ALEC FITOUT appointed as main contractor for renovation works on Zabeel Saray
The first major phase of the transformation of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, covers the renovation of rooms, suites, and food and beverage outlets
Shamal has appointed ALEC FITOUT as the main contractor for the first major phase of the transformation of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, covering the renovation of rooms, suites, and food and beverage outlets.
Further enhancements across additional elements of the hotel experience are planned beyond this initial refurbishment scope, all in service of Shamal’s broader vision to elevate the luxury guest experience. With works already underway, full completion of this phase is expected by early 2027, said a statement.
For over a decade, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray has stood apart in Dubai’s competitive hospitality scene, not simply for its scale, but for the depth and distinctiveness of its identity. Its richly crafted, imperial design, drawing on the artistry and grandeur of a golden imperial age, delivers an experience that is genuinely unique in the city: the intricate craftsmanship, the sense of arrival that only a property of this character can provide. This full-scale refurbishment honours this legacy while transitioning towards a more layered and contemporary vision of luxury, balancing heritage-inspired details with lighter, more open spaces that foster connection, ease and a stronger sense of place, it added.
“Dubai welcomed a record 19.59m international visitors in 2025, and with more than 4,600 new luxury and upscale keys entering the market this year, guest expectations have never been higher. In this environment, success depends on how established icons evolve. Jumeirah Zabeel Saray has the advantage of legacy with a depth of character and cultural richness that cannot be replicated. Our ambition is not simply to renovate, but to create a more contemporary, immersive resort experience that resonates emotionally with guests while remaining true to the resort’s identity and heritage,” said Sudhin Siva, Chief Asset Management Officer, Shamal.
Siva added, “This transformation is our commitment to preserving that distinction while elevating the experience for today’s customers, delivered in phases to ensure the highest standards at every stage. The ALEC FITOUT contract marks the first major phase of a broader program of enhancements across the hotel, reflecting Shamal’s vision to fully elevate the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray luxury guest experience. ALEC FITOUT’s expertise ensures we can do so with the quality and precision this project demands.”
Under its appointment, ALEC FITOUT will lead the refurbishment of 311 rooms and 58 suites with bespoke interiors, alongside the hotel’s food and beverage outlets, covering approximately 30,000sqm. It marks a new chapter of intentional design that honours the property’s storied, opulent heritage while embracing modern luxury, with greater emphasis on intuitive flow, light and experiences that support both wellbeing and togetherness, the statement outlined.
With its extensive track record in luxury hospitality, the firm is uniquely positioned to deliver this work with minimal disruption to guests, as certain areas remain operational throughout the phased refurbishment. The Royal Villas and the Talise Spa remain fully open throughout, it added.
“We are proud to be entrusted by Shamal with the refurbishment of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, a property that holds a special place in Dubai’s hotel landscape. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to quality and innovation, and we look forward to delivering a project that not only enhances the guest experience but also bolsters Dubai’s position as the region’s leading tourism hub. We are excited to embark on this journey and to develop a strong, long-term relationship with Shamal and H&H,” said Laurent Farge, General Manager of ALEC FITOUT.
