DUBAI, 30 April 2007 -- Two multi-billion projects were announced yesterday in the fast growing Ras Al-Khaimah. The first was a multi-billion-dollar joint venture by Ras Al-Khaimah's Investment and Development Office (IDO) with US-based Argentum Development Company to construct the "International Hospitality Trade and Training Zone" (Ihottz), a regional hub for the global hospitality industry.

The second by Rakeen, one of the region's most dynamic project development companies, was the AED1.2 billion Bab Al-Bahr resort in Ras Al-Khaimah.

Located in Ras Al-Khaimah on 350 acres of prime real estate, Ihottz, estimated to cost AED10 billion, will include a 260-acre hospitality industry free trade zone development and an additional 90-acre hospitality education campus. Ihottz will provide focused trade support services and multi-level professional training for the expanding and dynamic hospitality industry in the region and beyond.

Ihottz is one-of-a-kind, a hospitality trade and training hub that addresses the needs of every segment of the international hospitality and tourism industry. "This exciting initiative is in line with the strategy of Sheikh Saud ibn Saqr Al-Qasimi, crown prince and deputy ruler of Ras Al-Khaimah, to create unique avenues of opportunity in the hospitality and educational sectors in Ras Al-Khaimah and transform it into a sought- after destination for investment, leisure and tourism" Dr. Izzat Dajani, chief executive of Investment & Development Office, Government of Ras Al-Khaimah, said.

In pursuit of quality and innovation, Ihottz will form strategic alliances with local and global companies that supply and cater to the hospitality industry in the region, thus becoming the world's first "Hospitality Super Hub."

The 90-acre Ihottz Hospitality Training Campus offers a comprehensive and practical solution for the hospitality industry's worldwide and persistent challenge of securing a dedicated, qualified and experienced workforce. This will have accredited programs and technical training as offered by some of the most recognized institutions in North America and Europe.

A world-renowned Hospitality University will provide four-year accredited undergraduate degree and two-year master degree programs in hotel and hospitality management.

While addressing a press conference at the Burj Al-Arab in Dubai, Massaad, Rakeen chairman and member of the board, said Bab Al-Bahr will be the first project to be developed by Rakeen on Al-Marjan Island, the master developer's man-made coral-shaped atoll being built to extend four kilometers into the Arabian Gulf. On completion in 2009, the Bab Al-Bahr resort will encompass four-star deluxe hotel, time-share apartments, freehold residential apartments, a shopping center and an office tower, offering residents and investors a 360 degree sea views and open private beach fronts.

"Rakeen's fresh approach to development will act as a catalyst for growth and transform Ras Al-Khaimah into a modern and flourishing destination that can capitalize on its huge tourism and commercial potential."

A total of five residential buildings, incorporating 710 residential freehold apartments, are earmarked for construction, including 110 studio apartments, 300 one-bedroom apartments, 220 two-bedroom apartments and 90 three-bedroom apartments. Bab Al- Bahr will also encompass a 290-room 4-star deluxe hotel/resort, incorporating 120 time-share apartments, in addition to a 25-story Bab Al-Bahr retail and office tower -- the business headquarters of the island, which will conveniently offer retail shopping and office space under a free zone trade license.

Located only twenty minutes from Ras Al-Khaimah International Airport and 45 minutes from Dubai, Bab Al-Bahr will be a self-contained community, presenting residents and visitors with leisure facilities including a nearby golf course, a club, exotic gardens, beach parks, a la carte dining options and beach activities.

By K.T. Abdurabb

© Arab News 2007