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Unveiling Dubai's Hottest Hotel Openings in 2025

Explore the Luxurious Innovations Transforming Dubai's Skyline
Published: Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Unveiling Dubai's Hottest Hotel Openings in 2025

Explore the latest additions to Dubai's hospitality scene with a focus on new and upcoming hotel launches for 2025. The city boasts a diverse array of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to lavish resorts, providing numerous options for travelers.

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Experience the finest accommodations in the city at any time.

Vida Dubai Mall

Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Vida Dubai Mall is the newest landmark in the skyline, providing direct access to one of the largest shopping and entertainment hubs in the world. The hotel features 195 elegantly designed rooms and suites, alongside 620 serviced apartments ranging from one to four bedrooms.

Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, international dining options, and co-working spaces. Families will appreciate the Qix Kids Club and the outdoor splash pad, while complimentary bikes are available for those wishing to explore the surrounding area at their leisure.

Location: Downtown Dubai

Facilities: Swimming pool, fitness center, kids club, co-working space.

Mama Shelter Dubai

Mama Shelter, celebrated as the new hub for Millennials and Gen Z, has opened its doors in Dubai. Originating from Paris, this vibrant hotel features a unique and playful design by renowned designer Thierry Gaugain.

Guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere across its 197 rooms, complemented by various social and recreational spaces, including lounges, pools, photo booths, DJ areas, and sports courts for basketball and volleyball.

Additionally, there are screening rooms and coworking hubs available for residents. The rooms are well-furnished and equipped with smart home technology and fully integrated kitchens, alongside a range of à la carte hotel services and amenities.

Location: Business Bay.

Facilities: 197 rooms, swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, coworking space.

Delano Dubai

Nestled on Bluewaters Island, Delano Dubai is part of the esteemed international hotel chain brought to life by Ennismore, which also manages Banyan Tree Dubai on the same island. This luxurious establishment features 251 rooms, including 84 suites—some equipped with private pools.

Guests can enjoy an oceanfront swimming pool, exquisite dining options, and a range of top-tier amenities that embody five-star service.

Location: Bluewaters Island.
Facilities: 251 rooms and suites, oceanfront pool, beach club, and dining options like Miami's The Rose Bar.

FIVE LUXE

FIVE LUXE, the latest addition to Jumeirah Beach Residence, blends relaxed sophistication with vibrant entertainment. As the third property from FIVE Hotels and Resorts in Dubai, it continues the brand's tradition of fun and excitement. Visitors can choose from 222 rooms and suites—some featuring a DJ booth and dancefloor—or opt for one of the 276 residential apartments.

Dining experiences here are top-notch, with options like the Japanese restaurant Ronin, Mediterranean Cielo, and the French Tête A Tête. For a lively atmosphere, Playa Pacha offers a private beach and pool club, hosting international DJs to enhance the festive vibe.

Location: Jumeirah Beach Residence
Facilities: 222 rooms and suites, 276 residential apartments, expansive pools, beach club, spa, and seven diverse dining venues.

Situated along the picturesque Dubai Creek, the Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences is the inaugural property in the upcoming 'Jewel of the Creek' development.

This hotel features 180 rooms and suites, including studio apartments and spacious duplex penthouses with one to three bedrooms, all providing stunning views of both the contemporary and traditional landscapes of Dubai. Guests can enjoy a fully-equipped fitness center, a steam room, sauna, an indoor jacuzzi, and separate swimming pools for adults and children, along with an all-day dining restaurant.

Location: Deira.

Facilities: 180 rooms and suites, panoramic views, fitness center, dedicated adult and children's pools.

The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai

The Lana, a striking addition to the skyline, overlooks Marasi Bay Marina and offers breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa. This architectural gem boasts high-end dining experiences crafted by acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs, alongside a rooftop pool and lounge perfect for sunset views. With 225 luxurious rooms and suites, The Lana will also host the first Dior Spa in the UAE, set to launch in April 2024.

For those considering long-term stays, the residences provide access to landscaped terraces, infinity pools, a yoga studio, and a marina featuring 20 berths, complemented by a dedicated podium for retail and dining.

Location: Business Bay.

Facilities: 225 rooms and suites, first Dior Spa in the UAE (opening April 2024), infinity pool, yoga studio, and rooftop dining.

