Bateel International, a luxury retail, gourmet food and F&B brand, and InterContinental Al-Ahsa, part of the IHG Hotels and Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, have announced a partnership that will see the launch of the first Bateel Boutique and Café Bateel within the prestigious hotel in Saudi Arabia.
The partnership adds to Bateel International’s portfolio that spans 16 countries with more than 70 boutiques and cafés. Offering a welcoming and inspiring space centered around the hotel’s grand staircase, guests can indulge in an exquisite selection of gourmet dates, pastries, and premium coffee and tea. Additionally, guests can explore a range of gourmet products presented in luxurious packaging, perfect for gifting. The offerings include a unique range of Bateel’s date-based delicacies, from date syrup and date balsamic vinegar to olive dates, sparkling date drinks, and condiments.
Bateel’s foray into this dynamic environment of InterContinental Al-Ahsa is strategically aligned with evolving consumer preferences for premium hospitality experiences. Bilal El-Kurjie, director of business development, described the alignment between Bateel’s brand values and standards and IHG’s renowned luxury offerings, saying that the partnership sets new benchmarks in hospitality excellence while contributing to the Kingdom’s growth.
Mohammed Abdulrahman Al-Afaliq, CEO of AH Group of Companies, highlighted the thoughtful planning behind the boutique and café concepts, envisioning the hotel as a premier destination for discerning travelers. The new retail and dining venues are poised to attract a new generation of customers seeking modern culinary experiences and unique gifting experiences.
Walid Al-Haddad, general manager of InterContinental Al-Ahsa, underscored the hotel’s status in the market as a cultural and hospitality icon, which stands out for its historic and natural surroundings. The collaboration with Bateel International and the launch of the new outlets will enhance the guest experience, offering a blend of sophistication, he said.
Al-Ahsa, the largest oasis in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Situated within this sprawling oasis, near the Al-Qarah Cave, is the luxurious InterContinental Al-Ahsa.
Bateel enjoys an unparalleled legacy as one of the world’s leading organic date cultivators. An award-winning pioneer in the global food industry, the brand has elevated a revered fruit to a gourmet delicacy and created a luxury retail experience that launched an entirely new market for dates and confectioneries.
