Vistawall International (KSA) - By Alupco

Al Ghurair Construction a unit of UAE-based diversified conglomerate Al Ghurair has added another pioneering solution to its exclusive product portfolio with the launch of HIRT a Swiss specialist in descending window systems. Reinventing the concept of the window HIRT s Swiss descending windows are the ultimate in room opening products and are the ideal solution wherever no clear boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas are desired said a statement from the company. The true innovation lies in the window s capability to slide completely into the floor making divisions disappear while turning interior spaces into al fresco environments it stated. The makers which produce the globally-unique descender fronts in Switzerland have a great deal of experience and established expertise in metal construction. These specialised solutions work anywhere and in any climate. They lower extremely heavy fron...

Microsoft Corp recently announced the next update of Windows 10 the Fall Creators Update to be made available worldwide on October 17 at the IFA conference in Berlin Germany. With this new update the company is introducing some fun and new ways to get creative said a statement. Microsoft s mission is to empower every person and every organization to achieve more and the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update marks the next step in the Windows journey empowering creativity in users it said. As part of the update Microsoft will deliver an evolution to the photos experience that will let users tell their story like never before using photos videos and 3D effects; enhancements in gaming security accessibility and immersive new experiences made possible by Windows Mixed Reality. All of this innovation will be brought to life by a range of beautifully designed and feature rich modern devices available from hardware partne...

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the opening of its new Holiday Inn in Mutare Zimbabwe. The franchised property owned by African Sun Limited features 96 rooms an outdoor pool and a meeting room capable of seating 250 people. It is located in the heart of the city centre with significant business activity across the forestry citrus farming and mining industries. Outside of Southern Africa the UAE is Zimbabwe s biggest export market. Mutare is positioned in the diamond mining region of Zimbabwe and close to the Tete Province a coal mining region in Mozambique. Zimbabwe imports machinery electrical and electronic equipment from the UAE and its largest exports are in the diamond industry. Commenting on the announcement Pascal Gauvin chief operating officer India Middle East and Africa IHG said: Africa represents huge untapped opportunities for a variety of industries across the region. We&...

Microsoft Corp will launch a major update to Windows the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update later this year delivering new experiences to users it was announced at the Build 2017 developer conference in Seattle. The Fall Creators Update will include a new design system; creative experiences that will move with the users across Windows iOS and Android; new apps coming to the Windows Store; new tools that make Windows home for all developers; and the world s first Windows Mixed Reality motion controllers no markers required. We designed Windows 10 to empower the creator in all of us said Terry Myerson executive vice president Windows Devices Group Microsoft. We re excited for our customers to take advantage of the new features in the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update that will empower innovative experiences; a modern unified design for cross-device experiences; and an easier path for developers to create for...

Hormann a leading Germany-based provider of doors and gates has launched its multi-purpose doors MZ Thermo/MZ ThermoPlus for homes in the Middle East region. One of Hormann s functional doors for homes the MZ Thermo/MZ ThermoPlus has a thermal break and provides up to 49 per cent better thermal insulation than conventional multi-purpose doors. Apart from being robust they are available with or without glazing as well as in numerous colours and decor surfaces said the company in a statement. The multi-purpose door MZ ThermoPlus offers first-class thermal insulation with a 67-mm-thick door leaf and a particularly high UD-value of up to 0.87 W/(sq m K). Darius Khanloo managing director at Hormann Middle East and Africa said: If one is looking for basement and side doors with the same thermal insulation as entrance doors then our multi-function doors MZ Thermo and MZ ThermoPlus are the right choice. ...

Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts has opened its residences in Istanbul. With a large choice of apartment sizes guests at the Radisson Blu Residence Istanbul Batışehir will enjoy all the comforts of home in the heart of Bağcılar one of the upcoming areas in Istanbul close to the old city. The property is the first Radisson Blu Residence to open in Turkey. Developed as part of Batışehir a newly built complex that consists of offices retail stores and residential housing Radisson Blu Residence Istanbul Batışehir offers 171 spacious serviced apartments with contemporary design and five-star facilities. Guests can select from a range of 13 studios 36 one-bedroom 77 two-bedroom and 45 three-bedroom apartments. Each apartment provides high standards of comfort and is fully-equipped with a modern kitchen bathroom master bedroom and closet. All apartments also have a balcony to take in excellent views of the city or the Batışehir de...

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announces the opening of Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya the first Hyatt Regency hotel to open in the capital of Saudi Arabia. Developed by Mohammed A. Al-Swailem Co. for Commercial Investment it is the third Hyatt-branded hotel to open in Saudi Arabia. We are delighted to announce the opening of the first Hyatt-branded hotel in the capital of Riyadh. We are confident that the globally recognised Hyatt Regency brand will resonate with business and leisure travellers visiting Riyadh says Peter Fulton group president Europe Africa and Middle East Hyatt. Along with Mohammed A. Al-Swailem Co. for Commercial Investment we look forward to expanding Hyatt s brand presence throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya has a prime location in Olaya a growing financial district in Riyadh close to the King Abdullah Financial Distric...

NIKKI Spa opened its doors earlier this month in partnership with ESPA products. There are seven treatment rooms for men and ladies and one couple s treatment room. There s a hamman a vitality pool a beautiful destination spa general manager Alex Schneider tells us. ...

Microsoft today announced that the Windows 10 Creators Update will be available in the UAE from April 11. The Windows 10 Creators Update is the third major release for Windows 10 and will unveil a next wave of innovation on the world s most widely used operating system for users. Today more than 400 million devices are running Windows 10. New innovations in the Windows 10 Creators Update will empower users with more tools to express the full range of their imagination in whatever form it takes. These new features include 3D mixed reality enhanced apps improved security and 4K gaming. Yusuf Mehdi corporate vice president Windows and Devices Group Microsoft said: Creativity has led the inspiration of our world s greatest inventors architects educators entrepreneurs and students delivering advancements that move our world forward. Whether you sculpt in 3D or code design new worlds or buildings comp...

Young UAE nationals buoyed by new government plans to create jobs in the private sector will be presented with a broad variety of additional career opportunities when employers from a wide range of business sectors assemble in Dubai at the country s leading platform for Emirati job-seekers. The 17th edition of Careers UAE an event dedicated to empowering UAE nationals in the workforce will welcome a host of regional and international companies at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from April 9 to 11. The three-day job fair aims to build on the success of last year s exhibition which saw thousands of Emirati graduates and jobseekers finding employment avenues and internship opportunities across the automotive aviation banking construction energy telecoms healthcare real-estate and oil and gas sectors. Earlier this month ambitious Emiratisation plans starting at a select 250 private sector companies in the UAE were ...