The Biltmore Hotel Villas

Located near the Mall of the Emirates, The Biltmore Hotel Villas promises the same luxury and hospitality as its century-old Los Angeles counterpart. This property includes 18 opulent three- and four-bedroom villas, ideal for families and groups, along with two expansive five-bedroom villas featuring spacious rooftop lounges for social gatherings.

The villas combine Emirati elegance with modern European design, each offering private pools, jacuzzis, cinema rooms, and smart home technology among other high-end amenities.

Location: Al Barsha 1.

Facilities: 20 villas, private pools, cinema rooms, and jacuzzis.

One Za’abeel

One Za’abeel is a striking addition to Dubai's skyline, featuring the world’s longest cantilever, known as The Link, connecting its two sleek towers. This vertical resort not only provides sophisticated accommodations but also boasts ultra-chic retail, entertainment, and dining options. Guests can enjoy the UAE’s longest infinity pool on the rooftop, which offers breathtaking views of both the historic and modern parts of Dubai.

The rooms are elegantly designed with neutral tones and soothing sand motifs, reflecting the meaning of ‘Za’abeel’ (which translates to ‘white sand’ in the local dialect).

Location: Trade Centre.
Facilities: 229 rooms, eight restaurants in The Link, three restaurants at The Garden, and the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool.

Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, Vignette Collection

Nestled along the western shores of Palm Jumeirah, Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort marks the debut of the Vignette Collection in the region and is IHG's first luxury beach resort in the UAE. The resort features vibrant interiors and 132 elegantly designed rooms that blend Arabian elegance with Art Deco influences and a Miami vibe. Guests can enjoy private beach access, infinity pools, a kids club, and various watersports activities.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 132 rooms, private beach access, infinity pools, kids club, and watersports activities.

Banyan Tree Dubai

Banyan Tree Dubai offers a luxurious beachfront experience, providing a perfect urban escape. Located where Caesars Palace Dubai once stood, this resort features a pristine 500-meter private beach and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It is conveniently situated near the lively Jumeirah Beach Residence and Dubai Marina, as well as the iconic Ain Dubai .

Location: Bluewaters Island.
Facilities: 178 rooms, 500m private beach, fitness center, and spa.

Vida Creek Beach

Sands out as a new luxury hotel nestled in Dubai Creek Harbour, complete with a scenic lagoon and an advanced wave system. This oasis offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city while remaining conveniently close to downtown attractions.

Guests can indulge in stunning waterside views, boat excursions, lush green spaces, and elegant dining. The hotel's common areas and 99 rooms showcase a harmonious blend of Art Deco and Modernism, highlighted by sleek arches, warm bronze tones, rich wood accents, and neutral decor.

Location: Dubai Creek Harbour.
Facilities: 99 rooms, picturesque lagoon with a wave system, co-working space, 24/7 fitness center, infinity pool with canal views, waterside vistas, boat tours, and elegant dining options.

The First Collection Waterfront

Marks the arrival of a homegrown hospitality brand in Business Bay, placing visitors at the heart of Dubai's upscale scene. This four-star lifestyle hotel features 327 rooms and suites, all offering private balconies with captivating canal views.

Guests can savor exceptional dining experiences, enjoy the pool and spa, and take advantage of convenient transportation to the Soluna Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah for a perfect day at the beach.

Location: Business Bay.
Facilities: 327 rooms and suites, private balconies with canal views, onsite dining options, pool, spa, and private transportation to Soluna Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah.

SO/ Uptown Dubai

Adds a touch of avant-garde elegance to the city with its 188 rooms and suites, along with 227 residences in a striking 'diamond-cut' supertower. This urban resort seamlessly blends fashion and design, featuring luxurious wood and marble interiors adorned with gold accents and rich fabrics.

Guests can expect all the five-star amenities, including exquisite dining options, a rejuvenating spa, a pool, and a fitness center. For a memorable experience, an elevated dining and entertainment venue, Celeste, is set to open soon.

Location: Near Jumeirah Islands.
Facilities: 188 rooms and suites, 227 residences, spa, pool, fitness center, and upscale dining options, with an upcoming entertainment venue called Celeste.

