Shamal Appoints ALEC FITOUT for Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Transformation

DUBAI, UAE – Shamal has appointed ALEC FITOUT as the main contractor for the first major phase of the transformation of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, accelerating the refurbishment of one of Dubai's most iconic beachfront luxury hotels.

The phased redevelopment is already underway and forms part of a broader enhancement programme aimed at redefining the guest experience while preserving the property's architectural heritage and cultural identity. Full completion of the initial phase is expected by early 2027, with selected areas of the resort remaining operational throughout the renovation.

Opened in 2011, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray was the first luxury resort on Palm Jumeirah, introducing an opulent, palace-inspired design that has become one of Dubai's most recognisable hospitality landmarks. Over the past 14 years, the resort has built a reputation for exceptional service and distinctive character.

The refurbishment will introduce a more contemporary interpretation of luxury while maintaining the craftsmanship, cultural richness and architectural identity that have long defined the property.

First Phase of a Wider Transformation

As part of the first phase, ALEC FITOUT, the region's leading fit-out specialist, will oversee the refurbishment of the resort's guest accommodation and food and beverage outlets.

The works include the renovation of 311 rooms, 58 suites and the hotel's dining venues, covering approximately 30,000 square metres.

Further enhancements across additional elements of the hotel are planned beyond the current refurbishment scope as part of Shamal's long-term vision to elevate the overall luxury guest experience.

Throughout the phased refurbishment, the Royal Villas and the award-winning Talise Spa will remain fully operational, while other selected areas of the hotel will continue welcoming guests.

The redesign aims to balance the property's historic identity with a lighter, more contemporary approach, placing greater emphasis on intuitive layouts, natural light and spaces that encourage wellbeing and social interaction.

Speaking about the transformation, Sudhin Siva, Chief Asset Management Officer at Shamal, said:

"Dubai welcomed a record 19.59 million 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. 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 programme 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."

Delivering the Next Chapter

ALEC FITOUT will deliver the refurbishment while ensuring minimal disruption to guests during the phased construction programme.

With extensive experience across the region's luxury hospitality sector, the contractor has been selected to carry out the transformation while maintaining the operational standards expected of one of Dubai's premier resorts.

Laurent Farge, General Manager of ALEC FITOUT, said:

"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."

The appointment of ALEC FITOUT marks the first significant construction phase in the transformation of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, reinforcing Shamal's long-term commitment to preserving one of Dubai's landmark hospitality destinations while adapting it to meet evolving luxury travel expectations.