Spanish tennis sensation Rafael Nadal isn’t just known for his prowess on the court but is now making a mark in the world of hospitality. Partnering with Meliá Hotels International, Nadal recently launched a new hotel brand named ZEL, reflecting good times and the Mediterranean experience.
A Dream Turned Reality
In December 2022, Nadal’s dream started taking shape when he collaborated with Meliá to introduce ZEL. This new brand’s primary essence is to bring the Mediterranean lifestyle to global destinations. The first ZEL property was unveiled in Mallorca, Spain – Nadal’s hometown – amidst much fanfare. The event was graced by over 300 notable guests from diverse fields.
Nadal shared his vision with Forbes, stating, “ZEL is synonymous with feeling good at all times. I was really attracted to this concept, and I’m confident that ZEL will be a success.” The alliance aims to open 20 ZEL hotels globally over the next five years, and they’re making their initial overseas mark in Mexico.
ZEL Goes Global: Destination Mexico
The quaint town of Sayulita on the Mexican Pacific coast has been chosen for ZEL’s international debut. Scheduled to open its doors in 2025, Zel Sayulita aims to infuse the Mexican beaches with Mediterranean charm. The property will feature 145 plush rooms centered around a large patio – an architectural nod to the Mediterranean tradition of socializing in open spaces.
Architect Alvaro Sans explains this design decision, “The patio has been a staple of Mediterranean culture since the ancient Greeks. It offers a controlled stage set by the architecture, where the sound of water and sight of olive trees relaxes the senses.”
Meliá’s Expansion Vision
Meliá Hotels International isn’t stopping at ZEL in its Mexican expansion. The brand is set to double its footprint in the region over the next two years. Alongside ZEL Sayulita, another project named ME Sayulita is in the pipeline and expected to debut by the end of this year. It will feature 125 rooms and villas, and a host of amenities including three restaurants, a spa, and a rooftop pool venue.
Beyond Hospitality
While the ZEL brand is garnering attention, Rafael Nadal’s entrepreneurial spirit isn’t confined to hotels. He’s also dipped his toes in the restaurant business, collaborating with soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo and singer Enrique Iglesias on chains TATEL and TOTÓ. Back in his hometown of Mallorca, the ‘Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre’ stands as a testament to his passion for the sport.
The synergy between Rafael Nadal and Meliá Hotels International is more than a business alliance; it’s a celebration of shared values and a love for the Mediterranean essence. As ZEL expands globally, it’s poised to become a beacon of Spanish and Mediterranean culture. As Nadal aptly put it during the grand opening of ZEL Mallorca, “The results make me sure that ZEL will be a fantastic ambassador of Spanish and Mediterranean values.”
