UAE business group launches luxury resort in Europe

Budapest: Dubai-headquartered Al Habtoor Group announced Wednesday it has officially launched its ultra-luxury brand - Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, in Hungary. The grand opening at the hotel’s prime location in Erzsébet Tér marked a milestone in the group’s 55-year history and its expansion into the European markets. The launch event brought diplomatic dignitaries, business leaders, and hospitality experts together.

Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Founding Chairman of Al Habtoor Group, called the launch a significant step in the company’s global expansion. “This is not just a hotel opening—it’s the start of our hospitality brand’s journey into Europe and beyond,” he said. “We are committed to pioneering Arab excellence on the world stage.”

Nestled in one of Budapest’s most prestigious squares, the new hotel is set in an early 20th-century architectural masterpiece and combines European grandeur with Arabian opulence, the group said in a statement on Wednesday. The hotel boasts bespoke butler services, curated experiences, and world-class amenities.

Vice-Chairman and CEO Mohammed Al Habtoor said, “Al Habtoor Palace Budapest sets a new standard of hospitality, merging our Dubai-born heritage with Budapest’s historic charm.”

Al Habtoor Palace Budapest has joined the Preferred Hotels and Resorts Legend Collection, granting guests access to the ‘I Prefer Hotel Rewards’ programme for exclusive benefits across global properties.

Al Habtoor Group has invested in Hungary since 2012 and sees Budapest as a strategic location for the European expansion of its luxury brand. The company operates 14 hotels worldwide and plans further international growth, aiming to redefine ultra-luxury hospitality on a global scale.

The Al Habtoor Hospitality story began in 1979 with the launch of the Metropolitan Hotel in Dubai. Today, the group owns Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, and Dubai's iconic Al Habtoor City.