The Hormann Group a leading provider of doors and gates based in Germany has introduced its Vitraplan door a highly exclusive version of its ALR F42 door with wide glazing areas. An eye-catcher for prestigious buildings sculpted designer homes and modern architecture Hormann s newly launched ALR F42 is especially elegant thanks to offset aluminium flush-fitting glazing said a statement from the company. The frame profile is concealed so nothing detracts from the clear overall appearance. Continuous glazing adds an exquisite element to modern industrial structures it stated. Darius Khanloo managing director at Hormann Middle East & Africa said: This door can be used in high-class industrial buildings as well as in private homes. The door has a number of safety features including trap protection. Key switches keypads remote controls timers and many other options are also available t...

Masdar City s Eco-Villa a pilot project incorporating water and energy-saving technologies has been completed and a UAE national family will soon live in the prototype sustainable dwelling it was announced today at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2017. The Eco-Villa was launched in the presence of Sheikh Dhiyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Suhail Mohammed Al Mazrouei UAE Minister of Energy; Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber Minister of State and chairman of Masdar; Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Hamed head of the Energy Council and member of Abu Dhabi s Executive Council; and Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi chief executive officer of Masdar Abu Dhabi s renewable energy company. The 405 sq m Eco-Villa is the first villa to achieve a 4 Pearl rating according to the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council s Estidama Pearl Building Rating System. It will use around 72 per cent less energy and 35 per cent less water than a typical comparably si...

Hormann Group a leading provider of doors and gates in the Middle East & Africa (MEA) region has launched the Dobo System that allows docking of a truck or trailer while its doors are still closed. In some 27 specialized factories across Europe North America and Asia Hormann develops and produces quality gates garage doors industrial doors hinged doors fire resistant doors loading equipment frames operators etc. for residential commercial and industrial purposes. The German door maker. set up its own subsidiary in 2009 at Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai for serving the entire Middle Eastern region. This new Dobo system is in contrast to the conventional loading systems of Hormann MEA said a statement from the company. Once in the unloading position at the dock the warehouse doors can then be safely opened. Until that time the goods remain well-protected inside the vehicle. For additional saf...

The recently opened Ramada Hotel and Suites Amwaj Islands offers the finest new accommodation services and facilities for the most discerning visitors to Bahrain. The hotel is within walking distance from Amwaj Marina and the Amwaj Lagoon and only a few minutes drive from Bahrain International Airport making it conveniently accessible from both the leisure and business districts of Manama. It gives us great pleasure to be able to bring quality and affordable hotel accommodation of international standards to Bahrain. We look forward to welcoming both travellers from abroad and local residents looking to stay dine and host events to the Kingdom s newest hotel Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands said Salim Ahmed Mannai chairman of Mannai Holding Group. The property is independently owned by Mannai Holding and operated under a management agreement by Wyndham Hotel Group (UK) Limited. Wyndham Hotel Group will also manage a second hotel which is expected t...

Rising above the skyline of Tbilisi like an alien spaceship The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi makes a modern landmark in the capital city of Georgia which is seeing more and more visitors from the region due to a visa exemption for GCC nationals and residents. The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi marks the debut of global hotel group Millennium & Copthorne in Georgia and TTN was invited to witness its historic opening ceremony. The tallest building on this side of the Caucasus as the hotel staff like to boast is covered in glass and built with class. The Grand Opening of The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi hosted by the hotel s owners UAE-based Dhabi Group and sponsored by Tera Bank saw more than 5 000 people gather on the capital s Rustaveli Avenue to witness a spectacular fireworks display and star-studded concert set against the stunning backdrop of the hotel. Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili and His Highness Sheikh Nahy...

Rising above the skyline of Tbilisi like an alien spaceship The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi makes a modern landmark in the capital city of Georgia which is seeing more and more visitors from the region due to a visa exemption for GCC nationals and residents. The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi marks the debut of global hotel group Millennium & Copthorne in Georgia and TTN was invited to witness its historic opening ceremony. The tallest building on this side of the Caucasus as the hotel staff like to boast is covered in glass and built with class. The Grand Opening of The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi hosted by the hotel s owners UAE-based Dhabi Group and sponsored by Tera Bank saw more than 5 000 people gather on the capital s Rustaveli Avenue to witness a spectacular fireworks display and star-studded concert set against the stunning backdrop of the hotel. Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili and His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Muba...

Shanghai Disney Resort has announced the opening of the first Disney resort in Mainland China and the sixth Disney resort worldwide with a three-day grand opening celebration. The resort s opening is the result of a long collaborative relationship with the Shanghai Municipal Government and joint venture partner Shanghai Shendi Group and offers a new world-class tourism destination for guests from China and around the world. At opening the first phase of the resort is within a land area of 963 acres with additional land available to accommodate future expansion including additional theme park and other related resort development. Shanghai Disney Resort is a first-of-its-kind resort that combines the very best of Disney in a way that is distinctly Chinese and tailor-made for the people of China. At opening it features a newly designed Magic Kingdom-style theme park Shanghai Disneyland with six themed lands filled with immersive attractions including Adventure Isl...

Dorma Gulf the global partner for premium access solutions that have graced the interiors of the Dubai Metro and other landmark projects has launched the ST Flex Green sliding door solutions that provide the highest grade of eco-friendly slender profile entrance routes. ST Flex Green with an Environmental Production Declaration (EPD) certificate is designed to function as aesthetic sliding doors and also suitable for emergency exits and escape routes that incorporate energy efficiency into an elegant design. German-tested thermal insulation with energy saving regulation EnEV 2009 and the Dual Drive technology within the system enables reliable executive of emergency exits. Harmonising perfectly with surrounding fittings and applications Dorma s sliding door range meets the highest regulatory standards for smooth access solutions said the company in a release. Agy Mathew product marketing manager Dorma Gulf said: The ST Flex Green sliding door system...

Flora Hospitality has announced the opening of Flora Al Barsha Hotel the newest addition to its rapidly growing portfolio of luxury hotels in Dubai. The new four-star property has been designed based on sustainable tourism practices and prides itself in offering first-class facilities that have met environmental best standards. It is located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Al Barsha near Mall of the Emirates. Visitors arriving to the property will find it within walking distance to Dubai Metro centrally accessible to the city s premier lifestyle destinations such as Ski Dubai Jumeirah Beach Residence Jebel Ali Free Zone which makes it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travellers. The hotel s 186 rooms have been elegantly designed with an eye for detail featuring top-of-the-line amenities and stylish interiors enhanced by soothing warm colours and energy-efficient lighting. The rooms are spaciously sized at 35 to 45 square metres including Cl...

Hotel apartments Danat Residence officially opened in the UAE capital last month in a gala ceremony attended by businessmen hotel executives and the media. The 19-storey hotel apartment property is the latest addition to the portfolio of Danat Hotels and Resorts a division of National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels. It comprises 186 units including premium rooms executive suites one bedroom and two bedroom apartments along with two restaurants. Danat Residence Hotel Apartments overlooks the pristine Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and the surrounding gardens. The hotel apartments comprise four meeting rooms and a ballroom for special occasions. The hotel apartments are set to provide luxury services to all guests including leisure guests business travellers and families from the UAE GCC and other countries. All rooms are equipped with large television screens wi-fi services and other facilities besides two rooms for persons with special ...

