Part of Meliá Hotels International
Zel
Mediterranean-lifestyle all-inclusive brand co-created by Meliá Hotels International and Rafael Nadal, bringing design-forward energy and active leisure to the Caribbean.
Official Website 1 resort listed
Operates in:Dominican Republic
What They Do Best
Zel is a Mediterranean-lifestyle hotel brand co-founded by Meliá Hotels International and tennis legend Rafael Nadal, both from Mallorca, Spain. Launched in 2023, the brand brings a distinctive Mediterranean energy to the hospitality space — blending design-forward interiors, curated dining, and an active-leisure philosophy that reflects Nadal's own lifestyle ethos. The brand name 'Zel' evokes zeal and energy, positioning the properties as vibrant lifestyle destinations rather than traditional beach resorts.
Resort Experience
Zel properties feature Mediterranean-inspired design with clean lines, natural materials, and sun-drenched color palettes. The dining programs emphasize Mediterranean cuisine with local influences, and the activity offerings lean toward active experiences — tennis courts (naturally), water sports, fitness, and wellness. In the all-inclusive format (currently Zel Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic), the experience includes all meals, drinks, water sports, and entertainment. The brand targets younger travelers, couples, and design-conscious guests who want personality and energy in their resort experience.
Portfolio & Growth
Zel launched with its first property in Mallorca, Spain in 2023, followed by Zel Costa Brava. The brand expanded to the Americas with Zel Punta Cana (December 2024), the first all-inclusive Zel resort. Future openings are planned for Madrid, Sayulita (Mexico), Formentera, Koh Samui (Thailand), Albania, and Greece, with a target of 20 properties within five years. In the all-inclusive market, Zel Punta Cana is currently the only property — the European locations operate as lifestyle hotels without all-inclusive packages.
Zel Resorts
Rating8.0Zel Punta Cana
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
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