Ascott to debut Crest Collection in UAE

Al Mahra Resort to open on Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah in 2027

Singapore-based hospitality developer The Ascott Limited will open Al Mahra Resort by The Crest Collection on Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), marking the brand’s first foray in the UAE.

Due to open in the first quarter of 2027, the resort will have 539 rooms and suites, a range of dining options, a swimming pool, water sports, a fitness centre and meeting rooms.

“The Al Mahra Resort on Marjan Island is set to offer travellers immersive experiences that reflect the rich history and culture of the destination,” said Vincent Miccolis, Managing Director for The Ascott Limited in the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye.

Ascott, who will partner with UAE-based owners FAM Holding, has a portfolio of 40 properties and 5,800 rooms in operation or development in the region.

The RAK announcement follows Ascott signing a deal in February 2025 to take The Crest Collection to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, with that property due to open in 2028.

Al Mahra Resort is the latest addition to RAK’s booming hospitality sector, and especially on Marjan Island, which is gearing up to the opening of the region’s first casino, Wynn Resort.

Wynn Al Marjan Island

Other properties opening in the destination include Nobu Hotel, Restaurant and Residences Al Marjan Island, which will include a spa and fitness facility, pools and a Nobu beach club.

Recent openings include the 441-key Rove Al Marjan Island, with the lifestyle brand offering an outdoor cinema, pool and private beachfront.

According to Stirling Hospitality Advisors in its fourth edition of the RAK Investment Pulse report, hotel inventory in the emirate is expected to more than double by 2027, with 7,537 rooms being added to the existing 7,144. More than 70% of that pipeline is within the five-star category, positioning RAK squarely at the luxury market.

Last year saw a record 1.28 million overnight arrivals in RAK, generating a 12% growth in tourism revenues compared to 2023.

For more information, visit www.discoverasr.com/the-ascott-limited

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