Atlantis The Royal Dubai

The latest gem on Palm Jumeirah, made a grand debut in early 2023. Known as Dubai’s largest hotel, it rises 185 meters above sea level and boasts 800 guest rooms, 250 luxury residences, and an impressive 90 swimming pools.

With 11 exquisite restaurants led by renowned chefs, guests can enjoy extraordinary culinary experiences. A highlight is the Sky Bridge, which connects the rooms and features a breathtaking rooftop infinity pool suspended high above the island.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 800 guest rooms, 250 luxury residences, 90 swimming pools, 11 restaurants led by renowned chefs, and a Sky Bridge featuring a rooftop infinity pool 96 meters above the ground.

NH Dubai The Palm

The first NH Hotels property in the Middle East has opened its doors on the main trunk of Palm Jumeirah. Boasting 227 rooms and suites, as well as 306 serviced apartments, the hotel offers an array of amenities, including a sports bar, rooftop lounge, and a dedicated kids club.

Situated just a stone's throw from top attractions like Palm West Beach, NH Dubai The Palm provides an ideal base for tourists.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 227 rooms and suites, 306 serviced apartments, sports bar, rooftop lounge, kids club. Close to attractions like Palm West Beach.

Address Grand Creek Harbour

Adding to Dubai's growing hospitality offerings, Address Grand Creek Harbour is the first five-star hotel in Dubai Creek Harbour. With 223 rooms and suites featuring tasteful design and unparalleled comfort, the hotel also offers stunning skyline panoramas, including views of the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Guests can take advantage of the property's infinity pool, which provides a serene respite from the city's bustle.

Location: Dubai Creek Harbour.
Facilities: 223 rooms and suites, infinity pool with views of Burj Khalifa and skyline, elegant design and comfort.

Voco Dubai The Palm

Opened in early 2023 on Palm West Beach, Voco Dubai The Palm features 143 rooms and suites, a fully-equipped gym, and a luxury spa. The hotel's dining options include Maison Mathis and Frenia, serving modern European cuisine, as well as a poolside rooftop lounge offering Mediterranean favorites.

Voco Dubai The Palm is the latest addition to IHG Hotel group's portfolio in the city, complementing the flourishing dining and entertainment options along Palm West Beach.

Location: Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 143 rooms and suites, fully-equipped gym, luxury spa, dining options including Maison Mathis and Frenia, poolside rooftop lounge. Close to popular dining spots like Koko Bay and February 30.

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah

Stands out as the Marriott group’s inaugural UAE resort, offering breathtaking beachfront views on the iconic Palm Jumeirah island. This expansive property features over 600 rooms, each equipped with balconies, and many interconnected to cater to families.

While children can engage in a variety of activities designed just for them, adults can indulge in the vibrant dining scene along Palm West Beach, which includes the Italian restaurant Cucina, Mediterranean-inspired Levantera, and the lively Mexican venue Señor Pico.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: Over 600 rooms and suites, all with balconies (many interconnected), dedicated kids' activities, and proximity to beachfront dining options along Palm West Beach. The resort features several dining venues, including the Italian restaurant Cucina, Mediterranean-inspired Levantera, and the lively Mexican venue Señor Pico.

Côte d’Azur

Is another exciting addition, located on The Heart of Europe development within The World Islands. Accessible via a 20-minute boat ride from Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, this resort captures the essence of the French Riviera.

Comprising four distinct properties—Monaco, Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez—each featuring vibrant exteriors painted in 60 hues, Côte d’Azur offers a total of 880 rooms and suites, alongside a unique raining street and a 24-hour pool with music.

Location: Heart of Europe, The World Islands.
Facilities: A total of 880 rooms across four properties (Monaco, Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez), each showcasing vibrant paintwork in 60 hues. Amenities include a unique raining street and a 24-hour pool with music, providing a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of the French Riviera.

Radisson Beach Resort Palm Jumeirah

Which opened late in 2022, offers 389 rooms with spectacular views of Dubai Marina. This four-star resort includes a stunning swimming pool with panoramic city vistas, a comprehensive all-day dining restaurant, and options for light snacks by the pool or in the lobby. Additionally, guests can take advantage of a modern fitness center and a luxurious spa.

