“We’re well positioned out of Asia; we’ve spent several billion dollars to build our company, and we’ve done it with a degree of thought and careful evolution over the last 10 years, so we’re now ready to give developers and owners a credible brand.”

While Palmer admits that there are currently challenges in Dubai in terms of occupancy and average rates, he believes that these will “settle down quickly”.

“I still think it’s a wonderful destination; you’ve got some very iconic and innovative hotels. The new ones are only going to bring more marketing dollars, so I think the influx can only help in the short-run. We’re looking at Dubai now because I think over the last 10 years we’ve done things in our own back yard with a degree of sincerity, professionalism, innovation and evolution.

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“We can now go to the worldwide market and say ‘look, we have a good, unique proposition in the way we manage our hotels and in the way we make good profits’.”

Langham Hospitality Group brands

  • The Langham Hotels

Langham Hospitality Group’s flagship brand has “graceful and timeless elegance, presenting classic themes accented with personality... and a certain quirky charm”.

  • Langham Place Hotels

Similar in stature to The Langham Hotels brand, but with a focus on location, modern elegance, modern art, music and F&B, with hints of classic heritage.

  • Cordis Hotels & Resorts

An upper upscale brand, Cordis will be a group of curated hotels with an emphasis on personalised services, technology and authentic experiences. There will also be a focus on wellness, with healthy cuisine and plentiful leisure facilities offered.

  • Eaton Hotels

An upscale, approachable, neighbourhood brand with an artistic, lifestyle offering. Eaton Hotels will have clever, modern design, an enthusiastic ‘can-do’ service culture, and an ongoing commitment to sustainability throughout its properties.