Dubai ,UAE, May 14, 2013:  Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts reaffirms its commitment to the Middle East market as revenue from the region increased by more than 50% in 2012, faster than all other feeder markets including Banyan Tree's top market, China.   The Middle East is the fourth largest market for Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts and its sister brand, Angsana Hotels & Resorts with 7% of total market share in 2012.  This is testament to the success of Banyan Tree's two resorts in Ras Al Khaimah and the continued growth to its Indian Ocean and Thailand properties.

Abid Butt, CEO, Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts comments, "We are really encouraged by the increase in business from the Middle East  and hope to build on this momentum.   Total room nights grew by 65% year on year and revenue increased by 53% and I believe this is because the Banyan Tree experience resonates well with our guests from the Middle East as it offers the right level of privacy and serenity in locations that inspire and delight.   We are focused on exceeding  our guests' expectations and hope that the new properties; Banyan Tree Lang Co, Vietnam and Banyan Tree Kerala, India will interest the Middle East market further, building on the success of our Ras Al Khaimah resorts, Banyan Tree Al Wadi and Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah, Beach. "

Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts will expand its presence in the Middle East with the launch of Angsana Sifah in Oman in 2015.  The resort will offer 200 suites and an Angsana Spa and will be part of a development that includes villas, apartments, an 18-hole golf course and a marina.   Jebel Sifah is a coastal development, 45 minutes' drive from Muscat through the scenic valleys of the Hajjar Mountains on the Gulf of Oman.

Further development is planned for the Middle East over the next few years and Banyan Tree is continually seeking hotel management opportunities that fit with both the Angsana and Banyan Tree brand attributes.

The growth in the Middle East is indicative of overall company performance with Banyan Tree Holdings, the parent company, reporting a 3% increase in total revenue and a 51% increase in operating profit in 2012 which was largely due to successful hotel investments and an improved performance for fee based segments including Banyan Tree Spa and Banyan Tree Gallery.

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About Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts
The leading international operator in the boutique resort, residences and spa industry, Banyan Tree offers a signature blend of romance and travel with a green conscience. The philosophy behind the hotels, resorts, residences, spas, retail galleries and destination club is based on rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul - a Sanctuary for the Senses. Angsana Hotels and Resorts is the ideal complement to Banyan Tree, comprising contemporary, chic and ecologically sensitive retreats. Based in areas of outstanding natural beauty and exciting city hubs, Angsana hotels, resorts, residences, spas and retail galleries reflect the spirit and communities of their environment.

To date, the Banyan Tree Group manages and/or has ownership interests in over 30 resorts and hotels, over 60 spas, 80 retail galleries; as well as three golf courses.

[1] Middle East comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE

[1] Banyan Tree Holdings includes three core business segments - hotel investments, property sales and fee based segments including Banyan Tree Spa and Banyan Tree Gallery

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© Press Release 2013