IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced a significant expansion in Dubai with the signing of a franchise agreement for the second Vignette Collection hotel.
This new partnership with The Heart of Europe, a project by the Kleindienst Group, is set to bring the Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai, to life in January 2026.
The Vignette Collection, known for allowing independent hotels to maintain their unique identities while leveraging IHG’s extensive network, is a perfect match for the Marbella Resort Hotel’s distinctive Andalusian-inspired design and contemporary architecture. This new property will be a part of The Heart of Europe, an ambitious development featuring six islands that offer a blend of European architectural elegance and first-class hospitality.
The Heart of Europe is poised to redefine luxury with its climate-controlled streets, underwater living experiences, and a coral institute aimed at marine preservation. The Marbella Resort Hotel will contribute to this vision with its 150 rooms offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, situated along a stretch of immaculate beach and clear waters.
Haitham Mattar, IHG’s Managing Director for India, Middle East, and Africa, expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that the Marbella Resort Hotel will elevate luxury hospitality and provide exceptional guest experiences. This development is a testament to IHG’s dedication to innovation and excellence in the hospitality industry.
The resort is currently under construction and is expected to become a landmark in IHG’s portfolio, showcasing the company’s commitment to creating memorable experiences and setting new luxury standards in the Middle East.
Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group, shared his pride in the collaboration with IHG, emphasizing that the Marbella Resort Hotel will offer a unique experience that captures the cultural richness of Dubai and the UAE’s natural beauty.
With this new addition, IHG continues to grow its presence in the Middle East, where it currently operates 108 hotels across eight brands. The Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai, is set to become a beacon of innovation and luxury in one of the world’s most iconic cities.
