Hotels are becoming ever larger – The world’s biggest hotel with 10,000 rooms is built in Mecca

Hamburg, Germany – 17th of August, 2016 – The next record-breaking hotel is built in Mecca: The Abraj Kudai in the Saudi Arabian capital will have about 10,000 rooms, 70 restaurants, 5 landing sites for helicopters in 12 towers with 45 levels. The opening is planned next year. According totophotelprojects.com there are currently 252 new large-scale hotels under construction with more than 500 rooms each.

Those are currently the biggest hotels under construction:
Abraj Kudai – Mecca/Saudi-Arabia – 10,000 rooms – opening 2017
Aquis Great Barrier Reef Resort – Australia – 7,500 rooms – opening 2019
Resort World – Las Vegas/USA – 6,583 rooms – opening 2019
Bawadi Project – Dubai/UAE – 6,500 rooms – Baufortschritt unklar
Pearl Hotels – Dubrovnik/Croatia – 5.,00 rooms – opening 2020

Previous record holder in the hotel industry (measured in number of rooms):
First World Hotel, Genting Highlands/Malaysia – 7,351 rooms
The Venetian/The Palazzo, Las Vegas/USA – 7,117 rooms
MGM Grand/The Signature, Las Vegas/USA – 6,852 rooms
CityCenter, Las Vegas/USA – 6,790 rooms
Sands Cotai Central, Macau/China – 6,000 rooms

New superlative in Dubai – 125 new hotel projects in the pipeline – Mega tower for Expo 2020

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 13 April 2016 – Dubai aspires after more attention: Until the World Exhibition Expo 2020 another record tower is about to be build next to the 800 meter high Burj Khalifa. According to tophotelprojects.com, currently 119 top hotels with 37,000 rooms are being built in Dubai.

The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour (Photo: Emaar)

The new, even higher, skyscraper will be built by Emmar Properties in the old “Dubai Creek” quarter and will feature a boutique hotel, rotating balconies, a viewing platform and hanging gardens like the legend of Babylon. The new property is expected to be finished in just four years.

The height on the new, so far unnamed tower in Dubai is not yet set. Meanwhile in the neighbouring country Saudi Arabia the worldwide highest skyscraper is being built in Jeddah – the “Jeddah Tower” formerly called “Kindgom Tower”. The tower will be 1,007 meters high and will include a luxury hotel by Four Seasons and apartments.

Gold rush in Iran: boom in tourism expected – Strong increase of business travels and culture trips predicted

Teheran, Iran – 22 July 2015 – The nuclear agreement and the loosening of the sanctions cause expectations of a touristic gold rush: As travel destination Iran offers lots of cultural experience and is about to reveal this to more and more international tourists. The hotel market requires significant extensions and new buildings. The capital Tehran currently supplies only 96 hotels, in comparison: Dubai offers 657 properties. According to TOPHOTELPROJECTS, the worldwide leading provider for global b2b hotel data, only five new hotels are in the pipeline, all by the Rotana hotel chain. However, this might change soon.

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The end of Iran’s isolation? Boost for tourism

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Last year, only 4.8 million tourists travelled to Iran. According to surveys by TRI Consulting the occupancy rate of top hotels in Tehran was at 79 percent with an average room rate of 108 US-Dollars and a Revpar (revenue per available room) of 85 US-Dollars. Hotel experts are now predicting an increase of business travel, led by delegations of company representatives accompanied by Western world’s Ministers of economics. Modern hotel concepts are in great demand, especially in the higher segments. Nowadays half of all overnight stays in Tehran are generated by business travels.

The majority of inbound overnight stays in Iran were motivated by religious reasons. But these days more and more Western, cultural interested tourists are visiting the country with its 17 Unesco world heritage sites. The international hospitality and tourism consulting company Horwath HTL is predicting a tourism boom in Iran as the “next big thing”.

