Hilton and Al-Rayyan partner on new Qatar resort
Hilton Worldwide is to operate a property at a new beach resort set for development on Salwa Beach. It claims the beach resort will be largest in Qatar.
The hotel group is teaming up with Qatar investors Al-Rayyan Hospitality at the resort, which will cover 104 hectares (257 acres) of prime land and coastline in the south west corner of the country.
Located 97 kilometres from the capital Doha, the 362-key Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, Qatar, will form the centrepiece of the resort's grand plan. It is set to open in 2019.
Facilities already earmarked for the resort will include a waterpark, a luxury marina and yacht club, a dive centre, cinemas, premier retail shopping and a number of restaurants.
Hilton Hotels & Resorts global head Rob Palleschi: "Combining the pleasures of an upscale retreat with the brand's hallmarks of excellence, today's signing of Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, Qatar is truly a landmark announcement for the Middle East and for Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
“The hotel is an excellent example of the brand's versatility and innovative hospitality qualities which continue to generate considerable interest from discerning investors looking for experienced, trustworthy operators with a solid reputation for delivering success."
There will be 246 deluxe rooms in the main hotel building at the resort, including 35 suites; two of these suites will cover more than 1000 square metres presidential suites.
It will be flanked on both sides by two small villages of family villas: both offering sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf, one village will have 32 one and two-bedroom suites, reflecting authentic Arabic architecture, while the second village will comprise 84 larger, more spacious villas of up to five bedrooms.
Amenities will include a 2800 square metre health club & spa, several outdoor pools, meeting and event function space extending to over 3500 square meters and a comprehensive and a choice of 13 restaurants, bars and lounges.
"We are extremely proud to introduce this landmark property, the biggest resort hotel of its kind in the region and an outstanding addition to our expanding portfolio,” said Hilton Worldwide Middle East & Africa president Rudi Jagersbacher.
“Today's signing reflects Hilton Worldwide's famous pioneering spirit as we set a new benchmark in resort accommodation in Qatar and create a new destination for the Middle East."
Al Rayyan Hospitality Group executive manager Mohammed Mutlaq Al-Qahtani said: "We sought an internationally recognised brand to match our strategy to create a best in class resort destination with the very best facilities and service.
“Hilton Worldwide's established global credentials makes for a compelling partnership and will help us to deliver a truly exceptional guest experience."