Accor has signed an agreement to add Dubai’s Creekside Hotel to its MGallery Hotel Collection, following a white-label franchise deal with United Hospitality Management and the property’s owner, Dubai Duty Free.
The hotel, located in Al Garhoud near Dubai International Airport and overlooking the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, is set to undergo a full renovation before being rebranded under Accor’s upscale boutique MGallery brand.
New chapter for iconic hotel
The 292-key property includes rooms and suites with views of Dubai Creek and the city. Known for its long-standing ties to Dubai’s cultural and sporting life, the hotel is home to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium and the Irish Village, both popular with residents and visitors.
The Creekside Hotel also houses a collection of 482 artworks by 52 artists and offers wellness facilities including two outdoor pools, the Akaru Spa, and access to the Aviation Club’s gym and courts.
Jean-Baptiste Recher, Chief Development Officer Luxury Brands Middle East, Africa and Türkiye at Accor, said: “We are proud to expand our partnership with United Hospitality Management and Dubai Duty Free through the repositioning of this iconic property. This hotel holds deep cultural and sporting significance in Dubai, and we believe this leading Accor hospitality brand with its emphasis on storytelling, character and local charm, is the perfect fit to elevate its legacy.”
Partnership with local operators
United Hospitality Management will operate the property under the franchise agreement. Klaus Assmann, COO of United Hospitality Management Middle East, India & SE Asia, said: “The Creekside Hotel holds a special place in Dubai’s history, and we are privileged to be working with Dubai Duty Free and Accor to curate its next chapter. Reintroducing the property under Accor elevates its unique character and allows us to craft bespoke guest journeys that blend modern luxury with the hotel’s deep connection to sport and culture.”
Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, added: “This property and the Tennis Stadium, which incorporates the original Irish Village bar and restaurant, have long been popular with Dubai residents as well as business and leisure visitors. By partnering with UHM and Accor, we are ensuring that the Creekside Hotel is not only managed with operational excellence but also refreshed with a bold new vision.”
Accor expands UAE portfolio
Accor operates over 85 hotels in the UAE across a broad portfolio of brands, including Sofitel, Raffles, Rixos, Pullman, and MGallery Collection. The signing of Creekside Hotel further strengthens its presence in Dubai’s hospitality market, with a focus on heritage properties and lifestyle experiences.
Xavier Grange, Global Chief Development Officer Sofitel, Emblems, MGallery, said: “The signing of this new MGallery in Dubai marks an exciting milestone in our global journey. We are committed to expanding MGallery through franchise and management partnerships across all continents including in the Middle East, working hand in hand with trusted local partners and experienced third-party operators to bring our unique collection of hotels to new horizons.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