A new passenger train, which will shuttle between Budapest and Tehran starting this autumn, promises a truly luxurious journey to the jewels of Persia. The “Golden Eagle Luxury Trains” will show the panoramas of the Orient and Occident in 15 days for about 13,000 Euros per person.

Four Seasons to open second property in Dubai – Downtown hotel will complement the just-opened resort on Jumeirah Beach

Dubai, UAE – 08 May 2015 – Within months of the successful opening of its first hotel in Dubai on Jumeirah Beach Road, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announces the development of a second, complementary location in the heart of the city’s International Financial Centre. Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, expected to open in 2016, is conceived as a sophisticated oasis where international business travellers in particular will find their every need anticipated and where local executives will find a favoured place for informal meetings, entertaining colleagues and celebrating the day’s achievements.

“Our entry into Dubai has been extremely well received by locals and global travellers alike, and we are very pleased to be able to offer them a second Four Seasons experience in the city,” says Allen Smith, President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “Together with our partner Bright Start, we introduced Four Seasons to the Dubai market last year and raised the standard for luxury hospitality in this incredibly competitive market. We look forward to building on our reputation with our second hotel, at the epicentre of the financial district.”

“In line with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai’s vision for Dubai, we believe our latest investment in the hospitality sector will further open up opportunities for continued growth and contribute to Dubai’s status as a major luxury tourist destination. The strategic location within DIFC was carefully chosen to cater to high end business travellers and will be of the highest quality,” states Shahab Lutfi, CEO of Bright Start which also owns Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach.

“Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has set the benchmark in luxury hospitality over the past 50 years and has proven to be the right partner for our Jumeirah Beach resort, of which we are very proud. We are delighted to further this partnership for the DIFC hotel and believe the strength of the brand, which is synonymous with luxurious travel, will allow us to take a strong leadership position. The synergies of the two properties, beach and city, under one brand were very compelling.”

Carlo Stragiotto Appointed General Manager
Four Seasons also announces the appointment of veteran hotelier Carlo Stragiotto as General Manager of the new hotel. Most recently Hotel Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Milano, the tri-lingual Italian counts Four Seasons hotels and resorts in Paris, Istanbul, Las Vegas and at the Red Sea among the assignments during his 22-year history with Four Seasons.

“Carlo is the ideal choice to lead the team at our second location in Dubai, and we look forward to his unique insights as we create this luxurious hotel in the heart of one of the world’s most exciting cities,” says Christian Clerc, President Hotel Operations – Europe, Middle East and Africa.

New York-based Tihany Design, which also designed several of the restaurants at Four Seasons at Jumeirah Beach, is creating the new hotel’s modern interiors.

With entrances at the ground level reception area and from the upper level retail concourse, Four Seasons will blend seamlessly with the surrounding 110 acre (45 hectare) International Financial Centre while providing a welcoming retreat within. Its 106 rooms will be characterised by impeccable craftsmanship, bespoke details and high tech efficiency. With Dubai now the world’s number one air travel hub, a 24-hour restaurant is one of many thoughtful features and amenities designed for the international business traveller. A lobby level tea lounge and terrace will provide a relaxed setting for casual meetings or shopping breaks, while the 8th floor sky bar and cigar room on the mezzanine will be the perfect places for after work cocktails with breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa. An intimate spa and fitness centre will offer a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, and a rooftop garden will feature an above-ground glassed-in pool surrounded by private cabanas as well as a juice bar.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts to Double Middle East Portfolio in the Next Five Years

Company announces five new projects catering to regions growing mid-market segment

Dubai, UAE – 06 May 2015 – From the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) in Dubai, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide today announced it will double its portfolio in the Middle East, aggressively expanding its luxury, upper upscale and mid-market brands with plans to open 50 hotels by 2019. Reaffirming its growth commitment to the region, the company has signed five new projects under its Aloft and Element brands in Dubai (UAE), Doha (Qatar) and Muscat (Oman), adding up to a total of seven signed deals to date.

