News list

RIU achieves a historic milestone with the purchase of its first hotel in Barcelona

RIU Hotels & Resorts has just confirmed the purchase of the historic Hotel Princesa Sofia in Barcelona from its previous owners, Blasson Property Investments and BNP Paribas Asset Management Alts. The asset has a strategic location on Avenida Joan XXIII, just one block from Avenida Diagonal, right next to the Camp Nou, the iconic CaixaBank headquarters and opposite the Jardines de las Infantas and various University of Barcelona campuses, in the most elegant part of the Les Corts - Pedralbes district.

The hotel, which has 465 rooms spread over 19 floors and one of the largest event and meeting centres in the city, will be managed by RIU from 1st April 2027, becoming the 14th hotel in its Riu Plaza urban line, with which it is already present in world capitals such as London, New York or Chicago.

“With this hotel we are fulfilling a historic goal as we have been looking for the right opportunity to invest in the city of Barcelona for more than a decade, which has been a strategic priority for us since we launched our Riu Plaza line in 2010. We are facing this project with the same enthusiasm and professional dedication that we invested in the Hotel Riu Plaza de Madrid, which is our best-known asset today”, states Luis Riu, CEO of RIU.

The real estate transaction was brokered by aCapital for the buyer and by Eastdil and Colliers for the seller.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which hotel has RIU Hotels & Resorts acquired in Barcelona? RIU has acquired the historic Hotel Princesa Sofia, located in the Les Corts - Pedralbes district.
2. When will RIU begin operating the Hotel Princesa Sofia? The chain will assume direct management of the establishment from 1st April 2027.
3. Under which brand will the new Barcelona hotel be integrated? It will be integrated as the 14th hotel in the Riu Plaza urban line.
4. Who were the owners of the asset before the purchase by RIU? The previous owners were the entities Blasson Property Investments and BNP Paribas Asset Management Alts.
5. What capacity and main facilities does the property have? It has 465 rooms spread over 19 floors and one of the largest meeting and event centres in the city.
6. Which firms advised on the sale transaction? The firm aCapital acted as intermediary for the buyer, while Eastdil and Colliers advised the seller.

About RIU Hotels & Resorts: The international RIU chain was founded in Mallorca, Spain, in 1953 as a small holiday business by the Riu family, founders and current owners in the third generation. The company focuses on holiday hospitality and more than 74% of its establishments offer the renowned All inclusive by RIU service. With the opening of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU expanded its range of products with its own line of urban hotels called RIU Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts has 101 hotels in 22 countries which in 2025 welcomed 6.8 million guests and employed a total of 38,955 staff. Currently, RIU is the 40th largest chain in the world, and the third in Spain by number of rooms.

For further information: Communications Department // Tel: 971743030 // [email protected]

RIU Hotels reopens hotel Riu Touareg in Cape Verde following complete renovation

What updates were made to the guest rooms at Riu Touareg?

The refurbishing project covered all 1,181 guest rooms within the 5-star complex. Upgrades include contemporary furniture, new interior finishes, replacement of exterior carpentry, and updated entrance doors.

Additionally, all bathrooms have been fully renovated, and next-generation climate control systems have been installed across all accommodations to optimize energy management throughout the building.

How is the family and entertainment concept evolving at Riu Touareg?

Since its opening in 2011, the property featured designated areas for families and adults. Following this renovation, the hotel has reoriented its overall concept toward family tourism. The sole exception within the resort is the quiet pool, which remains reserved exclusively for guests aged 18 and older.

Outdoor areas feature renovated main swimming pools alongside expanded sun terraces. Revised recreational facilities include an expanded gym, a refurbished spa area, an updated children's playground, and adapted RIU Fit and RIU Land activity programs. Commercial spaces have been consolidated into a single main souvenir shop.

What dining and bar choices are available after the reopening?

