Middle East hotel developers are overhauling design and operational standards to comply with tightening environmental regulations and investor mandates. From Ras Al Khaimah’s coastal resorts to Dubai’s high-rise construction, the region’s hospitality sector is pivoting toward energy efficiency and waste reduction to maintain market competitiveness.
Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
This relatively new resort has positioned sustainability as a core operational pillar, earning regional recognition for its environmental leadership. It operates under Accor’s Planet 21 framework, embedding sustainability into daily hotel operations rather than treating it as a side initiative. Has significantly reduced single-use plastics while improving water and energy efficiency across guest and back-of-house areas.
Actively involves guests through visible sustainability practices, helping translate behind-the-scenes efforts into tangible experiences. Its approach has been acknowledged through regional sustainability awards, reinforcing its credibility as a benchmark property.
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman
A high-altitude resort that integrates environmental responsibility with cultural and community preservation.
It achieved Green Growth 2050 certification, reflecting compliance with national sustainability standards in Oman. Sustainability efforts extend beyond infrastructure to include local sourcing, cultural festivals, and heritage-led experiences that minimise waste and support the surrounding community.
Operational initiatives include recycling systems, EV charging, energy-efficient lighting, motion sensors, and selective solar use. Strong emphasis on social sustainability through local employment and community environmental programmes.
FIVE Hotels & Resorts, Dubai, UAE
A newer hospitality brand proving that lifestyle-driven luxury can coexist with ambitious climate goals. Properties operate on 100% renewable electricity, supported through certified clean energy sources. Multiple hotels within the portfolio have achieved LEED Platinum certification, highlighting strong performance in energy, water, and materials efficiency.
Sustainability is positioned as a brand-wide strategy rather than property-specific, aligning environmental targets with business growth and guest expectations.Demonstrates how large-scale urban hotels can actively contribute to decarbonisation efforts.
Rove Hotels, UAE (Multiple Locations)
A modern, mid-scale hotel brand showing that sustainability isn’t limited to luxury resorts. Focuses on operational efficiency, including energy reduction, recycling, and food waste management across all properties. Introduced plant-forward food concepts through strategic partnerships, lowering the environmental impact of F&B operations.
Embeds sustainability into its brand identity, making responsible travel more accessible to younger and budget-conscious guests. Serves as an example of how sustainability can scale across multiple locations without compromising affordability.
Ciel Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE
A next-generation hotel designed with sustainability integrated at the construction and planning stage. Incorporates water harvesting systems, energy-efficient building technologies, and green roofing to reduce environmental impact in a dense urban setting. Sustainability considerations were embedded from the outset, avoiding the need for later retrofits.
The design supports urban biodiversity while lowering operational resource consumption. Positions itself as a future-focused model for sustainable high-rise hospitality in the region.
Sustainable practices are no longer limited to niche or luxury segments in Middle Eastern hospitality. From large urban hotels to mid-scale brands, operators are finding practical ways to reduce environmental impact while enhancing brand value and operational efficiency. As hotel development continues across the region, sustainability is set to become a standard component of competitive hospitality strategy.
