimi Kakushi, bringing opulent Japanese flavour to the hotel later this year.
Rates: From Dhs5,335 per night
laminerva.orient-express.com Villa Miraé, Cap D'Antibes, France
Impérial Garoupe is reborn as Villa Miraé Cap d'Antibes, part of the renowned Relais & Chateaux portfolio. A boutique salmon pink oasis in the heart of the sublime Cap d'Antibes in the South of France, it oozes retro glamour with modern effervescence. Inspired by sea, sun and verdant gardens, the 35 rooms and suites are glorious havens to base yourself at for a sojourn to the Côte d'Azur this summer. Elsewhere, Michelin-pedigree gastronomy comes from the mind of star chef Mauro Colagreco, behind two signature dining experiences; and relaxation awaits at the sun-drenched pool and solarium, which both lull guests into a serene stillness.
Rates: From Dhs3,000
villamirae-capantibes.com
Images: Supplied
> Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Dubai completes region's first Joby air taxi test flight ahead of 2026 launch
Dubai completes region's first Joby air taxi test flight ahead of 2026 launch

Arabian Business

time43 minutes ago

  • Arabian Business

Dubai completes region's first Joby air taxi test flight ahead of 2026 launch

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed the region's first test flight of an aerial taxi in partnership with Joby Aviation, marking a step towards commercial urban air mobility services in the emirate. The test flight took place at a desert test site in Dubai, with the Joby Aerial Taxi demonstrating its vertical take-off and landing capabilities. The flight forms part of daily test operations designed to evaluate the aircraft's performance in local environmental conditions ahead of commercial deployment. Dubai has successfully completed the region's first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi. Conducted through a collaboration between the Roads and Transport Authority and Joby Aviation, the test flight marks a major step toward launching full operations next year. The all-electric… — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) June 30, 2025 Dubai successfully tests all-electric air taxi in regional first Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the test flight and emphasised Dubai's commitment to transport innovation. 'Dubai continues to lead the way in shaping the future of mobility, guided by the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This achievement also reflects our commitment to placing the UAE at the forefront of transformative technologies that drive global progress. Further, the successful aerial taxi test flight demonstrates our determination to transform breakthrough technologies into practical solutions that enhance quality of life and set new international benchmarks for urban development,' Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai said in a statement. The Crown Prince linked the initiative to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE's sustainable development vision. 'As we work to realise the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, within the framework of the UAE's sustainable development vision, the integration of aerial mobility into our transport ecosystem is a step towards ensuring the city's infrastructure is built around the needs of future generations. Our initiatives aim to make life easier for people, creating new opportunities, and reinforcing Dubai's position as the best city in the world to live, work, and visit,' he added. The Joby Aerial Taxi operates on electric power, producing zero emissions during flight. The aircraft features six rotors and four battery packs, enabling a flight range of up to 160 kilometres and a maximum speed of 320 kilometres per hour. The aircraft accommodates four passengers plus a pilot and operates at lower noise levels than conventional helicopters. Its vertical take-off and landing functionality requires minimal horizontal space for operations at vertiports. The test operations utilise facilities developed in collaboration with Shamal Holding. The infrastructure includes a dedicated vertiport for aerial vehicles, a hangar equipped with flight monitoring and tracking systems, and electric charging technology. Dignitaries present at the test flight included Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority; Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General, General Civil Aviation Authority; Ahmed Ali Al Balqeizi, Executive Director of the Aviation Safety and Environment Sector – Dubai Civil Aviation Authority; and Ibrahim Hussain Ahli, Executive Director – Dubai Air Navigation Services. RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer outlined the service's potential impact on travel times across Dubai. 'The launch of the air taxi's trial operation reflects the leadership's vision to advance sustainable and innovative mobility across all public and shared transport modes. It underscores Dubai's commitment to keeping pace with rapid global transformations and developing future-ready solutions to emerging mobility challenges,' Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) said. 'The aerial taxi will introduce a new premium service for residents and visitors seeking smooth, fast, and safe travel to key destinations across the city. A journey from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah, for example, is expected to take just 12 minutes, compared to approximately 45 minutes by car. The service will also strengthen integration with public transport systems and individual mobility options such as e-scooters and bicycles, enabling seamless multimodal travel and enhanced connectivity across the city, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all passengers,' he added. JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, and Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of the Public Transport Agency, briefed officials on project milestones. Commercial aerial taxi station operations will begin near Dubai International Airport in 2026, with the inaugural commercial flight scheduled for that year. 'Dubai serves as a launchpad for a global revolution in mobility, and flying our aircraft here represents a pivotal step towards integrating Aerial Taxi services into the fabric of daily life around the world. Thanks to our forward-looking strategic partnership with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, we are helping shape a future where clean and quiet aviation becomes the new norm. At the same time, we are proud to reinforce the global presence of American innovation. This achievement is the result of close collaboration and a strong relationship between Joby and the Roads and Transport Authority. It underscores the company's leading role in shaping the future of mobility and reaffirms the UAE's global leadership in adopting advanced air mobility solutions,' Bevirt said. At the beginning of 2024, Dubai's RTA signed an agreement to launch the aerial taxi service with multiple partners including the General Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, British company Skyports Infrastructure, and Joby Aviation. The agreement establishes Dubai as the first city worldwide to offer urban air mobility through a vertical take-off and landing infrastructure network for aerial taxis. Joby Aviation's operational testing in Dubai follows two years of flight trials in hot-weather conditions at Edwards Air Force Base in the United States. The company has accumulated over 15 years of engineering development, more than 40,000 miles of test flights, and multiple piloted transition flights. The company operates several aircraft simultaneously, supporting its goal of making aerial mobility accessible for daily use.