The updated culinary concept offers six restaurants and nine bars, restructured to increase capacity and introduce new dining concepts:

• "Morabeza" Main Restaurant: Expanded climate-controlled indoor dining space and enlarged outdoor terrace.

• "Bereber" Restaurant: Transformation of the former Snack Restaurant into a themed, climate-controlled steakhouse.

• "Kabuki" and "Kulinarium" Themed Restaurants: Relocated and expanded to increase seating capacity. Italian cuisine continues to be served at "Da Marcello".

• "American Country" Sports Bar: A new casual dining venue serving classic American fare in the space previously occupied by the nightclub and karaoke room.

• New Service Outlets: Addition of the "Candy" ice cream parlor and coffee shop, plus two "Pepe's Food" grill stations in the pool zones.

• Restructured Bar Network: Beverage services are distributed across the "Atlas" lobby bar, "Sabura" plaza bar, the lounge bar with an entertainment stage, the "Brisa" swim-up pool bar, and the "Rabil", "Santa Monica", and "Creole" pool bars.

Key facts and figures for hotel Riu Touareg post-renovation

• Location: South of Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde.

• Category and Board: 5-star hotel with 24h All-Inclusive service.

• Total Capacity: 1,181 fully renovated guest rooms.

• Dining Offer: 6 restaurants and 9 bars.

• RIU Presence in Cape Verde: 6 total hotels (3 in Boa Vista and 3 in Sal) totaling 4,679 rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where is the hotel Riu Touareg located?

   Hotel Riu Touareg is located in the southern region of Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde.

2. How many rooms does Riu Touareg have and what improvements were made?

   The hotel offers 1,181 rooms. All rooms feature new furniture, exterior woodwork, fully renovated bathrooms, and updated climate control systems.

3. Is Riu Touareg family-friendly or adult-only?

   Following the renovation, the hotel is primarily focused on family tourism. Only one quiet pool remains strictly reserved for guests aged 18 and older.

4. How many restaurants and bars are available at Riu Touareg?

   The resort features 6 restaurants (buffet, Asian, gourmet, Italian, steakhouse, and sports bar) and 9 bars located throughout the property.

5. What children's amenities and entertainment options are available?

   Amenities include a remodeled children's playground, the RIU Land kids' club, RIU Fit sports programs, multiple pools, and the new "Candy" ice cream parlor.

6. How many properties does RIU Hotels & Resorts operate in Cape Verde?

   RIU operates 6 hotels in Cape Verde: 3 on Sal Island and 3 on Boa Vista Island, providing a total of 4,679 guest rooms.

For more information or reservations: www.riu.com

About RIU Hotels & Resorts: The international RIU chain was founded in Mallorca, Spain, in 1953 as a small holiday business of the Riu family, founder and current third-generation owner. The company focuses on holiday hospitality and more than 74% of its establishments offer the recognized All Inclusive by RIU service. With the opening of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU expanded its product range with its own urban hotel line called RIU Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts has 101 hotels in 22 countries, which in 2025 welcomed 6.8 million guests and employed a total of 38,955 staff. Currently, RIU is the 40th largest chain in the world and the third largest in Spain by number of rooms.

For more information: Communication and Institutional Relations Department // Tel: +34 971 74 30 30 // [email protected]

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Proudly Committed: RIU Hotels & Resorts joins The Code UK to combat child sexual exploitation

RIU Hotels & Resorts has officially announced its joining of The Code in the United Kingdom as part of its Proudly Committed sustainability strategy. This partnership expands the hotel chain's global commitment to preventing child sexual exploitation in the travel and tourism industry.

What does RIU Hotels & Resorts' accession to The Code UK entail?

Joining The Code UK consolidates the company's global child protection strategy in a key source market. The main objective is to strengthen local collaboration to eradicate any risk of child exploitation in tourism environments.

Recommendations from expert entities prioritize building localized networks of allies, tailoring training to local regulations and destination risks, and continuously measuring protocol activation and staff training coverage.

What is RIU's track record in protecting children's rights?

