Marbella’s Luxury Echoes in Dubai’s Heart of Europe
Located just six kilometres off the coast of Dubai, The Heart of Europe is a collection of six artificial islands that epitomize luxury and grandeur. Each island is a tribute to the most picturesque corners of Europe, and now, a new hotel named after the town of Marbella is set to join this opulent ensemble. The Costa del Sol town is once again making its mark on the international luxury scene with a five-star hotel that mirrors the glamour and high standards of Marbella’s style.
Introducing the Marbella Resort Hotel
The Marbella Resort Hotel, a project by the Kleindienst Group, is an exclusive five-star boutique hotel situated on the main island. Joseph Kleindienst, chairman of the Kleindienst Group, stated that the project embodies their commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences. The aim is to create a place that exudes magnificence and offers a unique cultural experience, raising the bar for regional hospitality.
Opening Doors in 2026
The Marbella Resort Hotel is set to open its doors in the first quarter of 2026, marking a new era in luxury hospitality in The Heart of Europe. Currently under construction, the hotel is designed to reflect the architectural style of the coastal town of Marbella, bringing the waterfront experience of Marbella to the UAE. The design is inspired by Andalusian aesthetics, featuring elegant arches, Moorish art, flamenco dancer motifs, and intricate traditional Spanish craftsmanship.
Offering a Spanish-Flavoured Getaway
The hotel will offer 150 luxury rooms and suites designed to provide guests with a tranquil retreat amid the breathtaking scenery of The World Islands in Dubai. Guests can look forward to beach parties, water sports, open-air dining with sea breezes, pristine beaches, coral reefs, diving adventures, culinary delights, signature spa offerings, and unforgettable sunsets in a Spanish-flavoured getaway.
Why ‘Marbella’?
The name ‘Marbella’ was chosen for the new hotel complex to capture the essence and charm of the famous Spanish resort town. Marbella is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The Kleindienst Group aims to transport guests to the Costa del Sol, offering them a cultural getaway that embodies the luxury and elegance associated with this Spanish town.
Marbella and the Middle East: A Growing Relationship
The relationship between the Middle East and Marbella dates back to the 1980s and has been growing and strengthening ever since. Marbella is a favourite destination for Arab tourists who come to enjoy the high-end lifestyle the town has to offer. The five-star hotels, luxury shops, and exclusive services offered by Marbella are the main attraction for visitors from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait.
Increasing Interest from Middle Eastern Visitors
After a pause due to the pandemic, visitors from these countries have been returning to their traditional holiday destination, with a growth of 10% in 2023 compared to 2022, a trend expected to be exceeded in 2024. These visitors tend to stay longer than other tourists, often for more than seven days. The most frequented hotels are Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá, Villapadierna, Puente Romano, and Marbella Club.
Residential Tourism and Property Sales
Aside from high season visits, residential tourism is another aspect that attracts people from the Middle East, with many investors acquiring properties in Marbella. The year 2022 was a peak period for luxury property sales in Marbella, and in 2023 real estate agents increased their sales in this area.