Al Habtoor City to introduce St.Regis and W Hotels brands to Dubai along with a new Westin

“Our growth in the region is a result of consistently delivering value to our owners through our distinct lifestyle brands, backed by our loyal guests and the strength of our global platform,” said Michael Wale, President for Starwood, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “2015 has already started on a strong note with seven signed deals announced in the region in less than five months, reflecting the high demand for mid-market brands in the Middle East but also the trust ownership groups have in Starwood.”

Mid-Market Brands Fuel Growth in the Middle East
Starwood’s mid-market brands – Aloft, Four Points by Sheraton and Element – are experiencing unprecedented growth momentum, representing nearly 50% of the company’s pipeline in the region. Spearheaded by Aloft, the company’s mid-market portfolio will more than quadruple by 2019.

Starwood announced five new properties for its rapidly growing Aloft and Element brands, set to open in the next five years:

Aloft Dubai Airport and Element Dubai Airport
Both hotels signed with wasl hospitality and leisure, a subsidiary of wasl Asset Management Group will add over 400 rooms, meeting space and multiple food and beverage outlets near one of the world’s busiest airports, Dubai International Airport.

Aloft Dubai World Central
Located at the entrance of Al Maktoum International Airport and adjacent to the key logistics and aviation districts, Aloft Dubai World Central will feature 150 rooms and over 1,000 square feet in meeting space. Signed with Radar DWC LLC, the hotel will be one of the first to open in Dubai World Central – a purpose-built, master-planned city spanning approximately 145 square kilometers.

Aloft Doha
Aloft Doha marks the Aloft brand entry to Qatar. The hotel will feature 240 rooms and suites, a ballroom and meeting venues. It will be within easy reach of the Museum of Islamic Art, Education City and the Al Mushreib rejuvenation project in Doha’s downtown area.

Aloft Muscat
In agreement with New Rotana Enterprises, a sister concern of Al Adrak LLC, the signing of Aloft Muscat will introduce the Aloft brand to Oman and help meet the demand for infrastructure development in the country. The hotel will offer 204 rooms and will be located in close proximity to the new Muscat International Airport and the upcoming Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre

Strong Momentum Continues for Upper-Upscale and Luxury Brands
“While our mid-market brands represent half of our development growth in the region, we continue to see strong opportunities to widen the portfolio of our upper-upscale and luxury brands”, said Neil George, Senior Vice President, Development & Acquisitions, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Middle East and Africa. “We remain focused on working with the right partners, on the right properties, in established as well as fast-growing destinations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon.”

Making up 70% of the company’s current portfolio in the Middle East, Starwood’s upper-upscale brands – Sheraton, Le Méridien and Westin – continue to grow steadily with 13 new projects scheduled to open in the next five years.

Starwood’s luxury footprint will more than double with 10 new hotel openings set to open across the St. Regis, Luxury Collection and W brands by 2019. Representing half of the luxury pipeline, W Hotels will make its entry in key cities across the region including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat and Amman.

2015/2016 opening highlights:

• Three new hotels in Dubai with Al Habtoor City, one of the Middle East’s largest developments. The project will introduce the St. Regis and W Hotels brands to the city along with a new Westin, further strengthening the company’s footprint.
• Expansion across other parts of the UAE with Starwood’s first property in Sharjah this year, Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa. Further, Abu Dhabi will welcome its second Aloft with the opening of Aloft Al Ain in 2016.
• The introduction of the Westin brand in Qatar with the opening of The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa in September.
• The launch of The Luxury Collection brand in Lebanon with Grand Hills resort in Broumana, set to open in Q3 of this year.
• The company’s return to Iraq after 20 years and introduction of the Sheraton brand with Sheraton Dohuk.
• Growth momentum in Saudi Arabia with the introduction of Aloft in Riyadh and Dhahran and the opening of Le Méridien Riyadh.
• Two new hotels in Jordan with the openings of The St. Regis Amman and W Amman in 2016, doubling the portfolio and marking the entry for both brands in the country.