RIU Hotels & Resorts first joined The Code in 2012, the international code of conduct driven by ECPAT to eliminate the commercial exploitation of minors. Over more than 13 years of continuous work, the chain has implemented strict internal policies and clear action protocols.

Thanks to the high degree of implementation of these measures, the company holds the highest international distinction as a Top Member of The Code in Spain and Mexico.

Summary of milestones and scope of the global strategy

• Commitment start year: Initial accession to The Code driven by ECPAT in 2012.

• Operational track record: Over 13 years implementing protocols and recurring training.

• Official recognitions: Distinction as a Top Member in Spain and Mexico.

• Countries with official membership: United Kingdom, Spain, Mexico, United States, and Dominican Republic.

• Pillars of action: Local ally networks, training adapted to territorial regulations, and continuous auditing of protocols.

Frequently asked questions about RIU's accession to The Code UK

1. What is The Code and what is its goal in the tourism industry? The Code is an international code of conduct driven by ECPAT to prevent and combat the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents (SECA) in travel and tourism.

2. How long has RIU Hotels & Resorts collaborated with The Code? RIU signed its first accession to The Code in 2012, accumulating over 13 years of continuous implementation of child protection measures.

3. In which countries is RIU officially affiliated with this code of conduct? With the addition of the United Kingdom, RIU holds official membership in strategic countries including Spain, Mexico, the United States, and the Dominican Republic.

4. What does the Top Member distinction held by RIU mean? It is the highest international distinction granted by The Code, awarded to RIU in Spain and Mexico for its high level of policy implementation, training, and preventive protocols.

5. Under which corporate framework is this initiative encompassed? This initiative falls within Proudly Committed, RIU Hotels & Resorts' global sustainability and social impact strategy.

6. What are the next steps planned following the UK accession? The alliance will focus on building local ally networks, adapting training to UK legislation, and measuring training coverage among teams.

For more information or bookings: www.riu.com

About RIU Hotels & Resorts: The international RIU chain was founded in Mallorca, Spain, in 1953 as a small holiday business by the Riu family, founders and current third-generation owners. The company focuses on holiday hotel operations, with over 74% of its properties offering the recognized All Inclusive by RIU service. With the opening of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU expanded its product range with its own line of urban hotels called RIU Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts has 101 hotels in 22 countries, welcoming 6.8 million guests in 2025 with a total staff of 38,955 employees. RIU is currently the 40th largest chain in the world and the 3rd largest in Spain by number of rooms.

For more information: Corporate Communications and Institutional Relations Department // Tel: +34 971 74 30 30 // [email protected]

How is RIU Partner Club revamping its digital platform for travel agents?

The portal features a more intuitive, independent and optimised interface, designed to streamline daily management and enhance access to member benefits.

What are the key highlights of the new RIU Partner Club website?

The new RIU Partner Club website has been designed to simplify and expedite the daily enquiries of the retail channel. It incorporates the design and functionality enhancements developed by the hotel chain in recent years, offering an independent digital environment tailored to the operational needs of professionals.

Key features of the platform include:

• Direct access to fact sheets: Detailed and up-to-date information on each of the chain's establishments.
• Real-time consultation: Immediate verification of the status of bookings and managed sales.
• Intuitive interface: Optimised navigation to reduce management times and facilitate the recommendation of products to end customers.

What advantages and benefits does the loyalty programme for professionals maintain?

Designed with the aim of recognising the commitment of the retail sales channel, RIU Partner Club combines technical agent training with a direct incentive system for your personal enjoyment.

The programme maintains its fundamental operational pillars:

• Points accumulation with no expiry date: Every sale generates points that do not expire as long as the account remains active, which can be redeemed for complimentary nights at RIU hotels.
• Continuous training and exclusive information: Updated tools and materials to enhance your client advisory services.
• Priority support: Access to unique promotions and exclusive benefits for registered professionals.

