QR Codes helping hotels track advertising effectiveness

In a modern twist to advertising, forward-thinking Dusit International has introduced a smart phone app



that will give readers instant access to more information about the hotel offers they see in the group's



latest advertising campaign and the company's collateral.



The application enables customers to scan Quick Response (QR) codes assigned to ads in magazines and



newspapers. This will allow Dusit International to track interaction with its advertising, to determine the



effectiveness of each medium.



"Today's traveller want their information faster, and are increasingly relying on mobile technologies,



especially smart phones, to bring it to them" said Sam-Erik Ruttmann, Dusit International regional



vice president Middle East. "Hotels cannot ignore the power of mobile technology, as people will use



mobiles more and more to communicate with hotels in the area they need"



QR codes are so called for they offer a "Quick Response" for readers with mobile phones and



membrane-enabled smart phones. All that is needed is for the user to download the QR app on the



smart phone and take a scan of the QR-Code. Code software decoder then transforms the data held



within the QR-Code to a meaningful action for the mobile phone, such as connecting to a website or



bringing up an email address for immediate response.



"QR codes are becoming increasingly attractive to the hospitality industry because they function as a



powerful form of information exchange. Ads are used more actively by users both online and offline,



allowing us to track the interaction and effectiveness of each ad campaign" said Ruttmann.





This initiative has been launched by the Dusit International corporate office and the new ads with the



QR-Codes are already appearing in publications in the Middle East, as well as UK, Europe and Asia


Dusit International has gained more than 60 years experience in the hotel and hospitality field. Founded in 1948 by

Honorary Chairperson, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, whose first hotel was the Princess on Bangkok's New Road; Dusit has since

acquired a unique portfolio of deluxe hotels, building upon Thai culture and tradition to create a personalised welcome for all guests,

made distinctive under the Dusit brand promise: the delivery of an ‘experience that enlivens the individual spirit no matter what the

journey.’



Dusit International comprises five hotel brands: Dusit Thani Hotels & Resorts, Dusit’s second generation dusitD2 hotels & resorts,

Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts, Dusit Devarana Hotels & Resorts, and Dusit Residence Serviced Apartments. It also operates its

own signature Devarana Spa.



THAILAND:



Dusit Thani Hotels & Resorts:



dusitD2 hotels & resorts:



Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts:



Dusit Thani Bangkok

Dusit Thani Hua Hin

Dusit Thani Pattaya

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai

Chatrium Suites Bangkok, A Dusit Thani Hotels Partner



dusitD2 chiang mai

dusitD2 baraquda pattaya

B-Lay Tong Resort, Phuket - managed by dusitD2 hotels & resorts



Dusit Princess Srinakarin, Bangkok

Dusit Princess Koh Chang

Dusit Princess Korat

Royal Princess Larn Luang, Bangkok

Royal Princess Chiang Mai

Pathumwan Princess, MBK Centre, Bangkok

Bel-Aire Princess, Sukhumvit, Bangkok

Grand China Princess, Chinatown, Bangkok



OUTSIDE THAILAND:



Philippines:



United Arab Emirates:



Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo



Dusit Thani Manila



Dusit Thani Dubai

Dusit Princess City Centre, Dubai

Dusit Residence Dubai Marina

Pearl Coast Premier Hotel Apartments, Dubai



Corporate PR & Communications Department

The Dusit Thani Building, 946 Rama IV Road, Bangkok 10500, Thailand

Tel: +66 (0) 2200 9999 l Fax: +66 (0) 2636 3547



OPENING SOON:



Saudi Arabia:



United Arab Emirates:



Dusit Thani Dilmunia Bahrain



Dusit Thani Sanya



Dusit Devarana New Delhi

Dusit Devarana Jaipur

Dusit Devarana Rishikesh

Dusit Thani Goa

dusitD2 new delhi



Dusit Thani Jeddah



Dusit Devarana Resort - Phang Nga



Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

IFA Hotels & Resorts Secures US$115 Million in Funding for Fairmont Palm Jumeirah; First New Foreign-bank Debt for a Dubai Hotel Development since Downturn

Dubai, 07 December 2010: IFA Hotels & Resorts, through its asset management subsidiary company, IFA Hotel Investments (IFA HI), announced today that it has secured financing of US$115 million for its Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel project structured and arranged by Standard Chartered Bank. The agreement, which speaks to reemerging confidence in the Dubai real estate development sector, will allow IFA Hotels & Resorts to expedite the project’s completion to Q1 2012.

Talal Jassim Al-Bahar, Vice Chairman and CEO of IFA HR stated: “We are pleased to announce our second agreement with Standard Chartered Bank. The agreement not only demonstrated the strengthening of our relationship with the bank and is therefore great news for our company, for our investors and for the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel, but will also have a positive impact on the UAE real estate industry as a whole.”

The announcement comes as a surprise to an industry that has been told debt funding was largely unavailable. In fact, less than two months ago, executives at the Reuters Middle East Investment Summit agreed that financing for real estate projects in the country had all but dried up, stating that they didn’t see major real estate lending by banks happening anytime soon. IFA HR’s US$115 million deal could indicate a faster recovery for the sector than expected.

Joe Sita, President of IFA HI, which leads IFA HR’s acquisitions and oversees its operational hospitality assets, continued, “This is the first new foreign-bank funding for a Dubai hotel real estate development we have seen in a very long time. It is evidence of renewed confidence in the region and the industry and confirmation of ongoing confidence in the IFA Group and its projects on the Palm Jumeirah.”

In fact, the Palm Jumeirah has provided much of the company’s news this year with the successful launch of IFA HR’s 562 luxury residences, which are adjacent to the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah, and its recent announcement regarding the signing of international brands to its prestigious Golden Mile retail development.

Sita added, “As the largest foreign investor on the Palm Jumeirah we have been committed to realising Dubai’s vision for the island as the pre-eminent location in Dubai since our initial investment in 2003. We have a huge footprint across the trunk as well as a 200,000 sqm plot on the crescent where we are building the Kingdom of Sheba. The company has been integral to the island’s development and we look forward to contributing even further with the completion of the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel.”

IFA HR’s record of producing successful mixed-use developments in the world’s most sought-after destinations played a pivotal role in its ability to secure the US$115 million loan financing at a time where there is a dearth of debt funding available in markets across the globe.

