Palladium Hotel Group has announced the launch of its first ultra-luxury hotel and branded residences outside Ibiza, located on Al Marjan island in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The project, called The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel and Residences, represents an investment exceeding $100 million and introduces the group’s new international brand identity as Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels & Residences.
Development Features and Location
The Al Marjan development will comprise 422 hotel rooms and residential units. The facility will offer a beach club, a restaurant, and an infinity pool with views over the Persian Gulf. Situated adjacent to Wynn Resort Island in Ras Al
Khaimah, the property is positioned in a prominent tourist and investment zone in the Middle East.
Partnership and Market Context
The project is a collaboration between Palladium Hotel Group and Almal Real Estate Development, a noted luxury developer in the region. Ras Al Khaimah and the Al Marjan island area are key destinations for tourism and investment in the Middle East. Palladium reported a turnover of 948 million euros, marking a 26% increase compared to pre-pandemic figures.
Brand Evolution and Timeline
The group is evolving its Ushuaïa brand to Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels & Residences, integrating the concept of branded residences into its portfolio. This rebranding will first be
implemented at the Ibiza property, with The Ushuaïa Tower set for renovation and reopening as The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel in 2025. The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel and Residences in Ras Al Khaimah is scheduled to open in 2026.
Official Statements
Palladium Hotel Group emphasized that this international debut under the Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels & Residences brand marks an extension of their hospitality and residential offerings. Dmytro Starovoitov, co-founder of Almal Real Estate Development, stated that their new development demonstrates a commitment to delivering “unmatched luxury and sophistication in hospitality and entertainment” and introduces an innovative hospitality concept to the UAE.