PULLMAN the upscale international hotel brand has opened at Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) in Dubai the marque s second hotel in the UAE and fourth in the GCC. The property commenced soft operations on January 1 with 155 rooms of its 354-strong inventory online as well as three of its food and beverage outlets: Seasons all-day dining La Vue terrace lounge and Ahlan lobby café. We are determined to bring a superior level of hospitality to the offering in JLT and our surrounding communities says the property s general manager Fadeel Wehbe. We are confident that our unique approach attention to detail and unrivalled service will be a welcome addition to both visitors and residents looking to sample the Pullman experience for themselves. UPSCALE FACILITIES Boasting six food and beverage outlets in total the remaining venues to open are: Amarillo an upmarket tapastry bar Manzoni a specialty Italian restaurant and the rooftop poolside b...

INTERCONTINENTAL Hotels Group (IHG) announced the opening of Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi Downtown the second Holiday Inn hotel and the sixth IHG hotel in the UAE capital alone. Located in the very heart of the city leisure and business travellers alike will benefit from the hotel s central location. Abu Dhabi Corniche is just steps away and the hotel is also close to some of the emirate s best shopping centres. The hotel offers a complementary shuttle bus to Abu Dhabi s public beach as well as to Al Wahda Mall and Marina Mall. For business travellers the hotel is close to the capital s commercial and business districts and just a short drive to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec). Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi Downtown offers guests a warm welcome friendly service and modern facilities at excellent value. The 257-room hotel features a rooftop swimming pool a fully equipped gymnasium and sauna and business travellers will be able to make use of the 24-hour business...

STARWOOD Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. (NYSE:HOT) and Majid Al Futtaim leader in shopping malls retail and entertainment for the Middle East and North Africa recently celebrated the opening of The Westin Bahrain City Centre and Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre. Located in the heart of Manama the two hotels mark Starwood s launch of Westin and Le Meridien brands in the country adding 460 rooms to the group s portfolio in Bahrain. We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Majid Al Futtaim as we debut our Westin and Le Méridien brands in Bahrain said Guido de Wilde senior vice-president regional director Starwood Hotels & Resorts Middle East. We look forward to introducing Westin s winning approach to well-being and Le Méridien s contemporary lifestyle approach through the arts culture and cuisine to the local community and international travellers to Manama. THE WESTIN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE The Westin Bahrain ...

A FLAGSHIP ESPA spa located within the Venetian Village at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal has opened its doors. This beachfront spa at the luxury hotel in the UAE offers a serene setting for treatments inspired by the Bedouin culture of Arabia. Situated on the scenic Grand Canal overlooking the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque the 57-acre waterfront luxury hotel offers a wide choice of luxury accommodation options including 85 private villas and four Ritz-Carlton Suites offering spacious facilities and premium amenities. The spa offers unique treatments specially created for The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi such as the signature Oasis Ritual a revitalising and cleansing combination to uplift the spirit and soothe tired muscles. Personalised service is also available as per request. There are separate female and male outdoor relaxation areas at the hotel. ESPA guests are provided exclusive beach facilities and access to the resort s 1 600-sq-m outdoor swimm...

RENOVATED refurbished and revamped the Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa is back in business and aims to become one of the leading family resorts in the region. The luxury resort offers an idyllic escape set on acres of UAE s picturesque East Coast in the coastal town of Khorfakkan overlooking the Indian Ocean and with the backdrop of the majestic Hajjar Mountains. It is located 90 minutes from the Dubai and Sharjah International Airports. The hotel held its re-opening in three stages with the soft opening held in May 2013. General manager Ian Phillips says: The property has undergone an extensive refurbishment. We have to re-establish ourselves in the market. We are evolving and building to create our own identity. We have also started to develop good relationships with destination management companies (DMC) and tour operators. While summer was difficult following our opening October was one of our best months. During Eid we set a record for our f...

THE new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC) opened its doors for business following its official inauguration and the welcoming of the first commercial flight. A delegation of local dignitaries and aviation officials toured the facility following the unveiling of a commemorative display and welcomed the arrival of the first commercial flight Wizz Air flight W6 2497 arriving from Budapest Hungary. Also present were aircraft from Gulf Air and Jazeera Airlines. Dubai Airports has thus far confirmed operations with three airlines. Wizz Air which provides low-cost air transport across 30 countries with 16 bases across Europe will provide non-stop services linking DWC to Central and Eastern Europe. Jazeera Airways commenced operations with two weekly flights on October 31 2013. Gulf Air has announced its intention to start daily operations to Bahrain on December 8 2013. Dubai Airports is in discussions with a number o...

THE St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi has unveiled the resort s flagship Royal Suite which it claims to be the largest hotel suite in the UAE. Spanning a lavish 2 100 sq m with four bedrooms the duplex occupies the top two floors of the resort s west wing and is priced at Dh130 000 ( 34 393.4) per night. Ali Al Hammadi deputy managing director of Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) the owner and developer of the resort said: The launch of the Royal Suite completes The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort an address that has fast evolved to become one of the city s popular leisure destinations. Saadiyat positions itself as a celebration of unique landmarks and this suite complements that promise. Designed by UAE-based Enigma Design the interior features a warm earth-toned palette with shades of sea mist teal and blue. A spiral staircase with a reflective water feature at its base together with the custom design lighting and c...

EMAAR Properties PJSC and Meraas Holding have launched a new hotel brand Dubai Inn focused on the affordable segment. Mohamed Alabbar chairman of Emaar Properties said that the new hotels would be stylishly designed by Emaar to create a new hotel experience that will be highlighted by affordable elegance. One of the key drivers to achieving the Dubai Tourism Vision 2020 to double the number of annual tourists to 20 million by the turn of the decade is to offer a wider choice of affordable hotels that appeal to the new generation of travellers. Abdulla Al Habbai group chairman of Meraas Holding said: With two-thirds of the world population living within an eight-hour flight from Dubai the city has tremendous tourism growth potential. By creating a robust pipeline of affordable hotels under the Dubai Inn brand we plan to attract more visitors to our city from the fast-growing markets in the Asia-Pacific Africa Europe and the wider Middle East. P...

The Oberoi Group opened doors of The Oberoi Dubai the group s first property in the UAE last month. Located at The Oberoi Centre the hotel overlooks the iconic Burj Khalifa and each of the 252 rooms and suites have floor to ceiling windows which afford spectacular views of the city s skyline. We are pleased to present The Oberoi Dubai which offers the highest standards of luxury and hospitality. The opening of the hotel is significant for us. A number of Oberoi Hotels have been consistently recognised as amongst the best in the world. I am confident that The Oberoi Dubai will continue this tradition. said P R S Oberoi executive chairman of The Oberoi Group. Karim Bizid general manager of The Oberoi Dubai added: With the opening of The Oberoi Dubai we offer discerning business and leisure travellers an oasis of tranquility with service which is warm caring and personalised. We are confident that The Oberoi Dubai will add tangible value to the hospital...

