Daniel ME launches Middle East's first inclusive in-room communications system for hotel sector

It is the first time that the unique communications concept will be available to hotel guests in the Middle East.

The Dubai-based company has partnered with KTV Middle East, a leading manufacturer of hi-tech products, to launch what has been called the 'DANIEL' system, which provides hotel guests with in-room communication and entertainment options in a computer-less environment through high-definition LCD monitors. If a hotel is equipped with a DANIEL system, guests can access television channels, on-demand movies, computing applications, social networks, streaming video and more.

The DANIEL application also provides Internet access to guests that do not 'bring their own equipment' while travelling, providing them with an opportunity to access personal communication and entertainment options via Internet applications like they do at home.

'This very unique concept facilitates market differentiation for hotel properties, and provides the hotel sector with an opportunity to supply guests with superior in-room technology access. It is important for hotels in the UAE, operating in one of the world's leading destinations, to provide guests with reliable and fast Internet access, as well as communication, information and entertainment applications, so that guests do not have to bring a laptop or leave their room to access these critical services,'

said Ralph Bishop, Director of Business Development, Daniel ME.

'The competition within the hotel sector is very tough, making hotel managers think hard about satisfying guest demands and considering the most effective way to position the hotel uniquely. We are in the process of finalising deals with several high-profile hotels and hotel chains, which have been very enthusiastic about the opportunities of this concept,' Bishop added.

According to international research, Internet access is a potential hotel guest's number one priority for in-room technology facilities. With 15 million tourists expected to visit Dubai annually from 2010, and 750,000 additional hotel rooms planned for the region, the demand for provided in-room Internet access is predicted to soar.

'The DANIEL system provides an incomparable level of guest satisfaction and as such, we are already eyeing regional expansion to cater to the growing demand for an affordable, cost-effective in-room communications network. Our partnership with KTV ME will support us in delivering premium quality products with the best prices, incorporating state-of-the-art features not available from competitors, and with paramount after-sales service,' Bishop added.

Specifically targeting the hotel sector, the DANIEL system can be customised to fit each property's unique requirements as it is an easy-to-deploy network that does not need major infrastructure changes or disruption to everyday operations. The system is compatible with existing in-room technology options and provides the travelling guest with a robust, organized, and easy to use interface.

Daniel ME also offers a unique replacement service by replacing the LCD Monitors every three years, which will keep the hotels updated with the latest technology without causing an increase in the overheads. The company also offers local support for the DANIEL system and provides the hotel with customization features to connect the guest with the hotels unique value proposition.

Daniel Middle East is a limited liability company established in the UAE in 2007 with a Middle Eastern focus. The parent company was established in Calgary, Canada in 2001. Daniel ME aims to create new benchmarks in the hotel industry through capitalizing on guest satisfaction and catering to the demand by guests to have provided in-room access to Internet content.

KTV was established in 1969 under the business name 'Toshiba Korea Co. Ltd.'. In 1974 the name was changed to 'Korea Electronics Co. Ltd.'. In 1987 the company began the LCD TV line production and in 2003 it started KTV Global Corporation opening its headquarters in the Middle East.