Key facts about RIU Partner Club and its global reach

• Year of establishment: 1992 (a pioneering programme within the tourism sector, predating consumer-facing schemes).
• Global community: Over 100,000 active members.
• International reach: A consolidated presence across 139 countries.
• Points conditions: Points accumulated from sales do not expire as long as the account remains active.
• Rewards: Direct redemption for stays across the RIU hotel portfolio.

Frequently asked questions about the RIU Partner Club programme

1. What is RIU Partner Club and who is it for?

It is the loyalty programme from RIU Hotels & Resorts designed exclusively for retail travel agents, established in 1992 to reward your loyalty and support your sales.

2. What are the main improvements to the new web portal?

The website offers a more visual and intuitive environment, allowing you to access hotel fact sheets, check bookings in real time, and manage sales with greater agility.

3. Do the points accumulated by travel agents expire?

No, points earned from sales do not expire as long as the travel agent's account remains active within the programme.

4. What can RIU Partner Club points be redeemed for?

Accumulated points can be redeemed for complimentary stays at RIU Hotels & Resorts properties.

5. How many professionals are part of the RIU Partner Club?

The programme currently boasts an international community of over 100,000 active travel agents across 139 countries.

6. How does this platform help to increase an agent's sales?

It provides access to detailed fact sheets and first-hand product knowledge, facilitating precise recommendations tailored to each guest's individual needs.

For further information or bookings: www.riu.com

About RIU Hotels & Resorts: The international RIU chain was founded in Mallorca, Spain, in 1953 as a small holiday business by the Riu family, the founders and current third-generation owners. The company focuses on holiday hospitality, with more than 74% of its establishments offering the renowned All inclusive by RIU service. With the opening of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU expanded its product range with its own line of urban hotels called RIU Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts operates 101 hotels in 22 countries, which welcomed 6.8 million guests in 2025 and employed a total of 38,955 staff members. Currently, RIU is the 40th largest chain in the world and the third largest in Spain by number of rooms.

For further information: Communications Department // Tel: +34 971 74 30 30 // [email protected]

The Hotel Riu Palace Mexico unveils its extensive renovation and new Elite Club service

RIU Hotels & Resorts has successfully completed the comprehensive transformation of the Riu Palace Mexico, one of our most cherished properties, having been the first Riu Palace hotel to open in Mexico back in 1999. Situated beachfront within the exclusive residential area of Playacar, the resort has elevated its architectural concept and interior design, now offering an All Inclusive experience reserved exclusively for adults.

The complex features a total of 434 renovated rooms, prioritizing rest through soft tones, natural wood finishes, and warm lighting. Each accommodation integrates a functional living space with expansive windows that open onto terraces or balconies. Furthermore, the hotel houses five swimming pools distributed throughout its facilities.

What are the exclusive benefits provided by the new Elite Club service in Cancun?

The resort has reserved 56 superior category rooms for the Elite Club service, of which 30 include a private pool. This tier offers a personalized check-in process at an independent reception, as well as premium beverages.

Elite Club guests enjoy access to exclusive facilities, including an infinity pool with a private bar, as well as à la carte breakfast and a restaurant reserved for dinner service.

Renovated dining and entertainment offerings

The property features a diverse culinary selection comprising nine specialty restaurants, including the international buffet Don Julián, the Asian-inspired Miyagi, the Italian La Dolce Vita, the gourmet Krystal, the Steak House, the poolside restaurant Guacamole, the exclusive Elite Club restaurant, the Tiki Taco station, and the Pepe's Grill.

The beverage selection is distributed across six bars, including the Cubano lobby bar, the Capuchino patisserie, the 24-hour sports bar featuring an American Country menu, the Los Mariachi plaza bar, the Tequila swim-up bar, and the Elite Club bar. Guests enjoy continued access to the themed RIU Party events held at the adjacent Hotel Riu Tequila.

What is the impact of RIU Hotels & Resorts in Quintana Roo and Mexico?