THE first ILTM Africa closed its doors having established the scene for the continent s luxury travel industry in a niche event that focused on two days of business. The value of ILTM Africa has been incredible said Mark Lakin of Epic Road a US hosted buyer who joined 71 international planners from 31 countries who are pre-qualified to produce luxury travel itineraries for high net worth individuals from across the world. ILTM Africa opened with a forum that brought speakers from the continent to discuss such diverse issues as the economic and political overview of South Africa and what faces the African luxury travel industry of the future including their needs and the expectations of the international consumer. An economic and political overview was presented by Clem Sunter formerly chairman of the Anglo American Chairman s Fund the premier corporate social responsibility fund in South Africa. He talked about how Africa is...

CAPITALAND S wholly-owned serviced residence business unit The Ascott Limited has opened its first Citadines branded serviced residence in Malaysia. The 215-unit Citadines Uplands Kuching is Ascott s 17th Citadines property to open in Asia Pacific since the introduction of the brand from Europe to the region in 2006. Currently there are also over 40 Citadines serviced residences in Europe. With Citadines Uplands Kuching Ascott strengthens its leadership position as the largest international serviced residence owner-operator with over 1 800 apartment units across 10 properties in Kuala Lumpur Kuching Cyberjaya Petaling Jaya and Nusajaya in Iskandar. Tan Boon Khai Ascott s regional general manager for Singapore and Malaysia said: We see tremendous potential in bringing Citadines to Malaysia. It complements our existing Ascott- and Somerset-branded serviced residences and enables us to cater to a wider segment of customers. Citadines serviced residen...

ROTANA announced the opening of its first property in Bahrain Majestic Arjaan by Rotana on the March 13 2013. Located in Busaiteen district in the island of Muharraq the new hotel is the company s 11th property under the Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana brand. Majestic Arjaan by Rotana is a first-class property which has been developed with both short and long term guests in mind. It offers 128 suites which are modernly designed consisting of spacious studios one two and three bedrooms developed as duplexes. The hotel features the latest high-tech facilities including fully-equipped meeting rooms with the most up-to-date audio-visual equipment. It also gives guests a chance to wind down and relax at any of the numerous leisure facilities that include an outdoor temperature controlled swimming pool a fully-fledged fitness centre with steam and sauna rooms. Majestic Arjaan by Rotana also boasts three specialised food and beverage venues...

ROYAL Rose Hotel by City Seasons the flagship hotel and the first five-star hotel operated and managed by City Seasons Group will mark its presence in this year s edition of GIBTM (Gulf Incentive Business Travel & Meetings) from March 25-27 after returning from ITB Berlin from March 6 -10. The Royal Rose Hotel which is scheduled to open in Abu Dhabi in late spring will participate in both shows under the City Seasons Hotels stand under the umbrella of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority. Mohammed Al Aamri managing director City Seasons Group of Hotels said: Our City Seasons Hotels in Muscat Dubai Al Ain and the recently open City Seasons Al Hamra In Abu Dhabi had great success in securing diverse and balanced market mix and we continue explore new emerging markets which will definitely include a certain degree of leisure business. Gianni Malerba general manager Royal Rose Hotel added: GIBTM is an important event in our home Abu Dhabi and...

BEST Western International has continued its expansion in the Middle East with the launch of its first hotel in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The opening of the upscale Best Western Plus The Olive is the latest in a series of firsts for Best Western in the Middle East region in 2012. Following the company s debut in Saudi Arabia and the launch of its first Best Western Plus hotel in the region at the start of the year Best Western has since opened its first ever properties in Kuwait Muscat and Riyadh. And now the company has a foothold in the thriving Bahrain market with the launch of a new hotel in the bustling Juffair district of the Gulf nation s capital Manama. The Best Western Plus The Olive offers 250 comfortable guest rooms all equipped with flat-screen televisions minibars and high quality mattresses pillows and cotton linen. As with all Best Western Plus hotels complimentary internet access is available in all rooms and public areas. Other ...

This year s edition of the Global Village in Dubai UAE is set to open its gates on October 21. Now in its 17th year this year will be its longest running season open for 161 days with a closing date on March 30 2013. Speaking to TTN Global Village chief executive Saeed Ali bin Redha said the extended season was planned following demand from visitors last year. Last year the Global Village welcomed nearly five million visitors. It also opens in time for the expected influx of visitors during the Eid Al Adha holidays. Global Village is known today as a seasonal theme park. With the support of the Government of Dubai it has become a brand that is well known not only in the UAE and the Middle East but across the world. Though we are seasonal the brand Global Village remains alive all year round with various CSR activities participation in various trade shows etc says bin Redha. For UAE residents Global Village is a one-stop destin...

AS Libya looks to build its tourism image hotel companies making a comeback into the once war zone area that offers some world-class cultural heritage sites an historic quarter in Tripoli and over 1 300 miles of Mediterranean coastline. Following the Arab Spring uprising hotel operators are making its entry back into Tripoli and taking lead is the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group which reopened the Radisson Blu Al Mahary Hotel on January 1 2012. Since its opening the hotel has seen strong performance especially taking into consideration the challenging and uncertain times says Kosta Kourotsidis general manager of the hotel. We have also seen a positive trend in regards to RevPar and within the coming months we re confident that it will continue to increase. Kourotsidis adds that currently the biggest source market for the hotel is from embassies media construction companies and of course the petrol & gas companies. We know that at the mome...

THE much-awaited St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi opens doors this month brining to the emirate a new landmark hotel. With its prime location on the pristine white sands of Saadiyat Island the hotel is the first to open doors on the island. Ahead of its opening general manager John Pelling gives us an insight on what to expect at this new address. After much anticipation the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is finally opening doors. What can guests expect to see? The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi is located on the beautiful natural island of Saadiyat framed by the prestigious Saadiyat Beach Golf Course the Arabian Gulf s first and only beachfront course and a beach so unspoiled that Hawksbill Turtles nest within view and Bottlenose Dolphins can be seen playing in the unspoiled and crystal-clear waters. The resort will offer 377 lavish rooms and suites 3 000 sq m ballroom 6 000 sq...

CRISTAL Hotels and Resorts will open the Cristal Salam Hotel Abu Dhabi in the third quarter of 2011. Set to become one of Abu Dhabi s most exclusive hotels Cristal Salam Hotel is a stylish and modern property in the banking district of the bustling city just a few minutes drive away from the Abu Dhabi Airport and within conveniently short driving distances to most of the shopping malls business offices and touristic locations. Cristal Salam Hotel features 112 spacious rooms and suites that redefine the lavish hotel experience combining intimacy comfort and exclusivity with the personalized service and attention to detail that are the hallmarks of Cristal Hotels and Resorts. The properties belonging to the Group not only comply with the mandates of high-performance buildings but ensure that even the smallest details are designed to exceed the guests expectations. Other room features include a 32-inch LCD TV high speed internet access convenient coffee and tea making fa...

