JW Marriott Dubai to Cease Operations

Marriott has been trending in Dubai in last few months. Mostly, not in a positive way.

In July 2018, Marriott and Al Habtoor Group terminated their agreement. This meant St. Regis Dubai, W Dubai Habtoor City and The Westin Dubai Al Habtoor City ceased operations. Subsequently, these properties came under the Hilton umbrella.

Previously, Chef Atul Kochhar of Rang Mahal, was let go for making Islamophobic remarks. Rang Mahal – one of the best Indian restaurants in Dubai – continued to operate. Eventually, it was replaced by Masala Library – which I dare say, is the best Indian food I have had after Gaggan.

Today, Marriott announced that JW Marriott in Deira will cease operations from May.

It is important to make a distinction here. JW Marriott Deira is different from JW Marriott Marquis – which was the tallest hotel building in the world. The latter is located in Business Bay (Downtown district).

JW Marriott Dubai to Cease Operations

Marriott has not disclosed the reasons. A short statement said:

Marriott International has found it necessary to suspend operations at the JW Marriott Dubai in Deira due to circumstances beyond our control that have interfered with our ability to continue to operate the hotel.

The hotel will not be open for business as of midnight (GST) on Sunday, May 12, 2019. We are working closely with impacted associates, guests and business partners and taking steps to promote a smooth transition.

Some news outlets are speculating that there are some issues with investors who own the property. We should contrast this with Marriott’s earlier statement when St. Regis was closed:

[We wish] them all the very best in their future endeavours.

The parties are working closely together to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for associates, clients and partners

JW Marriott Deira was one of the oldest properties and a Category 4 hotel. The hotel was also home to some very nice restaurants. In particular, I would like to mention Hofbrauhaus, JW’s Steakhouse and The Market Place.

For the record, JW Marriott Deira is not accepting future bookings from today.

Marriott continues to have a large portfolio in UAE and a very strong pipeline.