Alpha Dhabi Holding has acquired a 73.73% controlling stake in the National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels (NCTH), consolidating its luxury hospitality assets under the NCTH umbrella. The transaction, executed through transferring assets from Alpha Dhabi Hospitality Holding LLC (ADHH) and Murban Energy Limited in exchange for shares, strengthens Alpha Dhabi’s position in the domestic and international luxury hospitality sector.
The deal includes transferring four high-profile properties and expanding NCTH’s portfolio to eight hotels with nearly 1,500 keys. The transferred assets include:
- The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort (Abu Dhabi)
- Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa (Abu Dhabi)
- Cheval Blanc Randheli (Maldives)
- Cheval Blanc Seychelles
The transaction significantly enhances NCTH’s standing in the ultra-luxury hospitality market, complementing its existing properties such as InterContinental Abu Dhabi, InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi, Danat Al Ain Resort, Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, and Dhafra Beach Hotel.
By consolidating its hotel assets under NCTH, Alpha Dhabi aims to capitalise on the rising demand for luxury tourism in the UAE and key global markets. The hospitality sector remains a critical driver of economic diversification, supported by UAE’s Vision 2031 and long-term tourism initiatives.
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the UAE’s travel and tourism sector contributed Dh220 billion to GDP in 2024, accounting for 11.7% of the economy. The region is experiencing sustained growth in high-end tourism, with strong investor interest in luxury accommodations and experiential travel.
Market implications
Alpha Dhabi’s acquisition positions it as one of the UAE’s leading investors in hospitality and tourism. The move aligns with broader regional investment trends, with Gulf sovereign wealth funds and private investors increasing exposure to the hospitality sector.
According to Knight Frank Middle East, the UAE’s luxury hospitality market is projected to expand at an annual growth rate of 8.5% through 2028, driven by increased demand from high-net-worth travellers and long-term investors. The addition of Cheval Blanc Maldives and Seychelles strengthens NCTH’s global footprint in exclusive, ultra-luxury destinations, competing with major international hospitality groups.
By leveraging its growing hospitality portfolio, Alpha Dhabi and NCTH are positioned to capture emerging opportunities in tourism, lifestyle, and destination development, reinforcing the UAE’s status as a global leader in high-end travel and hospitality investments.