AFTER witnessing an almost 1 000-per-cent increase in mobile bookings IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) recently announced the global launch of its Priority Club Rewards app for Windows Phone. The new app provides customers with the functionality to find and book hotel rooms check rates and view or cancel reservations for all seven of IHG s brands and the company is the first major hotel supplier to offer an app for Windows Phone. The new solution follows the highly successful release of the iPhone booking apps for each of IHG s seven brands announced in June 2011; the InterContinental Concierge Insider Guides app for iPad introduced in December 2010; the Priority Club Rewards app for Android launched in July 2010 and the Priority Club Rewards app for iPhone which became available in April 2010. Creating a booking app for Windows Phone is an essential part of our mobile strategy...

WITH over 8 000 new budget hotel rooms expected to open by 2013 the region is opening doors to affordable travel. With the emergence of tourism hotspots like Abu Dhabi and Doha the GCC can expect to see major changes in the development of tourism in the coming years. The scale of opportunity in the region means the GCC has become a hotspot for budget hotels among investors and operators in a market dominated traditionally by luxury and upmarket deluxe hotels. New budget hotel brands are entering the region with great speed and are set to revolutionise the range of choices for the budget-conscious travellers in both corporate and leisure segments. Analysts and hoteliers believe that budget hotels stand to be the big winners from the growth in stopover traffic and the expanding number of low-cost carriers operating out of the region. The increase in the number of mid-market and more affordable hotels would also help boost the conferences and tourism sectors. The number...

As Bahrain s InterContinental Regency prepares to open its doors following a major refit general manager JAMES MCDONALD tells LIZ O REILLY what s in store at the all-new property. The InterCon is one of the island s oldest and best known hotels what are the major changes regular guests will see following the facelift? After closing our doors for the first time in 30 years we are just about to complete a multi-million-dollar renovation where we have literally changed and remodelled every area of the hotel. From the moment our regular guests see the new facade they will understand that they are returning to a fabulously modern hotel. Once in the hotel they will immediately appreciate the contemporary feel of the lobby and other public areas. In the last year we have worked on changing every area of the hotel from our striking new facade to the bedrooms which are re-designed around the sophisticated needs of today s ...

DISCREETLY located in a quiet part of Taipei s most fashionable district Da-An is Hotel Éclat an eclectic elegant new boutique art hotel and member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The 60-room property is owned and conceived by sophisticated Hong Kong entrepreneur George Wong who created and owns the legendary luxury apartment complex Hong Kong Parkview. The hotel features much of his personal art and furniture collection and even his own personal collections of vintage fine beverages and priceless rare Chinese mao tai beverage. This stylish avant-garde new hotel is the first to open in the city for many years and afternoon tea at The Éclat Lounge which features two original Salvador Dali sculptures worth several million dollars each has already become a must do for those in the know in Taipei. All 60 guest rooms are luxuriously equipped with state-of-the-art amenities including 42-inch LCD televisions and internet ...

THE latest luxury hotel to grace Malaysia s Jewel of Kedah archipelago is The Danna Langkawi a five-star luxury boutique resort. Scheduled to open by July in time for the summer holidays the property has 125 well-appointed and spacious rooms and suites and is located on the west coast of Langkawi and only 15 minutes away from the international airport. The Danna Langkawi sits in a valley surrounded by lush green mountains on the mouth of the bay by the marina and next to a white sandy beach. The hotel is minutes away from the popular cable car Underwater World Langkawi The Golf Club Datai Bay and many other recreational facilities. The resort is cleverly designed mixing charming regal he...

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts that the contribution of travel and tourism to Syria s GDP will rise from 11.2 per cent ( 4.67bn) in 2009 to 13 per cent ( 7.7bn) by 2019. Despite a slowdown in 2009 the Syrian economy is forecast to post average real GDP growth of 4.1 per cent in 2010-11. Expansion in services GDP is expected to be driven by a large increase in tourism receipts. This bodes well for the hospitality sector in Damascus said Robert O Hanlon of Deloitte & Touche Middle East. In the first quarter major hoteliers noted a year-on-year dip in occupancy levels and business a phenomenon reflected in data from STR Global a company specialising in tracking market data relevant to the hotels industry showing first-quarter occupancy levels in Damascus at 48.8 per cent down from 61.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2008. In January and February our occupancy rates were noticeably low but by March April and May it picked...

The Meydan Hotel the first five-star property to be located alongside a championship horse racetrack opened its doors last month in Dubai UAE in time for the annual Dubai World Cup race. The luxury hotel forms an integral part of the Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse the new home to the world s richest horse racing event. This makes it Dubai s and the world s most distinctive hotel to combine horse racing and entertainment with superior hospitality and service. The Meydan offers 285 tastefully appointed rooms and suites featuring subtle equestrian themed motifs and modern luxury design finishes and 95 per cent include balconies with unobstructed views of the racecourse. In addition to the private balconies The Meydan offers the world s most unique way to enjoy the action on the turf - from its infinity pool on the hotel s rooftop. We are pleased to open The Meydan in time for this year s Dubai World Cup where a room at the The Meydan will make...

To the backdrop of revving engines The Yas Hotel took centre stage at last month s Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as host to the who s who of motorsport and the world s celebrities. As it opened its doors the hotel welcomed the VIPs and officials of the race and concerts. Built by Aldar Properties and operated by Aldar Hotels and Hospitality the hotel consists of 499 rooms and 14 entertainment and dining options in two separate buildings connected by a bridge overlooking Yas Marina Circuit. The bridge atop the circuit offers unrivalled views of the track from two levels VIP access and Rush Abu Dhabi s hottest new night spot. The first hotel in the world to span a race track The Yas Hotel s extraordinary 5 000 LED panel gridshell drapes the building in a vibrant shroud of lights enabling it to act as a light show providing different shades and colours including animations making it the largest colour LED display in the world. For the grand ...

TARGETING the middle-market the Gold Swiss-Belhotel Dubai has opened its doors promising value for money in the group s first UAE venture. Comprising 184 guest rooms and suites three food and beverage outlets recreation facilities a business centre and meeting facilities the new hotel is close to Dubai International Airport Dubai Conference and Exhibition Centre Sheikh Zayed Road and many of Dubai s landmarks. The hotel is poised to become one of the city s leading four-star properties offering five star quality with an affordable price tag said general manager Nils Rothbarth. The opening of Gold Swiss-Belhotel Dubai marks the introduction of the Swiss-Belhotel brand to the UAE and the fifth hotel in the Middle East region for the group. The low rise building comprising five levels was built and designed by Al Ghaith Construction in association with Diar Consult. Bangkok headquartered Leo International Design Group created the contempor...

