Sofitel The Palm to open this summer

Sofitel has officially announced the opening of its five-star flagship resort, Sofitel The Palm Dubai, which will welcome  guests July 2013.

The arrival of the Polynesian-themed resort is part of parent company Accor’s expansion plans for the growth in the Middle East.

The luxury French Sofitel brand currently has a presence in over five continents, spanning 40 countries with more than 300,000 rooms.

The 100,000sq m Dubai resort will offer 361 guest rooms and suites, as well as 182 fully-serviced apartments.

The hotel's interiors have been extravagantly decorated and feature bathrooms with onyx finishes, French amenities such as Lanvin and Hermes along with Sofitel’s MyBed concept – an all-feather bed and light down duvet.

The resort itself is encapsulated by prime beach and surrounded by gardens created by botanist Patrick Blanc.

“As our portfolio continues to grow across the world, we strive to meet the sophisticated needs of today’s versatile travellers who expect and appreciate beauty, quality and excellence,” said general manager Christophe Schnyder.

“I am confident that this spectacular resort will attract both global and regional discerning travellers and groups.”

The resort's F&B offering includes five key restaurants plus a selection of bars and lounges, along with the property’s 2LIV nightclub, while its So Spa spans 2,500sq m.

MICE facilities are also catered for by the hotel, which has created a ballroom in the Polynesian style for up to 700 guests