Hyatt Category Changes and Impact on Middle-East

World of Hyatt is one of the few hotel loyalty programs that continues to reward you on basis of stays rather than spends. In fact, Hyatt is running a spring promotion where you can get up to 70% cash back for stays in Dubai. You can find out more here (link).

In February, Hyatt announced a major shake-up to its hotel categories. A staggering 259 hotels change category – either higher or lower. This is more than one-third of Hyatt’s total portfolio!

Changes to World of Hyatt

Of the 259 hotels, 130 hotels moving up one category and 129 moving down one category. Apparently, the category changes reflect prevailing market conditions. This is corporate speak to say that hotels where the World of Hyatt program is paying disproportionately more to the property-owners have been bumped up.

These changes kick-in for bookings made after 8:00am Gulf time on March 19, 2019. So if you are looking to book at hotel which is moving up a category, hurry up!

In addition to this rearrangement, World of Hyatt has also introduced a Category 8 redemption. This category is for the newly acquired SLH hotels (so far) and can be redeemed at 40,000 points per night.

Hotels Impacted in Middle East

Here is a complete list of hotels impacted in the Middle East. I have also included Armenia and Azerbaijan in this.

While 11 hotels will move down a category, only 2 hotels will be moving up.

There are some very sweet redemption opportunities here:

Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

A beautiful resort located by the Red Sea. This is especially great for quiet family vacations.

While the resort is inexpensive (nightly rates go for $120+ in the peak season), the category change make it even more attractive. You could get a value of 2.4 cents per point on this property. Earlier, it was 1.5 cents. Moreover, being a Category 1 property, even those travelers with low points balance will be able to redeem.

Grand Hyatt Amman, Jordan

The hotel is located in the heart of Amman and has some great views of the city. Typically, room rates are $200+ per night. With this hotel moving to Category 2, you can book it for 8,000 points per night. This gives you a great value of 2.5 cents per point.

Conclusion

The changes are positive for those looking to stay at Hyatt properties in Middle East. Out of 13 hotels changing categories, only 2 are becoming more expensive to redeem.