Marrakech s illustrious La Mamonia hotel has reopened following an extensive restoration project led by internationally-acclaimed interior designer Jacques Garcia. An icon of Marrakech La Mamounia is the incarnation of Moroccan identity and a true jewel among international hotels said general manager Didier Picquot. A legendary property La Mamounia is steeped in history and grace and has hosted a who s who of international royalty politicians celebrities and the jet set. French fashion design team Terre & Ciel Conseil recently sewed the final buttons and sequins on La Mamounia s tailor-made staff uniforms which clothe all 777 employees and now the venue is ready to welcome a new generation of guests. As well as the usual luxury facilities visitors to La Mamounia will find that little extra with a host of designer touches. During the restoration a fragrance expert Olivia Giacobetti famed as one of the seven n...

THE Address Dubai Mall the five star premium hotel linked to The Dubai Mall shopping and entertainment destination opened its doors on 09/09/09. The third property in the portfolio of The Address Hotels and Resorts the hotel brand owned by Emaar Hospitality Group The Address Dubai Mall has 244 rooms and suites all offering views of Downtown Burj Dubai. Being close to the 1 200 retail outlets of the mall is ideally suited for its target audience corporate leisure and group travellers who value personalised luxury. Mohamed Alabbar chairman Emaar Properties said: The opening of the hotel is Emaar s tribute to the city of Dubai as it celebrates the launch of the Dubai Metro. As the city moves into a new league of progress with advanced connectivity Emaar is privileged to further strengthen the city s hospitality sector with the new hotel. He added Dubai is continuing to beat all projections in terms of visitor arrivals with over 1.85 million gues...

LE Gray is opening in Beirut s central district this month adding more charm to the already up-scale Solidere area. The contemporary yet modern boutique property has 87 spacious rooms and suites a cigar lounge a bar an open air pool a spa a gym and a hair salon. It also offers a variety of restaurants topped off with exceptional service. The main points are great location modern and stylish décor and exquisite service said director of sales and marketing Hala Hachache. Le Gray was founded by Gordon Campbell Gray founder and managing director of One Aldwych a boutique hotel that was hailed as the most innovative luxury hotel in London when it opened in 1998 according to Hachache. The hotel an AA top 200 property with five red stars and two rosettes set new standards. Campbell Gray is chairman of CampbellGray Hotels which he set up in 2003 to develop a small collection of international lu...

THRIFTY Car Rental UAE has opened a new office in Jumeirah Beach Residence a popular location in Dubai. The new office will provide a convenient service to tourists and residents of the area. Thrifty caters for both inbound leisure and business travellers as well as to the corporate automotive leasing market. The Middle East remains a car-reliant market and corporate restructuring has caused consumers to take a more short term view said Rahul Singh general manager Thrifty UAE. Rather than investing in a car with its related maintenance and insurance costs leasing provides a flexible transport alternative for people who are unclear about how long they will be in the region. Thrifty s 24 hour presence personalised service and brand new quality vehicles have enabled us to become the car rental company of choice in the UAE. One of the fastest growing organisations within the Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group s Middle East franchise network Thrifty UA...

Media Rotana due to open next month is Rotana Hotels first property in Dubai s Barsha South area. Strategically located in the heart of the city s new business hub off Sheikh Zayed Road and opposite Dubai Media City and Internet City the hotel is within easy reach of the Dubai Convention and Exhibition Centre Financial City Dubai city centre and the Dubai International Airport. Our team the local developers and our Media Rotana staff have a shared passion to create a hotel that will become one of Dubai s most recognizable landmarks and indeed a hotel worthy of worldwide acclaim said Mustafa Ainen general manager. Media Rotana has 460 guest rooms designed with international flair to suit guests seeking privacy personalised service and quality during their stay. The hotel tower includes 122 classic rooms 102 premium rooms 20 classic suites and 20 premium suites while the apartment tower comprises 39 classic studios 39 premium studios 79 classic one bedroom a...

The Rezidor Hotel Group one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the world announced recently that the doors of its new property in Jordan the Radisson SAS Bay Resort Aqaba - have now been opened. The new resort owned by Shatea Al-Kamar for Tourism Investment is located on the shores of the Aqaba Gulf in the southern part of Jordan. It offers a total of 336 standard deluxe and superior rooms as well as junior and executive suites. Rooms offering inter-connecting doors non-smoking and with specially designed details for disabled guests are also available. All the rooms have their own balconies and are decorated in modern style. The overall layout of the resort is designed to make it resemble a modern village with light yellow exteriors colours abundant green areas with lush palm trees as well as numerous arches and pathways. Food and beverage outlets include the all day dining Aziab restaurant with international cuisine and a live cooking station; Heatwave ...

MAURITIUS based Anahita World Class Sanctuary is opening its doors on June 1. Managed by Anahita Residences and Villas this vast 213 hectare property at Beau Champ Grande Rivière Sud Est is set in luxuriant vegetation and bordered by a coastal lagoon. The development will be a community where residents and tourists of all ages will be able to enjoy a wide variety of recreational pursuits including dining shopping entertainment sports and leisure as well as ecological interaction and education. Alec Bathfield regional sales and marketing manager for the company will be at Arabian Travel Market to discuss the new opening. The Anahita development forms part of the Deep River Beau Champ Sugar Estate on the eastern coast of Mauritius a coastline renowned for its calm lagoon waters. All facilities and amenities are designed and constructed to the highest international standards and reflect the eclectic combination of cultures and the coastal fusion of traditi...

RESORT Condominiums International (RCI) Middle East s managing director Nick Turner believes the time is right for timeshare. So too does David Clifton Interval International s managing director for EMEA and Asia the driver of the Vacation Ownership Investment Conference (VOIC) held last month in Dubai. Dubailand Vacations have introduce timeshare developments within Dubailand Al Futtaim Group and Marriott International have said that they will establish Marriott Vacation Club at the Dubai Festival City - the first Marriott Vacation Club resort in the Middle East - and the largest outside North America - and Starwood vacation club Hyatt vacation club and Westgate resorts are among major players who have shown growing interest. As chairman and CEO of Arabian Falcon Holidays a Dubai based vacation ownership service provider says Vacation ownership will open the doors to a whole new class of buyers who want to holiday in Dubai and want a piece of the property marke...

THE Rezidor Hotel Group one of the fastest growing hotel companies has opened its first fresh and energetic mid-market brand in the Middle East the Park Inn Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt. The property was formerly known as the Golden Resort by Rezidor and was re-branded Park Inn this month with an additional 203 rooms bringing the total number to 401. This first resort property within the Park Inn portfolio is on the protected area of Nabq Bay 10 minutes from Sharm El Sheikh Airport. Jean-Marc Busato area vice-president of The Rezidor Hotel Group said Sharm El Sheikh is one of the most accessible and developed tourist resort communities in Egypt and we believe there was a need for an internationally branded efficient and hassle-free property to cater to the mid-market segment. Park Inn Sharm El Sheikh has two bars and two all-day restaurants Aqua Piper and Palms that offer a combination of local and international cuisine. In addition the resor...

