BREAKING GROUND

Having just opened one of the world’s most luxurious new hotels, Philippe Zuber, CEO of Kerzner International, is now launching two new brands to the market. As the Middle East continues to redefine the standards of luxury hospitality, he’s keeping exclusivity in mind while looking to expand

It was a comfortably warm winter night in Dubai. Over 1,500 celebrities, VIPs, and media were gathered around a vast fountain shooting fire and water into the air in the grounds of the emirate’s newest ultra-luxury hotel, all focused in one direction as from the depths of an immense stage in front of a full orchestra Beyoncé emerged bathed in golden yellow. “At last…” she began, and the crowd went wild. The choice of opening song—an Etta James classic—was poignant. In January 2023, after nearly seven years of construction and endless months of speculation, Atlantis The Royal had finally been revealed to the world.

Among those enjoying the show was Philippe Zuber, CEO of Kerzner International, which owns and operates the Atlantis brand. While the grand reveal was spectacular for the guests, for the team behind it, the event was the culmination of a long and intense journey. “It was actually very stressful,” laughs Zuber. “It was only when the fireworks were over we said, wow, that’s done. We were so happy. I have to give credit to the team. It’s a blessing to be surrounded by so much talent.” The work paid off, with the grand reveal generating more than 44 billion online impressions worldwide within three months, according to the CEO.