Paul Jurie, Standard Chartered Global Head of Alternative Investments, said: “Banks like ours are being judicious about arranging financings; we will only back projects, and ultimately companies, in which we believe all the necessary fundamentals are in place for a successful outcome. The Fairmont Palm Jumeirah hotel is already well underway and is backed by a customer with a successful track record, both in the region and in other parts of the world. This is the second loan we have facilitated for the Group with the first being a US$165.9 million loan to finance The River by Thai developer Raimon Land, in which IFA HR is a major stakeholder. This comes as part of Standard Chartered’s approach to deepen its client relationships through an in-depth understanding of their business and requirements. This approach has enabled us to be there for our clients and fill the gap that other banks have left in the market throughout the crisis.”

Globally, IFA Hotels & Resorts has developed a distinguished portfolio of award-winning luxury resorts, from its multi-award winning Pine Cliffs resort in the Portuguese Algarve to the newly opened Fairmont Zimbali Resort in South Africa.

Chris Cahill, President, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and COO, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, said: “We are extremely pleased with the news that another one of our projects with IFA Hotels & Resorts is moving ahead as planned. We look forward to adding the elegance of the Fairmont Palm Jumeirah to our distinctive collection in early 2012.”

The property will be the fifth project IFA HR has completed on the trunk of the iconic island, following The Palm Residence (Al Nabat & Al Haseer); the Al Shalal Beach Club; Golden Mile, Palm Jumeriah and The Residences (North & South). Construction is also well underway on the Kingdom of Sheba, which is situated on the Palm’s crescent adjacent to Atlantis. Off the island, the company is also putting the finishing touches on Laguna Tower Dubai – a mixed-use tower that includes the Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Jumeirah Lakes Towers, hotel condominiums, a private residence club and loft and duplex apartments.

Al-Bahar concluded: “News that’s good for the country, the sector, its companies and its investors is news worth celebrating. This is also a part of our company’s legacy. As we move more and more of our assets from construction to completion we leave behind iconic developments, such as those on the Palm, which will shape Dubai’s hotel and residential market beyond the current economy and well into the future.”


IFA Hotels & Resorts is a leader in real estate development, specialising in premium mixed-use hotel and tourism resort projects throughout the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, North America and the Indian Ocean region. IFA Hotels & Resorts offers exclusive branded residential, resort and hotel properties in exotic locations, with sound appreciating investment opportunities including hotel condominiums, vacation clubs and private residence clubs. IFA Hotel & Resorts’ current portfolio consists of 42 projects in total, of which 20 are hotels, with 13,750 keys across 12 countries in four continents. http://www.blogger.com/goog_1485906054


Standard Chartered – leading the way in Asia, Africa and the Middle East

Standard Chartered PLC is a leading international bank, listed on the London, Hong Kong and Mumbai stock exchanges. It has operated for over 150 years in some of the world's most dynamic markets and earns around 90 per cent of its income and profits in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. This geographic focus and commitment to developing deep relationships with clients and customers has driven the Bank’s growth in recent years.

With 1,700 offices in 70 markets, Standard Chartered offers exciting and challenging international career opportunities for more than 80,000 staff. It is committed to building a sustainable business over the long term and is trusted worldwide for upholding high standards of corporate governance, social responsibility, environmental protection and employee diversity. The Bank’s heritage and values are expressed in its brand promise, ‘Here for good’.

For more information on Standard Chartered, please visit http://www.standardchartered.com/  

Yadig – New Online Review Destination – Identifies More than 2800 Restaurants, Cafes, Coffee Shops, Night clubs and Hotels in the UA

Yadig UAE helps residents and tourists broaden their dining horizons throughout instant Internet-based review platform – commentary on entertainment, hotels, attractions, retail and events are the next phase of the online community’s development

Dubai, UAE : Aimed at providing real-time feedback on the Middle East’s best dining venues via firsthand user reviews, Yadig has identified the UAE as the regional leader in food and beverage choices for residents and tourists, with a whopping 2837 cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, night clubs, hotels and bars which serve food and drinks from which to choose. 

In analyzing the dining options in other Gulf states, Yadig found more than 600+ dining establishments in the rest of the GCC, with residents and tourists able to share their real-time perspective on these venues just by registering on www.yadig.com

Yadig’s intelligence- gathering is part of the online review destination’s efforts to broaden dining and entertainment opportunities for both regional residents and visitors by enabling them to offer consumer reviews and share immediate insight on their experiences at specific venues.  Restaurants and night-spots are the venues creating the most buzz in Yadig’s initial phase, but the site’s founders expect that the community will broaden to encompass home services, leisure attractions, entertainment, retail destinations and sporting events.

“In creating Yadig, we saw several opportunities to serve as a tool to people living in and visiting the Middle East.  First, people want to be made aware of new venues and a key way to get a feel for the diversity of dining options in a specific city is to go online and see what others think about it.  Whether you want to broaden your scope of popular local hangouts, share your thoughts on great and not-so-great dining experiences or simply voice your opinion on the latest night club, Yadig is a quick, fun and collaborative community in which to do so,” said Saif Al Zarouni, founder of Yadig.

Al Zarouni, an online enthusiast with roots in both the UAE and US who founded Yadig along with the site’s chief technology officer, Johnny Huntington, sees Yadig as an innovative hybrid of a number of Internet-based concepts which ultimately empower consumers.  “The expression ‘Ya dig?’ is all about someone understanding your viewpoint, and we’ve seen from the popularity of travel websites which rely on user reviews that people increasingly  want a degree of transparency and candor about the most happening night spots, the best places to be seen and  good dining experiences, before they part with their money.  The Middle East is populated by a very plugged-in community of all nationalities who love to socialize with their friends and family and share the latest scoop on both new and well-loved

destinations, which is why we believe Yadig will become a thriving community and must-have resource,” he added.

Ease of use is a major draw to Yadig, which enables users to sign up and begin sounding off immediately about their favorite as well as less-loved dining spots across the region.  With just 150 characters with which to review a venue, feedback from users is punchy and to-the-point.  To foster communication on Yadig, each user’s family and friends can be notified by Facebook when a new review is posted.

To reward members of Yadig for sharing their experiences, the site has a martial arts-inspired ranking of ‘belts’, with new users starting out as white belts and progressing through the colour spectrum to achieve the coveted  black belt status through a specific level of engagement with the Yadig community.  Yadig founder Saif, who himself has not yet earned a black belt for his reviews, adds, “The whole point behind Yadig is learning from other people’s experiences while sharing your own.  The more people engage regularly with Yadig, the better it becomes as a community resource.”

Collaborating more closely with the businesses named (and sometimes shamed) on Yadig is next step for the online review community, as dining establishments can use the site to reach out to their customers via an immediate and transparent conduit.  Also up next for Yadig are a series of mobile applications that can be downloaded onto smart phones including Blackberry’s, iPhones and android enabled devices, making the site even easier to use by individuals on the go.

