The Heart of Europe, the flagship project of Kleindienst Group, has signed an agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts to launch and manage the InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe on The World Islands, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The signing marks the first resort property in Dubai from the InterContinental brand. This latest signing strengthens the partnership between the two companies and marks the third hotel to be added to the joint portfolio of IHG Hotels & Resorts and The Heart of Europe.

Situated at the center of The World Islands, The Heart of Europe is a group of six interconnected islands located four kilometers off the coast of Dubai.

Currently under construction, InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe will blend contemporary Mediterranean design and traditional Italian influences, inspired by the bright colors and charm of Portofino and the Italian Riviera.

Scheduled to open in early 2026, the resort will offer 466 rooms and suites, all with sea views. Its buildings will feature colorful facades with balconies. Amenities will include authentic Italian culinary experiences and an atrium showcasing the marine life beauty with floor-to-ceiling aquariums across six floors, forming part of The Heart of Europe Coral Institute, a marine life rehabilitation center at the forefront of environmental sustainability dedicated to the regeneration of coral reefs and marine life habitats.

InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe will also feature a rustic roof garden. In line with the sustainable ethos of The Heart of Europe, the roof garden will incorporate eco-friendly features as part of creative green spaces and energy-efficient design elements. In addition, the resort will introduce the Kingdom of Portofino – an exclusive area featuring a kids club, kids theatre, and an additional outdoor play and water park for children.

“We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with The Heart of Europe to bring our inaugural ‘InterContinental Resort’ in Dubai, marking a milestone in IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio. Being a one-of-a-kind first in the emirate, the new resort is poised to redefine the leisure and luxury space in Dubai, promising an immersive experience for all guests,” said Haitham Mattar, managing director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “We are confident in our partnership with Kleindienst Group in offering unique guest stays within a dynamic location like The Heart of Europe. We look forward to welcoming travelers worldwide upon the hotel’s opening in early 2026.”

Josef Kleindienst, founder and chairman of Kleindienst Group and The Heart of Europe, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with one of the globe’s premier hotel brands to introduce an iconic family-focused luxury experience to The World Islands Dubai that perfectly encapsulates our aim to craft a distinctive destination amid Dubai’s iconic landscapes. Our collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts leverages their expertise in luxury and lifestyle to complement our exceptional hospitality at The Heart of Europe. We look forward to welcoming families to an unparalleled hospitality experience, and offering a seamless fusion of Dubai’s rich cultural with cutting edge innovation and ultimate luxury, amidst the scenic beauty of the UAE.”