Following the recent announcement of its 10th brand, Tribute Portfolio, the company sees many opportunities to introduce the brand in the Middle East. Starwood expects to open 100 Tribute Portfolio hotels globally by 2020.

“There are many independent hotels out there in the four-star category that just don’t fit into one of our other nine brands and we are already seeing great opportunities for Tribute Portfolio in the Middle East,” said Bart Carnahan, Senior Vice President Acquisition & Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East. “Tribute Portfolio allows us to offer our loyal SPG members more options and, on the flip side, the developer community access to Starwood’s powerful distribution, loyalty and sales platforms while maintaining their independent spirit.”

Qatar bets on several new top hotels until the FIFA World Cup in 2022

41 new hotel construction projects with 11,600 rooms in the pipeline

Doha, Qatar – April 29, 2015 – The Emirate of Qatar is investing billions in infrastructure and tourism – not just for the FIFA World Cup in November/December 2022. With the master plan “Vision 2030”, among other, the extension of the airport and a whole new city at the gates of the capital Doha are planned. According to TOPHOTELPROJECTS, the worldwide leading provider of global b2b hotel data, currently 41 new top hotels with 11,600 rooms are in the pipeline.

Steigenberger Hotel Doha – Opening in early 2016

In total, an investment amount of about 200 billion US dollars is planned in Qatar. Thereof about 5.7 billion dollars will be invested in new hotels and restaurants. Until the FIFA World Cup 2022 eight stadiums still need to arise.

Selected hotel construction projects in Qatar
Steigenberger Hotel Doha – Doha – 200 rooms
Centara Grand West Bay Hotel – Doha – 360 rooms
Zalal Wellness Destination Spa – Doha – 125 rooms
The Amphibious 1000 – Doha – 80 rooms
Le Meridien – Doha- 350 rooms
Park Hyatt Msheireb Downtown – Doha – 187 rooms
Mondrian Hotel – Doha – 270 rooms
Shaza Doha – 180 rooms
Sillks Hotel & Spa – Doha – 100 rooms
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa, The Pearl Qatar – Doha, 47 suites
Planet Hollywood Hotel – Doha – 300 rooms
Wyndham Garden – Doha – 153 rooms
Silver Pearl Hotel – Doha – 1,000 rooms

The quantity of contracts for the coming years is so great that Qatar already proclaimed, that not necessarily required projects need to postpone on a date after the World Cup. Priority is given to sports stadiums and the necessary transport infrastructure, such as streets and the metro.

Most international companies are expecting delays at their project implementation, among others, because based on experience decisions in Qatar could take longer. In addition, people fear a shortage of material, which could intensify the delays, because right before the World Cup’s start significantly more projects will be under construction than currently planned. Bottlenecks are expected in particular with filling material and concrete. The procurement of materials is already a problem, as the infrastructure, especially the port and the streets, is not set up for such large quantities of tourists visiting the country. In addition to the logistics, also the risk of cost pressure is a consequent to worry about.

If the oil prices remain low, it will carry new challenges for the gas exporter Qatar in 2016 and 2017. Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, confirmed in mid-March, they would retain in the planned infrastructure spending for the “Vision 2030” despite weak energy prices. Qatar has a generous financial cushion to absorb losses in export earnings; therefore also most experts do not expect deterioration in the investment climate. The Investment Authority will have a surplus of 160 billion US dollars, plus currency reserves of more than 40 billion US dollars. But every project would be coming to the test, as the examples of already cancelled or adjourned projects.

Starwood Strengthens Footprint in UAE with the Launch of Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai

Prime property on Sheikh Zayed Road draws on the 36 year legacy of the Sheraton brand in the UAE

Dubai, UAE – 28 April 2015 – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has opened the Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai. Developed in conjunction with the Abdulsalam Alrafi Group, this hotel signifies the first new-build for Sheraton in Dubai in more than 30 years. Located at forefront of Dubai’s most prominent thoroughfare, the hotel connects guests to the heart of the booming business district and the city’s main tourist attractions—ensuring that the property will become a local landmark.

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A towering beacon of 54 stories, the Sheraton Grand Hotel launches as part of a three-tower, mixed-use development that features a comprehensive business centre, a rooftop swimming pool, three restaurant and lounge concepts, and signature offerings like the Shine Spa for Sheraton™, the state-of-the-art Sheraton Fitness®, and a Sheraton Club.

“We are thrilled to build on the brand’s proud heritage in the region as we open the sixth Sheraton in the Emirates and the first new build in Dubai in more than 30 years” said Michael Wale President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa, and Middle East. “The Sheraton Grand Dubai highlights our commitment to the region and to our development pipeline as we strive to grow our portfolio by 75% in the Middle East by 2017.”

Strategically situated on Sheikh Zayed Road, the property is conveniently located within walking distance of the Dubai Metro station, a central railway terminus which offers travellers easy connections to a variety of destinations—including Dubai International Airport, the Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai World Trade Center, as well as the iconic Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa leisure attractions.

“Drawing on its expertise in bringing people together, Sheraton provides an opportunity for guests to experience the best of their destination with a like-minded community of travelers” said Elena Mendez, Vice President, Sheraton, Westin and SSB brands in Europe, Africa and Middle East. “The Sheraton Grand Hotel aims to deliver dedicated authentic experiences to the Dubai’s bustling business and social scene for global explorers and UAE residents alike.”

The Sheraton Grand Hotel boasts a range of accommodation options with 416 luxurious guest rooms and 58 suites—including two Presidential Suites – as well as 180 premium serviced apartments, which range from one to three bedrooms, and offer a separate entrance to the main hotel lobby.

On the 52nd floor, the 1,000 m2 Shine Spa offers nine spacious and separate-gender treatment rooms, and one couples suite – for the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. The Shine Spa also features a sauna and steam room, an ice fountain, an indoor vitality pool, as well as a relaxation area overlooking Dubai’s landmarks.

Dubai plans to double its hotel capacity until the World Expo 2020

Currently 87 new top hotels with 27,000 rooms are in the pipeline

Dubai, UAE – 29 March 2015 – 428 hotels with 64,800 rooms already exist in Dubai – now the hotel capacity should be doubled until to the World Expo 2020. Currently there are 87 new top hotels with more than 27,000 rooms in the pipeline, as TOPHOTELPROJECTS, the worldwide leading provider of global b2b hotel data, announced. Also an expansion in the hotel apartments segment (currently 208 facilities with 23,800 units) is pending. At the World Expo (20 October 2020 to 10 April 2021) 25 million visitors are expected, of which 70 percent will come from abroad.

Without taking the exhibition into account, Dubai is expecting an increase of visitors up to 20 million per year until 2020. The Expo will increase the influx and provide additional investment. Since the groundbreaking ceremony at the Burj Al Arab Hotel, the desert emirate has become a big player on the international tourism market and lots of further attractions will be added: the tallest tower in the world, the Dubai Mall featuring an aquarium over three floors, an indoor ski slope in the desert, the annual shopping festival, numerous fairs such as the Expo – and the list will be continued.

In the first half of 2014 the hotels and hotel apartments housed over 5.8 million visitors. In 2013 11 million visitors were counted. The political crises in the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) region have favored Dubai as an alternative tourist destination in recent years. Currently, less guests arriving from the oil-exporting countries and Russia, therefore the second half of 2014 might have been worse.