EMIRATES Hotels and Resorts first city-based hotel the 59-storey luxury Emirates Marina Hotel & Residence is to open its doors on November 1. Offering 261 suites in a range of single double and three-roomed configurations the hotel is a fitting addition to Dubai s skyline being one of Dubai s top-ten highest buildings at 256 metres. At the gateway entrance to the Dubai Marina the hotel is set within Dubai s most sought-after lifestyle and fashionable districts. It is just a stone s throw away from Dubai Media and Internet Cities and other business leisure and beach facilities. Guests have easy and regular transfers to nearby malls as well as access to the popular Jumeirah Beach. The hotel s noticeably large suites offer luxury fittings separate lounge/dining room areas and in-room dining facilities from dedicated kitchens. Guests are also assured staggering views of the Gulf the Palm Islands or the Dubai Marina from their suites. The hotel...

Saudi Arabia is not the first place that comes to mind for leisure tourists. In the past what there was of the travel and tourism industry was dominated by the Hajj in the western provinces and by business tourism. However there are strong signs that the government wants to change especially since the accession of King Abdullah bin AbdulAziz Al Saud. Back in 2000 the government set up the Supreme Commission for Tourism (SCT) with the task of improving standards within the industry and developing them to a point whereby more leisure tourists would start to come to Saudi Arabia. So far more than 133 million has been spent on getting the SCT s operations up and running. The goal is to encourage Hajj tourists to stay for longer periods in the country while encouraging other tourists interested in Saudi Arabia s landscape and history to visit. One of the other driving factors behind the decision to open up the country to more tourism is the need to create jobs for Sau...

THE four-star Majestic Hotel has just opened its doors in Bur Dubai and hopes to create a strong brand impact according to the hotel s general manager. Just as any hotel chain out there started from one property we are here to establish our own new brand. Our first footprint is a hotel tower located in the heart of Bur Dubai positioned in the vicinity of the Golden Sands apartments. Despite being situated in one of the liveliest areas of Dubai the Majestic Hotel enjoys a quieter and easily accessible location says Alex Economides who has been involved with the project from the stage of conceptualisation 15 months ago through to opening day. While the hotel was conceptualised and constructed to be a five-star hotel Economides says market trends dictated otherwise. The majority of hotels in Dubai are five-star and the fact is the largest segment of the tour market does not consist of five-star spenders. Moreover travellers options are becoming increasingly tr...

THE much-talked-about Kempinksi Hotel Mall of the Emirates in Dubai the chain s first property in the emirate is finally open this month. The five star luxury hotel offers a complete leisure experience with world-class shopping and an unrivalled Alpine experience featuring the world s third largest indoor ski resort and the biggest covered snow park. The 48 000sqm property is destined to become a landmark of luxury and innovation attracting business travellers both locally and from across the region. Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates also boasts the country s largest hotel rooms with 395 deluxe rooms and suites including 15 ski chalets all designed and built with luxury and comfort in mind. The Conference Wing features 15 conference rooms with the latest telecommunication technology and built in video conferencing. Extended business services are offered at the futuristic business centre located at the Conference Wing with high speed wireless internet connection ...

Al Corniche Club Kuwait s newest and most exclusive private members club was officially opened by HE Abdullah Abdelrahman Al Taweel Kuwait s minister of commerce and industry. The opening ceremony was attended by a host of senior ministers MPs and leading members of Kuwait s banking and investment community. Unveiling the club s inaugural plaque Al Taweel said The outstanding level of design and professional health and fitness services at Al Corniche Club demonstrates a firm commitment to service that is highly commendable. Najeeb Al Saleh vice-chairman of Al Tameer Real Estate Investment Company the parent company of Al Corniche Club said The opening of Al Corniche Club marks the realisation of a long-held vision to introduce a world-class club that is a first for Kuwait with top quality spa health fitness and leisure facilities for families that will not only provide enormous enjoyment but will exceed expectations. Designed by award-winning Britis...

The highly-anticipated Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Dubai has opened its doors. The new Suite building is the first completed portion of the Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Complex. A landmark of Dubai for its architecture and its ideal location near Sheikh Zayed Road Al Murooj Suites is now welcoming guest for business and leisure. All 147 deluxe serviced apartments (one two and three bedrooms) duplexes and penthouse boast magnificent panoramic views. It s strongly Arabian yet international traditional and contemporary. All suites have been designed with beautiful modern accessories and are equipped with a fully-interactive TV with direct internet access personal safe high-speed internet connection tea and coffee-making facilities multi-channel satellite TV and pay TV an electronic monitoring system to enhance temperature levels state-of-the-art security system and fully-fitted kitchens. We hope to seduce the senses of our well-travelled guests...

Dubai will witness the opening of the city s third property managed by Hyatt International Corporation Park Hyatt Dubai a 225-room luxury retreat set within the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. The hotel is scheduled to open later this year. The urban luxury retreat concept is a first for Dubai and features eight unique spa rooms each with their own private steam room and treatment area enabling guests to enjoy a premium spa experience without leaving the privacy of their room. Park Suites feature a spacious living area adjoining the bedroom while Park Executive Suites benefit from an additional dressing room with a prime view across the marina and creek park. The Presidential and Royal Suites are the epitome of luxury and are a perfect city centre retreat for dignitaries and VIPs. An 840 sq m ballroom four meeting rooms an executive board room impressive pre-function area and intimate courtyards with views over the Dubai Creek and marina positions Park Hyatt...

InterContinental Hotels Group has further expanded its portfolio of stunning properties in the region with the opening of the lavish luxurious and larger-than-life InterContinental Citystars Cairo. Located at the heart of Cairo s largest retail and leisure complex Citystars Heliopolis the new hotel has quickly emerged as the city s most popular destination for tourist groups corporate travellers and conference delegates. The 700-plus room hotel has predictably attracted strong interest because of its prime location at the heart of the 115 000 sq m Citystars Heliopolis complex. As the largest mixed-use urban development in the Middle East the 265 million Citystars Heliopolis is larger than any project of its kind in Europe. With the InterContinental Citystars Cairo hotel set in the amazing complex guests are provided with instant access to the 12th largest shopping centre in the world with 470 retail outlets an entertainment centre cinemas bowling alley and ...

InterContinental Aqaba scheduled to open doors this month is all set to embark on a major promotional campaign participating at most of the major European trade shows on the Jordan Tourism Board stand for 2005 and 2006 and utilising the muscle of InterContinental Hotels Group plans to reach out to existing and potential tour operators currently using IHG hotels in similar destinations. Already we are managing an advertising campaign to target different market segments and geographic source markets with potential. Aqaba is a destination that has developed swiftly during the past six years and InterContinental Aqaba occupies an ideal point in the development of this all-year-round destination on the Red Sea said Mark Timbrell area director of sales and marketing Jordan. The hotel will have six F&B outlets. Bourj Al Hamam already a successful restaurant in Lebanon and also at the InterContinental Jordan in Amman will be one of two la carte restaurants. The ...

