Sustainable Stays: 5 Hotels Making a Difference in the Arab World
In today’s era of heightened environmental awareness, the hospitality industry has increasingly embraced sustainability as a core principle. Hotels across the Arab world are pioneering innovative approaches to minimize their environmental impact while offering unforgettable guest experiences.
Among these innovators stands the Marriott Hotel in Cairo, which recently received green certification for its sustainability efforts. Now, let’s have a closer look at the most sustainable hotels around the Arab world and why.
Marriott, Cairo
The hotel announced its recent achievement of the EarthCheck Silver certificate. This prestigious recognition, granted by a leading sustainability advisory group in the travel sector, acknowledges the hotel’s consistent dedication to sustainability.
The hotel’s recent achievement highlights its commitment to sustainability across operations, integrating practices in engineering, housekeeping, and kitchen management.
Their comprehensive sustainable policy prioritizes economic, quality, and safety standards while preserving local heritage sites.
In line with Marriott International’s Serve360 initiatives, the hotel has implemented refillable toiletry bottles and water conservation programs.
Collaborating with charities and local producers, it promotes sustainability in activities and gifts. The certification reflects its dedication to reducing environmental impact while respecting human rights and indigenous communities.
Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Established in March 1999, Al Maha luxury resort is nestled within vast dunes and sparse vegetation, earning recognition as Dubai’s oasis. The two-year construction resulted in interiors reflecting refined luxury and authentic Arabian style.
Al Maha is committed to sustainability. It implements various programs, such as recycling glass, plastic bottles, and cooking oils. It collaborates with DGrade to transform plastic into fabric. The resort, led by General Manager Arne Silvis, holds the Green-Key certification.
It also uses battery-operated golf buggies and diligently manages water and energy consumption to reduce its carbon footprint.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, Abu Dhabi
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara has taken significant steps towards sustainability. They replaced plastic water bottles with biodegradable ones made from corn, which decompose in just 80 days when disposed of in special bins.
Solar panels generate hot water for guest rooms and laundry, reducing conventional energy usage by up to 80%.
Additionally, the resort’s kitchens produce compost for an onsite vegetable garden, which supplies organic produce for their menu. All grey water is used for irrigation, while cardboard, oil, paper, and soap are recycled, aiming for zero waste.
Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman
Alila Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, a luxurious mountaintop retreat created by Omran, sits at an altitude of over 6,500 feet on Oman’s stunning cliffs. Emphasizing sustainability, the resort is committed to conserving historic architecture and safeguarding the natural environment.
Alila Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, located atop the Hajar mountains in Oman, boasts LEED Silver certification for its sustainable design and construction, making it the first property in Oman to achieve this.
The resort’s architecture, inspired by the region’s heritage, incorporates natural materials like Jabal Akhdar stone and wood, minimizing its environmental impact. Sustainable landscaping, water conservation efforts, and energy-saving measures further enhance its eco-friendly credentials.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability extends to its interior design, amenities, and culinary offerings, including a focus on locally sourced produce and an organic garden. With its dedication to minimizing waste and protecting the environment, Alila Jabal Al Akhdar sets a high standard for sustainable hospitality.
Jumeirah Al Naseem, Dubai
Jumeirah Al Naseem, nestled by the Arabian Gulf in Dubai, is a prime example of luxurious sustainability. Mixing modern style with eco-friendly practices gives guests a responsible and immersive stay.
With smart water-saving systems and a focus on local materials and renewable energy, every part of the hotel shows care for the environment. Guests enjoy top-notch comforts and stunning views while knowing their stay helps keep Dubai’s beauty intact.
Plus, the hotel hosts the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project, saving endangered turtles with a high-tech lagoon fed by Gulf water. It’s not just about luxury here; it’s about making a positive impact on nature, showing how hospitality and eco-friendliness go hand in hand.
As these exemplary hotels demonstrate, sustainability is not just a trend but a fundamental aspect of responsible hospitality.
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