With this reopening, RIU strengthens its network of 15 hotels in the state of Quintana Roo, out of a total of 23 operational properties in Mexico. The company generates nearly 8,000 direct jobs in Quintana Roo, contributing to a total of 14,000 employees across the country.

This renovation follows the recent reopening of the Hotel Riu Palace Peninsula in Cancun and precedes the upcoming inauguration of the Hotel Riu Palace Quintana Roo in Costa Mujeres.

Key facts regarding the renovation of the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico

• Location: Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo.
• Original opening / renovation year: 1999 / September 2026.
• Total room capacity: 434 renovated rooms, of which 56 have been reserved for the Elite Club area.
• Upcoming projects: Construction of the Hotel Riu Palace Quintana Roo in Costa Mujeres.

Frequently asked questions about the reopening of the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico

1. Where is the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico located?

It is located beachfront within the residential area of Playacar, in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico.

2. Which customer segment is the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico aimed at following its renovation?

The hotel operates under the Adults Only concept with All-Inclusive service.

3. What advantages does the Elite Club service offer at the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico?

It provides a private reception area for personalized check-in, 56 preferred rooms (30 featuring a private pool), an exclusive infinity pool with a swim-up bar, à la carte breakfasts, a dedicated restaurant for dinners, and premium beverages.

4. How many restaurants and bars does the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico feature?

It boasts 9 restaurants (international, Asian, Italian, gourmet, steakhouse, Mexican, grill, and an exclusive Elite Club venue) and 6 bars distributed throughout the property.

5. Do guests staying at the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico have access to RIU Party events?

Yes, your stay includes direct access to the signature RIU Party themed events hosted at the neighboring Hotel Riu Tequila.

6. How many hotels does RIU Hotels & Resorts operate in Quintana Roo and throughout Mexico?

RIU currently operates 15 hotels in the state of Quintana Roo, bringing our total portfolio to 23 properties across Mexico.

For further information or to make a reservation, please visit: www.riu.com

About RIU Hotels & Resorts: The international chain RIU was founded in Mallorca, Spain, in 1953 as a small holiday business by the Riu family, the founders and current third-generation owners. The company focuses on holiday hospitality, with more than 74% of its establishments offering the renowned All inclusive by RIU service. With the opening of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU expanded its product range with its own line of urban hotels known as RIU Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts operates 101 hotels in 22 countries, which welcomed 6.8 million guests in 2025 and employed a total of 38,955 staff members. Currently, RIU is the 40th largest chain in the world and the third largest in Spain by number of rooms.

For further information: Corporate Communications and Institutional Relations Department // Tel: +34 971 74 30 30 // [email protected]

RIU Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Thailand with the Opening of the 5-Star Hotel Riu Palace Phuket

Where is Hotel Riu Palace Phuket located and what access does it offer?

The Hotel Riu Palace Phuket is located on the northwest coast of Phuket island, directly on Mai Khao Beach. The property borders Sirinat National Park, offering a preserved natural environment for its guests.

In terms of connectivity, the establishment is located 16 kilometers from Phuket International Airport and 40 kilometers from the historic center, facilitating transfers for international travelers and connecting with the destination's main points of interest.

What dining and leisure options are included at the resort?

The resort's culinary offering combines traditional Thai gastronomy with international specialties across six restaurants: the main buffet with live cooking "Chantra", the Thai restaurant "Ruen Siam", Italian cuisine at "Il Gusto", a specialized Steakhouse, the informal grill space "Pepe's Food", and the exclusive restaurant reserved for Elite Club guests.

The dining and entertainment infrastructure is completed by seven themed bars:

• Lobby bar "Mai Khao" and lounge bar "Siang Sawan".

• "Khon" Plaza and a modern Sports bar.

• Coffee and ice cream shop "Capuchino".

• Pool bar "Sabai" with a swim-up bar and the Elite Club Lounge.

How are the rooms distributed and what benefits does the Elite Club by RIU service provide?