MIDDLE EAST TOURISTS FLOCK TO SRI LANKA AS H1 2010 TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE 102%

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office reported an enormous surge of Arab travellers as Middle East Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka rose by an unprecedented 102 per cent in the first six months of 2010 compared to the same period last year, according to statistics compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

“Regardless of apprehensions of an unsteady global economy, Middle East’s discerning travellers are spending time and money on travel and Sri Lanka has been one of the preferred destinations of choice with a meteoric rise in tourists during H1 2010,” observed Ms Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB.

"We have just closed in on the results of the first six months of 2010 and we're up 102% as compared to H1 2009," Ms Al Mansoori said. "While 2009 was when the recovery process started, with the end of three decades of war, the rebound has been robust and rapid and the recovery is being driven and led by the Middle East with strong growth from key markets including the UAE up by 209%, Saudi Arabia up by 96% and Kuwait up by 50%."

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is resilient and the government is sparing no efforts to revitalize the tourism industry as they recognize that tourism has a key role to play in the country’s economic recovery and stability.

“Our outlook remains positive for the rest of the year as we have successfully built a relationship of trust with both regional consumers and the travel trade and will continue to reap benefits with the gradually improving economic situation,” Ms Al Mansoori stated.

Apart from the Middle East, regions that proved to be a major source market for Sri Lanka and recorded growth in H1 2010 included North America (up by 70%), Western Europe (up by 45%), Eastern Europe (up by 22%), Africa (up by 18%), East Asia (up by 44%), South Asia (up by 53%) and Australasia (up by 44%).

While commenting on SLTPB’s Middle East marketing drive, Ms. Al Mansoori said, “We have had to adapt to the changing needs of the consumers and capitalize on trends such as late booking, increasing use of the internet to look and book by increasing Sri Lanka’s presence in the web domain regionally.”

Ms. Al Mansoori noted that in the Middle East in particular, travelling closer and for shorter periods of time and demanding value for money, seem to have been accentuated during the post crisis period. “The regional outbound market is evolving and inescapably requires changes as we need to know and understand consumers better to be able to market to them,” she said.

SLTPB opened its office in Dubai in May 2008 to maximize the opportunities emerging throughout the Middle East while strengthening support for the travel trade in the region. Since then the Dubai office has co-ordinated all of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotional activities in the Arab markets including exhibition participation, marketing visits, presentations and road shows, brochure distribution, public relations, as well as familiarization visits to the island for influential business and travel journalists. The office also functions as the preliminary contact point and enquiry processing centre for travel trade companies and tourists in the region.

Sri Lanka is now on the threshold of developing to its full potential as a prime tourism destination with diverse offerings for members of the whole family whether it is beaches, shopping, visits to wildlife reserves, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying the cuisine.

UAE’s hospitality and healthcare industry welcomes new CrocsTM Work footwear

September 2010; Dubai, UAE  A global leader in innovative casual footwear for men, women and children, Crocs launches another major innovation with Crocs^TM Work, a specialized collection made with the work place in mind.

Catering especially to those who spend a considerable amount of time on their feet, Crocs^TM Work shoes bring flexibility, durability and supreme comfort to tired feet.

This range of shoes is also equipped with special technologies to meet the challenges of differing work environments. The Crocs Lock^TM shoe models are equipped with the slip-resistant Crocs Lock^TM  tread which renders the select Crocs^TM Work footwear a reliable companion under certain wet, greasy, and other unfavorable work conditions*.

Powered by Crocs Lock^TM tread, the Bistro with slip-resistant capacity that exceeds industry standard on oil, water, soap and a wide variety of slippery surfaces* is ideal for those in the food and beverage industry thanks to the unique nature of the Croslite™ material which means they are easy to clean with soap and water.  

The Bistro shoe is already proving to be widely popular with chefs due to the fact that it is very light providing all day comfort. It has a unique built-in massaging feature and is also odor-resistant, making it a hygienic option for kitchen workers. It is also available in a ventilated version.

The healthcare industry will welcome the Specialist Work shoe. With its closed heel and toe design and enhanced construction in the arch, heel and metatarsal area, the Specialist Work footwear readily meets the stringent workplace standards that are specific to the healthcare industry. The Mercy Work model is equipped with Crocs Lock^TM tread and is available in white.

 Crocs^TM Work shoes, like all Crocs footwear, are made with the proprietary closed-cell resin Croslite™, a substantial innovation in footwear producing soft, comfortable, lightweight, non-marking and odor-resistant shoes that conform snugly to your feet.

Crocs^TM Work shoes are now available in the Middle East, and the styles are shown on www.crocs.ae 

MANDARIN ORIENTAL ANNOUNCES THREE NEW CELEBRITY FANS FOR GLOBAL BRAND ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN

Dubai, 6 September 2010 - 'Mandarin Orientals http://www.mandarinoriental.com USD multi-million global print advertising campaign ''"Hes a Fan/Shes a Fan" http://www.mandarinoriental.com/our_fans, continues to gather 'fans' from

around the world. This year, the Group is delighted to add three new fans to the tally of celebrities who regularly stay at Mandarin Oriental hotels.

Gifted international singer, songwriter, pianist and actor Harry Connick, Jr.,often referred to as the Frank Sinatra of today, has received a multitude of

accolades over his career. These include three Grammy awards and an Emmy, as

well as several acting nominations. Connick is a particular 'fan' of The

Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, where he performed in 2009 to a

spellbound audience at an intimate evening in the hotel's stylish MO Bar. He

cites the property as "one of the greatest hotels I've ever stayed in." Mary

McCartney, the Group's official campaign photographer, captured Connick in the

tropical surrounds of Mandarin Oriental, Sanya.

The elegant and graceful French pianist, Hélène Grimaud was photographed near to

her home in Switzerland. Grimaud performs at concerts worldwide, and has the

unusual gift of experiencing synaesthesia (seeing music as colour). She

particularly enjoys staying at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, as she often

performs in the city's famous music venues. Grimaud discovered the piano at the

age of seven, and launched her professional career at the age of 18 with a solo

recital in Paris <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris>. She is also known for her

passion for wolves, which she both studies and raises.

Rising star Sa Ding Ding was born in Inner Mongolia and is a powerful and

sophisticated singer, musician, composer and choreographer. A product of modern

China, she melds Eastern and Western music, even singing in Sanskrit and

Tibetan, and has created her own language where new words are formed from the

emotions evoked by music. McCartney's

-more-

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portrait of the performer beautifully captures her colourful and vibrant

personality and was taken during a recent tour in the UK, where the singer was a

guest of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. Sa Ding Ding's newest album is

entitled 'Harmony'.

