Nobu expands hotel business into Middle East

The group, which operates 23 restaurants around the world including two in London, announced its entry into the global hotel scene earlier this year, when it released details of its first hotel in Las Vegas.​

Nobu Hospitality has now also partnered with Middle Eastern investment and development firms to roll out its hotel concept in the region.

A spokesperson for the group in the UK could not confirm any plans to expand into hotels in this country.

Saudi Nobu​

In February this year, Nobu Hospitality partnered with the Saudi Arabian investment group Dhaliliyah to create the new company, Saudi Nobu.

The idea is for the joint venture to develop luxury Nobu hotels and restaurants within Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, with an initial target on Riyadh.

Nobu Hospitality this month also signed a non-binding letter of intent with Abu Dhabi-based Reem Investments for the operation and management of a Nobu Hotel, which will also include a Nobu restaurant, at Najmat, Reem Island, Abu Dhabi.

Meanwhile, the group is going ahead with plans for its 180-bedroom boutique hotel on the Las Vegas strip, which is being developed in conjunction with the casino resort Caesars Palace Las Vegas at its current Canturion Tower.

Nobu hotels​

The Nobu hotels will adopt a luxury style in line with the aesthetics of its restaurant chain.

The Abu Dhabi site will be located amongst the US$8bn Najmat development, will have waterfront views and access to a private beach.

The Las Vegas site will be the result of a multi-million dollar investment, featuring 16 suites plus a penthouse, and integrating a 9,500sqft Nobu restaurant and lounge at the base of the tower that will serve the Japanese cuisine of chef Nobu Matsuhisa.