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is on track to open the spectacular 680-room Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Muscat Oman in October 2005. Set in 124 acres of landscaped gardens the resort will be the largest and most comprehensive in Oman and will comprise three separate and distinct luxury hotels a private beach the innovative CHI Spa (a concept designed by and exclusive to Shangri-La) swimming pools and four tennis courts. The fully integrated resort currently under construction by hotel developers Barr Al Jissah Resort Co. SAOC is located 15 minutes from the Ruwi business district and Muttrah the old city of Muscat. The three hotels within the resort will be known as Al Husn Al Bandar and Al Waha. The name Al Husn traditionally refers to a large castle that is used as a residence of the chief or ruler of the tribe and will be an ultra luxurious boutique-style hotel. Al Husn will offer guests exclusive access to its own private gymnasium and beach. All...

French hotel giant Accor is on track with its expansion plans in the region with the opening of the first Mercure Grand Hotel in the Kingdom of Bahrain set for the first quarter of this year. Since Accor launched its first establishment in the 1970s the group has expanded within the GCC region with remarkable developments that include brands such as Mercure Sofitel Novotel and Ibis. All of the 715 Mercure hotels that exist in over 45 countries worldwide have the characteristics of regional pride and quality of service. The new Mercure Grand Hotel Seef in Bahrain is no exception to that thus it is truly unique and incomparable resonating perfectly with its privileged location ideally situated in Seef district in the heart of the Bahraini capital Manama. As in all Accor hotels the new Mercure Grand Hotel Seef will display an unwavering commitment to cater for its guests every need. With an inimitable décor that is rich in Arabian heritage the ambience is indeed ex...

FOUR Seasons has opened a new hotel in Cairo making a landmark on the Nile. The contemporary 366-room hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city s elite Garden City district. With the opening of our second hotel in Cairo we are offering our guests two completely distinct experiences on opposite sides of the Nile said Wolf Hengst president worldwide hotel operations Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. Our first property which opened in 2000 has an intimate and residential atmosphere while the new hotel is much more contemporary in design and feel. Boasting spectacular views of the Nile on one side and the centuries-old Citadel on the other Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza offers a prestigious new address for both business and leisure guests. Situated amidst the business and diplomatic district it is also ideally located for access to the city s many ancient monuments and areas of cultural importance. The airy open concept spaces of the lo...

RAMADA International Hotels & Resorts a division of Marriott International has announced the opening of the Ramada Continental Hotel in Deira Dubai. This is Ramada s second hotel in Dubai and it is centrally located in the city s Deira district just five minutes from Dubai International Airport and offers roundtrip airport transportation. The hotel offers 192 rooms including 27 suites equipped with satellite television channels international direct dialing and mini-bar. Upgraded deluxe rooms offer in-room fax machines and electronic safes. For dining and entertainment the Ramada Continental Hotel offers a variety of restaurants offering Arabic Continental and Korean cuisine. The hotel also features an Arabic nightclub a 24-hour café and 24-hour room service. For recreation guests can enjoy the rooftop swimming pool that offers spectacular views of the city as well as the spacious sun deck. Also available is a state-of-the-art fitness centre that in...

The opening of the Four Points Hotel by Sheraton Kuwait gives an imposing splendor to the heart of Kuwait s lively capital. Specifically designed to meet the needs of business and leisure travelers alike Four Points by Sheraton brings true innovation to the hotel industry of Kuwait and the Middle East. The hotel was inaugurated by the Minister of Commerce & Industry Abdullah Al Taweel Abdul Aziz Al Shaya chairman of the Oriental Hotels Company the owning company of Sheraton Kuwait Complex and Philippe Cassis senior vice-president Director of Operations Africa and Middle East. The spectacular ceremony was witnessed by a number of important dignitaries from Kuwait s economic sector. These included the President and General Manager of Kuwait Chamber of Commerce & Industry Chairman and Members of the Hotel Owners Association Chief General Manager of Kuwait National Bank Directors of the Oriental Hotels Company and the Chairman of Al Ghanim Inter...

The Shangri-La Hotel Dubai - the group s first property outside Asia Pacific - has opened its doors for business. The new five-star 301-bedroom hotel with 126 serviced apartments is the result of a management agreement between Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts and the UAE-based Al Jaber Group. Shangri-La is spearheading a development drive in the region that will begin with three properties and almost 1 400 rooms and apartments within two years with the combined openings of the Shangri-La Hotel Dubai the four-star Traders Hotel Dubai in October 2003 and Shangri-La s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Muscat Oman opening in July 2005. The 200 metre-high Shangri-La Hotel Dubai - Norr Group of Canada - enjoys stunning ocean and city views. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road in the city s burgeoning commercial business district area the hotel offers some of the largest and most luxurious guest rooms on the strip ranging in size from 45 sq m ...

Cairo s newest family retreat the 5-star deluxe JW Marriott Hotel Mirage City Cairo has opened. The hotel is the third and newest international JW Marriott Hotel in the Middle East. JW Marriott is the premium deluxe brand within Marriott International providing luxurious surroundings and exceptional business and leisure service amenities at an affordable price. The hotel itself offers 428 Bedrooms appointed to JW Marriott standard including executive floors and suites. All rooms will offer STSN Internet access which will be a first for any hotel in Cairo combined with JW Marriott hospitality delivered by associates that understand and are trained to deliver service levels beyond expectations. This 400 acre development is located on the periphery of Cairo 15 minutes from the Airport 10 minutes from the business suburb of Heliopolis and eight miles from downtown Cairo. The highly accessible Ring Road Highway provides easy and efficient access to the...

Grand Hyatt Dubai opened its doors to the world in style last month. After all the pre-launch hype the 674-room property situated near the shores of Dubai s Creek in the City s Garhoud district has attracted a lot of praise. We hope that Grand Hyatt Dubai will position itself as an integral meeting place for residents and guests who will take advantage of the hotel s many restaurants landscaped gardens pool area spa and event facilities stated Peter Fulton General Manager of the hotel. Grand Hyatt Dubai comprises a luxury hotel resort residential apartments and villas and what is described as the largest and most advanced hotel conferencing facility in the region. The hotel is set within lavishly landscaped gardens which act as the perfect backdrop for the dramatic architecture. From the moment guests enter it is apparent that this is a very special hotel. A stunning indoor landscape in the hotel s atrium with over 40 000 square feet...

The doors have opened at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort the first international brand hotel to launch on the UAE East Coast for two decades. Located on the two kilometre Al Aqah Beach near Dibba the 218-room resort has a commitment to introduce the region to the world s travel industry as a top class sun sea and soft adventure destination according to hotel manager Patrick Antaki. The hotel is a joint venture between Emirates Airline and the Hotel and Resort Investment Company. ...