The campaign which is the creation of advertising gurus, Alan Jarvie and Michael

Moszynski, who head up LONDON Advertising, continues to increase Mandarin

Oriental's brand awareness globally. The campaign simply and elegantly connects

Mandarin Oriental's well-recognized symbol - the fan - with international

celebrities who regularly stay at the hotels and are true fans of the Group.

Earlier additions to the campaign were photographed by celebrated photographer

and British royal, Lord Patrick Lichfield who sadly passed away in 2005. The

Group appointed renowned portrait photographer Mary McCartney in 2006 who

photographs each celebrity in a location of their choice which, for them, best

represents a feeling of well-being.  In appreciation of their support, the Group

makes a donation to each celebrity's individual choice of charity.

"We continue to be delighted with the campaign, which celebrates 10 years this

year, and believe it makes a strong statement about our Group in a simple and

luxurious manner.  By focusing on celebrities who clearly appreciate the finer

things in life, we have been able to show the quality of our hotels in a far

more interesting way than traditional hotel advertising", says Jill Kluge,

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group's Director of Brand Communications.

Harry Connick Jr., Hélène Grimaud and Sa Ding Ding join Mandarin Oriental's 17

existing fans: IM Pei, Lance Armstrong, Michelle Yeoh, Jane Seymour, Kenzo

Takada, Jerry Hall, Vanessa Mae, Vivienne Tam, Barry Humphries, Frederick

Forsyth, Darcey Bussell, Bryan Ferry, Liam Neeson, Helen Mirren, Maggie Cheung,

Sigourney Weaver and Sir David Tang.

More information about Mandarin Oriental's fans can be found on the Group's

website at www.mandarinoriental.com &http://www.mandarinoriental.com

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of

the world's most prestigious hotels, resorts and residences. Mandarin Oriental

now operates, or has under development, 41 hotels representing over 10,000 rooms

in 27 countries, with 17 hotels in Asia, 12 in The Americas and 12 in Europe,

Middle East and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates, or has under

development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, connected to the Group's

properties.

.

DTCM TO HOST DUBAI SUMMER SURPRISES ROAD SHOW IN GCC STATES

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), in cooperation with the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) Office, will host a series of workshops to promote the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS-2009) in three GCC states of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar from June 1 to 10.

The workshops attracted 39 co-participants from Dubai’s hotels and tourism companies. The workshops will facilitate networking with the GCC travel trade industry and media and also allow them the opportunity to learn about various promotions and attractions planned for the summer holidays from June to August.

The workshop series will kick off in Kuwait on June 1 followed by Doha on June 3 and Jeddah on June 6. It will be held in Riyadh on June 8 and conclude on June 10 in Al Khobar.

The workshops will be attended by DTCM officials, including Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, Director Overseas Promotions, Mr. Talal Al Suwaidi, Head of India, Middle East and North Africa Region, Overseas Promotions Department, and Mr. Nayef Ibrahim, Head of Australia and Asia, Overseas Promotions Department.

The department organized a pre-event meeting for the co-participants of the road shows to brief them about its efforts to boost hotel occupancies and visitors’ numbers to the emirate during the summer season.

The department will also organize Press conferences in the three GCC countries along side the workshops to create awareness about the DSS and other summer season-linked promotions and initiatives.

DSS, the region’s biggest and most awaited summer shopping and entertainment event, unveiled a series of exciting activities for the twelfth edition, under the slogan ‘Surprising Dubai’. The DSS Office announced 13 key sponsors for the DSS-2009. With a budget of AED70m, DSS 2009 will go on for 65 days, from June 11 till August 14 under the slogan 'Surprising Dubai'.

DUBAI PARTICIPATES IN IMEX-2009

IMEX-2009 SEES PARTICIPATION OF 3500 EXHIBITORS FROM 157 COUNTRIES
For the seventh consecutive year, Dubai is having a strong presence at the Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel, Meetings and Events (IMEX) which is underway in Frankfurt until May 28.
The IMEX-2009 edition sees 43 co-participants from Dubai’s expanding tourism industry sharing 355-square-metre Dubai stand with 28 booths under the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) umbrella.
The DTCM invited the Business Tourism industry decision-makers, the co-participants and the Media representatives for a “Dubai Starter Snack” at the Dubai Stand on May 26 and 27.
The DTCM delegation is led by Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development, and includes Mr. Hamad Bin Mejren, DTCM Executive Director Business Tourism, Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, DTCM Director Overseas Promotions, Mr. Mohamed Al Muhairi, DTCM Head of Overseas Promotions’ Canada and USA Region, Mr. Jerad Bachar, Director Dubai Convention Bureau, and Mr. Abdulla Yousef, Sales Executive Dubai Convention Bureau.
The strong commitment of DTCM in promoting Dubai as the leading convention and meeting hub in the Middle East region ensures that the Business Tourism sector has a promising future in Dubai.
Mr. Eyad said Dubai’s strong participation in IMEX over the years reflects the keenness of DTCM in promoting Dubai strongly in key source markets, including tapping the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. Germany, he said, has remained a major source market for Dubai’s tourism industry.
Mr. Hamad Bin Mejren, DTCM Executive Director Business Tourism, said: “Dubai has risen in the ICCA ranking from 93 in 2007 to 50 in 2008. This is a great achievement and the results reflect our efforts to bring Dubai to the top destinations worldwide in the Business Tourism market.”
Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, DTCM Director Overseas Promotions, said the department has given a major boost to its already aggressive marketing and promotional drive in order to boost visitors’ numbers to the emirate and enhance hotel occupancy levels.
The IMEX-2009 showcases the best of Dubai in terms of facilities for the Business Tourism Industry. The co-participants are highlighting various conferencing and exhibition infrastructure in the emirate.
For the first time a delegation from the Dubai Police, comprising of Lt. Colonel Nasser Abdul Wahed Al Awar, Lt. Colonel Hassan Mohammad Tamim and Sergeant Jaber Abed Mohammad Jaber, is participating at IMEX and promoting the launch of a specialized department which will be exclusively engaged in protection of tourism in Dubai.
Over 3,500 exhibitors from 157 countries are attending IMEX 2009. A rise in the number of hosted buyers attending IMEX 2009 combined with hundreds of new exhibitors, a total of 70 educational events & forums and 14 new vision industry initiatives; mark this year’s show out as one of the most business-centered and exciting to date. As many as 43 stands have increased their space at IMEX 2009 with high demand experienced from all corners of the globe.

DTCM, TOURISM INDUSTRY PLAYERS REVIEW SUMMER PROMOTION

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) organized a meeting with senior representatives of hotels, hotel apartments and tour operators at the One and Only Royal Mirage to review the summer promotional campaign to boost number of visitors to the emirate and hotel occupancy levels.

