9 Design-Led Hotels In The Middle East
The Abu Dhabi EDITION
Sitting on the scenic Al Bateen Peninsula in Abu Dhabi, The Abu Dhabi EDITION marks the brand’s first foray into the Middle East. A collaboration between Ian Schrager Company and Wimberly Interiors, the hotel offers 198 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, many with sweeping views over one of the city's busiest marinas. Its crisp design balances modern architecture with warm wooden interiors, creating a cool and contemporary atmosphere for guests. Throughout the hotel, photographs by Brett Weston – depicting the UAE’s sand dunes and desert landscapes also bring a sense of calm and depth. Located just 20 minutes from cultural landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the soon-to-open Zayed National Museum, The Abu Dhabi EDITION is a must for people visiting the UAE capital.
Visit EDITIONHOTELS.COM
The Ned Doha
Nestled along Doha’s picturesque Corniche waterfront, The Ned Doha is the new it hotel in Qatar’s capital. Housed in the city’s former Ministry of Interior building, the property has been reimagined as a stylish members’ club and boutique hotel that blends the raw identity of its original brutalist architecture with the glamour of contemporary design. Originally designed in the 1960s by renowned Lebanese architect William Sednaoui, the structure was brought back to life by David Chipperfield Architects, with interiors by Soho House Design. Spread across five floors, the hotel features 90 rooms, including 12 suites, alongside a state-of-the-art gym and spa, a 30-metre outdoor pool, and multiple standout restaurants. Art is also at the heart of The Ned Doha, featuring a curated collection of more than 350 works across various media, with 70% of the pieces coming from female artists.
Visit THENED.COM
Mama Shelter Dubai
Located in the heart of Business Bay, Mama Shelter Dubai is one of the city’s newest hotel openings and the brand’s 19th location globally. Known for its bold personality and eclectic flair, the hotel brings a fresh, creative spirit to Dubai’s skyline. Expect to find neon lights, bright patterns, indoor greenery, mismatched furniture and a lively buzz that mirrors the brand’s signature aesthetic. With 197 rooms, a rooftop terrace pool, an outdoor cinema, co-working spaces and a variety of dining options, Mama Shelter keeps guests entertained around the clock. Rooms feature satin cotton sheets, organic toiletries and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the city skyline, offering a stylish and playful stay in one of Dubai’s most dynamic districts.
Visit MAMASHELTER.COM
Beit Noun
Looking for a serene countryside escape? Look no further than Beit Noun. Set in the quiet hills of Mechmech, Lebanon, the stunning space is a restored family estate that blends history, charming design and comfort into one. Originally built by Edouard and Isabelle Noun in the early 1900s, the 35,000-square-meter property was transformed by their great-granddaughter Mia Noun with the help of architect Galal Mahmoud. This boutique retreat features 13 uniquely decorated rooms, spread across three distinct areas, each with artistic accents and handcrafted elements created by local artisans. The outdoor spaces are a highlight, especially the magical pool that captures breathtaking views of Lebanon’s majestic natural landscape.
Visit BEITNOUN.COM
The Merchant House Bahrain
Filled with bold colours, dramatic accents, and sculptural artworks by Bahraini and international artists, The Merchant House in Downtown Manama is a five-star boutique hotel that feels like a true home away from home. Housed in a repurposed 1950s government building, the mid-century architecture brings a sense of nostalgia to the modern cityscape that surrounds it. Just steps from the iconic Manama Souq, the hotel features 46 individually designed suites, each with its own sitting and dining area, kitchenette and bespoke décor. Guests can also enjoy a lush rooftop restaurant and bar with sparkling views over Bahrain’s capital, as well as a chlorine-free pool, gym, spa and a curated library mezzanine that adds to its creative, vintage charm.
Visit THEMERCHANTHOUSE.BH
Dar Tanora The House Hotel
Deeply rooted in Saudi tradition and nestled in the winding alleys of AlUla Old Town, Dar Tantora The House Hotel is a boutique stay steeped in history. Designed by Egyptian architect Shahira Fahmy, the hotel was built using the same materials and building techniques as the town’s original mud-brick homes – honouring centuries of local Saudi craftsmanship. The 30-room property seamlessly blends wellness, sustainability, and understated luxury, featuring an infinity pool overlooking the dramatic desert landscape, candlelit communal spaces, and wellness studios alongside a spa that draws inspiration from local healing practices. For those seeking a design-led stay with culture at its core, Dar Tantora offers exactly that.
Visit DARTANTORA.CO
Arthaus Beirut
For those seeking the ultimate Lebanese experience where past meets present, Arthaus Beirut is the place to stay with its historic architecture, curated art, and an unbeatable location. Tucked away in the creative heart of Beirut’s Gemmayze district, this 25-room boutique hotel feels more like the private residence of a well-travelled art collector than a traditional stay. Founded by Zoe and Nabil Debs, Arthaus Beirut is situated in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era stone building, where heritage meets modern design. Arched doorways, original tiled floors, and textured stone walls are paired with bohemian flourishes and carefully curated artworks throughout. The surrounding neighbourhood is also a destination in itself – charming streets lined with fashion boutiques, cosy cafés, and some of the city’s coolest bars.
Visit ARTHAUS.INTERNATIONAL
Delano Dubai
Set along the tranquil shores of Bluewaters Island, Delano Dubai marks the brand’s first venture into the Middle East and a bold new addition to its global portfolio. The hotel features 251 rooms, including 84 suites, many of which offer sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s iconic skyline. The interiors are the result of a multi-studio collaboration between Elastic Architects, La Bottega Interiors, SA Consultants, YDesign and Ennismore’s in-house design team. The design ethos is clean and contemporary, featuring white oak flooring, soft monochrome tones, and curved silhouettes, complemented by rich natural materials such as wood and marble, to create an atmosphere of elegance and warmth. Anchored on a private stretch of beach, the hotel also invites guests to unwind at the Delano Beach Club – a stylish seaside destination featuring chic cabanas, a curated music playlist and Mediterranean-inspired menus.
Visit DELANOHOTELS.COM
Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar
Set high in Oman’s majestic Hajar Mountains on the Sayq Plateau, around 2,000 meters above sea level, is Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar – IHG’s first Indigo resort in the Middle East. Designed for the adventurous at heart, this stunning mountain escape is perfect for travellers seeking design, culture, and wellness in a destination far off the beaten track. The hotel features 173 rooms, suites, and private chalets, each offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and dramatic canyons. Interiors are inspired by the dry surrounding landscape, with touches that reflect the region's local nature. Wellness and nature also take centre stage at the Jala Spa & Wellness, which includes vitality pools, Himalayan salt rooms, thermal zones, and spa treatments inspired by Omani traditions. Just a two-hour drive from Muscat, this design-led retreat offers a unique blend of serenity and local character, all set at a stunning altitude.
Visit IHG.COM
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at [email protected].
/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.me%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe-me%2Ffiles%2Fwebsite-images%2F2023%2F07%2Fsl-middle-east_0.jpg?itok=mM7sU9m0)
