Shangri-La reveals Middle East expansion plans

With two openings confirmed for Q4 this year in Doha, Shangri-La has its sights set on further growth throughout the region, and has prioritised Dubai and Saudi Arabia for upcoming projects.

The company entered the region in 2003 and already has five properties here in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Oman. Additionally, a regional sales office was set up in Dubai in 2012, reflecting the company’s growth plans for the area.

Speaking exclusively to Hotelier Middle East. Shangri-La VP sales & marketing EMEA, India & Indian Ocean Rob Weeden said: “It’s no secret that the company would like to open more properties in Dubai. We’re in down town here, we’re in Deira and it would be great to have something down near the beach resorts.”

Commenting on plans for Saudi Arabia, Weeden said: “The discussions that we’ve had so far have been very positive. We’re working with people and companies that know the infrastructure required in Saudia Arabia and I’m sure we’ll put together a very nice collection there.”

Although Weeden claims that there are no confirmed plans as of yet for Saudi Arabia properties, the company has Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah on the radar and is already in discussions with developers on future projects.