Content Library
Podcasts
In this episode, we explore how global capital is being reshaped across hospitality and real estate, with a particular focus on the growing role of Chinese and Asian investors. From cross-border investment strategies to the development of REIT-style platforms in DIFC and ADGM, the conversation unpacks how firms like F.O.G Capital are working to bridge capital markets and unlock institutional investment.
In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Ronald Philip, VP - Investment and Corporate Development, Corporate Strategy, Dubai World Trade Centre, discusses how these districts are driving year-round footfall, creating vibrant community hubs, and unlocking new revenue streams for developers and operators alike. From adaptive space planning to experiential guest offerings, this conversation highlights how the convergence of business and leisure is redefining the future of hospitality.
In this episode of the FHS Podcast, we explore Qatar's maturing hospitality market post-World Cup with Wael Al Sharif, Area General Manager at The Torch Hospitality Group, diving into the sector's current sentiment, the transition from event-driven demand to sustained growth amid supply surges, and strategic shifts for managing iconic assets. We discuss Torch's expansion plans in Qatar and the GCC, how it differentiates beyond architecture through sustainability and smart operations, and what will define success for operators over the next 3–5 year.
Video Insights
Team MERED sat down with us to share why the UAE market has continued to show strong resilience despite recent uncertainty. They explain that rather than MERED adapting to the situation, the market itself has adjusted, with projects now moving forward after an initial pause.
In this interview at FHS World, Barry Lansburg, a branded residential development specialist with 25+ years of experience working with developers and brands globally, shared insights into how alignment between brands, developers and purchasers shapes successful projects. The discussion explored his approach to resolving conflicting interests before they escalate, the realities around disclosure and transparency in branded residences agreements, and whether bargaining power is shifting as developers and buyers mature in this space.
In this interview at FHS World, Mariam, Relationship Manager at QIB UK, shared insights into how the bank bridges Middle Eastern capital with UK real estate and hospitality investments. The discussion explored the shift in investor appetite from residential to commercial assets amid rising UK tourism, how QIB UK structures Sharia-compliant financing for large-scale projects through syndication with Islamic banks, and where outbound GCC investment is heading as focus moves from residential to commercial opportunities.
Press room
Across the industry, hotel leaders are balancing rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation and data analytics against evolving traveller behaviour, rising operational complexity and increasing pressure to deliver sustainable growth. AI adoption in hospitality is expected to accelerate significantly through 2026, particularly across revenue management, guest personalisation and operational efficiency.
UN Tourism and The Bench have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a strategic collaboration to advance tourism investment, innovation, and education on a global scale.
30 internationally renowned leaders and experts in hospitality and tourism already confirmed to take the stage at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai 29 September - 1 October 2026.
Industry news
Institutional capital keeps circling Africa but seldom lands. The hesitation is not about opportunity. It is about trust. Global investors still price African tourism and hospitality as if they are betting on volatility rather than performance.
Hotel revenues in the UAE surged past AED 26 billion in the first half of 2025, marking a 6.3% increase year-on-year, with occupancy rates hitting 80.5%. Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri attributed the growth to strong public-private collaboration, aligned with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which targets a AED 450 billion contribution to GDP by the next decade. Preparations are also underway for the UAE–Africa Tourism Investment Summit, part of FHS World 2025, which will bring together ministers and senior officials from 53 African nations.
Advisory Board members offered a treasure trove of insights, recommendations, and strategic ideas aimed at shaping the upcoming event into an industry-defining gathering.
Reports
Industry Pulse Report | April 2026 Compiled for Hospitality Leaders, C-Level Executives & Industry Stakeholders For the Industry, by the Industry
The Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia 2025 was marked by a rich array of discussions that delved into the evolving landscape of the hospitality sector within Saudi Arabia and globally.
The FHS World 2025 covered a broad range of topics within the hospitality industry, highlighting significant trends, challenges, and opportunities.