The meeting was attended among others by Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development, and Mr. Ahmed Mohammed Hassan, DTCM Deputy Director Visitors Information Bureaus.

Mr. Eyad outlined various initiatives launched by the DTCM to increase hotel occupancies and attract more visitors to the emirate during the summer months and the remainder of the year.

He said the department was working on a promotional campaign for the summer targeting visitors from Europe and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states under the titled ‘Visit Dubai During Summer’.

The meeting also discussed a marketing plan for the UK, one of the top source markets for Dubai’s tourism industry.

Earlier last year, the department created a task force with experts and representatives of Dubai tourism industry players, to review the tourism market landscape and take appropriate measures.

Based on the inputs provided by the industry players and experts, the department took measures which reflected in hotel occupancies getting a boost even in the first quarter of 2009.

DUBAI TO HAVE STRONG PRESENCE IN IMEX-2009

For the seventh consecutive year, Dubai will have a strong presence at the Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel, Meetings and Events (IMEX) in Frankfurt from May 26 to 28, the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) announced.
The IMEX-2009 edition will see 43 co-participants from Dubai’s expanding tourism industry sharing 355-square-metre Dubai Stand under the DTCM umbrella.
At a pre-fair meeting held at the DTCM Head Office, Mr. Ali Abdul Wahab, DTCM Head of Overseas Promotions’ East and West Europe Region, the Dubai Stand (D520) at Messe Frankfurt will have 28 booths.
The DTCM delegation will consist of Mr. Mohammed Khamis bin Hareb, DTCM Executive Director Operations and Marketing, Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Executive Director Media Relations and Business Development, Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, DTCM Director Overseas Promotions and Mr. Mohamed Al Muhairi, DTCM Head of Overseas Promotions’ Canada and USA Region.
The IMEX-2009 will be utilised to showcase the best of Dubai in terms of facilities for the MICE industry.
The co-participants will also highlight various conferencing and exhibition infrastructure in the emirate.
Over 3,500 exhibitors from 157 countries will attend IMEX-2009. Over 3,600 hosted buyers from almost 60 world markets attended IMEX 2008, amongst an overall trade visitor total of 8,751. As many as 43 stands have increased their space at IMEX 2009 with high demand experienced from all corners of the globe.

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS & RESORTS OPENS PREMIUM RESORT IN MAURITIUS, FIRST IN AFRICAN REGION

Dubai, May 12th, 2009 - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Lateral Holdings opens its first upscale resort on the island, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort is located along the Bay of Balaclava, 20 minutes north of the country’s capital Port Louis and a 15-minute drive from the island’s most popular area, Grand Baie.

“This opening is a significant milestone for us as it is our first hotel resort on the African continent. Mauritius is an extremely popular tourist destination globally and welcomed over 900,000 tourists in 2008,” said John Bamsey, Chief Operation Officer, IHG Middle East and Africa. “Tourism is a major focus for the Government and we are confident that this resort will be a great contribution to Mauritius. “

“InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort offers travellers a truly authentic destination experience,” added Bamsey.

Finished with natural hand-chiselled limestone, volcanic rock, and African timber, the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort comprises of 210 spacious rooms, including 40 family guest rooms and 10 suites, each with a panoramic view of the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches of the Bay of Balaclava. All rooms feature a stone-bathtub, individual bathroom with a 19- inch plasma TV and a separate shower. A wide range of amenities, including a 42-inch plasma TV, broadband internet access, and convenient central bed-side electronic controls, provide guests with the utmost luxury and exceptional comfort, synonymous to the InterContinental brand.

Complementing the island’s natural beauty, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort has two infinity pools located next to the beach and the only lagoon on the island with a natural islet for a salt-water dip. For diving enthusiasts, the resort has an extensive range of water activities that include snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing and deep sea fishing.

Situated on the roof-top, the resort’s Angsana Spa and Health Club, managed by Banyan Tree, offers the ultimate in rejuvenation through steam and sauna rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, relaxation areas and a boutique offering a range of wellness products.

The resort also offers guests a variety of specialty restaurants. Veda, a first of its kind on the island, that blends authentic Indian cuisine with contemporary design; Segala, which is situated on the beach, will serve the Mediterranean Seafood; Noble House that will offer oriental fusion cuisine; Palms that offers light meals and fun food adjacent to the main pool area; and, Senso with a diverse International buffet.

For high profile social and corporate events, the property features the largest hotel banqueting and conference hall in Mauritius. Eight metres tall, the grand ballroom has direct access to the pool, gardens and the beach and accommodates up to 1,000 people. The area spreads over 1,400 meters and includes four meeting rooms and a business centre equipped with modern facilities and amenities.

The opening of the resort also marks a new partnership for InterContinental Hotels Group and Lateral Holdings, whose prime interest is in developing hospitality, retail and residential projects across the Indian Ocean Rim.

Commenting on the opening of the resort, Darryl Sequeira, Executive Director of Lateral Holdings said, “The opening of InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort is quite significant for us as it is our first hotel resort project in the hospitality category and on the African continent. Mauritius is considered an aspirational destination attracting travellers from around the world who seek unique and enriching experiences. InterContintental was a natural choice for us as its core values resonate very well with the destination and type of traveller it attracts. We are looking forward to a long and lasting relationship with IHG and are very confident that InterContinental will make its mark and be very successful in Mauritius,” Sequeira concluded.

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS & RESORTS OPENS PREMIUM RESORT IN MAURITIUS, FIRST IN AFRICAN REGION

Dubai, May 12th, 2009 - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Lateral Holdings opens its first upscale resort on the island, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort is located along the Bay of Balaclava, 20 minutes north of the country’s capital Port Louis and a 15-minute drive from the island’s most popular area, Grand Baie.

“This opening is a significant milestone for us as it is our first hotel resort on the African continent. Mauritius is an extremely popular tourist destination globally and welcomed over 900,000 tourists in 2008,” said John Bamsey, Chief Operation Officer, IHG Middle East and Africa. “Tourism is a major focus for the Government and we are confident that this resort will be a great contribution to Mauritius. “

“InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort offers travellers a truly authentic destination experience,” added Bamsey.

Finished with natural hand-chiselled limestone, volcanic rock, and African timber, the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort comprises of 210 spacious rooms, including 40 family guest rooms and 10 suites, each with a panoramic view of the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches of the Bay of Balaclava. All rooms feature a stone-bathtub, individual bathroom with a 19- inch plasma TV and a separate shower. A wide range of amenities, including a 42-inch plasma TV, broadband internet access, and convenient central bed-side electronic controls, provide guests with the utmost luxury and exceptional comfort, synonymous to the InterContinental brand.

