Abu Dhabi, 9 December, 2013: Millennium and Copthorne Hotels, Middle East and Africa has signed an agreement to become the official hospitality sponsor of Al Wahda Sports Club, the Abu Dhabi-based athletics club.

Announced at a press conference held at Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel, adjacent to Al Wahda Sports Club in Abu Dhabi, the sponsorship deal for season 2013/2014 provides Millennium and Copthorne Hotels with increased brand visibility and promotional exposure through various regional media and communication channels.

"The official sponsorship agreement signed with the esteemed Al Wahda Sports Club reflects our commitment to serve this nation and support the growth of athletic talent and activities that will encourage young people to various sports and games offered by the club" said Mr. Ali Hamad Lakhraim Al Zaabi, President & CEO, Millennium & Copthorne, Middle East & Africa. Further expressing his appreciation of the partnership, Mr. Al Zaabi added, "We are delighted that Millennium and Copthorne will become an official partner to Al Wahda Sports Club as we strengthen our existing relationship with the Club and look forward to working closely together to nurture sporting talent in the UAE."

Under the patronage of the Club's President, His Highness Sheikh Diab Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the sponsorship agreement was signed in the presence of Mr. Ahmad Al Rumaithi, Al Wahda Sports Club Board Member and Chairman of the Higher Committee of Marketing and Mr. Ali Hamad Lakhraim Al Zaabi, President & CEO Millennium and Copthorne, Middle East & Africa, along with a number of key media and press representatives.

"On behalf of Al Wahda Sports Club, I am pleased to welcome Millennium and Copthorne Hotels as an official sponsor of Al Wahda Sports Club. As a globally distinguished hospitality partner, Millennium and Copthorne Hotels share our belief in loyalty, success and commitment and these common principles will create a clear understanding and mutual cooperation between us. We strongly believe this is a strategic alliance bridging us with our many followers from all over the UAE, Middle East and internationally," said Mr. Al Rumaithi, Al Wahda Sports Club Board Member.

About Millennium & Copthorne Hotels
Millennium & Copthorne Hotels plc. is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and/or operates over 120 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms worldwide, the company is present on all continents with a portfolio of brands which serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class.

From a single property in Abu Dhabi, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels has expanded into various neighbouring destinations and is now recognised as one of the fastest growing regional hotel management companies in the Middle East & Africa. Along the way, the company has cultivated partnerships with reputable and respected owners. Millennium & Copthorne currently operates 16 hotels, has over 10 hotels due to open within the next year and aims to operate 50 properties within the next three years for the MEA region.

About Al Wahda Sports Club
Al Wahda Football Club was established in 1984 with the merger between Emirates Club and Abu Dhabi Club. HH Sheikh Diab bin Zayed Al Nahyan is the President of the Club, which won the UAE Pro League title in 1999, 2001, 2005 and 2010. The 12,000-seat Al Nahyan Stadium is the home ground of Al Wahda Football Club and its current headquarter is in the middle of the capital city of Abu Dhabi on Hazza bin Zayed Street.

For any further information, please contact:
Stephen Kamat
Director of Marketing & Branding
Millennium & Copthorne Hotels
Middle East & Africa
Tel: +971 (0) 4309 9095
Email: stephen.kamat@mill-cop.ae

MILLENNIUM & COPTHORNE MIDDLE EAST HOLDINGS LIMITED
P.O.Box 119666. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hotel Website: www.millenniumhotels.com

© Press Release 2013