Fairmont to manage Emaar residences

Emaar Properties has announced that its upcoming residences in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, will be managed by the international hotel group Fairmont Hotels and Resorts.

The fully-furnished serviced residences are located within The Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel property, scheduled to open in 2010, which will be among the world's tallest towers with 76 stories reaching 577m high.

Emmar would not be drawn into commenting on whether the company's hospitality arm might take over management of the residence in future, as it did with The Palace, The Old Town in Dubai which was originally managed by Accor.

A company spokesperson would only comment: "Emaar Properties chose Fairmont Hotels and Resorts to manage the serviced residences as they are a natural fit for the project, and have an established track-record in operating one-of-a-kind properties in iconic destinations."

The property will comprise over 600 residences — including studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments — offered on a leasehold basis.

Emaar International managing director Issam Galadari said the residences had been developed “to complement the spiritual experience of every pilgrim during his or her journey to the Holy City of Makkah.”

“As a global hospitality provider, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts will further enrich the experience of residents by offering several value-added services,” he commented.

Thomas Storey, president of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, added: “We are honoured to have been entrusted with the management of this extraordinary property.

“The Emaar project will create a new benchmark in full-service residences and Fairmont’s century of hospitality excellence will ensure residents enjoy authentic, memorable experiences during their visit to the Holy City.” 

Fairmont will offer residents services including housekeeping, maintenance, concierge, bell, valet and security, along with access to the hotel’s Owners Club, featuring a lounge area and business centre.

Emaar has recently announced several key development initiatives in Saudi Arabia, including Jeddah Gate, a master-planned community in Jeddah, and Al Khobar Lakes, a multi-billion dollar luxury waterfront development in the Eastern Province.