26 April 2005
DUBAI -- The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC, and Union Properties PJSC, have launched a Dh1.5 billion joint venture hotel project in Dubai.
This was announced at a Press conference held yesterday at Union Tower. This will be the second project of Ritz-Carlton in Dubai and fifth location in the Middle East.
The 330 room hotel, with 121 serviced and managed apartments, will be constructed at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and is scheduled to open in 2008. Piling work on the project has already been commenced.
Simon F. Cooper, president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, told the Press that Dubai has emerged as an exciting travel and tourism destination and we have enjoyed great success with our resort on Jumeirah Beach.
"We have decided to launch one more project as there is a tremendous opportunity to expand our presence in Dubai and be part of a region of substantial growth," he said.
Regarding the main reason to build a hotel in the city, he said: "The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai at International Financial Centre will attract senior corporate executives travelling to Dubai to conduct business in the centre. Dubai is a vibrant and exciting city, poised on the brink of becoming one of the world's foremost leisure and business destinations, and we feel privileged to play a part in this development," he maintained.
The new hotel project will stand 15 stories high and designed by Gensler, Architects and Interior Designer. The interior will blend elements of modern style and classic Arabic design elements for a showplace of luxury and elegance.
Anis Al Jallaf, chairman, Union Properties, speaking on the occasion said: "The visions of our leaders seemingly have no boundaries and the Dubai International Financial Centre is yet another example of the foresight of General Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister. Our partnership with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company in the development of The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, is in sync with that vision."
At the Ritz-Carlton, there will be more than 2,000 square metres for meetings and conference centre to host large gatherings and exclusive social events. The other facilities include a 1,400 square metres ballroom, five meeting rooms, including a boardroom.
The recreational amenities will include a 2,100 square metres health club and spa, as well as both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Serviced apartments will range in size from 125 to 350 square metres and feature one to four bedroom, furnished luxury units.
The hotel will be a very strategic addition to Ritz Carlton's global portfolio.
BY MOUSHUMI DAS CHAUDHURY
© Khaleej Times 2005
