The First Group for Hospitality announced the signing of several agreements to manage and operate new hotels during the Global Hospitality Future Summit in Dubai, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing hotel management companies in the region. The hospitality agreements were unveiled at a signing ceremony held on the first day of the summit in November 2025.
The company revealed the rebranding of three prominent Dubai hotels within Marriott International’s portfolio under the Tribute Portfolio and Autograph Collection brands. The properties include The First Collection Marina Dubai, The First Collection Waterfront Dubai, and Local Dubai, Jumeirah Village Triangle.
Strategic Hotel Management Agreements Expand Regional Presence
The three hotels are located in key Dubai areas including Dubai Marina, Business Bay, and Jumeirah Village Triangle, according to the company announcement. This demonstrates The First Group’s commitment to operating distinctive and contemporary hotel destinations while leveraging Marriott International’s brand strength and loyalty programs.
Additionally, on the second day of the summit, The First Group for Hospitality announced an agreement with BB Holding Group to operate the Radisson RED Al Marjan Island. The 261-room hotel is scheduled to open in 2027 as the first Radisson RED property in the United Arab Emirates, strengthening the company’s presence on Al Marjan Island, one of Ras Al Khaimah’s premier tourism developments.
European Market Entry Through Greece Partnership
Furthermore, The First Group for Hospitality announced a third agreement to operate Gennadi Seaside Resort on the Greek island of Rhodes. This partnership represents the company’s first step into the European hospitality market, marking a significant milestone in its international expansion strategy.
However, the expansion extends beyond these recent signings. The company recently announced its collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts to manage the 349-room Holiday Inn Dubai Village Circle, located 25 kilometers from Al Maktoum International Airport.
Diverse Portfolio Showcases Operational Capabilities
Rob Burns, Chief Executive Officer of The First Group, commented on the significance of these hospitality agreements. He stated that the signing of these prominent agreements reflects the growing collaboration between The First Group for Hospitality and leading global hotel brands that trust the company’s ability to manage their flagship projects within and beyond the UAE.
Meanwhile, Burns emphasized that the diversity of these operational agreements highlights the company’s capabilities in managing various hotel types. The portfolio spans from mid-scale to luxury properties and from urban hotels to beach resorts, demonstrating operational versatility across different market segments.
In contrast to single-brand strategies, The First Group maintains partnerships with multiple international hotel chains. The IHG partnership includes other distinctive projects such as Sela Dubai Marina, a Vignette Collection property expected to become the world’s tallest hotel upon its opening.
Regional Hospitality Growth Trajectory
The series of agreements signed during the Global Hospitality Future Summit reflects The First Group’s consistent portfolio growth. The Dubai-based company continues to secure management contracts across strategic locations throughout the Middle East region, positioning itself as a preferred operator for international hotel brands.
The company’s expansion strategy focuses on partnering with established international brands including Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Radisson Hotel Group. These partnerships enable The First Group to offer guests access to global loyalty programs while maintaining operational excellence across diverse property types.
The planned openings of these properties between 2025 and 2027 will significantly increase The First Group’s operational footprint. The company has not disclosed specific timelines for all rebranded properties, though the Radisson RED Al Marjan Island is confirmed for 2027 completion.