Location: Palm Jumeirah.
Facilities: 389 rooms and suites with stunning views of Dubai Marina, a swimming pool offering panoramic city vistas, an all-day dining restaurant, light snack options by the pool, and a lobby snack bar. Guests can also access a state-of-the-art fitness center and a luxurious spa.

With these incredible options, Dubai is set to welcome a new era of hospitality in 2025, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and luxury.

Phu Quoc Sets Sights on 7 Million Visitors in 2025

Published: Saturday, August 30, 2025
Phu Quoc Sets Sights on 7 Million Visitors in 2025

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island and a top holiday destination, is on track to exceed all expectations by welcoming more than 7 million tourists this year. According to Bui Quoc Thai, Director of the provincial Department of Tourism, the island has already attracted over 6 million visitors in the first eight months of 2025 — accounting for nearly 83% of its annual target. Notably, more than 1 million of these travelers were international tourists, signaling a strong comeback in overseas arrivals.

The surge in visitor numbers has translated into impressive economic benefits. Tourism revenues have soared to nearly VND28.3 trillion (approximately US$1.07 billion), surpassing the year-end goal by over 20%. This rapid growth reflects Phu Quoc’s rising appeal as a premier destination, thanks in large part to its modern infrastructure, including the Phu Quoc International Airport and a network of high-speed vessels, which provide seamless connectivity for travelers.

Visitors are also drawn to the island’s luxury accommodations and entertainment options. Phu Quoc boasts a diverse range of four- and five-star resorts, world-class entertainment complexes, and tailored tourism products that cater to various interests and preferences. These offerings ensure memorable and unique experiences that keep tourists coming back.

The island’s tourism momentum is further fueled by preparations for the upcoming APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in 2027. This high-profile event has accelerated infrastructure development, heightening Phu Quoc’s capacity to host international guests and boosting its global profile.

With the National Day holiday approaching, local officials anticipate a new wave of visitors eager to explore Phu Quoc’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultural festivities, and an abundance of entertainment. Numerous travel agencies are offering attractive promotions, ensuring an exciting season ahead.

International arrivals are notably increasing from key markets such as India, South Korea, Russia, and Europe. Meanwhile, an emerging segment of Muslim travelers from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East is creating fresh opportunities. Tour operators at the World Islamic Tourism Trade Expo (WITEX 2025) in Malaysia highlighted Phu Quoc’s potential to become a preferred destination for this fast-growing market, provided the island continues to enhance its services.

Phu Quoc’s growing prestige is reflected in recent accolades from leading travel publications. It ranked third on Travel + Leisure’s list of the 10 best islands in the Asia-Pacific region in 2025, trailing only Bali and Koh Samui. Last year, it was voted the world’s second most beautiful island by Travel + Leisure readers, following the Maldives.

With world-class amenities, expanding international appeal, and strategic development, Phu Quoc is poised to solidify its status as one of Asia’s most captivating island destinations in the months and years to come.

Oman’s Tourism Sector Shines Bright: Hotel Revenues Surge 18% Amid 1.14 Million Visitors in H1 2025

Published: Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Oman’s Tourism Sector Shines Bright: Hotel Revenues Surge 18% Amid 1.14 Million Visitors in H1 2025

Oman's tourism sector showed remarkable growth in the first half of 2025, with hotel revenues climbing 18% alongside a significant rise in tourist arrivals, which reached 1.14 million. This surge is a clear sign of the country's strengthening position as a key destination in the Middle East, resulting from sustained investments in tourism infrastructure, strategic marketing, and enhanced global connectivity.

The three to five-star hotel segment alone generated OMR 141.21 million (about US$367 million) in revenues, marking an 18.2% increase compared to the previous year. Industry insiders credit this growth to multiple factors such as expanded airport capacity and new flight routes, development of luxury resorts and cultural sites, and targeted marketing campaigns aimed at both leisure and business travelers. Strategic partnerships, including Oman Air’s collaboration with TUI to launch a digital booking platform, have further boosted Oman’s visibility on the global stage.

This upward trend supports Oman’s Vision 2040 plan, which focuses on diversifying the economy by reducing dependence on oil revenues through sustainable tourism development and job creation. The government has committed US$31 billion to tourism development through 2040, with nearly US$6 billion earmarked for new resorts and projects. Currently, Oman boasts renowned luxury hotels such as the Mandarin Oriental Muscat and St Regis Al Mouj, with more than 40 new hotels in the pipeline.

