Dubai: Majid Al Futtaim and Marriott International on Thursday announced plans to launch the region’s first cinema-themed hotel concept, which will feature cinematic-themed rooms and an outdoor VOX cinema.

A statement from the Dubai-based owner and operator of shopping malls said the concept will be launched at the Aloft Dubai City Centre Deira, which is currently under construction and is owned by Majid Al Futtaim and to be operated by Marriott.

The 304-room hotel will feature 25 cinematic-themed rooms as well as an outdoor VOX Cinema. The themed room will feature a collection of films, TV screens, projectors and enhanced sound systems, offering guests a cinema experience.

The hotel will include four themed suites inspired by blockbuster movies from superheroes to Bollywood, and aims to meet growing demand for experiential travel. The hotel also aims to cater to the rising demand for mid-market hospitality offerings in Dubai.

Second phase

Construction work at the Aloft Dubai City Center Deira currently stands at 38 per cent completion. The second phase of the development is due to begin in June 2017, with the hotel expected to open in the first quarter of 2018.

“Connected to the iconic City Center Debra, our latest hotel property with its themed cinema concept is designed to bring a vibrant new ambiance and experience for diners and travelers alike, delivering on the increasing demand for experiential travel and leisure,” Robert Welanetz, chief executive officer of Maj id Al Futurism Properties, said in a statement.

According to reports from data provider STR Global, hotel occupancy rates in Dubai averaged 86 per cent in the first two months of 2017, with the mid-market segment reporting a 7.2 per cent year-on-year growth in room uptake.

Average room rates, however, have been on the decline, falling around 10 per cent in March 2019 as an increase in hotel supply pressures hoteliers.