ALOFT HOTELS WILL EXPAND IN THE MIDDLE EAST

By: Christian Stan

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced that it will double its portfolio in the Middle East, aggressively expanding its luxury, upper upscale and mid-market brands with plans to open 50 hotels by 2019. The company has signed five new projects under its Aloft and Element brands in Dubai (UAE), Doha (Qatar) and Muscat (Oman), adding up to a total of seven signed deals to date.

Starwood’s mid-market brands – Aloft, Four Points by Sheraton and Element – are experiencing unprecedented growth momentum in Middle East, representing nearly 50% of the company’s pipeline in the region. Spearheaded by Aloft, the company’s mid-market portfolio will more than quadruple by 2019.

Aloft Dubai Airport and Element Dubai Airport

Both hotels  will add over 400 rooms, meeting space and multiple food and beverage outlets near one of the world’s busiest airports, Dubai International Airport.

Aloft Dubai World Central

Located at the entrance of Al Maktoum International Airport and adjacent to the key logistics and aviation districts, Aloft Dubai World Central will feature 150 rooms and over 1,000 square feet in meeting space.

Aloft Doha

Aloft Doha marks the Aloft brand entry to Qatar. The hotel will feature 240 rooms and suites, a ballroom and meeting venues. It will be within easy reach of the Museum of Islamic Art, Education City and the Al Mushreib rejuvenation project in Doha’s downtown area.

Aloft Muscat

In agreement with New Rotana Enterprises, the signing of Aloft Muscat will introduce the Aloft brand to Oman and help meet the demand for infrastructure development in the country. The hotel will offer 204 rooms and will be located in close proximity to the new Muscat International Airport and the upcoming Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre.