Henri Kennedie chairman and CEO Swiss International with Ibrahim Jaffal, managing director, Hamad Suhail Al Khaily Est. Henri Kennedie chairman and CEO Swiss International with Ibrahim Jaffal, managing director, Hamad Suhail Al Khaily Est.

Swiss International Hotels & Resorts has signed a management contract to operate independent Fujairah hotel, Concorde Hotel Fujairah, with its upscale brand Swiss International.

The new hotel marks the operator’s GCC debut and brings its portfolio to 18 hotels and 2336 rooms across nine countries, including Syria and Morocco in the Middle East & Africa region.

Henri Kennedie the chairman and CEO of Swiss International said: "The addition of Swiss International Concorde Fujairah is a significant milestone for Swiss International; it marks the entry of the company in an emerging country that has become the hub of the business world.

“As we expand our footprint in the UAE, we are exceptionally thrilled to contribute towards Fujairah's growing travel and tourism sector, as well as its social and economic progress. Guided by our Swiss values, we remain committed to enchanting the lives of our partners, guests, team members alike.”

Story continues below
Advertisement

Ibrahim Jaffal, managing director of the hotel’s owning company Hamad Suhail Al Khaily Est., added: "This is an exciting time for our company as we partner with Swiss International to gain and secure a stronger position in the hotel market of the Emirates of Fujairah.

“I am convinced that our hotel, under the flag of Swiss International, will be a big success through the 'Swissness' signature brand, amenities and hospitality."

Mohammed Fekry will continue in his role as hotel manager of the property. He said: "I couldn't be happier to work alongside the Swiss International team because a hotel chain provides reservations support, marketing, guest loyalty programs, brand standards and lender comfort which is very important in the highly competitive hotel market of the Fujairah.”

Swiss International Concorde offers 206 guest rooms, executive rooms and suites, as well as F&B concepts, including Swiss Café Restaurant & Lounge and Moods Shisha Lounge.

The hotel also has meeting and events facilities and a pool and gym. The hotel is located in the city of Fujairah, 15 minutes from Fujairah Port and at 5 minutes from Fujairah International Airport.

Swiss International is looking to expand further in the Middle East and recently moved its service centre to Ras Al Khaimah.

The company aims to operate 150 hotels globally by 2020 across its three brands: Royal Swiss (Luxury), Swiss International (Upscale) and Swiss Spirit (Mid-market).