Marriott to operate new Dubai theme park hotel

A rendering of Lapita Hotel, which will be operated by Marriott International

Marriott International is to operate a new hotel being developed as part of a major theme park project in Dubai, set to open in 2016.

The 503-key Lapita Hotel, which will be a Polynesian-themed family property, will become part of the Autograph Collection, marking the Middle East debut for the independent luxury hotels collection.

It will be a key component of Dubai Parks and Resorts in the Jebel Ali area of Dubai and will open in 2016 as part of the first phase of the project, which will also feature Legoland Dubai, Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai. Dubai Parks and Resorts LLC, a Meraas Holding company, is developng the project and began construction on the hotel in February.

“We are delighted to bring the much-anticipated Autograph Collection brand to the Middle East,” said Marriott International, Middle East and Africa president and managing director Alex Kyriakidis.

“We are confident that given the ambition, drive and commitment of our partners, Dubai Parks and Resorts will emerge as the premier theme park destination in the Middle East, and provide a perfect fit for our debut Autograph Collection hotel in the region.”

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The hotel is named after the pre-historic Pacific Ocean people who were considered nautical experts and ancestors of the Polynesian race. It will draw inspiration from the exotic Polynesian tropical landscapes, featuring Polynesian flowers, lagoon-style pools, themed activities and dining options.

An in-house entertainment component will serve as another key attraction and Lapita will also feature relaxation zones.

Dubai Parks and Resorts CEO Raed Al Nuaimi said: “Along with our operating partners, Marriott International, we have conceptualized a hotel that is certain to resonate with travellers and residents looking for a weekend or a weeklong getaway.

“With its unique components for the entire family, we are confident Lapita’s distinctive experience will set a new global benchmark in the hospitality domain. The property will particularly help us target visitors to Dubai Parks and Resorts and eventually contribute to the destination’s tourist footfall.”