Three Rocco Forte Mideast openings in three years

Rocco Forte Hotels expect to open three properties in the Middle East and North Africa region over the next three years, a company official said on Monday.

The hotel group, which has 13 properties in Europe, will expand into Abu Dhabi, Marrakech and Jeddah.

Anna Martin, group communications director, Rocco Forte Hotels, said: "We are very enthusiastic about bringing our unique philosophy to hotels in the Gulf, Egypt and the Maghreb."

Senior company executives will outline plans for the company's growth into Middle East markets, including the opening of its Abu Dhabi property later this year, at the Arabian Travel Market.

Detailed plans will also be revealed for its new-build hotel in Jeddah and a golf and spa resort in Marrakech, due to open in 2013 and 2014 respectively.

The company is also poised to start the restoration of Cairo's famed luxury Nile-side hotel The Shepheard later this year, set to re-launch in 2013.

Martin added: "We are increasingly attracting leisure and business travellers from the Arab world as we develop five-star products and services that really matter to guests from the region, including large interior-designed suites and connecting rooms which accommodate multiple family members travelling together.

"Additionally we offer dining options that take halal choices into account, and a bespoke concierge service which caters to the shopping and cultural tastes of guests from the MENA region.

"Our new properties will feature our Art of Simple Luxury brand values and celebrated service levels inherent across our existing hotels and resorts. It is an exciting time for the company."