If you have been to Dubai’s busy Business Bay lately, you probably know the Gulf Court Hotel. It has been a reliable favourite for many of us travelling from Bahrain. Now, things are getting much more exciting. Gulf Hotels Group, the well-known hospitality name from Bahrain, has officially rebranded the property. Welcome to the Grand Mercure Business Bay.
This is not just a name change. It is a complete transformation that brings a fresh, upscale feel to one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. By partnering with Accor, the global company behind brands like Raffles and Sofitel, Gulf Hotels Group is upgrading this property while maintaining the warm, familiar hospitality they are known for.
So, what does this mean for you? You get the best of both worlds. You still have the expert management of Gulf Hotels Group, but now the hotel is connected to Accor’s extensive global network. This means better technology, a world-class loyalty program, and a design approach that feels more like Dubai.
The Grand Mercure brand focuses on pride of place. Instead of a generic hotel that looks like it could be anywhere, this property feels like it belongs in Dubai. It celebrates local culture and makes guests feel a real human connection. From the moment you enter, you’ll notice a shift toward a more modern, energetic vibe that still feels cosy and welcoming.
If you are coming to Dubai for business or a quick shopping trip, this spot is hard to beat. The hotel is located right on Al Abraj Street along Marasi Drive. If you are not familiar with the area, just know this: you are only eight minutes from the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.
Whether you’re in town for a trade show at the exhibition centre or just want to be near the best downtown restaurants, you are in the middle of it all. Plus, being on the waterfront in Business Bay gives you stunning views of the skyline that never get old.
The hotel has 270 rooms and suites, all redesigned to feel like a serene urban retreat. They are stylish and comfortable, making them the ideal spot to relax after a long day of meetings or shopping.
For business travellers, they’ve kept the practical features too. Four versatile meeting rooms can accommodate up to 90 people. There is also a nice Club Lounge for when you need some quiet time or a professional space to make a call.
One of the best parts of a rebranding is the food, and Grand Mercure Business Bay is ready to impress. There are five different dining and entertainment options. The exciting news is the upcoming launch of Mediterranean Muse. Set to open in the first quarter of 2026, it promises to be a favourite for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
And let’s talk about the pool. The outdoor pool terrace has been upgraded, and it offers a great atmosphere. It overlooks the Business Bay skyline and is perfect for unwinding. There’s something special about floating in a pool while gazing up at the Dubai skyscrapers; it really makes you feel like you’ve arrived.
It’s fantastic to see Gulf Hotels Group, a Bahraini leader, expanding its reach. Ahmed Janahi, the Group CEO, stated that this move makes the hotel more competitive in the Dubai market. By using Accor’s distribution channels and loyalty programs, they are welcoming travellers from around the world who may not have discovered this gem yet.
Raki Phillips from Accor is also excited about the partnership. He noted that the hotel beautifully captures the stories and spirit of Dubai. It’s a win for everyone involved, especially for guests who will enjoy this blend of local heritage and international standards.
If you are a member of ALL – Accor Live Limitless, there is a fantastic perk waiting for you. To celebrate the opening of Gulf Hotels Group, members can earn 4X reward points on bookings.
This is a great opportunity to earn points that you can use for future stays, upgrades, or even dining discounts.
Next time you plan a trip across the causeway or a quick flight to Dubai, be sure to add the Grand Mercure Business Bay to your list. It’s familiar, it’s fresh, and it has that signature Gulf Hotels Group touch.
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