Rotana Launches Rotana DISCOVERY, Expanding Global Loyalty Benefits
Alexandra
Rotana Expands its Loyalty Network with Rotana DISCOVERY
Rotana has announced a significant enhancement to its loyalty offering with the launch of Rotana DISCOVERY in December 2025. This new global loyalty program emerges through Rotana's collaboration with the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), integrating into the acclaimed GHA DISCOVERY platform. The initiative transforms and upgrades the previous Rotana Rewards Select scheme, vastly broadening members' access to rewarding experiences worldwide.
Members joining Rotana DISCOVERY now have the opportunity to connect with nearly 950 hotels spread across more than 100 countries. This leap not only magnifies Rotana’s presence but also immerses guests in an expansive global community of over 32 million travelers, underscoring Rotana's ongoing dedication to offering treasured moments and exceptional hospitality.
Key Features and Guest Benefits
Rotana DISCOVERY brings a seamless experience to members from their very first stay. Guests can earn and redeem DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) globally, enjoy exclusive privileges including complimentary room upgrades, and benefit from flexible check-in and check-out options. Additionally, members gain access to curated Local Offers designed to enrich their visits with authentic, memorable experiences unique to each destination.
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For current Rotana Rewards Select participants, benefits and status automatically carry over to the new program, ensuring uninterrupted loyalty recognition. Meanwhile, Rotana continues running its Rotana Rewards Exclusive and Rotana Rewards Classic programs, catering to corporate clients and long-stay guests.
The Strategic Importance of Rotana DISCOVERY in Hospitality Growth
Rotana DISCOVERY is a pivotal step in Rotana’s trajectory towards international expansion, particularly across the MENAT region and further afield. With over 79 operational hotels and ambitious developments underway, the brand emphasizes innovation, connectivity, and personalized service as central to its growth philosophy. This partnership with GHA amplifies Rotana’s ability to deliver enhanced value to guests, business partners, and property owners alike.
Philip Barnes, Rotana's CEO, highlighted the core of hospitality as rooted in human connections — the sharing of moments and the recognition that creates a sense of belonging. According to Barnes, Rotana DISCOVERY strengthens these bonds while extending the brand's reach globally, reinforcing its status as a regional leader distinguished by its trust, consistency, and genuine care.
At the same time, Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance, emphasized how Rotana DISCOVERY exemplifies the power of collaboration, showing how independent hotel brands can achieve global presence without compromising their individual identity or guest experience.
Table: Benefits Comparison - Rotana Rewards Select vs. Rotana DISCOVERY
| Feature | Rotana Rewards Select | Rotana DISCOVERY |
|---|---|---|
| Access to Hotels | Rotana Hotels Only | 950 Hotels in 100+ Countries |
| Loyalty Currency | - | DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) for global redemption |
| Room Upgrades | Limited | Complimentary Upgrades Available |
| Check-in/Check-out Flexibility | Standard | Flexible Options Offered |
| Local Offers | Not Included | Curated Authentic Local Experiences |
A Brief Perspective on Global Loyalty in the Hospitality Sector
Loyalty programs in hospitality have long been instrumental in fostering repeat business and enhancing guest engagement. Historically, regional hotel chains launched proprietary rewards platforms focusing mainly on their own properties. Over the decades, there has been a significant shift toward alliances and partnerships that link independent brands into global networks. These strategic affiliations enable members to capitalize on diverse destinations, increase choice, and leverage shared technology platforms for smoother user experiences.
The rise of digital platforms and the integration of loyalty schemes within global alliances like GHA reflect a broader industry commitment to delivering value and consistency. Such frameworks not only respond to the increasing sophistication of traveler expectations but also support seamless cross-border travel experiences — a crucial factor in today's international tourism.
The Role of Loyalty Programs in International Tourism
- Encourage Repeat Visits: Loyalty rewards incentivize guests to choose the same brand or alliance again.
- Boost Customer Engagement: Personalized offers and recognitions help build emotional ties with travelers.
- Expand Destination Reach: Partnerships open new travel markets, vital for brands expanding internationally.
- Enhance Guest Experience: Flexible benefits and unique local offers enrich stays across diverse waterside and urban resorts, appealing to boaters and sailing enthusiasts.
Looking Forward: The Impact of Rotana DISCOVERY on Travel and Leisure
As Rotana cements its position within a respected loyalty ecosystem, the travel and leisure market, including marine resorts and yachting destinations, stands to benefit from increased traveler convenience and choice. The growing interconnectedness afforded by such programs encourages exploration of varied destinations – from bustling city marinas to serene coastal beaches and lakeside resorts.
For enthusiasts of sailing and boating, partnerships like Rotana DISCOVERY mean easier access to accommodation options near prime yachting hotspots, facilitating more integrated trip planning where guests can enjoy the sea, fishing, and other marine activities alongside luxury stays.
With an international footprint aligned with global guest expectations, loyalty initiatives that emphasize flexibility, unique local experiences, and seamless benefits will become a cornerstone of travel trends, influencing the dynamics of yacht charters and boat rentals, which rely heavily on strong, accessible hospitality networks.
Summary and Conclusion
Rotana's transition from Rewards Select to the Rotana DISCOVERY loyalty program represents a milestone in the brand’s international growth and guest engagement strategy. Leveraging its connection to the Global Hotel Alliance allows Rotana to expand benefits through a proven global platform, enhancing loyalty value with privileges such as DISCOVERY Dollars, flexible stays, and authentic local offers. This initiative reaffirms the brand’s dedication to promising treasured moments and strengthened guest connections.
As the hospitality industry evolves along with global travel patterns, programs like Rotana DISCOVERY exemplify how traditional hotel loyalty schemes are advancing into global, digital ecosystems, supporting broader international tourism development and creating fresh opportunities in destinations popular with boating and yachting travelers.
For those passionate about the sea, sailing, and charter adventures, such integrated loyalty systems mean more accessible and enriched experiences across the world’s oceanfront marinas and waterfront resorts. To explore sailing and yacht charter options connected to renowned hospitality networks like Rotana, or simply to find the perfect boat rental for your next waterborne getaway, GetBoat.com remains an excellent resource — offering a comprehensive international marketplace to suit every sailing taste and budget.
