Coral Hotels and Resorts expands presence in KSA

The two parties had been in talks over the last few months. The deal was sealed today at the ATM in the presence of a select gathering of local and international journalists.

The beautiful 65 bedroom property is located in the oasis of Al Ahsa in the Eastern Province. The region, with its large petroleum and date producing industries, borders Qatar, Oman and the UAE and plays a strategic role in the country's economy.

Mr Saeed Al Shami, the owner of Coral Plaza Al Ahsa said, "We are very pleased to have Coral as the operator for this lovely hotel. The company has built a terrific reputation in a relatively short span of time not just in the UAE but across the Middle East. And we are certain Coral Plaza Al Ahsa will offer a unique experience to travellers."

Michel Noblet, CEO, HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings said, "We have the strongest development taking place in Saudi Arabia. Al Ahsa gives us access to the entire eastern region. Our strategy is to have operating excellence in every project we take over and we are confident Coral Plaza Al Ahsa will be a stellar success."

Conveniently located on Dhahran - the main street of the city, Coral Plaza Al Ahsa has been built at a cost of SR70m and boasts all modern comforts and world-class facilities including a beautiful restaurant with a large open terrace, gymnasium, Jacuzzi, sauna, massage room, two big ballrooms and several meeting rooms.

Out of the 65 rooms, 24 are deluxe rooms, 4 royal suites, 15 Junior suites, 12 Coral suites (two rooms), and 10 Executive suites. The hotel also features a lobby café, gift shop and hair salon.

Saudi Arabia has a growing tourism industry that is in addition to the massive numbers of pilgrims visiting the country. The World Travel & Tourism Council predicts 5% annual growth for GDP for the travel and tourism industry in the Kingdom which shows a marked increase in the sector.

The Supreme Commission for Tourism is actively expanding the industry and putting into effect measures to develop a sustainable tourism sector for the country, attracting both domestic and international visitors.