Four Seasons' debut Dubai hotel will open Q4 2014

Canadian luxury hotel chain Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts is on track to open the doors of its first Dubai hotel Q4 2014.

The 237-key Jumeirah Beach resort finally plants the Four Seasons’ flag in Dubai soil, following its exit from plans for a venue at Dubai Festival City four years ago.

Speaking at a press event yesterday Christopher Norton, president hotel operations EMEA confirmed that Four Seasons Resort Dubai is expected to employ around 500-600 people and will target occupancy rates of 70-80% in its first three years.

Asked why the brand is a late-comer to the thriving hotel market in Dubai, Norton said the company had, “made the decision to take its time and find the right location for its resort-focused hotel”. The hotel will not be pursing the business market in the emirate.

Four Seasons Resorts Dubai is one of three major hotels planned to open Q4 2014 in the MENA area, which will solidify the chain’s presence in the region. It is currently forging ahead with its Bahrain Bay property and Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca, while beyond 2014 active properties in the preliminary stages include hotels in Abu Dhabi, Oman, Kuwait and Jeddah.

"The Middle East is one of our most active regions in terms of development, and having properties in almost every capital city in the GCC within the next few years will serve to further consolidate our presence in the market,” Norton said.

The company’s global growth plan has 60 new developments in the pipeline, which will enhance a portfolio of 90 properties across 37 countries.