Celebrating New Horizons: Mike Hoque’s HOTEL LOCAL in Dubai
Mike Hoque, the founder and CEO of Hoque Global, has made a significant entrance into the hospitality industry with the grand opening of his first hotel, HOTEL LOCAL, in Dubai, UAE. This momentous event took place amid considerable fanfare, signaling a new chapter not just for Hoque but for the evolving landscape of the Dubai hotel scene.
A Community-Centric Vision
HOTEL LOCAL is designed to be more than just a hotel; it’s envisioned as a community-oriented hub nestled in Dubai’s vibrant Jumeirah Village Triangle. Hoque’s passion for creating spaces that resonate with the community is evident in how HOTEL LOCAL caters to residents, tourists, and business travelers alike.
Impressive Facilities and Features
The hotel stands tall at 33 stories, housing an impressive 579 guest rooms. Among its many amenities, guests can indulge in a farm-to-table dining experience at the on-site restaurant, Farmers Commons, which emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. A separate coffee shop/bar named Neighborhood Brew creates a relaxed atmosphere for guests to unwind, with freshly brewed coffee by day and craft beers by night.
For those looking to relax, the rooftop pool and wellness center offer a tranquil escape, while the fully equipped gym caters to health-conscious travelers. The meticulously designed spaces aim to create an ambiance that captivates the essence of Dubai.
Joining the Marriott Autograph Collection
As part of its grand opening celebration on April 17, it was announced that HOTEL LOCAL will soon join the esteemed Marriott Autograph Collection. This prestigious membership is reserved for hotels that exhibit a unique character and upscale accommodations—qualities that HOTEL LOCAL proudly embodies.
Strong Partnerships in Hospitality
The management of HOTEL LOCAL will be overseen by The First Group Hospitality, a well-known name in the Dubai hospitality sector. With ten existing properties in its portfolio, including the upcoming 82-story Ciel Dubai Marina—set to become the world’s tallest hotel—The First Group is poised for significant growth. Their innovative approach to hospitality aligns beautifully with Hoque’s vision.
A Commitment to Community and Education
Mike Hoque emphasizes that HOTEL LOCAL represents a deeper commitment to the community, stating, “It’s about creating spaces that extend the neighborhoods they serve.” The hotel is not just a place for lodging; it incorporates educational programming aimed at empowering local residents and enhancing their connections to one another.
Culinary Inspirations and Local Collaborations
Farmers Commons, inspired by the success of Hoque and Kris Davis’ restaurant at the Vineyard at Florence near Austin, embodies a farm-to-table philosophy. The collaboration has aimed at creating a dining atmosphere that reflects the local culture and culinary richness of the region.
Future Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, Hoque plans to establish more HOTEL LOCAL properties both internationally and within Texas. With ambitious projects on the docket, including locations in downtown Fort Worth and Dallas, Hoque envisions bringing the HOTEL LOCAL experience to new markets. He is particularly excited about creating a unique sense of place in each locale.
Trademark and Geographic Identity
The HOTEL LOCAL brand’s identity even extends to its logo, which features the geographical coordinates of its Dubai location, reinforcing the hotel’s deep-rooted community connection. Hoque has already filed a trademark for HOTEL LOCAL Dallas, with plans for the property likely situated within the Newpark Dallas mixed-use development, aiming for revitalization in an underutilized area.
High-Stakes Redevelopment Projects
In collaboration with industry leaders like Dave Johnson and Mike Ablon, Hoque is also involved in the ambitious $350 million redevelopment of the Bank of America Plaza in Dallas. This project will include transforming part of the 72-story skyscraper into a luxury five-star hotel. Featuring spectacular amenities like a 69th-floor reflection pool and multiple fine dining options, it’s set to elevate the city’s hospitality offerings.
Looking Forward
Mike Hoque’s journey reflects a blend of passion, community-oriented vision, and an acute business sense, all converging to reshape the hospitality landscape both in Dubai and beyond. With HOTEL LOCAL, he is poised to redefine not just the hotel experience, but also the connections that guests and local residents share.
