Al Habtoor opens new hotel

Al Habtoor Trading Enterprises have opened a new hotel in Deira, aimed at GCC and European visitors

An Dh85 million renovation has transformed a building skeleton in Deira into an elite boutique hotel aimed at GCC and European business visitors.

The 136-room Royalton Plaza Hotel, the latest acquisition of Al Habtoor Trading Enterprises, officially opened on October 1.

To boost its appeal to the business community all rooms have Internet access and guests have a full business centre at their disposal.

A Greek restaurant, Irish pub and international 24-hour eatery complement the cosmopolitan mix of staff. A gymnasium, top-floor pool and cigar lounge are also part of the visitors' package.

"One you get above 200 rooms in a hotel it is difficult to provide a personal level of service. This is where we expect to excel," said Rashid Al Habtoor, chief executive and president of Al Habtoor Trading Enterprises.

Situated near the Clock tower Roundabout, the hotel has also determined to set itself apart from other hotels with some individual touches. "We have a non-smoking floor and all rooms are slightly different in their fittings and furniture to give them a unique feel," explained Al Habtoor.

The transformation of the hotel from a disused 'Space For Let' into an elegant four star deluxe hotel was completed in little over two months. The adherence to such a tight schedule has ensured the hotel is open in time for the busier winter months.

"It saves time and money to work as quickly as possible," said Al Habtoor.

The Royalton Plaza Hotel opens in an area of intensive competition, with 36 other hotels nearby trying to lure the business and tourism traveller. But this competition only serves to highlight the quality of the Royalton Plaza in the face of its competitors, said Al Habtoor.

"There is no other hotel that offers this level of service and attention specifically aimed at the visiting business person," he explained.

For local revellers, the Dublin Arms promises to become a popular meeting spot for night owls with its assortment of international beverages and personable Irish staff.

Early bookings have already been accepted and management expect full occupancy for the majority of the year.