Top 10 of the largest hotel constructions in Dubai
Oyster Resort – 1,748 rooms – project is delayed
Bespoke Hote l – 1,400 – opening: spring 2018
Paramount Hotels – 1,250 – early 2018
The Royal Atlantis – 1,050 – spring 2017
The Address Residence Sky View – 712 – early 2016
Tryp by Wyndham – 672 – early 2017
Sky Central Hotel – 672 – autumn 2016
Wyndham Marina – 497 – early 2016
Rotana Al Barsah – 528 – early 2018
Lapita Hotel – 503 – late summer 2016

Hosting the Expo 2020 in Dubai has brightened considerably the investment climate. According to official estimates Dubai’s government will implement projects worth eight to nine billion US dollars. The final master plan for the 4.38 square kilometers of exhibition grounds will be completed this year and presented the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) for approval.

In 2015, among others, the tender for the 1.3 billion-US-dollar extension of the Metro Red Line until the Expo is expected. The tender for the infrastructure of the exhibition grounds (estimated at 500 million us dollars) should also take place in 2015. Further major projects are planned in the surroundings of the Expo site (Expo Village, Vertex Five Towers, Legacy Park, etc.).

The Expo site and the adjacent new airport (Dubai World Central / DWC) will be part of an urban development zone with residential areas, amusement parks, hotels, shopping centers and service providers (logistics, etc.) and industrial plants. A wave of project announcements is expected. For example, the state-controlled property developer Emaar Properties has unveiled a project, which provides, among others, the construction of a residential community with affiliated golf club, several hotels, a “high-end” shopping mall, leisure facilities and a business center for the promotion of young entrepreneurs.

Hilton Worldwide Expands Hilton Garden Inn in the Middle East with Three New Signings

Mid-Market brand additions for Dubai, Al Ahsa and Al Khobar

Dubai, UAE – 27 March 2015 – Hilton Worldwide announced the signing of three new Hilton Garden Inn hotels for Dubai and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) adding to the mid-market brand’s growing portfolio of more than ten hotels either trading or under development in the Middle East.

Hilton Worldwide announced the signing of three new Hilton Garden Inn hotels for Dubai and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) adding to the mid-market brand’s growing portfolio of more than ten hotels either trading or under development in the Middle East.

“Hilton Garden Inn is an exciting proposition for investors in the Middle East as Hilton Worldwide continues to grow its presence in the value segment across the region,” said Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Middle East and Africa for Hilton Worldwide. “With significant focus on the development of mid-market accommodation in Dubai and clear opportunity in locations across Saudi and the wider GCC, we are delighted to be adding to this momentum with the signing of agreements to open three new properties.”

Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Al Jadaf is expected to open in early 2017, following the signing of a management agreement with AIG Investments. Strategically located for ease of access to Downtown Dubai, as well as Dubai International Airport (DXB), Al Jadaf is emerging as a major growth area of the Emirate. Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Al Jadaf will feature 336 guest rooms; two F&B outlets; flexible meeting space; as well as business and fitness centers.

Hilton Garden Inn Al Ahsa is expected to open in 2016 as part of a management agreement with Al Jazeera Group. Featuring 166 guest rooms, the hotel is located within the downtown area of the city, with easy connections to Riyadh and Damman. Hilton Garden Inn Al Ahsa will feature two F&B outlets; four meeting rooms; as well as business and fitness centers.

The 154-guest room Hilton Garden Inn Al Khobar King Fahd Causeway is expected to begin welcoming guests in 2016, located as part of the mixed-use Shobily Development, near to central Al Khobar via the King Fahd road. The hotel has been agreed with Al Jazeera Group, as part of a management with Hilton Worldwide, and will feature two F&B outlets; four meeting rooms with pre-function space; as well as business and fitness centres.

Adrian Kurre, global head, Hilton Garden Inn, said, “With more than 600 hotels globally, we are delighted to be announcing further projects for Dubai and KSA. With the brand’s Dubai opening debut as well the second property to open in KSA set for this year, we look forward to offering travelers an upscale, yet affordable experience in this part of the world.”

Hilton Garden Inn offers guests amenities such as signature bedding, 24-hour business center, complimentary Wi-Fi and the 24-hour Pavilion Pantry which provides a range of snacks, sweet treats and beverages. Upcoming openings in Dubai include Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Al Mina; Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Al Muraqabat; and Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Mall of the Emirates. This year the brand also expects to open its second hotel in KSA, Hilton Garden Inn Tabuk, which joins Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Olaya.

