Planet hospitality announces new development on its Dhs1bn projects

Architectural and Engineering Consultants Offices (AEC), master developer of Al Qudra Holding for Danat Abu Dhabi is also appointed by Planet to do the design consultancy for its properties as well. Soon the properties will be associated with an international hotel chain. Negotiations are in final stages.

The new hotel will have 400 rooms and a convention centre along with a 400-unit, 23-floor apartment complex. The property will be operational by 2010.

The Dubai-based Planet group under the dynamic vision of its chairman, George Moussa, already successfully operates and manages the award winning Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, the unique Orient Guest House, the Galaxy Plaza Hotel and entertainment complex under its large portfolio of diverse companies.

Since its launch, Planet has been an industry innovator, achieving many benchmarks which are remarkable for such a young and developing unit that has only completed a decade of operations.

Speaking about the project Moussa commented:

"We are about to finalise our deal with an international hotel chain which will manage the upcoming property. Our new branded projects will go a long way in promoting best practices in the hospitality industry as we believe in offering guests a multitude of choices making their stay both enjoyable and memorable. The group's strategy for 2008 focuses on looking for innovative ideas and improving existing services within the hospitality division, while maintaining an average annual growth rate of 35 per cent. The group sees the Middle East as a vital market. We wish to benefit from its strong potential and boost our presence further in this market."

The project was launched last year to construct the five-star hotel and serviced apartments at a total cost of Dhs600m. The total build-up area for the hotel was 27,26,00 square metres and for furnished apartments, 27,869,00 square metres. However, after an initial design review by AEC, the built-up area for the hotel was increased to 30,855,00 square metres and for furnished apartments to 33,943,00.

The new design of both the hotel and the apartment complex was unveiled at the Planet Group Stand at the recently concluded ATM.

Operating in highly competitive environment and adhering to the highest international standards, Planet has an inherent ability to deliver the best of Arabian hospitality. Its Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, with its state-of-the-art spa, jacuzzi, and fine dining is ranked among some of the best hotels in Dubai. The Orient Guest House is one of the premium lounges in the country according to a recent survey of the hospitality industry and is promoted as a major heritage site by DTCM.

Orient Guest House has been developed as a unique concept giving a tantalising glimpse of old Dubai. It serves as an architectural landmark showcasing Dubai's former glory. The restaurant's distinctively Arabian architecture has made it a popular historical attraction visited by top government officials, celebrities and heads of states to Dubai. Though the property reflects the ancient and historical feel of the city, it is bedecked by modern furniture and offers the best service to its guests.

The group is proud of its commitment to provide the highest levels of service that has earned it many coveted awards and won admiration of industry peers in the region. The many awards stand testimony to the dedication, enthusiasm and sheer professionalism of the entire Planet staff. These accolades give the group added momentum to open new hotels and expand the existing portfolio.

As a 'local' company, the group is managed by people who comprehend the region well and offer everything that international hotel chains can deliver. Managed by an efficient management team, the growth of the Planet group has been extraordinary in the number of properties operating under the group's umbrella. Planet continues to be a force to reckon within the regional and global tourism industry. It is a progressive, dynamic group which is confident of the future and its promise to provide guests with the high levels of service they deserve.