Complementing the island’s natural beauty, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort has two infinity pools located next to the beach and the only lagoon on the island with a natural islet for a salt-water dip. For diving enthusiasts, the resort has an extensive range of water activities that include snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing and deep sea fishing.

Situated on the roof-top, the resort’s Angsana Spa and Health Club, managed by Banyan Tree, offers the ultimate in rejuvenation through steam and sauna rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, relaxation areas and a boutique offering a range of wellness products.

The resort also offers guests a variety of specialty restaurants. Veda, a first of its kind on the island, that blends authentic Indian cuisine with contemporary design; Segala, which is situated on the beach, will serve the Mediterranean Seafood; Noble House that will offer oriental fusion cuisine; Palms that offers light meals and fun food adjacent to the main pool area; and, Senso with a diverse International buffet.

For high profile social and corporate events, the property features the largest hotel banqueting and conference hall in Mauritius. Eight metres tall, the grand ballroom has direct access to the pool, gardens and the beach and accommodates up to 1,000 people. The area spreads over 1,400 meters and includes four meeting rooms and a business centre equipped with modern facilities and amenities.

The opening of the resort also marks a new partnership for InterContinental Hotels Group and Lateral Holdings, whose prime interest is in developing hospitality, retail and residential projects across the Indian Ocean Rim.

Commenting on the opening of the resort, Darryl Sequeira, Executive Director of Lateral Holdings said, “The opening of InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort is quite significant for us as it is our first hotel resort project in the hospitality category and on the African continent. Mauritius is considered an aspirational destination attracting travellers from around the world who seek unique and enriching experiences. InterContintental was a natural choice for us as its core values resonate very well with the destination and type of traveller it attracts. We are looking forward to a long and lasting relationship with IHG and are very confident that InterContinental will make its mark and be very successful in Mauritius,” Sequeira concluded.

Emaar creates 1,600 new jobs in shopping malls and hospitality businesses in Dubai

Dubai, UAE; May 11, 2009: Emaar Properties is creating over 1,600 new jobs in its shopping malls & retail and hospitality & leisure businesses. With the new addition, Emaar will have nearly 4,000 employees on its rolls in Dubai.

The new team-members, to be recruited in the next three months, will be trained for the launch of KidZania®, SEGA Republic and the 22-screen REEL Cinemas – three new leisure attractions in The Dubai Mall – and The Address, Dubai Mall and The Address, Dubai Marina hotels.

The recruitment highlights the job creation potential of Emaar’s diversified business interests, including shopping malls & retail and hospitality & leisure, and its key role in adding vitality to the Dubai economy. Skilled professionals are being hired locally, from several countries in the region and internationally for the new jobs.

Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties PJSC, said: “Our strategy for 2009 is to push for growth in existing subsidiary businesses while the core property business recovers from the global economic challenges. Emaar’s projects have traditionally created several thousand jobs in all markets including in hospitality, shopping malls and education businesses. The new hospitality & leisure attractions at The Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina Mall will further enable us to identify and nurture talented professionals, and in turn, support the Government’s commitment to strengthen market confidence.”

He added: “The unique concept of the leisure attractions and hospitality services at our malls and hotels demands that we have the right human resources for ensuring seamless operation. The current recruitment strategy, coming at a critical time for the global economy, marks our commitment to deliver a quality experience for visitors.”

The Dubai Mall, formally opened on May 8, 2009, by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has already created a new dimension in retailing and family entertainment with overwhelming visitor response to The Dubai Fountain, The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and The Dubai Ice Rink. The mall will soon add KidZania® and SEGA Republic, two totally new leisure concepts to the region, and the 22-screen REEL Cinemas.

KidZania® is an award-winning children’s ‘edu-tainment’ concept that will be introduced to the region for the first time at The Dubai Mall. It is an 80,000 sq ft interactive mini-city that combines play with learning in a fun and innovative approach. Children can choose from 70 ‘roles’ ranging from doctors, engineers, teachers, construction workers, artists and mechanics, among others.

SEGA Republic is a high-adrenaline ride, adventure and gaming zone spread over 76,000 sq ft across two levels. An indoor roller-coaster, thrilling rides and motion simulators, many of which are bespoke attractions for Dubai, are its highlights. It is being developed by Emaar Retail in partnership with SEGA Corporation, Japan’s leading indoor theme park developer.

The 22-screen REEL Cinemas will be the city’s largest cinema complex with a total capacity of 2,800 seats. The highlight of The Dubai Mall Cineplex is the introduction of the Hollywood Chic design concept, which assures a modern cinema experience.

The Address, Dubai Mall, the 5 star premium hotel to be operated by The Address Hotels + Resorts, the hotel management division of Emaar Hospitality Group, is nearing completion and will offer 245 signature rooms, 450 serviced apartments and modern lifestyle amenities. The Address, Dubai Marina, with 200 guestrooms and 442 serviced residences, is part of the Dubai Marina Mall complex, located centrally in the one of the most sought-after waterfront projects in the region.

The Address Hotels + Resorts already operates its flagship hotel – The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai – offering 196 guestrooms including 25 suites, and 626 serviced residences. The Palace – The Old Town, with 242 luxurious guestrooms including 81 suites, is another upmarket 5 star property managed by The Address Hotels + Resorts.

Emirates’ Dhs1.8billion Park Towers Property On Track; Emirates Awards Hotel Contract to Marriott International

DUBAI, U.A.E., 5th May 2009 – Emirates airline and Group, the largest aviation and travel services provider in the Middle East, has signed a contract to partner with Marriott International, the leading multi-brand hotel management company.

Marriott has been appointed hotel operator of the Park Towers, a 1,614-room twin-tower hotel and apartment property, which Emirates is currently constructing on Sheikh Zayed Road, adjacent to Dubai’s premier Business Bay district.

Under Marriott management, the property will be branded as one of the top-of-the-line JW Marriott Marquis luxury hotels. This will include two guest room towers rising from a six-story building housing lobby and public space. The first 807-room tower is scheduled to open in 2011 and the second tower in 2013.

Both parties have been collaborating on the details of the new hotel’s design, which will see it emerge as one of Dubai’s top properties.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group said: “Emirates has always supported Dubai’s continued growth. The development of this new 1,614 room property reflects our commitment to, and confidence in, the city’s ongoing success.

“As a leading international hotel management group operating several successful brands, Marriott has the track-record and the global infrastructure to maximise the value of our Dhs1.8 billion city centre investment. We believe this property will emerge as one of Dubai’s top hotels and will contribute to attracting both leisure and business travellers to the city. We very much look forward to working together to add to Dubai’s five-star luxury experience.”

