City hotels growing in popularity as preferred Dubai location

Opened last summer, the all-suite, 11-storey building located opposite the City Centre mall in Deira is revising its business mix to accommodate both long-stay corporate guests as well as visitors from the region on short city breaks and even honeymoon guests.

"While the DSF is a busy time in Dubai, it was heartening to exceed 100 per cent occupancy at times during the month, particularly at rates that were often above those averaged by the beach hotels," said Zureikat.

"During recent years, the Jumeira beach properties have outstripped the city hotels in terms of rates and revenues, but Al Sondos Suites by Le Meridien has proved that there is a market for a superior suite accommodation product within the city."

With just 106 studio, one- and two-bedroom suites, the hotel twins international management efficiencies with an intimate atmosphere, a combination that appeals to the local GCC visitor as well as guests staying for longer periods who look for a comfortable base in the centre of Dubai.

"I personally know many of my customers now, and just by regularly talking to them, have been able to introduce many innovations such as mobile phone chargers in Al Mabsam restaurant, for instance," said Zureikat.

"For corporate meetings, where we are getting many small groups coming to Al Sondos Suites by Le Méridien, we are converting some of the suites to twin beds which is the preferred option for this sector - and, in addition, I am negotiating to lease additional meeting space to cater for groups of up to 40 in size."

As well as hosting the delegation from Dominican Republic, recently in Dubai to sign as agreement with Dubai Ports International and Jebel Ali Free Zone International for the development and management of port, free zone, cruise and resort facilities in the Dominican Republic, the hotel has also accommodated groups from UNICEF as well as visiting sports teams.

"Another encouraging trend is that we have seen those who stay on business at Al Sondos Suites by Le Méridien are returning with their families for short breaks, and are also coming a day or two early before their next meeting," said Zureikat.

Located just five minutes' from Dubai International Airport in the heart of the Deira shopping and business district, Al Sondos Suites by Le Méridien has a fully-equipped business centre, pool deck and health centre, a 24-hour news café and the Arabic restaurant, Al Mabsam.

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