Officials are optimistic that tourism momentum will continue into the latter half of 2025, fueled by upcoming events, festivals, and a growing number of tourism projects nearing completion. These developments will not only benefit the hospitality sector but will also positively impact related industries including transportation, food and beverage, and cultural enterprises, thereby broadening economic diversification.

Oman aims to nearly double its international tourist arrivals to 6 million annually by 2030 and reach 12 million by 2040, reflecting its ambitions to become a premier sustainable tourism destination. This growth trajectory aligns with forecasts that project tourism’s contribution to the national GDP and job creation to keep rising steadily in the coming decade, signaling a robust future for Oman’s tourism industry.

The vibrant surge in tourism highlights Oman’s appeal as a destination rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern luxury, well-supported by government commitment and industry collaboration to sustain and scale this growth efficiently and inclusively.

Khareef Dhofar Tourism Up 7% as Visitor Numbers Climb

Published: Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Khareef Dhofar Tourism Up 7% as Visitor Numbers Climb

Salalah’s famed Khareef season the enchanting monsoon spectacle that transforms Dhofar into a lush paradise has once again captured the hearts of visitors from near and far, marking an exciting milestone for Oman’s tourism sector this year.

According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), the Khareef Dhofar Season from June 21 to July 31, 2025, drew approximately 442,100 visitors, reflecting a notable 7% increase over the 2024 season’s 413,122 visitors. This surge signals the continuing allure of Dhofar’s unique climate and vibrant cultural offerings during the Khareef months.

A standout in this year’s visitor statistics is the dramatic rise in domestic tourism. Omani visitors to Dhofar increased by an impressive 75.6%, reaching 334,399, a clear testament to growing national enthusiasm for exploring Oman’s natural and cultural gems. Visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries numbered 69,801, while tourists from other international destinations accounted for nearly 38,000.

The majority of guests arrived by land about 334,846 visitors reflecting Dhofar’s accessibility and appeal for road travelers. Air arrivals also saw an uptick, with 107,254 visitors arriving by plane, marking a 10.9% increase compared to last year. Notably, 95.3% of arrivals were concentrated in July alone, highlighting the peak season’s magnetic pull.

This growth in visitor numbers represents more than statistics; it is a signal of opportunity and momentum for Dhofar’s burgeoning tourism economy. Local businesses in hospitality, retail, and transport sectors can expect expanding demand. The region’s ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure including viewpoints, waterfronts, parks, and cultural sites are paying dividends by enhancing the visitor experience and drawing a diversified visitor base.

Dhofar Municipality is promising an unforgettable Khareef season with a spectacular line-up of events and attractions carefully curated to celebrate Omani culture and entertain visitors of all ages. This year’s program features the world’s largest inflatable amusement park and a state-of-the-art main stage equipped with cutting-edge audio-visual technology. Visitors can enjoy eco-friendly fireworks, daily drone shows, folklore performances from 18 countries, and vibrant markets showcasing Omani entrepreneurs and artisans.

The Khareef season also celebrates heritage and wellness with projects such as "Awda" (The Return), a live re-creation of traditional Omani life, alongside parks dedicated to creative learning and sports activities. Beyond Salalah city, events and markets spread across Taqah, Mirbat, Sadah, and the Al Haffa Beach Market further enrich the seasonal experience.

As Khareef continues to shine as a beacon of natural beauty and cultural pride, the 7% growth in visitors in 2025 alongside a surge in domestic tourists confirms Dhofar's rising status as a premier destination in Oman and the Gulf region. With sustained support from government bodies and private stakeholders, the coming years promise even more innovation, inclusivity, and prosperity for the Khareef Dhofar experience.

From the emerald hills to bustling souqs and lively festivals, Khareef Dhofar 2025 invites everyone to witness the magic of monsoon in Oman’s southwestern gem—and to be part of a story that is still unfolding.