“The JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai will be a unique and visually stunning hotel without pretence that welcomes the world to this incredible city,” said Edwin D. Fuller, President & Managing Director, International Lodging, Marriott International. “We are thrilled to be partnering with Emirates. Their recognised commitment to excellence, unparalleled service and exquisite taste all make Emirates the perfect partner to introduce this special hotel. We are confident it will quickly become the finest address in Dubai. Marriott has always had a strong commitment towards Dubai, and we believe this relationship with Emirates cements our position as a regional hospitality leader.”

Abu Dhabi National Hotels to add 8 new hotels, more than 750 hotel rooms across UAE

Dubai, May 5th, 2009: UAE hospitality group Abu Dhabi National Hotels is moving ahead with its aggressive expansion strategy, adding more than 750 hotel rooms to its portfolio by the end of 2009. The group, which owns, manages and operates hotels and resorts across the country and has interests in tourism, transportation and catering, is confident in the UAE’s continued business opportunity.

The expansion will see three new ADNH properties open in the second half of 2009: The 450-room Jumeirah Beach Sofitel Hotel, the 64-suite luxurious Al Diar Hotel Apartments - Al Barsha, and the 78-suite Siji Hotel Apartments residence in Fujairah.

ADNH is also developing three signature five-star hotels in Abu Dhabi: the JW Marriott Resort and Spa, the 314-room Park Hyatt Hotel and Villas, and the Capital Centre Hotel. The three luxury hotels are located in some of the capital’s most strategic business and tourist areas, including the ‘Between the Bridges’ district across from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, in Saadiyat Island and adjacent to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

The company will develop two new YOTEL hotels in Abu Dhabi, introducing the revolutionary European hotel brand to the region. YOTEL hotels feature premium cabins in flexible configurations at affordable prices and unusual locations. YOTELs around the world, for example, are often located within secure airport transit lounges.


HE Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, Chairman of ADNH, said, “Abu Dhabi and the UAE continue to offer unrivalled opportunities for the world and the region, and as the trendsetter in the region’s hospitality sector, ADNH is committed to acting quickly and decisively to expand its portfolio and driving the market forward at all times.”

His Excellency praised the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority’s efforts to promote the capital internationally as the region's hub for business and tourism. The ADTA strategy, he explained, has helped double the number of inbound visitors to the capital in the last few years, translating into gains for the industry and the larger economy.

“ADNH has experienced a remarkable growth of business in the last quarter of 2008 and first four months of 2009, counter to the global downward trend. This is a strong indicator of the emirate’s resilience and the efforts of the ADTA,” he added.

The Abu Dhabi National Hotels group is participating at the Arabian Travel Market, which will be held from May 5-8 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. ADNH will showcase its four subsidiaries – the Al Diar Hotel Group, Al Ghazal Tours, Al Ghazal Transport and ADNH/Compass – and its own international hotels under the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority umbrella.

Armani Hotels & Resorts exhibits at the Arabian Travel Market 2009

Dubai, UAE; May 5, 2009: Armani Hotels & Resorts, a collaboration between Emaar Properties PJSC and Giorgio Armani S.p.A, will showcase the flagship Armani Hotel Dubai at its pavilion at the prestigious Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2009 in Dubai from 5 to 8 May 2009.

Located in the iconic Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building, construction of the Armani Hotel Dubai is progressing according to plan, with completion scheduled before the end of 2009.

Bringing to life the “Stay with Armani” lifestyle, Armani Hotel Dubai will feature 160 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites that have been, along with the entire hotel, personally designed by Giorgio Armani, one of the foremost fashion icons in the world. The opening of the hotel will mark the official debut of Giorgio Armani in the world of hospitality.

Giorgio Armani said: “Armani Hotel Dubai is a passionate project for me. I have been fascinated by the evolution of Dubai, and Burj Dubai will be an iconic building of the city.”

He added: “With the hotel, I am bringing the “Stay with Armani” promise to reality. I have been personally involved in all aspects of the hotel’s design and every component has been carefully conceived to create an exquisite and intimate lifestyle experience.”

Exclusively located from Concourse to Level 8, and on Levels 38 and 39 of the iconic Burj Dubai, the hotel will have a dedicated “Grand Entrance”, and will introduce several firsts to the region, including the highly sought-after Armani/Spa, which will be the world’s first ever in-hotel Armani/Spa. It will feature the Middle East’s first Armani/Privé – the hip and upmarket nightclub – and also house an Armani/Fiori floral shop, an Armani/Dolci shop and an Armani/Galleria.

“Armani Hotel Dubai will be an icon for the global hospitality industry – both in terms of its inimitable location and the personal involvement in all aspects of design by Giorgio Armani himself,” said Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties. “The opening of this world-first hospitality initiative is another testimony to Dubai’s ability to implement innovative projects through international collaborations.”

Alabbar added that Armani Hotel Dubai builds further on the strong tradition of hospitality in the region. “Hospitality is the driving force of tourism, and with Armani Hotel Dubai we are confident of developing a new niche in the global tourism sector.”

With its unparalleled diversity of choices, the hotel will define new standards in hospitality services, and will be differentiated by Giorgio Armani’s personal touch in its design and décor. The hotel will be further complemented by the Armani Residences Dubai, also located in Burj Dubai, which were launched to strong international investor response.

The hotel will be home to the finest food and beverage choices, including authentic Italian, Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine, and a modern Indian restaurant. With emphasis on the highest service standards, Armani Hotel Dubai will include 24-hour in-room dining and in-residence entertainment, and round-the-clock valet services and access to the Business Centre.

Additionally, the hotel will offer Armani/Events, a specialized events service that builds on Dubai’s global standing as a conference and meetings destination. Under this initiative the Armani Hotel Dubai will offer 30,000 sq ft of conference and banqueting facilities – including the Armani/Ballroom and the Armani/Pavilion, a spacious outdoor area for up to 350 guests. The hotel will also have multi-function meeting rooms, dedicated boardrooms and flexible meeting lounges.

The Armani Hotel Dubai was the first hotel to be announced under the exclusive collaboration between Emaar Properties and Giorgio Armani S.p.A to launch a collection of hotels, resorts and residences across key cities worldwide.

Other projects announced include the Armani Residences in Dubai, also in Burj Dubai; the Armani Hotel in Milan, Italy; a resort in Marrakech, Morocco, and the Armani Residences in Marassi, Egypt, which is the first villa offering under the Armani Residences umbrella.