Savour the flavours of Spain with Tagomago's new summer tapas menu
Savour the flavours of Spain with Tagomago's new summer tapas menu

What's On

timean hour ago

  • What's On

Savour the flavours of Spain with Tagomago's new summer tapas menu

If you're longing for a slice of Spain, you don't have to pack your bags, as you can enjoy a taste right here in Dubai. Tagomago, the Spanish Mediterranean restaurant on Palm Jumeirah, has launched a classic Summer Tapas menu that celebrates tradition, flavour and the Mediterranean spirit. The new menu is available from Monday to Thursday and offers the perfect excuse to slow down and savour the moment. Go with loved ones and enjoy some tasty bites and the breeze in a gorgeous beachside setting. So, What's On the menu? The menu, curated by head chef Iker features a vibrant selection of authentic Spanish tapas, bringing together the bold and diverse flavours from across the Iberian Peninsula. Tuck into crispy patatas bravas, melt-in-your-mouth croquettes, classic pan con tomate and more. The dishes are all meant to be shared and enjoyed over great conversation with loved ones. And those views are quite stunning, too. And it's all yours to enjoy for just Dhs150 per person. The price includes a refreshing drink of your choice from a sangria, a cold cerveza, or one of Tagomago's signature mocktails. No matter what you pick, make sure you raise a glass and make a toast to summer. Haven't been to Tagomago yet? Expect those perfect, laid-back, Ibiza-inspired beach vibes. The atmosphere is effortlessly chic, but feel free to kick off those shoes and feel the sand between your toes and the gentle sea breeze. Top tip: Head here around sunset time to nab a great spot and catch the sky at golden hour. Make your bookings here, or for more information, visit Tagomago, Azure Residence, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, new Summer Tapas menu available Mon to Thurs, 1pm to 7pm. Tel: (0)4 832 6620. Images: Tagomago Dubai > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

Dubai Completes First Joby Air Taxi Test Flight
Dubai Completes First Joby Air Taxi Test Flight

UAE Moments

time2 hours ago

  • UAE Moments

Dubai Completes First Joby Air Taxi Test Flight

Dubai just made aviation history. The city successfully carried out the Middle East's first test flight of the all-electric Joby air taxi, taking another bold step toward transforming urban transport. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, shared the news on X, calling it 'a new leap in eco-friendly urban mobility.' He added that the air taxi will help reduce travel time, improve quality of life, and support sustainable development across the emirate. The test flight was conducted in collaboration with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Joby Aviation, a California-based aerospace company that's leading the charge in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. 'This pioneering initiative is part of the UAE's broader vision to lead the world in innovation and the deployment of advanced technologies,' said Sheikh Hamdan. 'Our nation's skies have opened to new possibilities, and the best is yet to come.' The Joby air taxi, known for being quiet, emission-free, and fast, is expected to launch commercial operations in Dubai in 2026, making the city one of the first in the world to integrate air taxis into its transport network. Stay tuned — the Jetsons era might just start in the UAE. Dubai has successfully completed the region's first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi. Conducted through a collaboration between the Roads and Transport Authority and Joby Aviation, the test flight marks a major step toward launching full operations next year. The all-electric… — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed)

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store