With its blend of Hollywood glamour, cultural diversity, year-round sunshine, and world-class shopping, Los Angeles has long been a magnet for GCC travelers. But in recent years, the appeal has gone beyond luxury boutiques and iconic attractions and seeking bespoke itineraries curated to their preferences.
At the heart of this experience is the Fairmont Century Plaza a reimagined LA icon combining historic prestige with modern, culturally attuned hospitality.
ArabiaTravelNews.com spoke to Antoinette Kennedy, Director of Leisure & Entertainment Sales at Fairmont Century Plaza, who shares how the property is elevating the GCC guest experience, and what visitors from the Gulf can look forward to this summer.
How has the GCC market evolved as a source of inbound travel to Los Angeles and California over the past few years?
Over the past few years, the GCC has become an increasingly influential source of inbound travel to Los Angeles and California, driven by a growing appetite for multi-generational family holidays and immersive lifestyle experiences in safe destinations that support Arabian lifestyle preferences.
We’ve seen a shift from purely luxury shopping trips to a deeper interest in cultural, entertainment, and personalized wellness offerings. At Fairmont Century Plaza, we’re welcoming more families from the region who value space, privacy, and high-end service – from our expansive suites with private terraces to our Fairmont Gold concierge experience and world-class spa. The GCC traveller today is discerning, well-travelled, and looking for destinations that can deliver both iconic experiences and personalized comfort, and Los Angeles is perfectly positioned to meet that demand.
What trends are you observing in bookings from the GCC—family travel, luxury stays, extended vacations, or wellness retreats?
We’re seeing more extended, multi-generational stays, especially in summer. Many GCC families base themselves in LA for four to six weeks, combining leisure with cultural discovery. From studio theme parks and live sports to museums, galleries, luxury shopping, fine dining, and outdoor adventures like yachting from Marina del Rey, the city offers something for every generation.
We also welcome honeymooners and couples year-round, drawn by our romantic suites with private terraces, tailored wellness rituals and couple’s wellness treatments – offering the perfect balance of glamour and rejuvenation.
With increased direct flights from GCC to California, how has this impacted business and the regional demand?
The increase in direct flights from key GCC hubs to California has had a noticeable and positive impact on both demand and guest arrivals. With visa processes becoming more streamlined – particularly for travelers from Qatar – we’re welcoming more families, couples and business travelers from the region than ever before.
Many GCC visitors studied in California and now return with their families to rediscover it through leisure. California’s position as the world’s fourth-largest economy , with a GDP of over $4.1 trillion, also attracts steady business and ‘bleisure’ travelers who value its connectivity and lifestyle mix!
What makes Fairmont Century Plaza a preferred choice for travelers from the Middle East?
Fairmont Century Plaza has long been an icon of Los Angeles and following our $500 million transformation, it has been reimagined as a contemporary icon that blends historic glamour with the personalized luxury GCC travelers expects.
Often called the ‘White House of the West,’ it offers floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and year-round sunshine. Our expansive spa, one of the largest in Los Angeles, is a serene wellness retreat in itself.
The hotel’s location is also a major advantage: set in a secure neighbourhood within walking distance of Beverly Hills, it’s surrounded by luxury shopping, authentic international dining options, and family-friendly attractions. Combined with Arabic-speaking staff on request, halal dining options, and a deep understanding of cultural preferences, Fairmont Century Plaza is truly a home away from home for Middle Eastern travelers seeking comfort, sophistication, and personalized service.
Can you highlight specific services or amenities curated with GCC guests in mind, such as halal dining, privacy, or Arabic-speaking staff?
At Fairmont Century Plaza, we take pride in offering thoughtfully tailored services that reflect the preferences and cultural sensitivities of our guests from the GCC. Halal-friendly dining options are available throughout the hotel, including in our French-inspired Lumière brasserie and the exclusive Fairmont Gold Lounge, with menus that can be customized upon request to meet specific dietary needs. Arabic-speaking staff are available and can be arranged to personally assist guests throughout their stay, ensuring seamless communication and personalized service.
Privacy is a top priority across all guest touchpoints, from strict adherence to Do Not Disturb preferences, to the design of our wellness offerings. Our spa, accessible via guest elevators, includes nine private treatment rooms and fully privatizable suites for individuals or families. These touches reflect our commitment to comfort, discretion, and authentic hospitality for our Middle Eastern guests.
How does the hotel cater to high-spending GCC guests looking for exclusive or VIP experiences?
Located on the doorstep of Beverly Hills and host to presidents and A-list celebrities alike, Fairmont Century Plaza is uniquely positioned to cater to high-spending GCC guests seeking exclusivity, discretion, and tailored luxury, and well versed in catering to VIP needs.
Our Fairmont Gold team, concierges and Guest Services create bespoke itineraries, from securing top restaurant reservations to arranging private shopping experiences on Rodeo Drive, luxury transport, yacht charters, and behind-the-scenes studio tours.
Gold-level guests enjoy private check-in, exclusive lounge access, and 24/7 personalized service. For maximum privacy, we offer in-room spa services and fully privatizable wellness suites, a true VIP sanctuary in LA.
What can GCC travelers look forward to at Fairmont Century Plaza and in the surrounding LA area this summer?
This summer offers relaxation, culture, and adventure. From shopping and spa experiences to cultural events, there’s something for everyone. The hotel’s prime location offers easy access to the best of Beverly Hills, Westfield Century City Mall and nearby dining destinations that cater to halal and international preferences.
Los Angeles’ summer calendar is filled with cultural festivals, live concerts, and family adventures. Families can enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes studio tours at Universal Studios Hollywood or the magic of Disneyland, just a short drive away while outdoor enthusiasts take in beach-side bike rides in Santa Monica or go on a sunset whale-watching excursions at Marina del Rey. Cultural highlights include the Hollywood Bowl Summer Concert Series with international artists and film music nights under the stars, as well as the Leimert Park Juneteenth Festival celebrating LA’s diverse roots. Art and fashion enthusiasts can explore rotating exhibitions at the Getty Center, LACMA, and The Broad.
As the city prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics, summer is alive with pop-ups, fan zones and immersive experiences. Our concierge team is well equipped to provide bespoke itineraries that ensure our guests experience the very best of California.
Are there plans for special summer offers, wellness programs, or events that would appeal to GCC families or couples?
Yes, this summer we launch our ‘A Touch of Gold’ program that offers up to 15% off Fairmont Gold rooms and suites plus a $100 credit every third night. Guests enjoy private check-in, exclusive lounge dining, and dedicated concierge service.
Fairmont Spa Century Plaza offers comprehensive range of treatments, from contrast therapy and cold plunges to JetPeel facials and bio-hacking by Dr. Oz Garcia. Couples can book private rituals; families can reserve spacious spa areas exclusively, creating a complete sanctuary in the heart of LA.
How does the hotel ensure comfort for guests observing cultural or religious practices during their stay?
At Fairmont Century Plaza, we deeply respect and prioritize the cultural and religious needs of our guests from the GCC and beyond. We provide prayer mats, Qur’ans and discreet accommodation of prayer times. Quiet spaces for reflection are available, and our culinary team prepares bespoke Ramadan, Suhoor, and Iftar meals.
We also understand the importance of privacy and modesty and ensure room layouts and wellness facilities that respect these preferences, including private spa suites and gender-segregated wellness times or areas upon request. Additionally, Arabic-speaking staff members are available to assist with any religious or cultural inquiries, ensuring guests feel supported and comfortable throughout their stay.
Our commitment is to create a welcoming, respectful environment where guests can observe their cultural and religious practices with ease, allowing them to enjoy their visit with peace of mind and genuine hospitality.
What role do travel agents in the GCC play in your overall marketing and bookings strategy?
GCC travel agents are central to our strategy, with long-standing client relationships that make them trusted partners. Many agents have longstanding, trusted relationships with their clients, often spanning years or even generations, which makes them invaluable partners in connecting us to discerning travelers They understand preferences and cultural nuances, enabling them to recommend Fairmont Century Plaza confidently.
We work closely with agents to deliver bespoke stays, from exclusive room bookings to private transfers and customized itineraries that highlight the best of Los Angeles and California. Through training, familiarisation trips, and offers, we ensure agents are fully equipped to convey our value to clients. By nurturing these strong partnerships, we ensure that travel agents are confident ambassadors for our brand, helping to drive both bookings and guest satisfaction. Their trusted guidance remains a vital channel for reaching GCC travelers, particularly in a market where personalized service and word-of-mouth referrals carry significant weight.
How important is the GCC region in your long-term market strategy for Fairmont Century Plaza?
The GCC region is absolutely central to our long-term market strategy at Fairmont Century Plaza. GCC travelers are sophisticated and increasingly adventurous, seeking new and memorable experiences. As Fairmont Century Plaza continues to develop and expand its offerings with exciting new restaurants and retail spaces opening soon, we are well-positioned to meet and exceed these expectations.
Furthermore, with Los Angeles preparing to host major global events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics, we anticipate a significant increase in visitors from the region. These events will spotlight Los Angeles on the world stage and create unique opportunities for GCC guests to discover fresh, world-class experiences year after year. Our goal is to ensure GCC guests feel valued, inspired, and eager to return.
Are there any upcoming developments or brand collaborations that may be of particular interest to GCC travelers?
Yes. This summer, we’re introducing new wellness offerings including contrast therapy and cold plunges – providing our guests with cutting-edge recovery experiences inspired by global wellness trends.
We’re also developing new dining and retail concepts on-site, set to be announced later this year.
Our Fairmont Gold experience remains a favourite among GCC visitors, offering elevated privacy and tailored hospitality within our hotel-within-a-hotel concept. As Los Angeles prepares to host the FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, we’ll continue to evolve with partnerships and enhancements for our most loyal international markets.
Finally, how would you describe the overall California experience for a first-time visitor from the Gulf region?
California offers an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors from the Gulf, combining natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a lifestyle that feels both aspirational and accessible. There’s a reason it remains the #1 state in the US for tourism.
Guests can start their day at snow-capped mountains and for lunch, dine by the Pacific. From Hollywood’s glamour and diverse cities to coastal charm and scenic countryside, the variety is unmatched. Whether it’s luxury shopping or local artisan markets, Michelin-starred dining or farm-to-table experiences, iconic studio tours or serene national parks, there’s truly something for every interest and every age group. For outdoor lovers, California’s beach bicycle paths, breath-taking whale watching trips, authentic farmland, and some of the most scenic coastal drives in the world – like the iconic Pacific Coast Highway – offer immersive ways to explore the state’s natural beauty.
For travelers from the Gulf who appreciate both excitement and relaxation, nature and luxury, culture and entertainment – California promises not just a holiday, but a series of unforgettable moments that invite return visits year after year.
