American Express and Hyatt Hotels and Resorts sign exclusive deal

As part of this agreement, American Express Middle East Cardmembers that make bookings at any of the participating Hyatt hotels will receive a $50 credit or local currency equivalent, which can be redeemed for a range of facilities and services within the hotel for eligible two-night weekend stays until 28 December 2008.

This special offer forms part of "Selects", an online global programme from American Express, which provides a number of exclusive benefits to global Cardmembers in the area of hospitality, travel, leisure, dining, shopping and entertainment.

"Travel and hospitality continues to be a key growth area for us and for the region as a whole. In fact American Express Cardmember spend in Middle East-based hotels has grown exponentially since last year,"

said Peter Fawn, Director - Establishment Services Group, American Express Middle East & North Africa.

"Strengthening our relationship with a prominent brand such as Hyatt will offer even greater value to our Cardmembers who represent a premium segment of the population."

Thierry Bertin, Vice President - Sales & Marketing, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, South West Asia said: "As the Middle East hospitality industry continues to grow briskly, Hyatt remains committed to attracting international visitors and expanding business and leisure opportunities for intra-regional travellers. Our world-class facilities and services have a high appeal to premium clientele such as American Express Cardmembers and we look forward to catering to these discerning guests."

Hyatt hotels in the Middle East & North Africa Region: Amman, Cairo, Casablanca, Dubai*, Muscat, Sharm El Sheikh and Taba Heights are participants of the special offer for American Express Cardmembers.

Kim Henderson, American Express Client Manager, Hotels & Resorts, MSi Global Client Group said: "Globally, travel and hospitality brands are seeking to establish a stronger connection with premium customers from all corners of the world. Linking with American Express provides leading hospitality brands like Hyatt with greater bandwidth to attract a niche segment of the Middle East's fast-growing affluent population."

Fawn added that since the launch of Selects within the region in May 2006, American Express has signed over 500 prestigious partners: "Premium retail and leisure merchants that share our brand values of image, high quality of products and service are fast recognising the impact of Selects on their business growth," he said.