Al Basel Consultancy to advise Habtoor Hotels on enhancing business performance and strengthening Middle Eastern presence

The Middle East's tourism sector is expected to achieve moderate growth in 2009 despite the global economic crisis, thus making the area the second largest growth region in the world behind Asia and a lucrative market for hoteliers.

The World Tourism Organization's 'Tourism 2020 Vision' estimates that international travel to the region will grow at a faster pace compared to other rival global destinations, receiving almost 70 million visitors.

Basel Al Kasem, CEO, Al Basel Consultancy said, "The Middle East continues to maintain its appeal as a leisure and business destination, which is why hospitality players such as Habtoor Hotels need to boost their strategic position in this competitive market. We offer the expertise to streamline hospitality operations in tune with today's business realities. The solid reputation of the Al Basel Group will also enable us to attract more interest to Habtoor Hotel's properties and the Middle East's hospitality trade in general."

"We are confident that Al Basel will lead us to higher levels of productivity, which is essential for us take a lead in Middle Eastern hospitality. This partnership complements our goal of providing a uniquely Arabian hospitality experience to the region's residents and visitors," added Rahim Abu Omar, Chief Executive, Habtoor Hotels.

Habtoor Hotels maintains key properties in Dubai and Beirut, two established commercial and leisure hubs in the region. Its Dubai venues include the Dhs714m Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, the Metropolitan Palace Hotel, the Metropolitan Hotel, and the Metropolitan Hotel Deira, with work already underway on an Dhs1.2bn Habtoor Island Resort & Spa to open in 2011 at the Palm Jumeirah. The group manages two properties in Beirut, the Habtoor Grand Hotel Convention Center & Spa and the Metropolitan Palace Hotel.

Al Basel Consultancy helps hotel & property owners and developers to optimize their business processes and react to changing market conditions. Its services include partner segmentation, quality assurance in property transactions, advanced residential and commercial brokerage, specialized advice on return on investment options, and proper due diligence.