Hilton Worldwide features more than 59 hotels under development in the Middle East (including Egypt) across its Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Curio – A Collection by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn brands.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Dubai Portfolio with Debut of Aloft and Element Brands

With 2018 Openings of Aloft and Element, Dubai will be Home to all Nine of Starwood’s Iconic Lifestyle Brands

Dubai, UAE – 04 March 2015 – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced an agreement with wasl hospitality & leisure LLC, a subsidiary of wasl Asset Management Group, to debut the Aloft and Element brands in Dubai. Scheduled to open in 2018, Aloft Dubai Raffa and Element Dubai Raffa will bolster Starwood’s presence in Dubai – the city with the second largest concentration of hotels for the company after New York City. With the debut of both brands in 2018, Dubai will soon be home to all nine of Starwood’s brands.

“We are very excited to introduce the Aloft and Element brands into Dubai, and are delighted to expand Starwood’s successful relationship with wasl hospitality & leisure,” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “With the Dubai government promoting mid-scale hotel development ahead of the Dubai World Expo 2020, we believe the timing is right to widen the reach of our signature Aloft and Element experiences, which are revolutionizing the hospitality industry by delivering a modern, urban-style experience at an affordable price.”

“Bringing the Aloft and Element brands to Dubai for the first time is the latest initiative in the long and fruitful relationship that wasl has enjoyed with Starwood Hotels & Resorts,” said HE Hesham Abdullah Al Qassim, CEO wasl Asset Management Group. “wasl is committed to supporting the growth of Dubai’s hospitality sector, particularly in the mid-range segment, which has been identified as being an important area of hotel expansion in the run up to Expo 2020. We are delighted to have partnered in the launch of two new exciting concepts for visitors to the city and look forward to playing a continued role in helping to fulfil Dubai’s vision.”

Aloft Dubai Raffa and Element Dubai Raffa will be built simultaneously and operate as a unique complex offering 165 and 96 rooms, respectively, upon opening in early 2018. Located near Dubai Maritime City — the new development at Port Rashid — the hotels will be conveniently located close to Sheikh Zayed Road and the heart of Dubai’s traditional commercial centre.

Designed to shake up the staid and traditional mid-market hotel sector, Aloft hotels are redefining the category by delivering urban-influenced, modern and vibrant design and a social guest experience at an affordable price point. Aloft Raffa will feature the brand’s signature W XYZ Bar, where guests can mix and mingle over lively music, and Re:fuel by Aloft, the grab and go eatery open 24 hours a day. Other amenities include Re:charge the fully equipped fitness centre and a refreshing outdoor Splash pool. All of Aloft Raffa’s facilities will be accessible to guests of Element Raffa.

Element Raffa marks the debut of Starwood’s trailblazing eco-wise brand in the UAE. Inspired by Westin, Element Hotels provide guests with space to live their lives, offering bright, modern design, green-minded sensibilities and a reimagined extended stay experience, perfect for the traveller who is visiting for a few days or a few weeks.

“The addition of these two new hotels is a testament to the confidence owners have in Starwood and our brands,” said Bart Carnahan, Senior Vice President Acquisitions & Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East. “The pipeline for our mid-market brands is increasingly robust and we see many opportunities for both new-build hotels and conversions for the brands throughout the Middle East.”

Starwood currently operates nearly 50 hotels and resorts across the Middle East under eight of the company’s nine distinct lifestyle brands including: The Luxury Collection, St. Regis, Sheraton, Westin, W Hotels, Le Méridien, Four Points by Sheraton and Aloft. The company has plans to further expand its portfolio in the region with a pipeline of over 35 hotels due to open by 2017.

Dubai is the company’s second largest market after New York City with 15 operating hotels and six properties in the pipeline, including Aloft Raffa and Element Raffa.