Turkish Tourist Arrivals Surge on Greece’s Lesbos Island

Published: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Turkish Tourist Arrivals Surge on Greece’s Lesbos Island

This summer, the picturesque village of Skala Sikamineas on the northeast coast of Lesbos is witnessing a vibrant influx of well-heeled tourists from the Turkish coast across the Aegean Sea. The two acclaimed fish restaurants lining the coast are bustling, filled predominantly with Turkish-speaking diners, including families from Izmir, groups arriving from Ayvalik via a new catamaran connection, and young couples from Istanbul soaking in the island's charm.

Among them are first-time visitors Isin and her boyfriend, who arrived by ferry from Dikili and quickly fell in love with Lesbos’ beaches and taverns, already planning a return next summer. The short crossing under an hour with tickets costing just €35, combined with eight daily ferry trips in the summer season from Dikili to Mytilene, Lesbos’ capital, makes the island an accessible and attractive getaway for Turkish tourists seeking a relaxed atmosphere.

On the Greek side, Turkish visitors find a welcoming environment where they can enjoy local specialties like ouzo, the aniseed schnapps, and relax openly—Turkish women sunbathe comfortably in bikinis, and social mingling happens naturally. Restaurateurs like Takis, operating a tavern in Gera Bay, praise Turkish visitors as appreciative, friendly, and relaxed, often representing the Turkish middle class looking for tranquil retreats. Unlike many Greek islands that have become prohibitively expensive, Lesbos remains affordable compared to Turkish Aegean destinations such as Bozcaada, Bodrum, or Assos.

Tourism is not just boosting local economies; it also serves as a bridge easing historical tensions between Greece and Turkey. Since the 19th-century conflicts and the Greco-Turkish War ending in 1922, relations have softened somewhat, particularly through growing cross-border tourism. In this vein, the deputy mayor of Mytilene, Nikos Giannakas, warmly welcomed the Turkish mayor of Balikesir, Ahmet Akin, and 150 tourists arriving via the new Mytilene-Ayvalik catamaran route now the eighth between these cities, enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Despite continuing political frictions such as maritime border disputes, airspace disagreements, and recent tensions around marine park creations in the Aegean—these issues remain largely distant from the holiday experiences of Turkish tourists on Lesbos. For visitors like Isin and countless others, the beauty and hospitality of the island overshadow any geopolitical rumblings, highlighting how tourism fosters goodwill and cross-cultural understanding amid complex diplomatic landscapes.

This summer, Lesbos is not only a tranquil sanctuary for vacationers but also a living example of how shared human experiences can nurture peaceful connections across the historically often tense Aegean Sea.

South Korea to Grant Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Tourists Starting Late September

Published: Sunday, August 10, 2025
South Korea to Grant Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Tourists Starting Late September

Hyundai Department Store’s shares surged 7.1% recently, buoyed by strong second-quarter business results that exceeded market expectations. For Q2 2025, the company reported consolidated operating profit of 86.9 billion won, marking a 102.8% increase year-on-year, and consolidated sales rose 5.5% to 1.803 trillion won. Notably, net profit returned to a surplus of 54.5 billion won during this period.

However, it is worth noting that sales and operating profit in Hyundai's core department store business declined slightly in Q2, with sales falling 3.6% to 590.1 billion won and operating profit down 2.3% to 69.3 billion won. This was attributed partly to reduced operating area due to major store renovations and renewal activities. On the other hand, their subsidiaries showed robust performance: duty-free stores grew sales by 22% while reducing operating losses, and Zinus, an online furniture company under Hyundai, posted an 11.2% sales increase and turned an operating profit of 29.1 billion won.

Hyundai Department Store has also been proactive with shareholder returns, declaring an interim cash dividend of 500 won per common share, reflecting a market dividend rate of 0.7% and total dividend payments of 10.78 billion won.

In response to evolving market trends and consumer behavior, Hyundai is focusing heavily on store renovations and leveraging technology. It launched “Heydi,” an AI shopping assistant for personalized in-store experiences, combining offline retail with generative AI-powered services to attract and engage customers, aiming to set a new shopping concept standard in Korea.

Despite the department store segment’s challenges, Hyundai Department Store's overall financial health and strategic initiatives are generating renewed investor confidence, positioning the company well for stronger performance in the second half of 2025 amid improving domestic consumption trends.

This comprehensive growth across core and subsidiary operations, alongside innovative customer engagement efforts, underpins the recent stock price surge and optimistic outlook for Hyundai Department Store moving forward.