The complex features 504 rooms distributed across several buildings of up to four floors, interconnected by covered walkways for guest convenience.

Within the total inventory, a prominent highlight is a block of 49 rooms integrated into the Elite Club by RIU category. This premium service offers exclusive advantages:

• Independent reception and personalized check-in process.

• Exclusive restaurant and pool for Elite guests.

• Selection of international brand drinks and upgraded minibar.

• Swim Up category rooms with private pool on the terrace.

What wellness facilities and entertainment programs does the establishment offer?

In its outdoor areas, the hotel houses six swimming pools (two for children and one reserved for Elite Club). In the wellness area, it features a Renova Spa equipped with a gym, steam bath, hair salon, and a full menu of treatments.

As a distinctive element of cultural integration with Thailand, the property includes a point of meditation, prayer, and offerings in front of the Spa, as well as an open-air wooden palapa for outdoor massages near the dining area. Entertainment is structured through the RiuLand children's club, RiuFit sports activities, and daily evening programs.

What sustainability measures are implemented at Riu Palace Phuket?

In the environmental area, the complex integrates clean energy self-generation facilities through solar panels located on two buildings in the service area.

Additionally, the resort features a rainwater harvesting system on its roofs. This mechanism recycles rainwater to supply the irrigation system for gardens and green areas.

Key figures and facilities of Riu Palace Phuket

• Category: 5-star hotel with 24-Hour All-Inclusive service.

• Location: Mai Khao Beach (adjacent to Sirinat National Park), 16 km from Phuket Airport.

• Total Capacity: 504 rooms (distributed in interconnected buildings of up to 4 floors).

• Elite Club Rooms: 49 premium units (including Swim Up modality with private pool).

• Gastronomy: 6 restaurants (main buffet, Thai, Italian, steakhouse, grill, and Elite Club) and 7 themed bars.

• Aquatic Facilities: 6 swimming pools (2 children's pools, 1 exclusive Elite pool).

• Sustainability: Operational solar panels and rainwater collection system for irrigation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When does Hotel Riu Palace Phuket open?

Hotel Riu Palace Phuket officially opens on September 4, 2026, representing the first hotel of the RIU Hotels & Resorts chain in Thailand.

2. In which area of Thailand is the new RIU hotel located?

It is located on Mai Khao Beach, on the northwest coast of Phuket island, adjacent to Sirinat National Park and 16 km from Phuket International Airport.

3. What services are included in the Elite Club category at Riu Palace Phuket?

It offers personalized check-in, access to an exclusive restaurant and pool, upgraded minibar with international brand drinks, welcome gifts, and the option to book Swim Up rooms with a private pool.

4. How many restaurants and bars does Riu Palace Phuket have?

The hotel features 6 restaurants (including main buffet, Thai, Italian, steakhouse, grill, and exclusive Elite Club dining) and 7 themed bars with diverse atmospheres, such as a swim-up bar and an ice cream shop.

5. What sustainability measures does Hotel Riu Palace Phuket apply?

The complex uses solar panels to self-generate clean energy and a rainwater collection system on its roofs for irrigating all its green areas.

6. Is the hotel suitable for families with children?

Yes, the hotel has two children's pools, the RiuLand entertainment program, and daily activities for all ages.

For more information or bookings: www.riu.com

About RIU Hotels & Resorts: International hotel chain RIU was founded in Mallorca, Spain, in 1953 as a small holiday business by the Riu family, founders and current third-generation owners. The company focuses on holiday hospitality, with over 74% of its establishments offering the renowned All Inclusive by RIU service. With the inauguration of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU expanded its product range with its urban hotel line called RIU Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts has 101 hotels in 22 countries, welcoming 6.8 million guests in 2025 with a workforce of 38,955 employees. RIU is currently the world's 40th largest chain and the 3rd largest in Spain by number of rooms.

For more information: Communication & Institutional Relations Department // Tel: +34 971 74 30 30 // [email protected]