Round up: Around the GCC
1. KSA
Accor has opened the new Mercure hotel in Jeddah Al Hamra, KSA, located close to the city’s Corniche and the central business area. The hotel boasts 149 guest rooms and suites, all-day-dining in the Palm restaurant, a coffee lounge and health club, as well as multiple meeting rooms and complimentary Wi-Fi for every guest. The latest addition brings the total number of Mercure hotels in Saudi Arabia to seven and the total number of rooms under Mercure to 1216.
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2. QATAR
Qatar's $15.5bn new Hamad International Airport, currently under development, will feature two 100-room luxury transit hotels and a range of leisure facilities. Hotel guests as well as Qatar Airways First Class and Business Class passengers will have access to resort quality facilities that include two squash courts, a 25 metre-long swimming pool and five-star spa for passengers to relax while in transit. The airport is currently scheduled to open by the end of 2013.
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3. UAE
Newly-opened Sofitel The Palm Dubai has launched a social media competition called the Dream Holiday Contest. Contestants are required to log onto the Sofitel website and choose one of three room types, their desired cuisine from a choice of three outlets and choose one of three spa experiences. Once made, their choices will be summarised in a postcard that guests can share with friends on social media, while the three most 'liked' postcards will win a custom-made four night holiday.
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4. OMAN
Two properties from Oman-based Muriya Tourism Development, Sifawy Boutique Hotel and Juweira Hotel, have launched a campaign to support and raise funds for the Environmental Society of Oman (ESO). Funds raised by the ‘Donate OMR 1’ campaign will go towards the management of ESO’s research projects and efforts to raise awareness. Another ESO-led environmental campaign backed by Muriya is the 'Say No to Plastic Bags' drive.
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5. BAHRAIN
The Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa has begun a soft opening ahead of its official unveiling later this year, making the 166 key, 24-story building the tallest five-star hotel in Bahrain. The “Luxury by Ramee” property will contain seven food and beverage outlets, an 800m2 ballroom, as well as a dedicated floor for spa and recreation facilities including a fitness centre, ladies salon and a temperature controlled infinity pool.
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6.KUWAIT
The Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa has begun a soft opening ahead of its official unveiling later this year, making the 166 key, 24-story building the tallest five-star hotel in Bahrain. The “Luxury by Ramee” property will contain seven food and beverage outlets, an 800m2 ballroom, as well as a dedicated floor for spa and recreation facilities including a fitness centre, ladies salon and a temperature controlled infinity pool.