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Rafa to open luxury hotels

Jim Moreton Jim Moreton Dec 28, 2022
Rafa to open luxury hotels

Renowned tennis icon Rafael Nadal has partnered with the acclaimed Meliá Hotels International to unveil Zel, an exclusive collection of luxury hotels inspired by the vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle.

The debut Zel property opened its doors on Mallorca, Nadal’s beloved home island, in 2023, setting a new standard for immersive, high-end hospitality in the region.

“Bringing this vision to life has been a dream of mine,” shares Nadal. “Zel is designed to capture the essence of Mediterranean well-being and the art of living—something I cherish as both a Mallorcan and a global traveller.”

The Zel brand, a joint venture between Nadal and Meliá, has announced ambitious expansion plans, aiming to establish over 20 properties within five years. The focus is on sophisticated ‘bleisure’ destinations—blending business and leisure—in premier locations throughout Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and Asia, all curated for discerning luxury travelers. 

Nadal, celebrated for his record 22 Grand Slam titles, is also recognized for his astute business acumen. His portfolio includes international tennis academies and partnerships with elite brands such as Richard Mille, Armani, and Santander, reflecting his commitment to excellence both on and off the court. 

Meliá Hotels International, with a presence spanning more than 350 properties across 35 countries, brings its extensive expertise in hospitality management to the Zel collaboration.