HMH gears up for major expansion across the region & beyond

H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal Al Qassimi, CEO MANAFA LLC and Vice Chairman, HMH, said:

"We feel proud to say that we have succeeded in achieving just double the number of hotels we initially planned. Five years ago, the target of 25 properties seemed over ambitious. However, today we have 15 hotels operational and 35 contracts signed which is absolutely remarkable."

The value of the HMH projects currently under development is estimated at over Dhs4.5bn. Michel Noblet, Managing Director, HMH, said: 'This healthy line up of 35 new hotels will give us an additional 4000 rooms thus significantly boosting our profitability. Our objective is to have 100 hotels by 2012.

HMH has very quickly emerged as a key player in the hospitality sector in the Middle East with 4 unique hotel brands. Highlighting the group's incredible growth, Michel said, 'We offer a complete spectrum of choice in terms of hospitality with each of our brands catering to a different segment of clientele. While Coral Hotels & Resorts is a quality driven 4 and 5 star brand, Corp Executive Hotels provides a new dimension for business travellers. On the other hand, EWA Hotel Apartments represents a growing niche of lifestyle hotels while ECOS Hotels is an innovative and environmentally sensitive budget brand.

'All our hotels are well equipped to tap into the region's growing demand for business and leisure. Latest technology in the rooms, wireless Internet access, innovative and modern design, outstanding locations and super service ensure guests the finest hospitality.'

HMH has rapidly widened its reach internationally by forging several strategic alliances such as a tie-up with Skywards - the hugely successful frequent flyer programme from Emirates and Sri Lankan Airlines, HUSA Hotels - leading hospitality group from Europe, HMC - Hospitality Marketing Concepts and Boutique Hotels & Resorts International.

Outlining HMH's future strategy, Michel added, 'Business environment is getting unusually challenging. Consolidation, expansion and strong development in existing and emerging markets, brand image, product standards, World Class Service and training are tactical to our success.

'At the same time one has got to play a more active and meaningful role in the communities one operates in. And it has always been the HMH philosophy to reach out to people in as many different ways as we can - be it through art, culture, sport, environment, children or charity. We believe in corporate social responsibility and transparency of action.'