Emaar enters agreement with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts to manage Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; May 4, 2009: Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah, the fully-furnished serviced residences within the tallest tower in the Holy City of Makkah, will be managed by the luxury global hospitality operator Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

The Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah are located directly on the Haram Plaza and residents have breathtaking views of the Holy Ka’bah, Haram or city of Makkah from their rooms. Ideal for pilgrims and families who desire to own a home in the Holy City, the spacious residences, ranging up to 160 sq m in size, will be elegantly furnished, featuring designs that reflect the Islamic heritage. Most residences will offer a kitchen, living area, dining area, built-in wardrobe and bathroom to complement the spacious bedrooms.

Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah includes spacious studios and one- to three-bedroom residences, which are offered on a leasehold basis. Residents can also opt for a rental programme with Fairmont, allowing them to leverage the global sales and marketing reach of the luxury brand.

The Makkah Clock Royal Tower, a Fairmont Hotel, which houses the Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah, is part of Abraj Al Bait, comprising seven elegant towers and part of the King AbdulAziz Endowment of The Two Holy Mosques. At 577 metres, the architectural landmark, developed by Saudi Bin Laden Group will be among the world’s tallest hotel towers and will feature dining outlets and elegant conference and banquet facilities. Distinctive features include a 40-meter clock more than five times larger than London’s Big Ben announcing daily prayer timings, as well as a Lunar Observation Centre and Islamic Museum to showcase the region’s heritage for future generations.

Mr Issam Galadari, Managing Director, Emaar International, said: “Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah has been developed to complement the spiritual experience of every pilgrim during his or her journey to the Holy City of Makkah. As a global hospitality provider, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts will further enrich the experience of residents by offering several value-added services.”

“We are honoured to have been entrusted with the management of this extraordinary property,” said Thomas W. Storey, President, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. “The Emaar project will create a new benchmark in full-service residences, and Fairmont’s century of hospitality excellence will ensure residents enjoy authentic, memorable experiences during their visit to the Holy City.”

Fairmont will provide its exceptional brand of housekeeping, maintenance, concierge, bell, valet, security and owner's services to residents, who will have access to the Owner’s Club featuring a relaxing lounge area and business centre. Residents will also receive Fairmont Residential Ownership Benefits that include an exclusive array of privileges at every Fairmont hotel and resort destination.


Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a collection of luxury hotels that truly reflects the essence of their destination. Guests can anticipate an authentic reflection of each destination’s energy, culture and spirit, as is highlighted at the Makkah Clock Royal Tower, a Fairmont Hotel.

Emaar has announced several key development initiatives in Saudi Arabia. Emaar, The Economic City, a Tadawul-listed company, is developing the King Abdullah Economic City, the single largest private sector development in the Kingdom on the Red Sea coast. Emaar Middle East has also launched Jeddah Gate, a master-planned community in Jeddah; and Al Khobar Lakes, a multi-billion dollar luxury waterfront development in the Eastern Province.

CROWNE PLAZA LAUNCHES PERSONAL HOTELIER, AN EXCLUSIVE SERVICE FOR DISCERNING BUSINESS TRAVELLERS

Dubai, February 3, 2009 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has launched a brand new service, Personal Hotelier, across the Crowne Plaza estate throughout Middle East and Africa. Guests staying in Club rooms or on the Crowne Club floor can now enjoy the undivided attention of a hotelier dedicated to catering to their every need.

Crowne Plaza Personal Hotelier is an initiative that provides guests one point of contact, one face, one name and one telephone number to call prior to and during their stay at the hotel. This exclusive service is designed to alleviate the stress of corporate travel, allowing the guest more time and space to think, resulting in making their business trips more efficient and effective.

Commenting on the launch, Haitham Mattar, Director of Marketing Middle East and Africa, said, “Most of our guests are frequent business travellers. While they tend to enjoy travel, it can be exhausting and hectic so we decided to introduce a service to help them get the most of their time with us. “

From the moment a booking for a Club room is made, a member of the Personal Hotelier team will be assigned to the guest, contact them to introduce themselves and then offer them any assistance if required. A personal hotelier can help guests with everything for business needs, such as updating a presentation, printing documents, making reservations at a restaurant or spa and even personal shopping.

The pilot program, conducted at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, received an overwhelmingly good response. Results from a survey* conducted amongst guests who participated in the program demonstrated that 95 per cent rated the service excellent with regards to its efficiency and usefulness.

The Personal Hotelier service is available to guest who book Club rooms or on the Crowne Club Floor at all Crowne Plaza properties across Middle East and Africa.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS STRENGTHENS MIDDLE EAST PRESENCE

DUBAI, 24th January, 2009: InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding Co. will further strengthen the Holiday Inn Express brand in the Gulf in 2009 with two new properties in the UAE and Bahrain.

Due to open in the summer in Dubai’s Al Garhoud district, Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport will offer 381 rooms. It will be the fourth Holiday Inn Express in the Emirate.

Holiday Inn Express Manama will be the brand’s first venture in the Middle East outside Dubai. The 249-room property is expected to open in the third quarter of 2010.

IHG & Ishraq sees healthy demand for limited service hotels as high real estate prices and growing competition for travellers encourage the region’s hospitality sector to diversify. The third Holiday Inn Express hotel – the Holiday Inn Express Dubai Jumeirah – opened last September.

John Bamsey, Chief Operating Officer, IHG, Middle East and Africa (MEA), said: “Delivering on our promise of Great Hotels Guests Love is about offering a diversity of choice to meet different customer expectations. Holiday Inn Express brings reliability and quality to the limited service sector – and the confidence that comes with one of world’s best-known hotel names, Holiday Inn.”

Bamsey said: “Globally, Holiday Inn Express is one of the fastest growing brands, opening an average of two hotels a week, with 1889 hotels and a further 728 hotels in the pipeline, worldwide. We see great potential for the chain in the Middle East.”


Both Holiday Inn Express properties will be operated by Ishraq Hospitality Management, a subsidiary of Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding Co., the exclusive developer of Holiday Inn Express hotels in the GCC, excluding Saudi Arabia.

Sami Al Ansari, Chief Executive Officer, Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding BSC, said: “We’re confident Holiday Inn Express Airport Dubai will continue the successful trend started by our three other properties in Dubai – and we’re excited by the opportunities in Bahrain.

“We’re fully committed to developing more than 20 Holiday Inn Express properties over the next five years in the region.”

IHG announced in 2007 the worldwide relaunch of the Holiday Inn brand family (comprising Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Express and Express by Holiday Inn). The US$1 billion relaunch is bringing improved consistency and service levels, as well as a more contemporary brand image and identity, to almost 3,200 hotels worldwide. The global relaunch is expected to be completed by the end of 2010.