Rotana ramps up Qatar in preparation of World Cup

Adding 503 keys to the group’s existing 1,100 in the Gulf state, Rotana confirms it wants to grow its presence in time for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Signed with Al Sheikh Holding Group, Rotana will see a 400-key Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana and 103-keys under The Residences by Rotana brand enter the market. Together the properties will boast an all-day dining restaurant and café, two meeting rooms, a gym and a pool.

Both are set to open in the final quarter of 2022.

Rotana president and CEO Guy Hutchinson, said: “We are delighted to partner with the esteemed Bin Al Sheikh Holding and add to our developing portfolio of properties in Qatar. The country’s hotel segment is booming, with efforts currently underway to further develop its MICE tourism infrastructure and with preparations to host several major sporting events, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Qatar is set to witness an increased tourism demand, driven by its diversified leisure, business and cultural offerings, and we are proud to extend our offering in the growing market.”

Hutchinson and his group announced the signing at this year’s Arabian Hospitality Investment Conference in Dubai. Like other hotel leaders, he said the physical conference is monumental in driving the industry’s growth.

He said: “As the Middle East plays an increasingly important role in the international hospitality industry for owners and operators alike, AHIC will bring together a global perspective under one roof. To navigate this new era shaped by the Great Reset, it will spark much-needed conversations as we forge collectively under the apt theme ‘Rise together’, supporting us to gather valuable market insights, the opportunity for networking and potential partnerships”.

Dr Zied Jebarah, chief operating executive of Bin Al Sheikh Holding added: “We are proud to be partnering with Rotana, our alliance on this new project supports our goal to increase Bin Al Sheikh Holding’s presence in the fast-growing hospitality segment in the country. Rotana is an internationally acclaimed company and with its hospitality expertise we look forward to creating an impressive landmark property offering world-class services.”