Tennis star Rafael Nadal and Meliá Hotels International, have announced the launch of ZEL, a new brand of resort and urban leisure hotels that will first operate in Spain, and expand in key destinations throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas.

The joint venture between Nadal and Meliá, both from Mallorca, Spain, aims to create a unique hospitality experience focused on classic Mediterranean character throughout various global destinations. The new brand will also have a range of different partners in cuisine, design, well-being, and technology.

“As a Spaniard, a Mallorcan, and a global traveller, the launch of this hotel brand is a project that I have had in my mind for a long time,” said Rafael Nadal. “ZEL will be synonymous with feeling good and enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle. I was really attracted to this new concept with Meliá from the start and I am confident that ZEL will be a huge success and will be enjoyed by every type of traveller.”

The growth plan includes more than 20 ZEL hotels in five years, focusing on destinations that attract leisure travellers in key regions where Meliá Hotels International operates. The casual, yet upscale brand will open its first hotel in Mallorca in 2023, with plans to open in destinations on the Mediterranean coast and in major cities such as Madrid, Paris, and London.

According to the partners, ZEL will “embody the Mediterranean, focused on a passion for the outdoors, delicious cuisine, designed with spacious, bright spaces, offering a connection to nature, the sky and the sea.”

Reflecting, Nadal’s status as world-class athlete, hotel guests will be able to partake in well-being experiences with both personal and group activities focused on physical exercise and fitness.

Each hotel will feature a courtyard at the heart of the property – an architectural feature that is prominent throughout the Mediterranean. Other public spaces will include terraces, rooftops or beach clubs, offering guests panoramic views of the destinations.

One of the highlights of the hotel experience will be rotating pop-ups, featuring local crafters, artists, beauty products and culinary offerings, encouraging exploration and interactions with the local community.

Guests will also have access to a digital community where they can share their experiences and continue their Mediterranean lifestyle once their stay is over.

“ZEL, an innovative, energetic hotel brand, will attract and surprise a new generation of travellers that are seeking new ways to focus on well-being and travel sustainably,” said Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Meliá Hotels International.